Category: From the President

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In Grateful Memory of Joan Baker Washburn

Update: Obituary for Joan Baker Washburn published on Oakey’s.com.

Service Details: Monday, July 21st, 2025 at 12:00pm – 1:45pm at Oakey’s South Chapel, 4257 Brambleton Ave. Roanoke, VA 24018
Graveside Service: Monday, July 21st, 2025 at 2:00pm at Fairview Cemetery, 3300 Melrose Ave NW, Roanoke, VA 24017


It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend and longtime member, Joan Baker Washburn. Joan was a passionate advocate, a tireless volunteer, and a cornerstone of the Roanoke Valley Democratic Women. Her dedication to progressive values, equity, and the betterment of our community left an indelible mark on RVDW and its members.

Joan’s unwavering commitment to Democratic values and justice inspired generations of women to lead, speak out, and make change. Whether organizing events, mentoring new members, or lending a listening ear, she brought strength to the Democratic Party in Roanoke.

We honor her legacy and celebrate a life well-lived. Joan will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will continue to guide our work and our hearts.

Rest in Power, Joan!

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Virginia is STILL for Voters

A message from RVDW President Wanda Ostrander

Dear RVDW members and friends,

For the last few weeks, we’ve all been recovering from the hard work of the 2024 campaign year and the disappointment of the outcome in the race to win the White House and majorities in the US Senate and US House of Representatives. While 2024 did not end as we had envisioned, Virginia stayed BLUE. We sent Sen. Tim Kaine back to Washington as our US Senator. Roanoke City voters held on to a strong Democratic majority on council by electing Joe Cobb as Mayor, Terry McGuire as Vice Mayor, and Phazhon Nash as Councilman. Be proud of these wins. Your hard work matters!

As the saying goes, Virginia is for Voters. We vote EVERY year. Virginia must again STAY BLUE this November! Now is the time to renew our focus on issues and plans of action to make sure we keep our majority in both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly and also take back the executive offices in Richmond. Our new Board of Officers, elected at our October meeting, is energized and ready to get to work with you. 

Our work is clearly cut out for us, and we can’t do the hard work ahead without you. Let’s kick off 2025 with a shared, renewed commitment to RVDW, to our mission, and to our democracy. Because Virginia is STILL for voters.

Best regards,

Wanda Ostrander, President