Virginia (Cove) Chisholm passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on January 23, 2010. She was 88 years old. Virginia was born in Wilmington on July 7, 1921 and resided in Wilmington for 76 years. As a child, Virginia was a member of the 4H Club and enjoyed volunteering at The Grange with her grandmother. She became a switch board operator in her home during her early years. After graduating from Wilmington High School, Class of 1940, she worked for Monsanto Chemical in Everett for several years. She later worked for ARA Vending Machine Co. at Sweetheart Plastics as well as AVCO in Wilmington for several years before her retirement. She enjoyed vacationing at Hampton Beach, NH every summer with her family and friends. Virginia was a resident of The Steele House in Melrose for the past 11 years where she made several new friends. She enjoyed bingo, monthly birthday celebrations and holiday parties. Virginia was happiest when surrounded by her family & friends. She was caring and compassionate. She was loved by all who knew her and will live on in our hearts forever. She was the beloved wife of the late Fred Chisholm Jr. for 44 years. Loving mother of Joyce A. Mills & her late husband T.A. Mills of Hernando, FL. Cherished Grandmother of Lee A. Meagher & her husband James of Lynn. Great Grandmother of Jake, Melissa and Maddison, all of Lynn. Caring sister of Evelyn Lavoie of Burlington & the late Fred "Buster" Fissette. Also survived by several nieces, nephews and friends. A funeral service will be held at the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Friday, Jan. 29th at 11am. Relatives & friends respectfully invited. Visiting hours on Friday, prior to the service from 9-11am. Rev. Dominic Taranowski of the First Congregational Church of Melrose officiating. Burial in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation, One Bullfinch Place 2nd Flr., Boston, MA 02114.