Ceres Gregory Vandiver

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Ceres Vandiver. She left her earthly home on June 11, 2025, surrounded by loving friends and a cherished puppy.

Ceres was preceded in death by her parents. Left to cherish her memory are three brothers, George Gregory, Charles Vandiver, and Bobby Vandiver. Ceres also leaves numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and thousands of former students.

Ceres, referred to as "Ms. Panda Bear" by many of her students, began her career teaching first grade at Indian Trail Elementary School in 1966. In 1970, she was the first teacher ever hired at Charlotte Latin School, where she taught until 1995. After retirement, Ceres missed the children and joined the Charlotte Country Day team. By this time, many of her past teacher friends had moved on to The Fletcher School, so Ceres followed the flock, where she wrapped up her teaching career.

In 1984, Ceres was presented with the Jane Bratton Spratt Award for outstanding teaching and compassion at Charlotte Latin School. In 1995, she was presented with recognition for 25 years of deep appreciation for her loyalty, dedication, and commitment to children and teaching at Charlotte Latin School.

Ceres will be lovingly remembered for her kindness and exceptional teaching abilities. Numerous students have expressed that "Ms. Panda Bear" was their favorite teacher and that she had a profoundly positive impact on their lives. All of her students were loved and nurtured. Every student was special and had their unique gifts.

Ceres enjoyed playing golf at the Raintree Country Club, and her Hole-In-One plaque still hangs in her home. Ceres's magnetic personality was also highlighted in her disco dancing days and tap dancing on the table in her first-grade classrooms. Ceres had a quick sense of humor and kept us all laughing. Some of her favorite sayings were: "Gift of Time"(not to start a student too early based on their birthdate), "Never hurt feelers", "Blood Sissy"(girl friends), "Mucka" (dear friends and acquaintances) and last and not least "Bye Bye Boo Boo".

Ceres was blessed to have years of tender loving care from Senior Helpers, Via Health Partners, The Levine & Dickenson Hospice House, and many other loving caregivers, including her closest friends. Ceres touched many lives and will be greatly missed, and will remain in our hearts and memories forever.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Memorials may be made to:

Saint Jude Children's Hospital

501 Saint Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105

www.stjude.org/donate/

In Memory of Ceres Vandiver

Acknowledgements to:

Rhonda Wingo

6535 Trenton Place

Charlotte, NC 28226