Jeannie Joan Virgo

Jeannie Joan Virgo, 83, of Kannapolis, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Autumn Care of Cornelius, surrounded by love and care.

Born on March 29, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Jeannie was the daughter of the late Edgar Adam Virgo and Marie Lathrop Virgo. She was also an identical twin, a gift that shaped her life with a special bond of love and companionship.

Jeannie graduated from Chicago Mercy High School and furthered her studies at John Robert Powers Modeling School in Illinois, where she began to cultivate her natural talents and radiant presence. She went on to pursue a career as a model, jazz singer, and actress, earning roles in a number of public service and educational films through the Walter J. Kline Agency in Pineville after moving to Charlotte with her husband and two children. Between 1970 and 1990, Jeannie appeared in six films, bringing to each role her warm smile, sincerity, and grace.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jeannie was a woman of beauty inside and out. She had a deep appreciation for lovely things, took great pride in her work and her appearance, and radiated warmth and kindness wherever she went. She especially loved animals—particularly cats and squirrels—and found joy in their company.

Most of all, Jeannie was devoted to her family. She poured her heart into creating a home filled with love, laughter, and encouragement. Her gentle spirit, compassion, and unwavering support were a blessing to all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Dowdy and husband Jonathan of Cornelius; her son, Scott Abernathy and wife Sharda of Concord; and extended family members and friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.

A graveside service to honor Jeannie’s life will be held at 4:00 PM on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at West Concord Cemetery.

Jeannie will be remembered for her devotion to family, her radiant smile, her love of beauty and art, and the legacy of love she leaves behind.

Wilkinson Funeral Home is honored to care for the Virgo family.