Dwayne Elihue Vance, Sr., was born on May 23, 1961, in Ocala, Florida, to the late Jessie Lee Vance and Amy Omelia Frazier-Vance. He was lovingly raised by Frankie L. Ellis.
Dwayne attended North Marion High School and was a proud member of the Class of 1979. He later earned a certificate in Masonry from Santa Fe College, preparing him for a career in the trade he enjoyed.
On July 8, Dwayne answered his Master’s call and entered into eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his father, Jessie Lee Vance; his mother, Amy Omelia Frazier-Vance; the woman who lovingly raised him, Frankie L. Ellis; his oldest sister, Alfreda Robertson; his sister, Saundra Ware; and his brother, Maurice Vance.
Dwayne leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 46 years, Debra Woods-Vance; his daughter, Twila Vance of Ocala, Florida; his son, Dwayne Vance, Jr. of Anthony, Florida; and his beloved grandson, Jordan Vance of Ocala, Florida.
He is also survived by his sisters, Nancy Frazier of Fairfield, Florida, Robbie Johnson of Ocala, Florida, LaTonya James, Latrice McDavid, and Margaret Vance; his brother, Jessie (Patricia) Vance of Jacksonville, Florida; his sisters-in-law, Jewel (Herbert) Holt, Angela (Vincent) Foster, and Valerie (Mikel) Green; his brothers-in-law, Frank (Brenda) Woods, Jr. and Felix (Taneisha) Woods, Sr.; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Affectionately known as “Duck,” Dwayne was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy was spending time with his family. He enjoyed life, loved to laugh, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. A loyal and enthusiastic Florida State Seminoles fan, Dwayne could often be found cheering on his team every football season. He treasured fellowship with family and friends and created lasting memories through his warm smile, kind heart, and genuine spirit.
Though he will be deeply missed, Dwayne’s legacy of love, strength, and devotion will continue to live on through the lives of those who knew and loved him.