Mayelma V. Hetzer

Mayelma  V. Hetzer, 88, entered heaven on Thursday June 4, 2026.  She was born July 29, 1937 in Huntington, WV, to the late Forrest M and Mary Violet Smith.  Mayelma graduated from Huntington High School in 1955 and she worked for the State of WV in the Social Security Division until her retirement.  She served alongside her husband as a Sunday school teacher and Youth Group leader at Madison Ave. Church of God.  Mayelma spent the last several years living at The Village of Riverview, where she became known as the community's unofficial "welcome committee", always making new residents feel at home.  During her time there, she was a beloved participant in many resident productions, often taking center stage in plays and joyfully leading sing-alongs, bringing joy and laughter to all those around her.  As much as she loved making others happy, she found her greatest joy in spending time with her family, whether on our many vacations or at our family gatherings.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Ed Hetzer who was her high school sweetheart and love of her life.  Also preceding her in death were her two sisters, Judy Jeffries and Mona Cobb.  She is survived by a son, Mark (Katherine) of Barboursville and daughter Deidrea "Dee" Graves of Georgetown, KY.  Mayelma was a wonderful Mams to three grandchildren who were the light in her eyes, Tanessa (Philip) Blankenship, Tyler (Kirsten) Hetzer and Jonathan Graves.  She had five great grandchildren: Olivia and Christian Blankenship and Maddix, Madilynn and McKenna Hetzer.  The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at The Village of Riverview for the exceptional care and compassion you showed Mom.  You kept her safe, happy and surrounded by kindness, and you ensured she was comfortable during her final days.  Your dedication, love and support meant more than words can express.  You are truly angels on earth, and we will be forever grateful.  Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 12:30 pm at the Reger Funeral Chapel, Huntington, by Pastor Steve Hinkle and Pastor Bill Blankenship.  Friends may call from 11:30 am until service time.  Entombment will follow in White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Barboursville.