Ellice Geiderman DeBolt, 59, passed away on June 11, at her home in New Bern, NC, surrounded by her family.
Ellice was born in Chicago, IL on November 8, 1957 to Sylvan Geiderman and Jeanette (Mallin) Geiderman Lewis. She was a sister to Howard and Marcia Geiderman. Ellice married her soul mate Vernon Lyle DeBolt III in Kansas City, MO in 1980.
Ellice moved to Overland Park, KS at age 15 where she attended Shawnee Mission East High School. She attended the University of Texas where she graduated in three years with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising Communications and was a member of the Texas State Guard. Following graduation, she lived in Dallas for a year before marrying Vernon.
As a couple, Vernon and Ellice lived in many places following Vernon's newspaper career and creating life-long friends along the way. She bloomed everywhere she was planted. They lived in Odessa, TX for a year before moving to Turlock, CA, where Ellice gave birth to Lauren DeBolt Lenn in 1983. After seven years in California, Vernon and Ellice moved to Gastonia, NC, where they welcomed their second daughter, Sarah Anne DeBolt in 1988. In 1991, the DeBolt family moved to Greenville, MS where Ellice had her third daughter, Catherine Leigh DeBolt. But their travels weren't over yet – the DeBolt family also lived in Kinston, NC from 1997-2000, Lima, OH from 2000-2002 and finally made their home in New Bern, NC in 2002.
Ellice was preceded in death by her father, Sylvan, and her sister, Marcia.
She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Vernon DeBolt, three daughters, Lauren (David) DeBolt Lenn of Swansboro, NC; Sarah DeBolt of New York, NY; and Catherine DeBolt of San Francisco, CA; her mother, Jeanette (Mallin) Geiderman Lewis of Overland Park, KS; and her brother, Howard (Mary Pellar) Geiderman of Chicago, IL; as well as many cousins and wonderful friends.
Ellice had a zest for life and invested her time and energy in loving her family and friends. She developed many lasting, meaningful friendships, and those whom she loved were truly blessed. She enjoyed many hobbies such as tennis, reading, theater, bridge, shopping, traveling and had a special bond with her loyal dog Buster.
Ellice dedicated her time and talents to many cultural and civic organizations including the Arts Council, Red Cross, NBGCC Ladies Tennis Association, Soroptimist, Heart Gala, Festival of Trees, Coastal Women's Shelter, Craven County Schools, Junior Women's Club, Junior League, Junior Auxiliary, and PEO.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Melanoma Research Alliance, the American Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.
Ellice's family would appreciate friends sharing memories and signing the guestbook at www.cottenfuneralhome.com.
A funeral service will be held Friday, June 16, at 2:00 PM at Cotten Funeral Home, followed by a reception.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
I only had the pleasure of knowing Mrs. DeBolt since last November around Thanksgiving. The DeBolts welcomed me into their home with open arms and with smiles on their faces, despite the very traumatic situation that they were facing. I am thankful to have met Mrs. DeBolt and send my deepest condolences to her family and friends.
Scott Chapman
July 17, 2017
Mr. DeBolt and family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I pray for peace and healing for you and your family.
Frances Jones
July 7, 2017
My deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the entire family and to all those that had the pleasure of knowing her. She was such a beautiful woman inside and out. I was blessed to have known her during the time we were stationed at Cherry Point. She was a beloved client of mine at the Pilates studio. She was always a delight to be around and brighten my day tremendously. She was a strong and funny woman that I will never forget. It is in her memory and honor that I will run my first 5k on July 22 in Virginia. The race proceeds will be going to the American Cancer Society.
Liz Dorn
July 1, 2017
Vernon, I'm so sorry for you loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm sending lots of love your way. Kim
Kim Shreve Adams
June 21, 2017
Vernon,
I am so sorry to hear about Ellice. She is in a great place now. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless.
