Donnie Sue Dockery Vance

Died: Jan. 23, 2013

JOHNSON CITY -- Donnie Sue Dockery Vance, of Unicoi, passed away Wednesday.

She was born and raised in Del Rio. When she was 18 years old, she moved to Johnson City, where she attended Steed College.

It was in Johnson City that she met the love of her life, Ray Vance, who preceded her in death in 2008. They spent more than 30 years in Charlotte, N.C., then moved to Greeneville, and finally to Johnson City.

"Our mother was a strong and courageous Christian and fought and won many battles through the grace of God."

She was a member of Cornerstone Church.

Besides her husband, her father and mother: Clyde and Hazel Dockery, three sisters: Thelma, Clara and Bea; one brother: Gordon; and two grandchildren preceded her in death.

She is survived by a devoted daughter and son-in-law: Sharon Lynn and Todd Hopson of Unicoi; a precious son: Michael Ray Vance of Unicoi; two granddaughters: Amber Hopson Dickerson and Emily Vance; two grandsons: Zachary and Seth Thompson; two great-grandsons: Kaden Ray and Kylor Reed Dickerson; two brothers: Haskell and Herbert Dockery of Newport; one precious sister: Margaret Dockery of Litchfield, Minn.; and several nieces and nephews.

Her children and grandchildren had a special place in her heart.

At her request, a private graveside service was held Saturday in Eden Cemetery, Jonesborough. Pastor Barry Burns of Cornerstone Church officiated.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Johnson City, was in charge of arrangements.

Memories and condolences may be sent to the Vance family at http://www.morrisbaker.com.