Zantha Goldeana McVey Brown Bassett

Zantha Bassett (Gran), 98, Williamsburg, VA, passed away peacefully November 21st, 2016, at her home surrounded by her family. She was an active participant in life, always determined to help and had a sharp mind. She was the third child born to the late Linden Guy and Francis Sparling McVey, December 5, 1917, in Brenham, Kansas. At an early age, the family moved to the farm in Kismet, Kansas, where the fourth child was born. She loved sports and music. She was an outstanding basketball player on the undefeated 1933-1934 girls’ high school basketball team. Following graduation in 1936, she attended and received her diploma from Salt City Business College, Hutchinson, Kansas. Zantha worked in Kansas and Arkansas.

After the death of her husband, Ernest O. (Bob) Brown, she moved to Norfolk to be near her daughter, being a dedicated mother and grandmother. She moved to Williamsburg in 1975, to be closer to her daughter and worked for the James City County Treasurer’s Office until her retirement. She thoroughly enjoyed playing golf, cards and faithfully followed the Atlanta Braves.

Preceding her in death was her only child, Charlene McVey Blanchard Gerard, who brought her pride, joy and happiness every day she lived. Also preceding her in death besides her parents, were three brothers, two sisters-in-law, husbands Ernest O. (Bob) Brown, and Marshall C Bassett, and step-son Norman Brown.

Survivors include grandchildren Richard E. Blanchard (Linda), Dr. T. Randal Blanchard (Lauren), Dr Scott C. Blanchard (Toni), and Dr Z. Christine Marcuson (Craig) with whom she resided. She is also survived by 14 great grandchildren, a great great grandson, son-in-law, Charles “Jug” Gerard, sister-in-law Lola McVey, step-daughter Marsha Shepley and Betty Brown, step-son Ernie Brown and many nieces and nephews.

Zantha was a faithful member of Williamsburg United Methodist Church and the Susanna Wesley Circle.

A celebration of life service will be at Nelsen Funeral Home, Williamsburg, VA, January 14, 2:00pm. Inurnment will be in Pratt, Kansas, next summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Williamsburg United Methodist Church, 500 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185; or, Hospice House Support Care-Williamsburg, 4445 Powhatan Pkwy., Williamsburg, VA 23188.