Marjorie L. VanCleave, 82 of Dillsboro passed away Wednesday March 8, 2017 at the Waters-Ross Manor in Dillsboro with her family at her side. Marjorie was born Thursday May 31, 1934 in Moores Hill the daughter of Lester and Ruby (Hunt) Withered. She married Marion J. VanCleave April 30, 1955 who survives. Marjorie had been a 25 year member of the Moores Hill Methodist Church, and later joined the Dillsboro United Methodist Church where she was an active member both of the church and the United Methodist Women. She was also a former member of the Rebecca Lodge. She had worked at the Dillsboro Manor, and was known as the “lunch lady” when she worked in the cafeteria at the Dillsboro School. In later years, she along with her husband Van were active in the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program and helped organize the Dillsboro Food Pantry. She always enjoyed doing for others. She was an excellent cook and seamstress, making hats for children in the hospital and for Haitian children. She loved making doll clothes, especially Barbie Doll clothes. She also made a quilt for each grandchild and great grandchild. Her family said she was always there for them and was a great teacher and mentor, and that she had been tested in her life many times, but never ever lost faith in God. This great lady and her wonderful husband were chosen and served as the King and Queen for the 2014 Dillsboro Homecoming.
Marjorie is survived by husband of 61 years, Marion “Van” VanCleave of Dillsboro, sons Mark (Carolyn) VanCleave of Delaware (Milan), James (Donna) VanCleave of Dillsboro, Shawn (Terri) VanCleave of Cincinnati, Grandchildren Joel, Chris and Jacob VanCleave, Rachael York, Amanda Peelman, Chris Justice, Ronnie and Steve Disbro and Brandy Hicks, 15 Great Grandchildren, sister-in-laws Aileen and Frances Withered, Marie Gill and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by son David and grandsons Ben and Josh VanCleave, and 4 brothers Bob, Loren, Mervin and Dale Withered.
Funeral services for Marjorie will be 11AM Monday March 13 at the Dillsboro United Methodist Church with Pastors Dennis Alstott and Mona Safley officiating. Burial will follow in Oakdale Cemetery, Dillsboro. Visitation will be Sunday 4-7PM also at the church. Memorials may be directed to either the Dillsboro United Methodist Church or the Dillsboro Food Pantry. DeVries Funeral Home of Dillsboro entrusted with arrangements.