Former Sheridan resident Eva Van Ness, 96, died June 16, 2008, at her daughter's home in Chattanooga, Tenn.

A memorial service was held June 18 at the Ridgedale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, and her ashes will be buried at Big Horn Cemetery at a later date.

She was born Jan. 19, 1912, in Big Horn to Fred and Ina (Abbott) Schneider.

She married David Van Ness in Sheridan on May 28, 1938.

Both before and after her marriage, she taught in rural schools in Sheridan and Johnson counties, and in 1942, the couple moved to Anaconda, Mont., where Mr. Van Ness worked for the Copper Co. for 30 years, while Mrs. Van Ness taught kindergarten in their home.

After Mr. Van Ness' retirement, they returned to Sheridan until his death in 1986, when she moved first to Illinois and then to Tennessee to be near her children.

She loved horses and took her last ride in 2004 at the age of 92 on a visit to Sheridan. She also liked to sew; although her eyesight was failing, she continued to make things.

She is survived by her son Phillip of Savoy, Ill.; daughter Shela Van Ness of Chattanooga; and two granddaughters.

She was preceded in death by three sisters, Fern Trembath, Mary Bowen, and Edel Moore.

The Sheridan Press - July 7, 2008