Alva Marie Anders

Alva Marie Hipps Anders, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, at the Hendersonville Health and Rehabilitation Center in Flat Rock, NC. Born on June 27, 1931, in Hendersonville, NC, she lived a long and fulfilling life of 94 years.

Alva dedicated 20 years of her career to GE Lighting, where she was known for her hard work and dedication before retiring. She was an active member of Barnwell Baptist Church, where she found community and spiritual fulfillment.

Her interests were as vibrant as her personality. Alva loved to cook and can food, often sharing her culinary creations with family and friends. She enjoyed watching Westerns on television, attending her great-granddaughter's horseshoes, and her love for gospel and country music filled her home with joy. Her front porch was always adorned with beautiful flowers, a testament to her love for nature. A true animal lover, she cherished the companionship of her dogs.

Fiercely independent, Alva was known for her determination and vitality, famously mowing her own yard until the age of 92, often saying, "I have to keep moving." Her one earnest prayer was to live long enough to meet her great, great-grandson, Gunner. Her love for her family and friends was evident in all she did, and she will be remembered for her warmth and kindness.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Carrie Jackson Hipps; her husband, U.G. Anders, who passed away in 1968; and her siblings, R.C. Hipps, James Hipps, Olan Hipps, Barny Hipps, Roy Hipps, Ray Hipps, and Olivia Bradley.

Alva is survived by her loving daughter, Rhonda Ruff; her devoted son, Jesse Anders; her cherished grandchildren, Eric Ruff, Julie Petri (Patrick), Jennifer Ander, and Caroline Anders; her great-grandchildren, Jodi Mazalic (Brandon), Chris Petri, and Anna Petri; and her great-great-grandson, Gunner Mazalic. Her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Barnwell Baptist Church, officiated by Eddie Case. Burial will follow in Shepherd Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 PM on Saturday at the church.

Memorial donations may be made to Barnwell Baptist Church, 610 Grant Mountain Road, Edneyville, NC 28727, or by clicking HERE.

Alva Marie Hipps Anders will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her. Her spirit and love for life will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been a part of her journey.