OBITUARY
Rachel Olson Van Alst
November 7, 1937 – February 20, 2021
Rachel Olson Van Alst, 83, of Greensboro died February 19th, 2021. A private service will be held at a later date. A native of Clear Lake, SD, she was a loving wife and mother and a devoted grandmother. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church. Rachel was preceded in death by her Husband John W. Van Alst. Surviving are daughter, Mrs. Elizabeth Van Alst Ford (Doug) of Raleigh; son, John W. Van Alst Jr. of Winchester, MA; sister, Mrs. Mary Olson of Greensboro, and four grandchildren. Contributions may be made to Preservation Greensboro Inc., 447 West Washington Street, Greensboro, NC 27401. Hanes-Lineberry Funeral Home is honored to assist the Van Alst family.
DONATIONS
- Preservation Greensboro Inc.
Services
No public services are scheduled at this time. Receive a notification when services are updated.
Memories
Rachel Olson Van Alst
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYPam and Alex Barrett
February 27, 2021
We send out heartfelt condolences to Betsy and John and their families. It was a real pleasure to have your mother as our across the street neighbor these past several years.
What an interesting and amazing personality- never knew a stranger and certainly knew the history of Grayland St. and beyond. She was kind and thoughtful; we so enjoyed getting to know her and she will be missed as mayor of the street.
Special memories- Rachel took me for my first tour of Blandwood and happily opened up her “living museum” (as I liked to call her home) for tours as well. She sure treasured her antiques and collectibles!
May the good memories bring you all comfort, as she lives on through each of them, and also through you. Pam
JAN MCHARGUE
February 25, 2021
Our deepest sympathy to Betsy and John and your families. We have many lovely memories of Rachel, and are grateful to have known her. She was a good friend to my family, and in particular to my mother, Honesta Dobyns, from the 1960's until her passing last year. Rachel was a vibrant presence in the neighborhood; always outgoing and friendly. Many of us will miss seeing her and chatting during her frequent walks. Her life touched many people in a positive way.
We wish you peace,
Jan and Brad McHargue
Anne (Teague) Boyd
February 25, 2021
Deepest Sympathy to Betsey and John and all your family. I was very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. I always enjoyed and looked forward to stopping by and visiting, chatting and drinking coffee with your Mom. We all have good memories of growing up on Grayland Street and playing outside. I can remember playing kickball in your front yard and climbing the magnolia tree.
Take care of yourselves, Anne (Teague) Boyd
Roland Herrera
February 22, 2021
Our deepest condolences to Betsy & John and all of Rachel’s family. We loved her dearly and she was a wonderful neighbor. Rachel was the first to welcome us to the neighborhood and we will cherish all the fond memories. Rachel always put a smile on our faces and will continue to do so whenever we think about her. Many sympathies for your loss.
Rick, Roland & Jax
Deborah Lineberry
February 22, 2021
I have great memories of Aunt Rachel. I hope we all can recall the best of times when she was here. I can't believe someone as active as she was is not here anymore. Love to Betsy and John.