Faye Weisner Lanier

Faye Marie Weisner Lanier, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on January 3rd, 2024 at Morningside Assisted Living in Gastonia, North Carolina. Faye was born in Durham County, North Carolina on September 27th, 1924 to William Hall Weisner and Edith Mae Rice Weisner. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, W.H. Weisner, Jr., Charles J. Weisner, Pearl Lowe, Hilda Robinson, Marion Carden and Leona Goss, all of Durham, NC; and grandson, David G. Rhinehart.

On December 27th, 1945, Faye embarked on a lifelong journey of love and companionship when she married the love of her life, Roland Van Lanier Sr. Their marriage endured for an astonishing 78 years, serving as an inspiration to all who knew them.

Faye and Roland built a beautiful family together. Their sons, R. Vann Lanier Jr and his wife Sharon of Belmont, NC, as well as David Samuel Lanier and his wife Lucy of Macon, GA, were blessed with the guiding presence of their loving mother throughout their lives. Faye's grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Granddaughter Christen Lanier Wright and her husband Wesley, and grandsons Matthew Ryan Lanier and David Rhinehart and his wife Tonya, felt the unconditional love that only a grandmother could give.

Faye was a woman of immense love and devotion. Her warm and caring nature radiated through her role as a homemaker. She took great pride in creating a loving and nurturing environment for her family. Faye's passion for baking and cooking, as well as her skills as a seamstress and love of gardening, brought joy to those around her, most notably by her delectable banana cake, traditional homemade Christmas candy, and beautiful homegrown flower arrangements. She was active in the Lucile Tatum Extension Homemakers Center, serving a time as president, and using her creativity to fashion and paint ceramic Santas and other pieces, as well as sewing home décor, clothing, and decorative flags.

Faye was a member of West Avenue Presbyterian Church for nearly 60 years and was active in the Women of the Church. She will be remembered not only for the remarkable relationships she cultivated but also for the warmth she imparted to her friends, who became an extended part of her family throughout the years.

Though we mourn Faye's passing deeply, we find solace in cherishing the memories we have shared with such an extraordinary woman. Her legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire us all. As we bid farewell to Faye Weisner Lanier, let us remember her infectious laughter, her comforting presence, and the love she showered upon all those fortunate enough to have known her.

In honor of Faye's memory, her family kindly requests that donations be made to a local charity, such as the Sleep in Heavenly Peace-NC-Belmont, 5066 Marci Lane, Belmont, NC  28012, or Cancer Services of Gaston County, 306  South Columbia Street, Gastonia, NC  28054. Faye had always been passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others. May her soul find eternal peace, knowing that her remarkable life will forever be engraved in our hearts.

The family wishes to express a special thank you to the dedicated staff at Morningside Assisted Living for their great compassion in caring for Faye.

Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband of 78 years, Roland V. Lanier, Sr., her sons, R. Vann Lanier, Jr and wife Sharon, David Samuel Lanier and wife Lucy; wonderful grandchildren, Chrissy Lanier Wright and husband Wes, Matthew R. Lanier, granddaughter-in-law, Tonya Rhinehart; great grandchildren, Sarah, Rachel, Preston, Morgan, and Brittany; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to honor Roland and Faye will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Belmont, NC on January 27, 2024, at 1:00, with Reverend Samuel P. Warner and Reverend Dr. David J. Bailey officiating.  The family will receive friends in the church Gathering Area following the service.  Interment will be held in the Memorial Garden and Columbarium at Triangle Grace Church in Durham, NC on February 2, 2024, at 1:00, with Reverend Ray Cobb officiating.