We invite you to join us in honoring the life and legacy of Virginia Dowden Finley by supporting this American Red Cross SleevesUp blood donation campaign or by making a tax‑deductible financial contribution in her memory.

Virginia Dowden Finley, 83, of Greenville, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Born in Greenville, she was the daughter of the late Leslie Raymond Dowden and Nellie Waldrep Dowden. She was the wife of the late Luther James Finley Jr., and together they owned Finley’s Market on Augusta Street, a beloved neighborhood business that served the Greenville community for many years.

A graduate of Parker High School, Virginia lived a life defined by dedication and service. She worked as a school crossing guard for the Greenville City Police Department and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office while also being a full‑time employee of K‑Mart Corporation. After more than twenty years of service, she retired from both roles, remembered by those who knew her as dependable, kind, and deeply caring.

In Virginia’s final days, blood transfusions were a medical intervention that provided her additional time, precious moments that allowed her to remain with her family, share conversations, and be surrounded by love. Because of this, the family feels a deep and personal connection to the lifesaving mission of blood donation and hopes others will consider giving blood in her honor as a way to help families experience the same gift of time.

Why Support the American Red Cross?

The American Red Cross plays a vital role in caring for individuals and communities every day:

* Life‑Saving Blood Services: Blood donated through the Red Cross supports trauma victims, surgical patients, cancer treatments, and individuals with chronic and life‑threatening conditions.
* Disaster Relief and Emergency Response: The Red Cross provides immediate assistance following disasters, including shelter, meals, medical care, and emotional support.
* Community Health and Preparedness: Through CPR, first aid, and emergency preparedness training, the Red Cross helps save lives before emergencies occur.
* Responsible Stewardship: Donations are used efficiently and transparently to support essential services nationwide.

By donating blood or making a financial contribution, you are helping to save lives and carry forward the spirit of compassion, service, and love that defined Virginia Finley’s life. Financial contributions can be made by going to https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/.

With heartfelt appreciation,

The Finley Family