Virginia M. Addo

Virginia Okema McPhail Addo was born on July 26, 1939, in Darlington, South Carolina, to the late Thomas McPhail and Azalea Graham McPhail Cost. From an early age, she embodied quiet strength, independence, and a deep love of learning qualities that guided her throughout her life.

In her early twenties, Virginia migrated to New York City, where she built a life rooted in education, service, and family. New York remained her home for decades, and for the last ten years of her life, she resided at the Methodist Home for Rehabilitation in Riverdale NY, where she passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025.

Virginia was formerly married to the late Joseph Mensah Addo with whom she shared three children: Deseree Addo, Joseph Addo, and Alicia Addo. She was a devoted mother who cherished her family and remained closely connected to her siblings.

As a lifelong seeker of knowledge, Virginia earned a Master’s degree in Sociology from Columbia University. Her career reflected both intellect and service to others. She was among the early flight attendants with Pan Am Airlines, traveling the world at a time when few African-American women did so, and later served as Head Librarian at Columbia University. As an avid reader, Virginia found joy and purpose in books, often reading the Bible cover to cover and filling its pages with thoughtful notes. She loved spending quality time with her grandson discovering the activities and books that the New York Public library has to offer.

Virginia lived by values of education, self-reliance, and service. She volunteered to feed the homeless, served as a poll worker during New York City elections, and quietly helped others whenever she could. She enjoyed long walks throughout the city, maintained an active lifestyle, and delighted in simple pleasures—including her favorite carrot cake and her late Aunt Lula Mae’s cherished pound cake. Though reserved by nature, she had a witty sense of humor and a gentle presence that left a lasting impression.

Virginia’s life was one of purpose, compassion, and dignity. She encouraged others to seek education, to care for one another, and to live independently with integrity. She is survived by her three children – Deseree, Joseph, and Alicia; grandchildren - Aidan, Kalani, Malachi, and Josephine; siblings - Moses McPhail and Louise Hill, cousins, nieces, nephews, and a large extended family who will forever hold her memory close.

Please keep the family of Virginia Okema McPhail Addo in your thoughts and prayers.