Virginia "Ginger" Rae Henze

Virginia Rae Henze, 79, of Burbank, Washington, passed away on March 29, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by loved ones. Virginia was an amazing woman – daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend – and she will be missed immensely.

Virginia (Ginger) was born on July 29, 1946, to Robert and Margaret Segraves in Walla Walla, Washington. She grew up in Waitsburg with her parents, brothers John and Gary, and sisters Roberta and Lola. She remained close to Waitsburg throughout her life, always holding a deep love for the town and the surrounding area.

Virginia married Clifford Dewayne Henze on September 12, 1964, in Waitsburg. They began their family there and welcomed two sons, Clifford Robert and Michael Lee. The family moved to the Tri-Cities in 1970. Virginia began her banking career in Waitsburg and continued in the field until retiring as a commercial agricultural loan officer in 2013. She and Dewayne also owned two businesses together: Pasco Radiator and Kennewick Auto Services.

In retirement, Ginger and Dewayne loved traveling to Arizona in their RV and spending time watching the river from their home near Charbonneau Park. In 2024, Virginia accepted the Pioneer of the Year Award from the Waitsburg Historical Society on behalf of the Segraves family. She also spent many years supporting the Finley Boosters Club and was a proud member of the Waitsburg Alumni Association. Virginia was devoted to spending time with family and friends. She loved gathering as often as possible to visit, laugh, and enjoy a meal and a beer. The memories created during those times will be cherished by all who knew her.

Virginia is survived by her son, Clifford Robert, and his wife, Diane; her son, Michael Lee, and his wife, Brooke; her brother, John, and his wife, Susan; her brother, Gary, and his wife, Sue; her grandchildren, Andrew, Samantha, Natalie, and Parker; and her great-grandchildren, Keslie and Lincoln. She will also be remembered fondly by several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Waitsburg I. O. O. F (Independent Order of Odd Fellows) Cemetery, East 6th Street, Waitsburg, Washington 99361, followed by refreshments and sharing of memories at the Waitsburg Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the WHS Alumni Association, PO Box 834, Waitsburg, WA 99361.