Marc Fielden
June 20, 2017
Vernon and Family, We are stunned and heartbroken over the passing of Ellice. She was one of the dearest, sweetest human beings to ever walk the face of this earth!! I am so thankful that I got to know her when we were on the KCC TENNIS team together. Our love goes out to you, Vernon and your entire family!
Brenda Sitterson
June 19, 2017
Ellice and I met as we were entering high school and quickly became close friends. She was a warm, compassionate, smart and fun loving person .... and a true friend. Although it has been hard to keep in close contact over the years, she will always be in my heart. To Vernon, Catherine, Lauren, Sarah, Jeannette and Howard, I am so very sorry for your loss. I know how much she loved and cherished each of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lynn Perlman Noskin
June 19, 2017
DeBolt Family,
David and I were extremely saddened to hear of your loss. Mrs. Ellice was, among many things, a loving and welcoming person. With a smile on her face and a warm batch of cookies, she was always happy to open her home to 'surprise' guests and sleepovers.
I have many stories of great times at the DeBolt's homes in both Kinston and New Bern. Ones that will never be forgotten and always with Mrs. Ellice's smiling face.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this difficult time of loss.
Addie Watson
June 16, 2017
Vernon, Joe & I were saddened to hear of Ellice's passing. She was a beautiful woman & we send our sincerest sympathies to you & your family (your neighbors at 1238 Pine Valley Drive).
Joe & Diane Parsons
June 16, 2017
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Ken & Connie Smith
June 16, 2017
Vernon, Lauren, Sarah Anne & Catherine, Our heart is broken for you with the sadness you are going through. Your mother was such a beautifyul lady, inside and out..and touched so many lives. She always stepped up to the plate with a smile and was willing to help or offer a kind, encouraging word at just the right moment..a true southern lady. Please know we are thinking about you and praying that peace of heart will gradually wander in....The Snead Family, New Bern
catherine snead
June 16, 2017
Vernon, Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. May God's healing love be with you at this time.
Jim and Delorise McMillen
June 16, 2017
I will always remember Ellice's beautiful smile, caring heart and gentle voice. Kinston was blessed when the Debolts moved here in 1997. Ellice touched so many lives and will be greatly missed. My heartfelt sympathy to Vernon and the girls. My prayer is for peace and comfort for the entire family during this difficult time.
June 15, 2017
May she be embraced by the light
Barbara Diaz
June 15, 2017
Vernon I was so sorry to hear of Ellices passing; my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this very difficult time.
Sue Smith
June 15, 2017
I am at a loss for words. Everyone Ellice has met along her journey in life, she has touched them in some way. Whether through her grace, her laughter or her being a supportive friend she will live on in all of our hearts. My prayers are with Vernon, the girls, Jeannette and Howard and extended families as you find comfort in one another. Ellice will be missed.
Cindy Harper
June 15, 2017
Sorry for your loss. A friend from Lenoir County.
Oscar Herring
June 15, 2017
A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on. Please accept Brenda's and my condolences.
Larry Powell
June 15, 2017
Praying for peace during this time
Pam and Boo Baxter
June 15, 2017
Sending love and peace your way. -Anna (Armstrong) Baker
Anna Baker
June 15, 2017
Vernon, I am so sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in my prayers. Denise Fernandez
Denise Fernandez
June 15, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with Vernon and their family.
Joann Young
June 15, 2017
I will forever cherish my friendship with Ellice! We shared a love of tennis, which is how I first met her. She made everything more fun and I never played tennis with her without laughing! We shared a love of the theatre. We enjoyed many shows together but the best part of our theatre trips were the talks we were able to have during our drives to and from Raleigh. Her sincere care for others, her interest in making her community a better place in any way she could, her genuine delight in other's successes, her deep love for her family and friends, her sense of humor, beautiful smile and laugh are a few of her traits that made her one of the most beautiful people, inside and out, that I have been blessed to call my friend. Ellice's imprint on my heart will last forever!
