Honoring a Legacy: What Virginia B. Andes Teaches Us About Giving That Lasts
Charlotte Community Foundation recently unveiled a powerful new mural honoring philanthropist Virginia B. Andes—a woman whose legacy continues to shape healthcare and community support across Charlotte County.
For those of us in estate planning, moments like this are more than ceremonial—they’re a reminder of what thoughtful, intentional giving can accomplish over time.
A Life of Purpose—and Impact
Virginia B. Andes, known to many as “VBA,” spent over three decades as a systems engineer at IBM before dedicating her retirement to serving others. From teaching through the University of Florida Extension program to volunteering in hospitals and clinics, her second career was defined by generosity.
But what makes her story especially meaningful is not just how she gave—it’s how she planned to give.
Through the establishment of the VBA Health Fund, her impact didn’t end with her lifetime. Instead, it continues today—supporting healthcare initiatives and providing annual distributions to organizations like the VBA Volunteer Community Clinic.
The Power of Endowments
At the unveiling, McCrory Law Firm’s own Jill McCrory, Chair of the Charlotte Community Foundation Board, spoke about the enduring value of endowments:
Endowments are one of the most effective tools available in estate planning. They allow individuals and families to:
Create a permanent source of funding for causes they care about
Support organizations year after year—not just once
Leave a legacy that reflects their values and priorities
Whether established by an individual or an organization, these funds provide stability and long-term impact for nonprofits and the communities they serve.
Turning Intent Into Legacy
Many people think of estate planning as something purely financial—but at its core, it’s about intention.
It’s about asking:
What do I care about most?
How do I want to be remembered?
What impact can I continue to have, even after I’m gone?
Virginia B. Andes answered those questions clearly—and the result is a legacy that continues to grow, inspire, and serve.
A Living Example for Our Community
The mural now displayed at the Charlotte Community Foundation is more than a tribute—it’s a visual reminder of what’s possible when generosity is paired with thoughtful planning.
It tells a story that estate planning professionals see every day: that with the right structure in place, a single decision today can benefit generations to come.
Start Planning Your Legacy
If you’ve ever considered how you might support your community, your church, your alma mater, or a cause close to your heart, now is the time to explore your options.
Endowments, charitable trusts, and other planning tools can help you:
Maximize your impact
Align your giving with your values
Create something that lasts
At McCrory Law Firm, we work with individuals and families to turn those intentions into clear, effective plans.
