Bernice Ellen Knotts VanMeter, 82, a resident of Parsons, passed from this life Saturday, October 4, 2014 at Granville Manor in Parsons with her loving nieces by her side. Bernice was born Thursday, June 23, 1932 in Sugarland, a daughter of the late Arthur Arnsworth Knotts and Martha Ellen Helmick Knotts. On April 15, 1950 in Red House, MD, she married Clifford Tilden VanMeter who preceded her in death June 30, 2003. Left to cherish Bernice’s memory is one sister, Mary Elizabeth Watring of Leadmine, serveral nieces and nephews and several great and great great nieces and nephews. Preceding Bernice in death besides her parents and husband was one brother, Elwood G. Knotts and one sister, Elsie Florence Roy. Bernice attended the schools of Tucker County and was a graduate of Parsons High School. She was a dedicated homemaker and worked the family farm. Bernice enjoyed hand work such as quilting, crocheting and embroidery. Aunt B, as she was lovingly known, loved spending time with her nieces and nephews and went out of her way to do things for them. She will fondly be remembered for her special cow that produced vanilla milk and people requesting her world famous cole slaw. Bernice was a Protestant by faith. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Visitation will be held at the Summerfield Funeral Home in Parsons on Tuesday from 5 until 8 PM. A funeral service will be conducted in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday, October 8, 2014 at 11AM. Rev. J. Michael Lantz will officiate and interment will follow in Mountain State Memorial Gardens in Gilman. The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made in Bernice’s memory to Five Rivers Library 301 Walnut Street Parsons, WV 26287.
