Mr. Vandevender was born on March 9, 1930 to the late Ernest and Onie Patterson Vandevender in Winston County, MS. He attended schools in Winston County, MS. Elvin worked for Georgia Pacific in the timber industry and was also engaged in farming as well. Later he operated a ripsaw for D. L. Fair Lumber Company in Louisville. Elvin moved to Macon in 1956 and began his career as a cutter for the National Pants Factory (where he was given the nickname “Footes”) until he retired after forty years of service. After having led a life of hard work, he did not sit down after his retirement. Elvin enjoyed working with his cattle and having a big garden. In his later years, he used his knowledge of gardening gained over a lifetime in helping Jeff and Patrick next-door at the Day Springs Ministry with their gardening project that teaches young people how to plant and raise a garden.
Elvin was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife: Vivian Burrage Vandevender; and two siblings: Pennsylvania Clark and Elzie “Bob” Vandevender.
Elvin is survived by his two sisters: Christine Clark of Macon, MS and Ernestine Lee of Louisville, MS and two brothers: Elvis Vandevender and Elmer “Rufus” Vandevender both of Louisville, MS. and numerous nieces and nephews.