Virginia Ann Soetebier, 85, of De Soto died Nov. 29, 2023, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mrs. Soetebier grew up in Fredericktown and eventually settled in De Soto with her mother, Ollie. She worked in the restaurant business with her mother for years at the Bus Cafe, Cottage Grill and Walker’s Cafe, among others. In 1979, she became a weight inspector for the Missouri Highway Patrol, from which she retired in 1996. After her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were born, she devoted much of her time to her family. She loved to cook, having shared many recipes with her grandchildren, and she was an animal lover who cared for many cats and dogs. She enjoyed country music and listening to her friends play music. Born Jan. 30, 1938, in Madison County, she was the daughter of the late Ollie M. (Francis) Walker and Raymond C. Graham.
She was preceded in death by her husband: Joseph Soetebier.
She is survived by four grandchildren: Jennifer Woolard, Jonathan Woolard, Jillian (Daniel) Tomlinson and Stephanie (Joshua) Farris; six great-grandchildren: Molli Kate Ragland, Landon Tomlinson, Claire Tomlinson, Stella Tomlinson, Henry Womack and Adalynn Womack; and a close friend: Cathy Francis.
She also was preceded in death by a daughter: Pamela (Mike survives of Festus) Woolard.
Visitation is scheduled from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, at the funeral home, officiated by Pastor Stefenie Rustige. Burial will be in Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens in Crystal City. Memorials may be made to the ASPCA or the local Humane Society. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.