SharRee Frogley
June 15, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this hardest of times. Ellice was such an amazing person in so many ways. Her greatest accomplishment being wife and mother, she was such a gifted woman in so many other ways. We were all blessed by God to have known her.
Karen Rouse
June 15, 2017
Vernon, May God Bless you and your family, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Allan Yelverton
June 15, 2017
Vernon, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Celia Rolison
June 14, 2017
I was so shocked to read this notice. Ellie was a friend to all and a very special person! My heart goes out to her family. You will remain in my prayers and my thoughts as you go through this difficult time of loss.memories of Ellie will be forever treasured.
Linda Staunch
June 14, 2017
Remembering all the superlative qualities that defined Ellice and sending our deepest sympathy.
Jennie and David Lambert
June 14, 2017
So sorry , she was a wonderful lady ,always happy . Prayers for her family . Barbara Morris New Bern
June 14, 2017
It is rare to walk into another families house and to feel at home. Mrs. Debolt always made me feel that way. She was always genuinely interested in what was going in my life and always made me feel welcomed. She was so kind, funny, and elegant. I will forever cherish those late-night dinners with Catherine and Mr. & Mrs. Debolt. I am so very sorry for your loss .
Kelsey Fagan
June 14, 2017
I will miss you so much! You are a bright star in Heaven watching over us now. Your cousin Scott and my wife Carolyn Mallin
Scott Mallin
June 14, 2017
Vernon, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Billy Moore
June 14, 2017
Vernon and family
We are so sorry for your loss. Ellice was a wonderful lady and will be missed by many. You and your family are in our prayers.
Dan and Glenda Foley
June 14, 2017
I realize what a special wife, what a special mother you are missing right now. Every encounter with Ellice was warm and memorable. She told me stories about you and how much she loved you. She came to visit us once, and brought a peace lily as a housewarming gift. I joked that I had sort of a brown thumb and I could tell that she had true empathy for both me and the plant. I promised her I would do my best to take care of it and it is still here and green. I took extra special care of it today as I will from now on. Something tangible to remember from a wonderful, loving woman. I am so fortunate to have known her just a tiny bit. I imagine that you must miss her greatly. I hope you can be comforted by knowing the happiness and love she imparted to so many. I am sorry she's gone too soon.
Sarah Foster
June 14, 2017
When thinking of Ellice, she epitomizes the definition of a true friend. Although miles separated us, our long-term friendship since high school bound us together. We could go months without communicating and then pick right up where we left off. As I read through the postings from individuals who were touched by Ellice, it is evident that she had a profound impact on so many individuals. I feel blessed to have known Ellice with her serious side, silly side and supportive side. My heart aches for her family at this most difficult time. May all of the wonderful memories of Ellice provide you with strength as you grieve the loss of this amazing woman. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Deb Warden
June 14, 2017
I think what strikes me the most is what wonderful women Ellice and Vernon raised. Lauren and I were classmates and best friends, and Ellice was always there when I came over to visit or spend the night. I always thought she had the best sense of humor, which she definitely passed on to her children. I remember so many slivers of time spent over there! I remember watching a video Christmas Card your family made and laughing until I cried. I remember Ellice carting us all around in her big SUV, letting us listen to "our" music, and commenting on pop culture ("he's a hottie"). I remember the calm reaction she had the time Lauren and I rearranged all of the bedroom furniture in the middle of the night. I remember those huge slumber parties filled with laughter and a hard working mama in the background, tending to snacks and conversing with us. The DeBolt family has always been one filled with kindness, humility, and hilarity. I love each and every one of you so much, and am grateful for you daughters, each whom reflect a piece of her so well. I will always have a special place in my heart for the DeBolts, and will miss you dearly, Mrs. Ellice!
Lauren Nail Swindol
June 14, 2017
I will always remember her warm smile, kind heart and sweet spirit. She was a graceful and beautiful lady. Prayers for peace and comfort for your family during this difficult time.
