Virginia Newcomer

Virginia D. “Ginny” Newcomer, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend, passed away on May 21, 2026 at the age of 76. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends, whose lives she touched deeply through her kindness, strength, and unwavering compassion.

Born on April 27, 1950 in Palmerton, PA, Ginny was the cherished daughter of the late Wilbur J. Derr and the late Mildred M. Derr. She dedicated her life to caring for others and building meaningful relationships rooted in love, loyalty, and thoughtfulness.

As a wife, she shared a loving partnership with her husband, Stephen “Steve” Newcomer for nearly 56 years. Together they built a family centered on love, support, and laughter for their children Erika Shehata (Mahmood) and Joshua, and their dear grandson, Zane Shehata.

She is also lovingly survived by her siblings Robert Derr (Loreli) and Thomas Derr (Crystal), brother-in-law Donald Newcomer (Adele), Sylvia Baldowski, nieces Aimee Heckendorn (Derek), Alyssa Derr, Leilani Derr (Justin), and nephews Dallas Derr, Dan Newcomer, Alex Baldowski, and Andy Newcomer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Mildred and in-laws, Charles and Shirley Newcomer, as well as her brother-in-law Charles Newcomer Jr. and nephew Ryan Derr.

Ginny was a graduate of McCann Business School in Allentown, PA and held many interesting positions, including that of switchboard operator at Watt & Shand Department store in Lancaster, PA. But her favorite opportunity was at PCA in Lancaster, PA, where she held down operations as receptionist, but most importantly, made many dear friends with whom she created lifelong bonds and lasting memories. She was also a dedicated member of women's organization Beta Sigma Phi, which made a lasting impact in her community. She will be remembered for her love of travel; her favorite trips were those with friends (to Ireland, Alaska, or the Jersey Shore) and family (cross country RV trips, Nashville, Disney, and most memorably Hawaii). She could often be found crafting, reading, clearance shopping, collecting bears, caring for the neighborhood cats, or just cruising in her red Miata for ice cream. Her favorite role was that of “MeMe.”

In addition to her devotion to family and friends, Ginny became a strong advocate for ovarian cancer awareness. Through her courage and openness, along with her “Teal Sisters” she inspired others, helped bring attention to the importance of early detection and support, and faced her journey with remarkable grace and resilience.

A celebration of her life will be held on June 12, 2026, 6-10pm, at the Gathering Place in Mount Joy, PA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Pet Pantry of Lancaster County in her memory. PET PANTRY OF LANCASTER COUNTY INC - General Donation Page

Her love, joy, and kindness will be deeply missed and forever remembered and celebrated.