Otelia (Willard) Vaden

Otelia Willard Vaden passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday May 11, 2024. She was 99 years old.

She was born in Stokes County, North Carolina to Sandy Edgar Willard and Mattie Mabe Willard on January 17, 1925. She was of the Primitive Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Royce Leonard Vaden and a daughter, Judy Ann Vaden Smith and Judy’s twin at infancy, Laura Ruth. One brother Bobby Willard and sisters Edith Sands, Nealie Ann Griner and Era George.

Those left to cherish her memory include, her sons, Ron Vaden of New Smyrna Beach, FL; Wade (Deborah) Vaden of Danbury, NC; Tony (Terri) Vaden of Lake Geneva, WI; daughter, Donna (Steve) Leonard of Clayton, NC; 11 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Otelia was a farmer’s wife for many years and then could be found feeding the hungry in Mt. Airy, NC at the front counter of the Derby Restaurant.

She and her husband served the community and were recognized for delivery of homebound meals to the citizens of Stokes County.

She loved gardening and having a yard full of beautiful flowers. Guests were greeted by a yard full of color upon entering the drive.

Cox-Needham Funeral Home will be serving the family. Viewing will be held at 1pm at the funeral home on Wednesday May 15, 2024 followed by a Memorial service at 2 pm. Burial following at Rock House Primitive Baptist Church cemetery. Pastor Alan Paschal will be officiating the service.

Please sign the guestbook at www.coxneedham.com, www.facebook.com/coxneedham. 

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