Alene Omega Robertson Vance, 89, of Richland, went home to be with the Lord on September 23, 2005. She died at Kadlec Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. She was born near Hamlin, Texas on January 31, 1916.

She was born and raised on the family farm, where she also met her husband, J.W. Vance. They were married in 1933 and had 3 children. The family moved to Washington in 1942, where J.W. worked at Hanford. Alene worked as a seamstress and dressmaker for 40 years. She worked at the old Sacajawea school cafeteria and has often done volunteer work for the handicapped. For several years she volunteered at the Food Bank as well. She has always loved gardening, and even now has her whole front yard in roses and a beautifully landscaped backyard with lilacs, peonies, crepe myrtle, and more roses. She was a member of the Richland Baptist Church for 65 years.

Alene was preceded in death by her husband J.W. Vance, daughter Betty Kowske, and step grandson Michael Carter. She was survived by her son J.W. Vance and wife Melba of Oklahoma City, OK and daughter Willie Vance of Richland. Surviving grandchildren include, Thomas Vance, Lynn Kowske, Jeffrey Vance, Kristi Brinkerhoff, Susan Estell and husband Jeff, Michael Vance, and Kevin Brinkerhoff and wife Patti, as well as 3 step grandchildren, Richard Carter and wife Laura, Gary Carter and wife Sondra, and Barry ''Alan'' Carter. Also surviving are 20 great grandchildren and numerous great, great grandchildren.

Alene leaves behind a legacy of love and joy for family and friends. She had a zest for life and a heart of gold and will be forever in our hearts, and will be greatly missed.

Memorial services followed by graveside services, will be held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, September 27, 2005 at Einan’s Funeral Home in Richland, WA, 915 By-Pass Highway.