Bret Darren Vance

Bret Darren Vance, 67, of Harpers Ferry, WV passed away on October 26, 2025, in Ranson, West Virginia.

Born on August 26, 1958, in Takoma Park, Maryland. He was the son of the late Stanley Carr Vance and Nancy Jean Nelson Payne.

Bret spent his formative years around Prince Georges County making a lasting impact in various communities before his family moved to Riverdale, MD as a young teenager where he met the love of his life and his soon to be wife, Doris Crouse.

In 1985 Bret, looking for a better place to raise his ever-growing family decided to purchase a house in Harpers Ferry, WV. Where through his hard work as a business owner, was proudly able to completely pay off his house within 10 years and directly raised two generations of children in the house while mentoring two generations of their friends and others in the community.

Bret's true passion in life, alongside his love and faith in Jesus Christ was his role as a loving grandfather. Bret truly shined as "Granddad" and gave all he had to his grandchildren. The impact he had on the lives of his grandchildren will be felt for a very long time, and he will be remembered as a steadfast, loving provider forever.

In retirement, Bret emphasized spreading Jesus's message of love, compassion and acceptance, and focused on being a mentor, teacher, and role model for his grandchildren and their friends. Bret was a devoted member of The Bridge Church in Ranson, WV, where he actively participated in community and spiritual activities, reflecting his commitment to faith and service.

Bret's loving family includes his wife, Doris Crouse Vance of Harpers Ferry, WV; children, Joshua Vance of Ranson, WV, Kimberly Manuel and her husband Michael Manuel of Sacramento, CA, Michael Vance and his wife Janelle Vance of Harpers Ferry, WV, and Jesse Vance of Winchester, VA; six cherished grandchildren, Cameron, Lilia, Bella-Faith, Darren Paul, Harper Grace, and Morgan Caleb; a sister, Kim Batch of Wilksboro, NC; and a brother. Clint Vance of North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Stana Jean Groom, and brother, Craig Vance.

The family is being assisted by Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home in Ranson, West Virginia, during this difficult time

Bret's life will be remembered for his generous spirit, dedication to his family, and his unwavering faith.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Blue Ridge Acres Community Clubhouse on Sunday, November 2nd at 4PM located at 935 Country Club Drive, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.

Guests are asked to please bring a food dish to share if you are able along with your stories and memories of Bret.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.mtstrider.com