Coyte Vance

1929 - 2015

Coyte Vance

Florence

Benjamin "Coyte" Vance, 85, passed away Saturday, May 23, 2015 at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, MS. Visitation was Sunday, May 24th from 1-5 p.m. at Chancellor Funeral Home in Florence, MS and Monday, May 25th from 9 a.m. until the 10 a.m. Funeral Service at Richland United Methodist Church in Richland, MS . A Graveside service followed at 2:30 p.m. at Erin Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Newton County, MS.

Born August 1, 1929 in Newton County (he) grew up attending Conchatta School. He played basketball. Selected all state and recognized as the class of 1948 Salutatorian he received a scholarship at Mississippi State University. As a four year letterman he led the Bulldog cagers in scoring. Drafted to play in the NBA by the Milwaukee Hawks, Vance declined this opportunity in order to serve his country in the United States Air Force in the Korean Conflict. After his honorable discharge he returned home to marry his sweetheart, Dell Russell. They were married December 23, 1954.

He coached at Pelahatchie, Florence, Rankin Academy, Brandon Academy, UCS and Newton Academy. He was a principal at Richland, Boler-Decatur Elementary and Decatur H.S. His accomplishments include election into the Miss. State Hall of Fame in 1980, then named to the All Century Basketball Team at MSU, Miss. Assn. of Coaches Hall of Fame and the Miss. Assn. of Independent Schools Hall of Fame. Mr. Vance was proud to be a member of First United Methodist in Richland and Gideons Intl.

He is survived by his wife, Dell Vance of Florence; Kevin his son, Misty, daughter-in-law; grandsons, Kobee and John; grand-daughters, Svenja, Lena, and Merle of Germany.

Donations may be made to the First UMC Richland Building Fund and Gideons International Card Program.

Online guestbook may be signed at www.chancellorfuneralhome.com.