Mary M. (Alt) VanMeter

 Mary Mae (Alt) VanMeter, age 89 of Petersburg, WV passed away on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg. 

 Mary was born on September 4, 1935 in Pansy, WV and was a daughter of the late John William Alt and Ottie Catherine (Wilfong) Alt;  In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband Henry C. VanMeter Jr. on November 4, 2005; one daughter Brenda J. VanMeter; one son Gerald E. VanMeter; one sister Louise Westfall,  half- sister, Martha Blizzard; one brother Ernest Alt; half-brother John William Alt III. Mary was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

 Mary is survived by two daughters, Linda Crites and husband Robert of Petersburg, WV and Virginia “Jenny” Dayton and husband Tim of Maysville, WV; one daughter-in-law, Shirley R. VanMeter of Petersburg, WV; three sons, Ronnie L. VanMeter and wife Sharon B. of Moorefield, WV, Henry Charles VanMeter of Lahmansville, WV and Bobby W. VanMeter of Petersburg, WV; seventeen grandchildren, eight step grandchildren; twenty-nine great grandchildren and several step great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter and several nieces and nephews.

Mary’s long and fulfilling life was marked by her dedication to her family and the simple joys that she found in everyday tasks. Mary was a woman whose hands were rarely still.  She found great satisfaction in sewing and preserving food for her family. She was always ready to offer her time and heart to babysitting. 

Mary’s spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the memories of her will forever be etched in the hearts of those she loved. 

Mary’s family will receive family and friends on Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 11 – 1 PM at the Schaeffer Funeral Home.  Funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Schaeffer Funeral Home with Bishop Stephen Noel officiating.

 Interment will be in Mt Carmel Cemetery, Arthur, WV.

 Memorial donations may be made to the VanMeter family, c/o Amanda A. VanMeter, 2561 Patterson Creek Road, Petersburg, WV 26847. 

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