Viva Verneal Ames

Viva V. Ames (Evans), born 9-15-1930, was the last of six children born to Cecil and Rella Evans before he died in a mining accident in 1939. Her commitment to follow Jesus Christ shaped her entire life. She loved the Lord with her whole heart and served him in ministry with her husband Loren Burton Ames after graduating from Oklahoma Baptist University. She was passionate about her teaching career, served others and gave generously. She loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her husband Loren preceded her into eternity in 1991.

She is survived by her children and their spouses; Stephanie and Michael Painter, Loren Burton and Linda Ames II and Tambrea and Jaime Gonzalez; Grandchildren Jonathan Painter (Melissa Saunders), Jordan (Valerie) Painter, Kelly (Brandon) Branch, Nick (Coleen) Ames, Nathan Gonzalez (Claire), Taylor Painter, Brandon Gonzalez, and great- grandchildren; Jayden, Jazmine, Jaelynn, Cassidy, Isaiah, Aubrey, Rocky, Ethan, Lailah, Emma, Gabby, McKenzie, Camden; "almost" family, April, Corey and Jacob.

She was lovingly cared for by Judy Branch, Sue Lubbers, Stephanie Cook, Karen Groelsma, Evie Ebels, Pat Wentworth, Amber Haga, and Kailey and Paige Stutsky.

She left her body on January 14, 2017 to be with the Lord and enjoy eternity with those she loved, who have preceded her in death.

A visitation is planned on Saturday, January 21 from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm at Woodhaven Reformed Church, 3959 68th Street, Byron Center, Michigan 49315. A worship service will immediately follow.

Memorial contributions in memory of Viva may be made to Woodhaven Reformed Church Mission Fund.

The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcares.com.