Sheila Meadows
June 14, 2017
On the tennis courts when Ellice (rarely) missed a shot; she often said, "Just one more step, I need to write a book about taking one more step!" We always talked about how that sentiment could be applied to so many situations, how all of our relationships, all of our efforts could benefit if we would just take one more step. Here is to Ellice who always took that step and encouraged those around her to do the same. Her smile, her little giggle, her positive outlook and her calm grace will linger in our hearts. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love & hugs!
Bridget Cella
June 14, 2017
My heart weeps for Vernon, Lauren, Sarah, & Catherine, her mother Jeannette Lewis, and brother Howard Geiderman...and Buster. I wish you all the strength of your family's love, and that your memories will bring smiles along with the sadness. There are so many memories of our friendship going back about 47 years. We shared so many experiences growing up, through high school and college, talked for hours on end and laughed so hard it hurt. She will forever be a fun, adventurous, kind, helpful, and supportive friend. I was so lucky to see her be an amazing big sister to Marcia, and a wonderful mother when I visited California and Mississippi when her girls were very young. The times I was able to see her when she came back to Kansas City to spend time with her mother always brought back memories of high school when her family took me in during an ice storm and we'd sit around with her mom just talking. This sadness is tremendous for all who cared about and loved her. May her memory be a blessing.
Karin Golden
June 13, 2017
Ellice and I were high school friends. I wouldn't have passed English without her help. She gave me such confidence. She gave me the best hugs. My heart aches for all you.
Barb Mendelsohn
Friend
June 13, 2017
We all lost our best friend this week. Vernon, Lauren, Catherine, Sarah and family, we are feeling your pain. Ellice was always there for me with words of encouragement and a milkshake from Arby's. She would come and take me for an adventure (to a lamp shop on Highway 24) or just ride around the neighborhood with the top down, when the flowers began to bloom. She loved everyone and we all loved her back. I will miss her always.
Becky Badger
June 13, 2017
DeBolt Family:
Ellice is a woman I will not soon forget. She was such a kind, loving, beautiful person that always put her family first. I will forever remember her welcoming warm smile and hello as she greeted me countless times after knocking on her door for slumber parties. I learned so many things from your mother as I tried new foods and listened to stories and lessons told around the dinner table. She was more than a friends mom to be throughout middle school and I am heartbroken for all of you as I know the impact she made on all of your lives. Let the memories of your mother and wife get you through the hard times that are ahead. I pray for peace and comfort for all of you. I love you, DeBolts!
-Jill
Jillian Hanes
June 13, 2017
I always enjoyed getting to visit with Ellise. Every five weeks we had a standing appointment to catch up. I was her stylist and she alsways made me feel like a hair hero! She appreciated my job!! She talked about her beautiful daughters her wonderful husband. She loved her family!! She really had a sweet heart and I am so thankful to have known her. she was definitely one of a kind. I will miss her tremendously!!!❤Awesome ellice❤
Sharon Duncan
June 13, 2017
Sending my deepest sympathy to the DeBolt family. Elise was one of the first people I met when moving to New Bern and welcomed me unconditionally. She was such a generous soul. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lynne Harakal
June 13, 2017
Ellice was one of a kind. She was kind, gracious and classy like no other. We had many years of sitting in the bleachers with Ellice and Vernon watching Catherine and Kelsey play soccer and always will cherish these memories. She always had a terrific smile and a genuine laugh. We will miss Ellice and We are so sorry for your loss. The Fagan Family
June 13, 2017
When I read Ellice's obituary I realized she had the same birthday as my dad. My mom then told me that Ellice sent my mom a card or message every year wishing my father a happy birthday and letting her know she was in her prayers after he passed away. I will always remember this about her and believe they will be celebrating every November 8th together in heaven. I'm sending all of my love to your family.
