Vivian Elders

Vivian Elders, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio surrounded by family and loved ones. Born on January 30, 1933, in Columbus, Ohio, she lived a life filled with kindness, generosity, and a boundless social spirit. Vivian believed in a “Honest Dollar” and “Standing on Your Own 2 Feet” She worked and held many job titles to provide for children over the years, one of her favorite titles being Activities Director for Elderly United in Springfield, where she positively impacted the lives of many Seniors and Coworkers with her outgoing nature and compassionate heart.

Vivian was a stern disciplinarian ask any one of her children! Vivian had a great ability to connect with those around her. She never met a stranger, easily forging friendships wherever she went. Her love for life was evident in even the smallest of moments, such as her enjoyment of searching for and stopping at garage sales without needing navigation, illustrating her spontaneous and adventurous spirit.

In her personal life, Vivian was devoted not only to her family but also her faith. She sang in church and Mass choirs, bringing joy with her musical talents. Vivian was particularly proud of her role as a supportive presence at sporting events of her children and grandchildren, cheering them on with fervor and encouragement.

A loving wife to her late husband, Harry Elders ( Retired Navistar ), who proudly served as a Air Force veteran, Vivian and Harry shared a passion for fishing and nurturing their beautiful flower & vegetable gardens together. Not only did they nurture their gardens they managed to nurture their relationship as husband and wife, a true testament of love, faith, kindness and grace.

Vivian’s legacy lives on through her children, Marquitta Mills (Harvey Overton Jr), Dana (Denise) Thomas, Neil Thomas (Tango Robinson), Brian (Sandra) Thomas, Von Thomas, and Dawn Prater (Tom Handwerker). She was a cherished grandmother to 13 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to several great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Joseph Gothard; sister-in-law Marsha Gothard; and a host of nieces and great-nieces, nephews and great-nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Regina Gothard; her husband, Harry Elders; her great-grandson, Isaiah Mills-Gilmer; her siblings, Evelyn Mitchell, David Gothard and George Gothard; and her sister-in-law, Marge Gothard.

A visitation will be held on February 26, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St John Missionary Baptist Church, located at 34 W Pleasant St, Springfield, OH 45506. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will take place at 11:00 AM, same location. A graveside service will follow at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45428, beginning at 1:00 PM.