Adleen Larch Sisson

Adleen Larch Sisson ROANOKE

Adleen Larch Sisson, 94, of Roanoke, passed peacefully from this life Saturday, December 4, 2010, in Charlottesville.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Raymond Taft Sisson; her parents, Flernow Larch and Maggie Zora Larch; her 10 brothers and sisters; and her son-in-law, James Raymond Gilchrist.

Born and raised in Buchanan, Adleen graduated Buchanan High School where she played basketball. Soon after graduation she married Raymond who would be her loving husband for 67 years. They traveled all of the lower 48 states and some of Europe, made many great friends, and served their community and family well.

Adleen fondly remembered one year that Raymond and she spent in New York while Raymond was serving in the United States Army during World War II. Adleen worked the candy counter at Schraft's on Fifth Avenue, took in many shows, and remarked how wonderfully New Yorkers treated servicemen and their wives.

In Roanoke, where Adleen spent the majority of her life, she proudly raised her only daughter, Connie, and created a warm and loving home environment. A long-time member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, she served as Treasurer of The Anna Kugler Bible Class. Adleen was an avid gardener, participating in the Roanoke County Garden Club. She was also a member of the Roanoke County Junior Women's Club. From 1940 to 1973 she was a member and, at times, officer of the National Ladies' Auxiliary of the National Association of Letter Carriers.

Adleen's life was a testament to the importance of family, strength of character, faith, and service. She was a graceful lady - light hearted and deeply loving - who treated everyone with dignity and respect.

In Charlottesville, Adleen is survived by her daughter, Connie Sisson Gilchrist; her grandsons, Robert James Gilchrist and his girlfriend, Alice Simpkins, and Michael Raymond Gilchrist and his fiance', Crystal Kotarski; and close friend, Suzanne Burch.

She is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 1008 Franklin Road South West, Roanoke, VA 24016.

Funeral services will be at 12 p.m. Saturday, December 11, 2010, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Roanoke. The Reverend James L. Armentrout will officiate.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until service time Saturday, December 11, 2010, at the church.

Arrangements by Oakey's North Chapel and Crematory, 540-362-1237.


This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.