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Mrs. Vandelia Dorest, 87, of Charlotte, NC, departed this life on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at her residence.

Vandelia Dorest, born March 13, 1937, in Winston Salem. NC, affectionately called "Van," entered eternity on October 26, 2024. She was the fourth of five siblings.

Though her body was frail and tried, her spirit was full of grateful appreciation to be able to draw another breath every second  she was blessed on earth. She was thankful to leave when the Lord called her home to spend eternity with Jesus.

There was never a dull moment with Van. She imparted sayings and remembrances that were insightful for the moment or could bring a laugh to moments of seriousness. Up until the end, her positive outlook and sense of humor remained with her – with memories shared and love abounding. She will be sorely missed.

Van moved to Boston, Massachusetts in 1955, and attended primary and secondary schools.  On April 15, 1961, she was united in holy matrimony to the late Gilbert L. Dorest, a native of Louisiana. For almost 51 years, they enjoyed and cherished the gift of marriage and the partnership of life. After years of moving city to city, because Gilbert served in the United States Navy, they settled in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Vandelia worked at an AME Zion Church as church secretary, volunteered at the Homeless Shelter, and was a substitute teacher.  Her life was a living example of her favorite Bible verse, John 3:16.  Vandelia was also a devoted member of Las Amigas where she served for 45 years holding several positions, President, Chaplain, Treasurer, Parliamentarian, Regional and National Queen.  Vandelia would always say that "Las Amigas was the best thing that ever happened to her."

Vandelia passed away to join her beloved husband. She was a loving mother, supportive sister to Irene Watkins, and caring friend. She will be sorely missed.

In addition to her late husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Valerie  Dorest.

Vandelia is survived by her children, Gilbert Dorest, Jr. (Laverne), Donald Dorest, Valeria J. McCorkle (Derrick); grandchildren, Jamarl M. Fleming, Justin Dorest, Jeremiah Dorest, Vandelia R. Dorest, Johnathan Dorest; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and an extended family of dear friends and caregivers. All of these she loved and touched deeply.