Junior Alfred Vance Obituary: Floyd Auto Body Craftsman Remembered as a Beloved Family Man
The Floyd community is mourning the passing of Junior Alfred Vance, a beloved family man and respected auto body craftsman who died on September 6, 2026, at the age of 74.
Known for his dedication to his work, passion for auto restoration and deep love for his family, Junior leaves behind a legacy built on hard work, craftsmanship and meaningful relationships.
A Lifelong Passion for Auto Body Work
Junior devoted approximately 40 years to the auto body industry, turning a profession into a lifelong passion.
Throughout his career, he became known for his skill and dedication to restoring and repairing vehicles. His craftsmanship was more than simply a means of making a living—it was something he genuinely enjoyed and took great pride in.
One of the vehicles closest to his heart was his 1939 Plymouth, which he proudly built from the frame up. The project reflected his patience, technical skill and love for automotive restoration.
For the final 25 years of his career, Junior owned and operated Vance Auto Body Repair and Restoration, where he continued putting his expertise to work and sharing his knowledge with others.
Family Was at the Heart of Junior’s Life
Although Junior was passionate about automobiles and his craft, his family remained at the center of his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Anderson and Barbara Vance, as well as his wife, Wanda Vance.
Junior is survived by his children, Ricky Vance (Renee) and Sherry Chandler (Joe).
His family also includes numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward.
Surviving Family
Junior is survived by his grandchildren:
- Andrew Chandler
- Taylor Vance
- Paige Chandler
- Kelli Abel
- Jacob Nofsinger
- Joshua Nofsinger
- Myah Zeigler
- Dietz Vance
- Bailey Vance
- Jacob Sowers
He is also survived by his great-grandchildren Parker Frye, Buckley Nofsinger, Wylder Nofsinger and Emberylnn Waldron.
His surviving family includes stepchildren Matt Abel and Angela Sowers (Sonny), nieces Connie Wade, Teresa Gibbson and Crystal Norris, and special friend Mikey Mengelt.
Junior Vance’s Lasting Legacy
Junior’s life was characterized by dedication—to his work, his craft and, most importantly, the people he loved.
His decades in the auto body industry allowed him to leave his mark through the vehicles he repaired and restored, while his role within his family created memories that will endure far beyond his lifetime.
For those who knew him, Junior will be remembered as a hardworking craftsman, passionate automobile enthusiast and devoted family man.
His legacy will continue through the children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends and other loved ones who had the privilege of sharing his life.
Visitation and Funeral Service
Visitation for Junior Alfred Vance will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Gardner Funeral Home.
A private family service will take place in Jacksonville at a later date.
As family and friends gather to remember Junior, they will celebrate a life marked by hard work, craftsmanship, family devotion and a genuine passion for the things he loved.
Junior Alfred Vance will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on through the family, friends and loved ones who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace.
