Donald Vance
Donald Keith Vance, of Hixson, Tennessee, went home to be with his heavenly father on June 22, 2021. He was 90.
He is survived by his wife of almost 64 years, Evalena; his daughters Freda (Randy) Keener and Rhonda (Don) Abbott, two grandsons, Hunter (Lindsey) and Hayden (Alexis) Abbott, a brother, Henry Moss Vance of Versailles, KY and many nieces and nephews. A brother, Kenneth Vance and sister, Anita Wash, are deceased.
Donald was born on Sept. 19, 1930, in Versailles, KY to Henry P. And Jennie L. Vance. He attended Griers Creek elementary school and graduated from Versailles High School in May, 1946.
He enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve after graduation from high school, receiving training at Great Lakes Naval Base and aboard a naval destroyer, with ports of call San Juan, Puerto Rico and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He attended The University of Kentucky in 1949 and 1950, majoring in pharmacy. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in December, 1950, and was assigned to Lackland AFB near San Antonio, TX for basic training. He was then stationed at F.E. Warren AFB near Cheyenne, WY for technical training. His next assignment was Warner Robins AFB near Macon, GA, where he spent six months in on-the-job training.
He then served with The Occupation Forces in Germany for three years as a communication equipment maintenance technician.
Upon discharge from the Air Force, he enrolled at The University of Kentucky with a major in Electrical Engineering. He earned a bachelor of science degree, graduating in August, 1958. He was a member of Tau Beta Pi and Eta Kappa Nu engineering honor societies while attending UK.
He was employed by the Tennessee Valley Authority in Chattanooga, for 32 years, working in communications. He was supervisor of communication projects at retirement.
He was a charter member of the Chattanooga Chapter of the Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, Inc.
He served as music director for 15 years at Falling Water Baptist Church near Chattanooga while employed by TVA.
Donald was an avid tennis player and played in tournaments in many southeastern United States venues. He and his wife enjoyed motor home travel, ocean cruises and tours of Europe.
He enjoyed playing the fiddle and singing at many “jam” sessions in the Chattanooga area.
The family would like to thank Hearth Hospice for their love and support and for caregivers Christie, Joyce, April and Avery.
A private family graveside service will be at Chattanooga National Cemetery with military honors.
There will be no public visitation.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Falling Water Baptist Church, 523 Roberts Mill Road, Hixson, Tn. 37343 or to Salvation Army or Charity of your choice.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, 423 531-3975.