Helen Virginia (Newman) Vance

VANCE, Helen Virginia (Newman) 92, of Miamisburg, passed away in the early hours of Sunday May 28, 2017, at her residence. She was born July 25, 1924 in Jewel Ridge, Virginia to Albert Bruce and Nannie Bell (Lawson) Newman. She was married for 61years to the late Balford R. Vance who preceded her in death on April 13, 2005. Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Joyce A. (Vance) and William Foote of Miamisburg and Rebecca J. (Vance) and Roy K. Swart, Jr. of Casstown; one son, Jeffrey D. Vance of Franklin; 9 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by her husband; two sons, Reggie L. and Steven B. Vance; and two sisters, Hester Marsh and Betty Dye. Helen was a member of the Bear Creek Church of the Brethren for over 60 years, during which time she taught Bible School, served on various commissions, participated in Bible Study groups, and Ladies Aid. She lived her faith daily. Helen worked in a variety of jobs as a waitress, telephone operator (during WWII), freelance newspaper columnist for the Richlands News Press in Richlands, Virginia, and was retired after 34 years as custodian of the Bear Creek Church of the Brethren. She had a sharp mind and a lively personality with a good sense of humor. She enjoyed reading, watching TV, listening to Gospel music, and writing hundreds of cards and letters to family and friends each year. Helen was a strong, humble, gracious, and loving lady, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend. The family would like to send a special thank you to Phyllis Ryan, RN and Denise Newton, caregiver for the wonderful care they gave to Helen. A funeral service and celebration of her life on earth and her eternal life in heaven will be held Wednesday May 31 at 10AM at Bear Creek Church of the Brethren, 7500 W. Third St Dayton, 45417, with Pastor Nan Erbaugh officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at the Bear Creek Cemetery, Dayton. If desired, contributions in Helen's memory may be made to the Bear Creek Memorial Fund, 7500 W. Third Street, Dayton, 45417