James Elmer Dance

July 14, 1932 - November 24, 2017
James Elmer Dance

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James Elmer Dance age 85 of the Wrightsboro Community died on Friday, November 24, 2017.

He was born in Conway, SC on July 14, 1932 to George W. Dance and Ethel Baker Dance.  Preceded in death by his parents; his son, James Leon “Jimmy” Dance; brother George W. Dance, Jr.; sister in-law Bonnie Dance; brother in-law Wilbur Holden.

Elmer is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mary Lou Holden Dance; his daughter Cathy Dance Harmon and husband Tom of Columbia, SC; grandchildren, Catherine and Hannah Harmon; brother Archel S. Dance and sister, Etheline Holden; sister in-law Edna Dance; nephews Gary Dance, Wayne and Greg Holden; nieces Brenda Dempsey and Laura Gray.

Elmer worked for Stewart Sandwiches as a District Manager until his retirement and was a proud US Navy Veteran. He was an active member of Wrightsboro Baptist Church for over 50 years, he served on many committees, sang in the choir and served as a Deacon. During his retirement he enjoyed traveling, and spending many hours caring for his lawn and flowers. It was his pride and joy.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held 11 am Monday, November 27, 2017 at Wrightsboro Baptist Church officiated by Rev. Mike Lewis. The family will greet friends an hour prior to the service at the church.

A special thanks to the many friends, neighbors, and his church family for all of their love and support during his 15 months of illness.

Share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Condolence” tab.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st St., Wilmington, NC 28403  910-791-9099.

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  • November 25, 2017
    Tyler says:
    Very sorry for your loss. Many people find comfort in the Bible during difficult times like this. John 5:28, 29 says, "Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out." Please take a look at this short video that gives us hope for the future. https://www.jw.org/en/publications/videos/#en/mediaitems/VODMinistryTools/pub-imv_4_VIDEO

  • November 26, 2017
    Rebecca Rivenbark Adkins says:
    Many fond memories of Mr. Dance all through life associated through church and the many cookouts from the men's Sunday school class held at my parents home. Your Dad always spoke and got a hug while busy cooking with the men. He will always be apart of your heart, cherish the memories, and know now that he is in such a better place now. Prayers and thoughts are with you all.

  • November 28, 2017
    Walter and Dee Dee Finch says:
    I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Walter and I thought so much of Elmer!

  • November 28, 2017
    Martha Futch says:
    Walter and I were so sorry to hear about your loss. Isa thought so much of Elmer. You are in our prayers.