Toulmin: philanthropist and humanitarian

Virginia Toulmin, of Sarasota, died June 13.

Born in St. Louis, Toulmin, a philanthropist and humanitarian, had a love of music and the arts and was a vital part of the community as a major donor to the Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Orchestra and Artist Series of Sarasota, to name a few.

“Virginia was widely recognized for her deep and passionate commitment for the arts and human services that made life a little easier for those who were challenged,” said Joseph McKenna, president of the Sarasota Orchestra, where Ms. Toulmin was an active board member since 1998. “Through her generosity and support, Virginia has played a key role in the success and development of the Sarasota Orchestra over the last decade. Our community has lost a real giant, and our hearts ache with her loss.”

Ms. Toulmin considered Sarasota home for the past seven years, after many years of shuttling between Sarasota and Dayton, Ohio.

A private graveside service will be held Thursday, June 17, at St. Trinity Cemetery in St. Louis.

A local funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, at St. Armands Key Lutheran Church.