Edith Vannoy

While working for the Forest Service in Orofino, Edith met Al Vannoy and they were married Nov. 23, 1938. This was the beginning of a wonderful 76-year marriage. They farmed in Cavendish for nearly 50 years and raised their children, Janet, Don and Stan. In August of 1958, Janet died in a tragic car accident at the age of 17.

Edith was very involved with the Cavendish Methodist Church, where she was Sunday School and Bible School teacher among many other duties. It seemed as if any occasion, such as bridal and baby showers, warranted a program orchestrated by Edie with hilarious skits and music. She loved playing the piano and gave lessons at home. Nearly every family get-together with her sisters and families would culminate into hours of piano music and singing.

After retiring, the Vannoys spent many winters in Arizona, traveling and making new friends. They also took several trips around the country to further Edith’s research of family genealogy. She traced the Vannoy name back to the 14th century Huguenots and also wrote a book on the Webb family history. In 2003, the Vannoys bought a home in Lewiston and after Al died in 2015, Edith moved in to Brookdale Senior Living in Lewiston where she was affectionately called “Miss Edie.”

At the age of 96, Edie published a book with the help of friend, Les Huntley. Her talent, dry wit and ability to find humor in difficult times brought to life many of Al’s colorful adventures. Growing up in North Carolina, he and his father and brother left during the Great Depression. They headed west to find employment and eventually started farming in Idaho. Al and Ocie’s journey was very nearly a “Grapes of Wrath” experience. To have listened and learned from two centurions whose minds stayed keen brought our family a wealth of history and heritage.