Sister Mary Virginia Baltz, OSB, dies at 86

Sister Mary Virginia Baltz, OSB, a member of the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters of Holy Angels Convent in Jonesboro, died Feb. 23. She was 86.

Born Virginia Mary Baltz to Paul and Ida Layton Baltz Nov. 20, 1938, Sister Virginia’s earliest memories consisted of wanting to join religious life. At 16, she entered the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood in Missouri. After 12 years of service teaching and playing the organ, she left for health reasons. 

Sister Virginia continued teaching in Catholic schools and later public education before working in business for 22 years. In 2002, she again heard the Lord’s call and entered the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters. She made her first vows in 2004 and final vows in 2008. With skills in music, teaching and business, Sister Virginia was able to help and promote every community she surrounded herself with.

She is survived by five brothers, Father David Baltz, MCCJ, Kenneth Baltz, Leonard Baltz, Anthony Baltz and Vincent Baltz; and five sisters, Pauletta Walker, Bernadette Ungerank, Joan Gross, Mary Therese Koch and Margaret Lantos.

A visitation was held at Holy Angels Convent Feb. 27, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial Feb. 28 in the convent chapel.