Elaine Van Ness

Elaine Kelley Van Ness, a beacon of kindness and warmth, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024, at the age of 86 in Dothan, Alabama. Born on November 26, 1937, in Wewahitchka, Florida, Elaine's life was a tapestry of love, service, and laughter, woven through the years with the golden threads of family and community.

Elaine's journey through life was marked by her unwavering spirit of compassion and her ability to find the humor in the everyday. She was a cherished wife to Norman Van Ness, a nurturing mother to Jeffrey and Karen (Elizabeth M Donegan), and an adoring grandmother to John Miguel Van Ness. Her extended family of several nieces and nephews also held a special place in her heart, as she embraced them with the same affection she bestowed upon her immediate family. Elaine was the last surviving sibling of her family, predeceased by her brother, James Kelley, Jr., and sisters, Jeanne Joiner and Rilla Yarbrough.

Professionally, Elaine's career was as diverse and dynamic as her personality. She began her journey as an Admin Assistant at Ft Rucker, where her organizational skills and attention to detail quickly became apparent. Her dedication and work ethic led her to the Pentagon, where she contributed to the nation's defense with quiet pride. Later, she became a trusted news manager in Massachusetts, where her integrity and commitment to truth left an indelible mark on those who worked alongside her.

Despite the demands of her career, Elaine's role as a homemaker remained closest to her heart. Her life was punctuated by numerous moves due to her husband's career, yet she created a loving and stable home at every new location, demonstrating her remarkable adaptability and resilience.

Elaine's sense of humor was infectious; she was easily brought to laughter, spreading cheer to all around her. She was the epitome of the 'everyday woman'—relatable, genuine, and always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. Her heart for service shone brightly in her volunteer work with Hispanic children in North Carolina, where she assisted them with their schoolwork, bridging cultural gaps with her nurturing presence.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, and she was deeply involved in the Tabernacle United Methodist Church. Elaine's commitment to her faith community was evident in her active participation and the lasting friendships she formed within the church walls.

Elaine's legacy is one of love, laughter, and service. It is carried forward in the lives of those she touched, in the smiles of the children she helped, and in the community she so ardently supported. Her life was a testament to the beauty of a kind heart and the enduring power of a gentle spirit.

A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, November 2, 2024 in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Craig Bailey officiating.