Brevard – Geneva Martha Whitmire Volrath (Nana), 93, of Brevard, peacefully went to be with her heavenly father on February 8th, 2024, while at home surrounded by her family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Loon and Edith Bell Whitmire; her husband of 50 years William (Bill) Volrath; her brothers, Roy C. Whitmire, James Paul Whitmire, Charles Whitmire, Russell Whitmire; and her sister, Mary Greene.

Geneva was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who spent her working career as a seamstress making dresses at Ruth Original Clothing factories throughout Western North Carolina. During her career, she was an educator at Blue Ridge Community College where she shared her passion for sewing with inquisitive young minds. Some of the dresses that she made were featured in the 1981 film Mommy Dearest , staring Joan Crawford.

She is survived by her two sisters, Roberta Stewart of Pickens, South Carolina and Bonnie W. Leopard of Brevard, five children, Linda Morris (Larry) of Brownsville, Kentucky, Danny Volrath of Brevard, Billy Volrath (Jackie) of Brevard, Deborah Newman of Brevard, and Sandra Wright-Haskell of Brevard, five grandchildren, nine great-great grandchildren, and four great-great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Rathburn House, 121 Sherwood Rd, Asheville, NC 28803.

A celebration of life will be held 3pm, Saturday, April 6, 2024 at East Fork Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com .

Moody-Connolly Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.