Elmer Lee Vann

Elmer Vann ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Ahoskie Chapel on Mar. 15, 2026.AHOSKIE, NC - Elmer Lee Vann, age 85, of Hertford County, North Carolina, surrounded by his family, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at ECU Health Roanoke Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. Born on February 17, 1941, in Murfreesboro, NC, Elmer was a cherished son of the late Jarvis B. Vann and Emma Greene Vann.Elmer served his country honorably as Military Police in the United States Army, a testament to his unwavering dedication and discipline. Following his military service, he dedicated 30 years to the United States Postal Service before retiring. Seeking further professional pursuits, he then contributed nearly a decade of his knowledge and leadership as a supervisor at Rivers Correctional Institute. Elmer later served the community with distinction as a bailiff for the Hertford County Sheriff's Department.A man of deep faith, Elmer was a devoted member of Holly Springs Baptist Church, where his love for music found expression as he sang joyously with the congregation. He was also a valued member of the Fred Wiggins Hunt Club. Elmer's talents extended beyond his public service and church contributions; he was a gifted musician, an accomplished guitarist, and a passionate woodworker, often crafting beautiful yard furniture. His love for the outdoors was a defining feature of his life, with countless days spent hunting and fishing.Elmer's legacy is fondly remembered by his surviving family: his beloved son, Michael Vann, and wife Amy of Ahoskie, NC; grandchildren Clinton Lee Vann and wife Tabitha of Washington, NC; Kellie Marie Vann of Greenville, NC; Betsy Horner of Raleigh, NC; Katelynn Andrews of Courtland, NY; Nathan Ripchick of Slaterville, NY; Tyler Andrews of Van Etten, NY; Hannah Andrews of Courtland, NY; and Rhiley Elliott of Ahoskie, NC. He also leaves behind cherished great-grandchildren Cheyanne EllaMarie Vann, Novalee StellaMae Vann, Tanner Allen Walker, Aiden Daniel Harding, Lillyahna Victoria Andrews, Joyahna Elizabeth Andrews, Coby O'rien Wells-Burlingame, and Saylor Elaine Ripchick. Additionally, he is survived by his special friend Myrtle Rountree of Gates County, NC; sisters Jane Daughtry and husband Bennett, Peggy Barnes, both of Murfreesboro, NC, and Linda Duke and husband Tony of Milwaukee, NC. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.Along with his parents, Elmer was preceded in death by his loving wife, JoAnn Martin Vann; his dear daughter, Sheri Paige Vann; his sister, Lois Howard; and his brother, Jarvis Wayne Vann.Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie, NC. A celebration of Elmer's life will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Holly Springs Baptist Church in Cofield, NC, officiated by Reverend Paul Ange. Burial will follow in the Holly Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.Online condolences can be offered at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC 27910. For inquiries, please call (252) 332-3122.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.