O. Avilea Washington Hensley

O. Avilea Washington Hensley passed away on May 18th, 2017 in Charlotte NC. Beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Avilea was born in Hurricane, Putnam County, WV on March 28th, 1926. Her parents were Melvin Augusta and Mary Jewell Young Washington.

Avilea was a past member of Hurricane Baptist Church where she sang in the choir and attended Hurricane High School, graduating in 1944.

Avilea went to work with Kay Jewelers in Huntington, WV right after school and became the manager of the store, remaining there until 1964. In 1964, she moved to Charlotte, NC with her only beloved daughter Alicia to continue her career as manager of several Kay Jewelers. When she retired in 1991, she was honored for having the longest tenure in the company at that time.

Avilea enjoyed crafts, crocheting, baking, doing crossword puzzles, and being with her family especially her two grandchildren Keith and Caitlin.

Avilea is predeceased by her daughter Alicia Anderson, her nephew Matthew Washington, and her brother Lloyd Washington She is survived by her brother James (Jim) and his wife Carolyn of Huntington, WV; her granddaughter Caitlin of New York, NY; her grandson Keith, his wife Rachel, and her great-granddaughter Avilea and great-grandson Victor of Alexandria, VA; son-in-law Jim Anderson of Charlotte, NC; nephews David, Timmy, and Mark Washington, and their families; several cousins and a special cousin June Thompson and friends in Hurricane and Huntington, WV and Charlotte, NC.

Memorial service to be at Fellowship Baptist Church on June 4th at 2:00 pm with Dr. Jerry Warren officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fellowship Baptist Church and noted for “Missions” or ”World Changers”, 3661 US Route 60 E., Barboursville, WV 25504.

On-line condolences may be placed at www.mcewenpineville.com. Arrangements under the direction of McEwen Pineville Chapel, Charlotte, NC.