Jerry Lee Vanness, 76, of Salem, passed away Monday, September 5, 2016.

He was born in Goochland, VA, a son of the late Lee Alfred and Fannie Crawford Vanness and had been an area resident for most of his life. He was employed as a heavy equipment operator in highway construction for many years, and was last employed at Graham-White, retiring in 2004. Jerry enjoyed hunting and fishing, being in the outdoors, but mostly he enjoyed music and could play most any instrument in front of him. He attended North Valley Seventh Day Adventist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by eight siblings.

He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Hildegard Meister Vanness; a son, Jerry L. Vanness, Jr. and wife Lindsy; daughter, Cecilia Hughes and husband Mike; and by four grandchildren, Andrew Walker, Michela Jane and Makenzy Lea Hughes, and Steven Wilson.

A memorial service will be held at 3 PM, Saturday, September 10, 2016 at North Valley Seventh Day Adventist Church 4700 Northridge Lane Roanoke, VA 24019. The Vanness family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son, Salem.