Wendell Richard Vannoy

Wendell Richard Vannoy, age 65, of Lorain, died on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at his residence, following a lengthy illness.
He was born on March 14, 1944 in Cleveland, Ohio, moving from Cleveland to Lorain in 1976.
He was employed at the Turnpike for 25 years as a toll taker, then was promoted to supervisor, retiring in 2007.
Wendell was an Elder of the Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall, South Congregation, Lorain.
His life's devotion was his church. He also enjoyed working out at the gym, avid Cleveland Cav's Fan, watching every game.
He is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Diana A. (nee Vazquez-Wichy), sons: Wendell Jr. of Columbus, Phillip of Lorain, daughters: Lydiane Alvarez, of Akron, Michelle A. Alvarez, of Lorain, Sharon Love, of Cleveland, Valerie (Clifford) King, of Cleveland, Shaitanya Clement, of Columbus, Kimberly Mabrey-Simmons, of Columbus, 19 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, mother: Mary (nee Dorsey) Vannoy, brothers: Jonathon (Florence) Vannoy, of Lorain, Perry (Macbeth) Vannoy of Berea, sisters: Karen (Willie) Bell, of Akron, Darlene Vannoy of Akron, he is also survived by his brothers and sisters of his congregation.
He was preceded in death by his father, Buford Vannoy, Jr., son: Richard Love, brother: Dennis Vannoy, and his first wife, Mary Jo (nee Mabrey).
The family will receive friends on Monday, January 25, from 7-9 pm, in the Dovin Funeral Home, 2701 Elyria Avenue, Lorain. Funeral Services will be Tuesday, at 1:00 pm, also in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Elmwood Cemetery.