Marie Vandergriff

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gaye “Marie” Vandergriff on December 25, 2024, at the age of 88, following a courageous battle with dementia. Throughout her journey, Gaye faced each challenge with grace, resilience, and the same love she shared so freely with those around her. Dementia may have touched her memory, but it could never erase the profound impact she had on her family and friends. Gaye was a retired LPN from Hillcrest Nursing Home. She also worked for several years as a librarian. A devoted healthcare professional and a compassionate caregiver, Gaye dedicated her career to helping others, embodying kindness and selflessness in every aspect of her work. She was equally devoted to her family, finding immense joy in time spent with loved ones and always putting their needs above her own. She found great joy in cooking for her family, pouring love into every dish and creating meals that brought everyone together especially her fried chicken and blackberry cobbler. A devoted fan of Ray Charles and Elvis Presley, her home was often filled with their soulful melodies, creating a warm and nostalgic backdrop to countless family gatherings. She also treasured her weekly lunch dates with friends, relishing the time spent together. Always ready with a quick joke and even quicker to defend the underdog, she was a fiery spirit with a heart full of compassion. Fiercely independent and endlessly kind, she had a gentle touch that endeared her to both people and animals alike. She was unfailingly kind, but when it came to defending her family and friends, she was passionately protective and never backed down from a fight. Gaye’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and the strength of the human spirit. Though she is no longer with us, her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved her. She had an unmatched willingness to help others, always ready to give the shirt off her back to those in need. The world is a smaller place without her presence, but her legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of all she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. She was preceded in death by her husband, H.C. Vandergriff; her parents, Loren and Lucille Nicely; daughter Robin Bledsoe Crawford; grandsons, Andrew Bledsoe, Rylan Bledsoe. Survived by her son, Wayne Bledsoe (Sarah Baker); grandchildren; Adam Crawford (Tammy Sharpe), Amy (Nick) Batson, Lauren (Jeremiah) Williams; great grandchildren Robin Crawford, Aden Bogue, Tristin Bogue, Walter Bledsoe; close cousins, David (Catherine) Buckner, Meredith (Austin) Graham, Stella Graham; close friends Kristin Williams, Kristina Houston and Griffin Slatton. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at Mynatt Funeral Home, Halls Chapel, with funeral service to follow at 4:00 PM with Reverend Mike Goodson officiating. Family and friends will meet by 12:45 PM Monday, December 30, 2024, at the main entrance to Greenwood Cemetery for a 1:00 PM interment service. Online condolences may be sent to www.mynattfh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Young William’s Animal Shelter.