On Sunday, November 21, 1976, the Chattanooga News-Free Press honored longtime Rhea County district supervisor Vance Elsea for his many years of service delivering and supervising newspaper circulation throughout the county. By that time, Vance had already devoted thirty-two years to the News-Free Press and had become a familiar figure to generations of Rhea Countians.
Vance was more than a newspaper distributor; he was a mentor to many young boys who started as paper carriers under his supervision. Several of those young men later became respected and prominent citizens in Rhea County. Among them were Spring City Postmaster Byerly Morgan, along with Jack and Patsy Brown, Jimmy Porter, Freddie Mooty, Jim Galloway, George Hommel, and others. Former Dayton resident Billy Carter, who later became a successful Florida land developer, was also among those who once worked under Vance.
At the time of the recognition, Vance had driven more than two and one-half million miles in service to the newspaper. His dedication, dependability, and influence on young people made him one of the most recognized and respected individuals connected with the News-Free Press in this area.
A lifelong Rhea County resident, Vance and his wife, Lillie Mae, lived in Graysville and attended Graysville Methodist Church. The article noted their children as Velma Barger, Charles Elsea, Gene Elsea, and Donna Kay Wilson, along with several grandchildren.
Curtis D. Adams, Circulation Director for the Chattanooga News-Free Press, praised Vance, stating that the newspaper was proud to have “a man of Mr. Elsea’s caliber” representing them and called him “one of the finest.”
This recognition served as a fitting tribute to a man whose work touched countless lives across Rhea County.
Vance passed away on December 9, 2007, and is buried in the Pleasantview Cemetery in Graysville, Tennessee.
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Christi Barnes
May 27, 2026 at 1:58 amThank you so much for this memory Dean and Kathy. Our grandfather was one of the finest men I have ever known. He was also an avid ball player and fan. I believe my Dad and Charles had the opportunity to play ball with him while they were still young men. Can you imagine? We all loved him with all of her hearts and I would give anything to have a conversation with him today. I remember him taking me to the Free Press and even though they had been offered so many office positions, he always declined because he enjoyed the people along his route which started in Chattanooga and went all the way through Spring City. I think at one time or another we all had a paper route. He took care of his family He’s loved and will be forever in our hearts. Thank you all so much for a glance at his beautiful face.