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Sumter, SC……… Virginia “Jinny” Paula Stevens, age 79, beloved wife of 58 years to the late Robert “Bob” Eldon Stevens, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Born in Worcester, Massachusetts, on November 10, 1946, Jinny was the daughter of the late Paul Joseph Aromando and Elsie Bradsher Aromando. On July 23, 1965, she married the love of her life, Bob Stevens. Over Bob’s 28-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Jinny was the quintessential military spouse, embracing every duty station with warmth and an open door. She always opened her home, her refrigerator, and her table to Bob’s airmen and their families when they were far from home, facing difficult times, or simply in need of an extended family—and Lord, could she cook!
Jinny was also a dedicated government civil servant, giving back to base communities through Youth Programs and Air Force Arts and Crafts at different installations. Possessing an astute business mind and boundless imagination, she served for many years as Shaw AFB’s Arts and Crafts Director, elevating her center to become one of the most successful and celebrated programs in the entire Air Force. She was remarkably creative--there wasn’t a craft project or artistic challenge she couldn’t master--and she took great joy in passing those creative talents down to her granddaughters.
A woman of deep kindness, Jinny was a true and steadfast friend who would give anyone the shirt off her back. She had a special heart for the elderly and for anyone facing life's daily limitations, quietly stepping forward whenever someone found themselves in circumstances where they simply needed a helping hand with groceries, errands, or day-to-day tasks. Jinny was also a fierce advocate for rescue animals; to her, four-legged friends were family, and all of her pets and “grandpets” were blessed to be cherished like her own children.
Above all, Jinny lived for her family. Her granddaughters, Sarah, Meredith, and Land, were her heart. She was always there for them, cheering from the stands, celebrating at ceremonies, and supporting them in every milestone and endeavor. But her boys, Bobby and Craig, were the absolute apple of their mother’s eye, and she beamed with pride whenever she was with them. Her daughters-in-law, Lisa and Allison, are eternally grateful for the rare and special gift of having gained a true second mother in Jinny through marriage.
Jinny is survived by her two devoted sons, Bobby (Lisa) and Craig (Allison); her three cherished granddaughters, Sarah, Meredith, and Land; her beloved dog, Princess, who was Jinny's adored companion; and many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob; her parents, Paul and Elsie Aromando; and her brother, Paul Aromando Jr.
To honor Jinny’s life, the family will receive friends on Sunday, September 20, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Bullock Funeral Home. In keeping with Jinny’s down-to-earth nature, the family welcomes casual attire and invites friends to drop in, share stories, and celebrate her wonderful memory.
Flowers may be sent to the funeral home, or if preferred, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jinny’s memory to The Asher House, P.O. Box 3548, Salem, Oregon 97302.
You may go to www.bullockfuneralhome.com and sign the family’s guest book.
The family has chosen Bullock Funeral Home for the arrangements.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Virginia "Jinny" Paula Aromando Stevens, please visit our floral store.