Virginia Mae King

Virginia “Ginger” Mae King, age 64, of Lansing, Michigan, passed away on December 1, 2025. Everyone who knows Ginger knows she lived life on her own terms — and she left it the same way: stubborn, strong, and surrounded by family.

She was born in Lansing, Michigan to Mary Lou (Jaka) and Stephen King on November 25, 1961.

Ginger was the definition of a “mom to everyone.” When her kids were growing up, her house was never quiet — or empty. It was the unofficial neighborhood hangout, open 24/7, full of laughter, chaos, and a rotating group of teenagers who all called her “Mom.” And of course, she fed every single one of them. It didn’t matter if it was a four-course, home-cooked meal or a midnight McDonald’s run after their sporting events or late-night teenage shenanigans— Ginger made sure no kid ever left hungry. As her kids and their friends turned into young adults, she was often the first phone call to get a safe ride home and of course they all knew she’d still have the energy to cook something like she was running a diner.

Ginger’s happiest moments were the simple ones: a full kitchen, laughter around the table, and her family close by. Ginger always poured her love and butter into every meal she cooked and every gathering she hosted. She found joy in a good cup of coffee, running late, craft projects, a scratch-off lottery ticket, and long conversations with her sister, Sherry. Being a grandma was one of her greatest joys, and she adored every moment spent with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Michael Carrasco, Rochelle Carrasco, Cory Gonzalez, and Cameron Gonzalez; her father, Stephen King; her sister, Sherry Tefft; her brother, Tim Parks; her many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Lou King, brother Terry Parks, and brother-in-law Clinton “Sparky” Tefft.

In honor of Ginger’s wishes, there will be no formal service at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Her legacy is simple and beautiful: feed people, love them, laugh with them, and always make room for one more at the table. Ginger did that better than most and will be missed beyond words.