OHIO, November 20 – Avis K. Addleman, 85, passed away at her daughter's home in Athens, Ohio on Saturday, November 17, 2012, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. She will be forever remembered for her style, grace, intelligence, talent, and humor. She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on January 31, 1927 to John and Elsie Kolanda.

She was the adored wife of the late Harry B. Addleman, both long-time residents of Farmville. Mrs. Addleman, a spirited matriarch, met her husband while both were attending the University of Wisconsin where she received a bachelor's in art. In 1948, they married and moved to Mexico City where they attended graduate school until their first child was born. The couple later lived in Texas, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

She worked passionately in several professions. She taught art to children, participated in the pioneering of legal aid, and provided social services to those in need. After moving to Virginia, she earned a master's degree in guidance and counseling. She then became a guidance counselor at Prince Edward County schools until retiring after a long and fruitful career.

In retirement, Mrs. Addleman enjoyed worldwide travel with her husband. She continued to pursue an award-winning career in art through painting and exhibiting her work. She was an avid member of Central Virginia Arts, the Margaret Watson Bird Club, the Gray Carter Garden Club, and the Garden Study Club. She also enjoyed playing a weekly game of Mahjong with a group of dear friends.

Her faith was integral to her life. She was a devoted and active member of St. Theresa's Catholic Church in Farmville. She will be sorely missed by the parish and all the lives she touched.

She is survived by a daughter, Liz Bowman and husband, David, of Athens, Ohio; son, Paul Addleman of Johnson City, Tennessee; daughter, Maribeth Puryear and husband, Jeff, of Charlottesville; and daughter, Monica Addleman, of Clearwater, Florida. She also leaves thirteen grandchildren, one great-grandson, and numerous beloved friends, including Alice Johnson, Nancy Lockwood, Nan Colvin, and the Greens.

There will be a memorial gathering at Puckett Funeral Home in Farmville at 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 25, followed by a vigil service at 7 p.m.

St. Theresa's Catholic Church will conduct a funeral mass at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 26. All family and friends are welcome.

If you would like to make a donation in her honor, please consider St. Theresa's Catholic Church.

Puckett Funeral Home, Farmville, is serving the family. www.puckettfh.com