Ruth Ann Clemmer Lavender

Ruth Ann Clemmer Lavender, 83, of Gastonia, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Peak Resources of Cherryville. Born on December 29, 1941, in Stanley, NC, Ann was the daughter of the late Cullen L. Clemmer and the late Shirley Mullis Clemmer.
Ann was the beloved wife of James Franklin Lavender, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and faith. The two were married on Christmas Eve of 1961-a fitting beginning for a couple whose lives were filled with warmth, joy, and the spirit of giving. Together, they built a home grounded in music, service, and steadfast devotion to family and church. As the wife of a music minister, Ann was deeply involved in church life-faithfully serving as a choir member and Sunday school teacher for many years.
Ann's gentle spirit and generous heart touched everyone she met. She was a talented and accomplished seamstress, known for her precision, creativity, and the loving care she poured into her work. Family was at the center of her life, and her home was always filled with warmth-especially during the holidays. Christmas was her favorite time of year, when she delighted in gathering loved ones, decorating, cooking, and making every moment feel magical.
A lifelong caregiver, Ann's compassion extended far beyond her immediate family. She cared deeply for others, always finding ways to comfort, support, and show love. She cherished road trips with Jim and their children-whether to the mountains, the beach, or anywhere along the eastern seaboard-collecting memories and laughter along the way.
Ann is survived by her devoted husband, James; her sister, Shelby Harvell; brother, Don Clemmer; sister, Patsy Crisp; daughter, Nancy Ann Lavender Smith (John); son, Gregory Scott Lavender (Wanda); and son, Christopher Allen Lavender (Noel). She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Shad Aaron Lavender (Danielle), Tyler Ryan Smith (Hannah), and Brian Michael Smith (Christen), as well as five great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.
She was preceded in death by her sisters, Beckie Clemmer and Faye Wylie.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Greene Funeral Service (South Chapel), 1503 S. York Road, Gastonia, NC 28052. For more information, please call 704.853.1300 or visit www.greenefuneral.com
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carolina Caring Hospice (www.carolinacaring.org) or to Peak Resources of Cherryville, 7615 Dallas Cherryville Hwy, Cherryville, NC 28021.
Ann's life was one of quiet strength, selfless love, and enduring faith. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
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