Vivian Hensley Obituary
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Born to the late Robert and Nora Bays on March 10, 1936, in the small community of Hubbard Springs, Celesta lived a life full of love, faith, and kindness. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, whose heart was as big as her beautiful, contagious smile.
Celesta was of the Baptist faith and a proud member of Cornerstone Baptist Church, where she loved worshipping the Lord and fellowshipping with her church family. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, shaping the way she loved, cared for, and served others. In addition, she was also a devoted member of the Rebeckah Lodge of Rose Hill, VA.
Celesta spent many years working with the HeadStart Program of Lee County, where she poured her heart into teaching and nurturing "her little children," as she lovingly called her students. She had a selfless way of making everyone feel special and cared for. Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by family, cooking meals for anyone who stopped by - because no one ever left her home hungry.
Before her illness, Celesta loved playing bluegrass music at "Wayne's Place", her instrument of choice being the autoharp. She often shared her pride in her family roots and her special connection to the Carter Family, a bond that fueled her love of music and storytelling
She was welcomed into Heaven by her loving husband, Burt "Junior" Hensley Sr.; her parents, Robert and Nora Bays; and her siblings, Herman Bays, Chester Bays, Mardell Helton, and baby sister, Anita Johnson as well as her late son-in-law, Dennis Grable.
Left to carry her memory are her children, Burt "Buddy" Hensley Jr. of Hubbard Springs, Jackie (Terry) Hensley of Hubbard Springs, and Betty Grable (Tom Ely) of Jonesville, Virginia. She leaves behind her beloved granddaughter, Amanda Celesta Grable-Grizzle (Zachery); her three great-grandchildren, Jackson and Norah-Kate Muncy and Kyler Grizzle; and her "special" grandson, Graham Maggard, whom she claimed as her own. Celesta will also be dearly missed by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and countless special friends whose lives were brightened by her love and laughter.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 31, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Powell Valley Funeral Home in Jonesville, VA with Graveside services to follow at Bethel Cemetery, officiated by Pastor Bobby McPherson.
The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Lee Nursing and Rehabilitation for the love and care they gave her.
"To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." - 2 Corinthians 5:8
Vivian Celesta Hensley and her family are in the care of Powell Valley Funeral Home.
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