Vance Edward Gifford

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Mr. Vance Edward Gifford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, on August 8, 2025. He was 76 years old.

Vance, affectionately known by friends and family as “DOC”, was born on October 8, 1948, in Bridgeport, West Virginia, to Vance Maynard Gifford and Bettie Lee Morrison. From an early age, he carried himself with a strong sense of duty, a compassionate spirit, and an adventurous heart—qualities that would define the life he lived.

In his early adulthood, Vance enlisted with the U.S. Army and bravely served during the Vietnam War as a Combat Medic in the 1^st Calvary Division 2/5. His courage and dedication were recognized with numerous honors, including the Bronze Star Medal, a testament to his valor and unwavering service to his country.

After returning home, Vance channeled his determination and work ethic into building his own business, which he successfully operated until his retirement. After he was discharged from the army he remained in San Antonio where his last assignment was Brooke Army Medical Center, which is where he met the love of his life, Lupe, and together they built a beautiful life grounded in love, laughter, and shared dreams.

Vance had a deep love for travel and a gift for connecting with people. Known as a true social butterfly, he could light up any room with his warmth and good humor. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family—whether it was a large holiday gathering or a quiet conversation, he found joy in every shared moment.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Lupe Gifford; children, James (Angela) Gifford, Brian (Sherri) Gifford, Keith Gifford, and Olivia (Jason) Sekula; sister, Cheryl Carter; grandchildren, Tyler Sekula, Kara Sekula, Cody Sekula, Natalie Gifford, Bryce Gifford, Kori Mireles, Christopher Gifford, Victoria Eller, Mellinie Burnett, Dylan Gifford, Michelle Durham, Bryan Gifford Jr., Will Gifford, Sara Stivers, Kayla Daughtery, Andrew Johnson, William Johnson, Kennedy Gifford, Cody Gifford, Kaleb Gifford, Landon Gifford, Jade Gifford, and Jezzy Gifford; Niece and caregiver Allison Fuentes, as well as numerous great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Vance was preceded in death by his parents, Vance Maynard Gifford and Bettie Lee Morrison, and his beloved son, Dale Gifford.

A man of honor, kindness, and boundless energy, Vance’s legacy will live on through the lives he touched. His family and friends will remember his infectious smile, his willingness to help anyone in need, and his deep love for those closest to him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to St. Thomas More Catholic Church, a place of faith and community close to Vance’s heart.