Van "Bear" Green

The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory
of Van (Bear) Green shall never pass away!
Van Green affectionately  known as “Bear,” transitioned from his earthly home to eternal life on February
14, 2023, unexpectedly, but quietly in his sleep.
Van was born on September 19, 1945, to the late Lamar and Andrew Green. He was preceded in death
by his brother, Danny Green and sister, Maxine Taylor.
He was educated in the Clarke County School System.
Van was a lifelong member of Hill Chapel Baptist Church having joined at a tender young age. He loved
being in attendance and enjoying the choir, when his health permitted. Bear was a simple man,
uncomplicated, plain, and straight forward with a big heart. When you hear thename “Bear” you think of
a mean ferocious animal, not the “Bear” we knew. He was a gentle giant who loved his family and friends,
and we loved him. You would often see Van all over town riding that old bike of his, creating bike lanes
that did not exist at that time. However, he was one to advocate for BIKE LANES by attending City Hall
meetings and calling the radio station, talking to local leaders or whomever listened. Van loved to draw in
his books. He was a real foodie. Bear loved his mother’s cooking. He had an amazing sense of humor that
was lively, amusing and entertaining. Bear would have you laughing uncontrollably. His family and friends
all adored him for his warmth, humor, and grace. We take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace
surrounded by God’s angles..
Van is survived by his devoted siblings: James “Tee” Green, Terry Green, Tedero “Buck” Green,
Mendossa (Anthony) Phillips, Gwendolyn Penn, all of Athens, Georgia. Earl Jones, and Margaret Fletcher
of Philadelphia, Pa. Special nieces, Irish Gresham, Dr. Tanyeeta “Tan” Goodjiones-Marilla, Queasha
Goodjiones, and a plethora of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Psalm 121:1-2 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help, my help cometh from
the Lord, which made Heaven and Earth.

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