Lena Mae Waldroup

Lena M. Waldroup, age 101, passed away peacefully on November 17. 2025, at Tsali Care Center in Cherokee, NC.

          She was the daughter of the late Larnet and Nora Cable Holder and was the last living member of her family.

          Her Cable ancestors settled in Cades Cove, then migrated to Hazel Creek, NC. This pioneer strength was deeply ingrained in her and gave her an innate ability to accomplish many task with what she had on hand. Although her formal education was limited, she excelled as a seamstress, quilter, gardener, cook and caregiver. She did not hesitate to pick up a gun or power saw and use it if necessary. Her independence was a testament to strength of Appalachian women.

          She is preceded by her husband Floyd, her daughter Margie and her great grandson, Stoan Waldroup (Sylvia).

She is survived by her son Varnell Waldroup (Ila); daughters, Zelda Odom (Bob), and Linda White (Rod). Her grandchildren, Kevin Waldroup (Kim), Tate Waldroup (Nikki), Rhonda Orr (Jim), Robin Odom, Callan White (Allison), and Cody White (Cayla). Her great-grandchildren, Chais, Taylor, Parker, Ashley Esposito (Lou), Kristan England (Mark), Lena, Declan, Jameson, Scarlett and Jacklyn. Great-great grandchildren, Brooks, Ivy, Ava, Gavin and Anthony.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Townson-Smith Chapel. The Reverends Daniel Stewart and Coy Adams will officiate. The family will receive friends in the chapel from 1:00 until 2:00 pm prior to the service.  Burial will be in the Lone Oak Baptist Church Cemetery following the service.

          Pallbearers will be Kevin Waldroup, Tate Waldroup, Taylor Waldroup, Parker Waldroup, Jim Orr, Callan White, Cody White and Chais Waldroup.

          The family would like to thank Tsali Care Centers staff and residents for taking such good care of our loved one.

          Townson-Smith Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Waldroup Family.