Gerald Mack Vance

LUCAS: Gerald Mack Vance passed away peacefully after a long illness on Sunday, May 11, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones. He was 88.
He was born on February 12, 1937 in Dickenson County, Virginia to parents Evis and Hazel (Green) Vance. Gerald spent his childhood in the McClure, Virginia area and was a graduate of Ervinton High School.
On February 17, 1962 he married the love of his life, Edna Faye Mullins. The couple shared 47 wonderful years together until her passing in 2009, now they are reunited together again in Heaven.
Gerald was a hard worker, for 36 years he worked for General Motors and was affectionately known as "PeeWee" in the parts crib until his retirement in January of 1997. Living next door to the Lucas Park, he was hired on as a facilities caretaker of the park for many years. Being the ever present caretaker, Gerald saw many parties hosted on the grounds, and he would almost always make an appearance (with a cup of coffee in hand) whether he knew the people or not, and was often invited back to subsequent gatherings.
Gerald was a man of many passions and pursuits. His love for classic cars led him to countless car shows, where he admired the craftsmanship of vintage automobiles. An avid traveler, the open highway was his sanctuary, often taking him back to his roots in Virginia to visit family. He also cherished trips to Las Vegas with friends, always on the lookout for a good deal. He was a longtime member of the Lucas Lions Club and the ROMEO Club (Retired Old Men Eating Out), fondly known as "The Liars Club," where he enjoyed camaraderie over coffee at Burger King and McDonald's. Gerald found joy in vegetable gardening, and lining his driveway with vibrant yellow marigolds each year. He appreciated the melodies of bluegrass and classic country music, and never missed an episode of The Andy Griffith Show or The Price Is Right. Gerald was also a fierce competitor on the bowling lanes, a regular fixture at Park Lanes and Lex Lanes, where he bowled in local leagues and traveled across Ohio for tournaments and championships. Whether he was racking up strikes or sharing stories between frames, the lanes were a second home.
His enduring friendship with his barber, Ron Patterson, who had been cutting his hair since the early '70s, was a testament to his loyal nature. Even when health challenges kept him homebound, Ron ensured their visits continued, offering both haircuts and heartfelt conversations. A two-time cancer survivor and a man of grit and heart, Gerald lived fully, laughed loudly, and loved deeply. His presence will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Gerald is survived by his children Anthony (Charissa) Vance, Jennifer Vance, Brian Vance, grandchildren Jennelle Vance, Katy and Aubrey Anderson, Kelly (Cody) Tracht, Kennedy, and Robert Vance, great-grandchild Kian Tracht, siblings Roger (Julie) Vance, Benny Vance, Brenda Kay Lowe, Pamela Ann Powers, Gary (Joyce) Vance, Valeria (Don) Damron, and Polly Phipps, along with many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, Gerald is preceded in death by parents Evis and Hazel Vance, and sisters lost in infancy Janet and Gloria.
The Vance family will receive guests on Friday, May 16, 2025 from 11:30 am to 1 pm at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel, where his funeral service will begin immediately after. Burial to follow in Pavonia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Avita Hospice.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Gerald's family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.