Vanya James Abbott

Vanya James Abbott, 76, formerly of Pine Bluff, passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 25, 2017, after a courageous and graceful battle with Alzheimer's and breast cancer. Born on June 10, 1941, Vanya was the daughter and only child of L.T. and Sibyl James. She was a graduate of Pine Bluff High School in 1959. An avid reader, Vanya was particularly interested in historical biographies. She loved to travel and often painted detailed stories of her trips to exotic places like Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, and Africa. She especially treasured playing bridge with her close friends and attending Razorback games. Almost everyone that came into contact with Vanya felt her gentle kindness. She loved her kids and grandkids immeasurably. She is survived by her daughter, Amanda Abbott Ware, her son, James Jordan Abbott, two grandsons, Christopher James Abbott and Reece Alexander Ware, a son-in-law, John T. Ware II, and a daughter-in-law, Megan Dalrymple Abbott. In lieu of a memorial service and flowers, the family requests that friends celebrate Mom's life by considering a donation to the Alzheimer's Association. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.