Saint Petersburg, Florida — With heavy hearts, family, friends, and the wider community mourn the passing of Virginia Evelyn Wallace-Cooper, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend whose radiant spirit touched countless lives. Virginia passed away on September 8, 2025, in Saint Petersburg, Florida, at the young age of 31. Her departure leaves behind a profound sense of loss, but also a legacy of faith, compassion, and unconditional love.
Early Life and Family Roots
Born on November 6, 1993, in South Haven, Michigan, Virginia was the cherished daughter of Cheri (Wheetley) Wallace and Mark Wallace Sr. She spent her early years in Southwest Michigan before moving to Florida during high school. Virginia attended Pinellas Park and Seminole High Schools, where she began forming lifelong friendships and establishing the caring, determined character that would define her life.
Education and Aspirations
A lifelong learner, Virginia was enrolled at St. Petersburg College (SPC), studying Paralegal Studies with aspirations of attending law school. Her dream was to combine her legal education with her faith to start a mission dedicated to helping the less fortunate. Her family shared that she carried this passion deeply in her heart, always searching for ways to make a difference.
Faith and Service
Virginia was a devoted Christian woman who had recently been baptized, a testament to her deep commitment to her faith. She never missed an opportunity to minister to both loved ones and strangers, offering encouragement, prayer, and a reminder of God’s love. Whether feeding the hungry, clothing the less fortunate, or simply lending a kind word, Virginia embodied the essence of service. Her faith was not only spoken but lived—an everyday testimony to the values she held closest.
Marriage and Family
On November 3, 2019, Virginia was united in marriage to Chelsea Cooper, with whom she shared a life full of love and commitment. Her greatest joy, however, came from her role as a mother. Virginia was blessed with three beautiful children—Kingston, Legend, and Solara—who were the very center of her world. To them, she was more than a parent; she was a protector, nurturer, and guiding light.
“Her light shined brightest when she was with her children,” her loved ones shared. Virginia worked tirelessly to provide for them, ensuring they always felt loved, safe, and cherished.
Remembering Her Radiance
Virginia’s beauty, both inside and out, was unmatched. With a larger-than-life personality and a heart full of love, she could light up any room she entered. She enjoyed making lasting memories with her family and friends, filling their lives with laughter, joy, and warmth.
She will be remembered not only for her compassion and faith but also for her radiant smile, quick wit, and the way she made everyone feel special.
Those Who Carry On Her Legacy
Virginia leaves behind a devoted family who will forever cherish her memory:
- Children: Kingston and Legend (with Chelsea Cooper), and Solara (with Jake White)
- Parents: Cheri Wallace and Mark Wallace Sr. of Florida
- Siblings: Stephanie Wheetley of Michigan, Cassandra Nelson of Florida, TJ Bruens (Brandi) of Oklahoma, Mark Wallace (Morgan) of Florida, Clark Wallace of Michigan, and Trista Kelly (Chris) of Michigan
- Grandmothers: Lori Wheetley of Michigan and Clara Wallace of Florida
- Beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends
Virginia is reunited in heaven with her brother Richard Bruens, sister Jessica Wallace, and grandfathers Fred Wheetley and Robert Wallace.
A Life Remembered
Cremation has taken place, and the family will hold a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 13, 2025, with details available through family contacts.
Those wishing to honor Virginia’s legacy may consider donations directly to the family, to help support her children and contribute to the mission she dreamed of building. Contributions may also be made to Pinellas Hope or Kimberly House, causes close to her heart.
A Personal Note of Reflection
Virginia’s journey was not without struggles. For the past 11 months, she fought tirelessly to save her life and to remain present for her children. Her story is a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. While her battle with alcohol ultimately cut her journey short, her memory—and the love she poured into her children—will continue to live on.
Her family hopes that those who knew Virginia will remember her strength, faith, and unwavering love, and that her memory will inspire others to care deeply, serve selflessly, and keep her light alive for her babies.
Virginia Evelyn Wallace-Cooper’s story is one of love, faith, and resilience. Though her time on earth was far too short, her legacy will endure in the lives of her children, her family, and all who were blessed to know her.
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