Nellie Mae Vance Gilland

Nellie Mae Vance Gilland, 83, of Marion, passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Rutherfordton on June 11, 1941 to the late James Vance and Effie Moles Vance.

Nellie enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as sitting outside and watching the birds and squirrels in God’s creation. She thoroughly enjoyed the beauty of flowers. More than anything, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was lovingly known as “Granny” to family and friends alike, and will be greatly missed in the community.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Gilland, Sr.; son, Roy Gilland, Jr.; and eight siblings.

She is survived by three daughters, Diane Cate (Mark), Debbie Patton (Johnny), and Becky Crandall (Ronnie); six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and one sister, Juanita Roach.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Harvest Time Baptist Church, 130 Franklin Avenue, Marion, NC 28752. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m.