Virginia Burns Oppenheimer; Executive, Philanthropist

Virginia Burns Oppenheimer, 80, philanthropist and influential volunteer for health and arts causes. A native of Kansas City, Mo., she was the chief executive officer of an upscale women’s specialty shop there called Cricket West and became the third woman inducted into the national Young Presidents’ Organization. After moving to Los Angeles, she spent many years working with the Jules Stein Eye Institute, which was founded by the parents of her husband, Gerald H. Oppenheimer. Completed in 1966, the institute reflects Virginia Oppenheimer’s work as design consultant for original construction, periodic remodeling and decorating. She also lent her fund-raising and organizing talents to the Costume Council of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Blue Ribbon Committee of the Los Angeles County Music Center and the Thieves Market for the UCLA Art Council. On Saturday in Beverly Hills.