Mary Jane Blassingham, 95, of Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach, passed away on June 24, 2026.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Janie lived in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania before moving to Norfolk in 1943 and later to Virginia Beach in 1978.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John Basil Gay and Isabel Hudson Gay; her brothers, Robert Basil Gay and Edward Hudson Gay; her nephews, Robert Basil Gay II and Edward John Gay; and her son, John William Blassingham.
A 1948 graduate of Maury High School, Janie held several accounting positions throughout her career and retired after 22 years as Treasurer of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia. She was a longtime member of Calvin Presbyterian Church in Norfolk, where she faithfully served on numerous committees and as a Deacon, Elder, and Clerk of Session. She also served as a Trustee on the Board of the Ballentine.
Janie was a dedicated volunteer with the American Red Cross Biomedical Services, serving as both a volunteer and driver, and was a longtime platelet and whole blood donor. She loved the outdoors and hiking, and was an active member of the Tidewater Appalachian Trail Club since 1986, serving two separate terms as Treasurer. She was also a charter member of the Norfolk Towne Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association, where she served as President, Treasurer, and chaired several committees.
At Westminster-Canterbury, Janie remained active in her community by serving on the Religion Committee, teaching Tai Chi, and earning the distinction of being a “Golden Tapper.”
She is survived by her daughter, Gay Marie Robbins and her husband, Keane, of Virginia Beach; grandsons Daniel K. Robbins (Allison) of Richmond, and Brian S. Robbins (Elaine) and Russell S. Robbins (Samantha) of Virginia Beach. She is also survived by seven great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and many dear friends.
A memorial service for family and friends will be held at 1:00 on August 1 in the Holy Trinity Chapel at Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay and will be officiated by The Reverend Jenny Spivey. The service will be recorded for those who are unable to attend.
