Vera Mae Vanderford

1927 - 2024

Vera Mae Vanderford, 97, of Atoka, TN, passed away on the afternoon of September 23, 2024, at Baptist Covington Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones.

Vera was born to Rollo and Mary Catherine Santucci on July 22, 1927, in Greenville, MS. She married the late Clifford Vanderford on October 13, 1950. Together, they raised six children. Vera worked in the nursery and Mother's Day out at Raleigh Baptist and Bartlett Hills for fifty-two years.

Vera is survived by children: Linda Nichols (Nick), JoAnn White, and Clifford (Bo) Vanderford (Teri). Four grandchildren, Angela Lessel, Rickey White, Brieanna Vanderford, and Tim Vanderford. Three step grandchildren: Desiree Smith, Tish Trammell, and Brian Davis. Six great grandchildren: Cameron Lessel, Hannah White, Maddie White, Remi Parker, and Jennings Blankenship. One great-great grandchild: Ellis Neumann. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rollo and Mary Santucci, her loving husband, Clifford Vanderford, four brothers, two sisters, one daughter, Millie, two sons, Howard and William (Bill), and three grandchildren, Brett Yarbrough, Kristen Vanderford, and Stephanie Vanderford.

She loved the Lord and was faithful to her morning devotionals. She enjoyed watching her game shows daily and making plastic crafts. She loved her family dearly and strived to make their lives better. She is loved by so many, and oh, what a legacy she leaves. She was such a strong, loving, selfless woman and will forever be a powerful example in our lives. Towards the end, she fought to hold on so she could be with us, but The Lord took her hand, saying it was time to come to her everlasting home, assuring her that we will be okay. She may be absent on earth, but she will live in our hearts until we reunite in Heaven.

Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.