Connie Sue Permelia

On February 27, 2023, Connie Sue Permelia gained her heavenly reward at the age of 71. She was a devoted wife, mother and proud grandmother. For many years, she worked diligently in various ministries including music and youth ministries. She planned many Christmas plays, Easter programs and Mother's Day programs. She had a passion for young people and worked as a dedicated Sunday school teacher for years. She worked for nearly 20 years at Pine Lodge Nursing Home in the activities department and considered her work with those patients as a ministry.

Born August 22, 1951, in Maben, West Virginia to the late Edward and Irene Sears, she was also preceded in death by her husband of 43 years Paul Permelia, Jr., brothers Russell (Sandra), Daniel

(Mary), Jerry "Clinton" (Nancy) and her sister Ruth Ann Meador (Dane).

She is survived by her son, Ronald “Ray” Bennett (Cindy) of Crab Orchard, WV and her daughter, Melony Lester (Travis) of Crab Orchard, West Virginia. Her stepdaughters Gloria Smith (Sonny) of Vermilion, Ohio and Donna Sumner (Richard) of Mabscott, WV. Granddaughters Lydia Lester and Jenna Lester of Crab Orchard, WV, Grandson Tron Smith (Heather) of Vermilion, Ohio and Great Grandson David Smith of Vermilion, Ohio. Brothers Vernon Sears (Linda) of Bolt, WV and Timothy Sears (Patricia) of Morganton, NC. Connie is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews. Connie had a special caregiver who quickly became family, Tammy Rhodes who cared for her nearly two years. During the last weeks of her life, she was blessed with another special caregiver, Paula Johnson.

Services will be held at Blue Ridge Funeral Home on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 2:00 pm with the Rev. Vernon Sears officiating. Friends my gather with the family from 12:00 – 2:00 pm. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralhome.com.