Rachel Fisher
June 13, 2017
Vernon and girls: I will always remember Elice with a smile on her face and joy in her heart. Vernon and Elice were in our Supper Club in Kinston. One night it just happened that Elice and I were seated beside each other. I can't really tell you what was said because it's not appropriate for this posting. But I can tell you that she and I had that uncontrollable, surpressed, deep down in your belly laughter that brings tears to your eyes. For a long time! That's how I will remember your wife and mom and my friend. God bless and prayers.
Kelly Patterson
June 13, 2017
My Condolences to Vernon, Sarah, Lauren, Catherine, her mother Jeanette Lewis, and her Brother Howard Geiderman. I will miss my first cousin Ellice and all of the memories that we shared growing up - birthday parties and holiday celebrations. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Cousin Doug Schwartz
Doug Schwartz
June 13, 2017
My heart is breaking for your family and the loss you are dealing with. She was an amazing, hilarious and patient woman (no matter what trouble Catherine and I were getting into). She always could put a smile on your face no matter what kind of day you'd had. My love, thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Devin Warren
June 13, 2017
Dear Debolt family,
What great sadness you must feel. Ellie was a lovely lady, gracious and kind. She will be missed dearly.
Linda Cotten and John Graham
June 13, 2017
I had so much fun with Ellice when I met her during BBYO days. She had a bubbly personality and a smile always. I imagine her family has many many wonderful memories of a wonderful wife and mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sandie Balot-Davis
June 13, 2017
My heartfelt sympathy to Vernon and Ellice's family, and a wish for God's peace for all during this sad time.
Nicole Barefield
June 13, 2017
Mrs. Ellice is truly one of a kind and I will deeply miss her in so many ways. She always greeted me with a huge smile and wanted to know what was going on in my life and looking for ways to support my dreams and passions. She was always interested to hear what my next "big idea" was and what I was going to do to make it happen. From day one, I felt like I could go see her and talk to her as if she was a second mother to me and now I am at a loss for words. I'll remember her as she truly was, a beautiful lady who glowed from the inside out. Our conversations were always filled with laughter and when we saw each other, we both brought smiles to one another's faces. I saw her just a few weeks ago, not knowing it would be the last time, I walked in and she jumped up off the couch to greet and hug me, even though now I know that she couldn't have been feeling well enough to do so, but that's the type of person she was and that's what I will remember, all the good times and the good feels. I love you DeBolt Family, hang in there!!!
Scott Andrews
June 13, 2017
I am so very thankful that God placed Ellice in my path. I was fortunate to get to know her in our Tuesday lunch and bridge club. She ALWAYS had the most sincere, sweetest smile and sweet, sweet spirit. Please be assured that many are grieving along with you and keeping you all covered in our prayers. With deepest sympathy,
Debbie Stilley
June 13, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. She was such a kind beautiful person.Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
Karen Gardner
June 13, 2017
Sorry for your loss.
Richard Clark
June 13, 2017
I am so saddened to hear about Ellice. Such a sweet, kind and gentle lady. You are all my my heart and prayers
Amy Lock
June 13, 2017
Vernon and Family,
So very sorry for your loss. We are thinking of you and praying for you. Denise Wallace (Gastonia, NC)
June 13, 2017
Ellice will always be remembered for her love for her family and many, many friends. She never met a stranger. She will forever be in my heart for treating me as if I was one of her family. My broken heart goes out to her beloved husband and one of my lifelong best friends Vernon and their beautiful daughters, who we got to watch grow up from near and far, to be wonderful women and complete reflections of their mother. We love you all and our prayers are with all of you!
Kent, Connie, Andrew & Matthew Kilpatrick
June 13, 2017
Ellice will stand out in my memory as a woman of grace and kindness and friendliness. Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss.
Steve Buckley
June 13, 2017
I am so sorry about your loss, my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Nancy Saunders (Gastonia, NC, Gaston Gazette)
Nancy Saunders
June 13, 2017
Ellice was such a beautiful person inside and out. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Judy Avery
June 13, 2017
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