Hendersonville, NC, August 3, 2025
News Summary
Located in Oakdale Cemetery, the grave of Lelia Maud Davidson Hansell, known as the ‘Sunshine Lady,’ features an innovative design that allows sunlight into her resting place. A dedicated teacher, Lelia’s wish for sunlight even in death led her husband to create this distinct above-ground vault. Despite being sealed in the mid-20th century due to public curiosity, her story continues to resonate with visitors, symbolizing love and devotion within Hendersonville’s rich historical context.
Hendersonville
The grave of Lelia Maud Davidson Hansell, known as the “Sunshine Lady of Hendersonville,” is a distinct site located in Oakdale Cemetery, North Carolina. Unlike traditional graves adorned with statues or markers, Hansell’s resting place is an ordinary concrete vault that tells a unique story of love, loss, and a wish to embrace the sun.
Lelia was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1861 to a respected family. Her father, Dr. Joseph M. Davidson, was a prominent physician, which set the stage for Lelia’s future as a caring and dedicated teacher. Her career spanned across schools in both North and South Carolina, and she later contributed her skills at Hendersonville’s Judson College. Lelia earned a reputation for her cheerful demeanor and kindness, impacting countless lives through her educational endeavors.
Later in life, Lelia married Judge Charles Hansell. Their marriage was a brief but cherished period, as Lelia struggled with health issues that would eventually lead to her early demise. In 1913, following a diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis, the couple moved to Hendersonville, seeking the area’s mountain air for its reputed health benefits.
Sadly, Lelia passed away in December 1915 at the age of 54. Before her death, she expressed a poignant final wish—to not spend eternity in darkness. She wanted sunlight to kiss her face even in death. To fulfill this wish, Judge Hansell commissioned an innovative above-ground vault featuring thick glass discs, popularly called vault lights. These were designed to let sunlight into the grave, creating a unique resting place unlike any other.
Local lore suggests that her casket may have been left open, covered only by a shroud, allowing the natural light to touch her directly. This unconventional burial arrangement attracted attention from residents, leading many to refer to it as the “sunshine grave,” thus turning it into a quiet yet significant landmark within Oakdale Cemetery.
However, in the mid-20th century, the original glass discs were removed and the tomb was ultimately sealed with concrete. This decision came after public interest became disruptive, with individuals damaging the structure in their attempts to peek inside. Even after being sealed, the story of Lelia Hansell’s grave continues to fascinate visitors and serves as a poignant symbol of remembrance and a husband’s unwavering devotion.
Hansell’s unique burial site is part of a broader initiative entitled “Tombstone Tales,” which seeks to explore the lives of significant historical figures from Western North Carolina. Upcoming articles will delve into how Lelia’s wish for sunlight has evolved into local ghost stories and eerie folklore.
Oakdale Cemetery, established in 1885, stands as a testament to Hendersonville’s rich history, containing over 8,000 burials and a diverse range of past residents. Its creation coincided with a prosperous era for Hendersonville, marked by the arrival of the railroad, connecting the town to larger markets.
Ongoing community events and historical projects are in place to preserve the cultural heritage of neighborhoods surrounding the cemetery. The Hendersonville Historic Preservation Commission actively seeks contributions and stories from local residents through its collection efforts for a Neighborhood History Project.
FAQ
- Where is Lelia Maud Davidson Hansell’s grave located?
Lelia Maud Davidson Hansell’s grave is in Oakdale Cemetery, Hendersonville, NC. - Why is she called the “Sunshine Lady”?
She is known as the “Sunshine Lady” for her cheerful personality and her wish to have sunlight touch her face even after death. - What is unique about her grave?
Her grave features an above-ground vault with glass discs that allow sunlight to enter, making it different from traditional graves. - What happened to the original glass discs?
The original glass was removed and the tomb sealed with concrete in the mid-20th century due to public curiosity causing damage to the structure. - What historical significance does Oakdale Cemetery hold?
Oakdale Cemetery has over 8,000 burials and reflects Hendersonville’s rich history since its establishment in 1885.
Key Features of Lelia Maud Davidson Hansell’s Grave
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Oakdale Cemetery, Hendersonville, NC |
| Nickname | The “Sunshine Lady” |
| Year of Birth | 1861 |
| Date of Death | December 1915 |
| Unique Grave Feature | Above-ground vault with glass discs for sunlight |
| Current Status | Sealed with concrete due to public curiosity |
| Cemetery History | Established in 1885, home to over 8,000 burials |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: The Sunshine Lady of Hendersonville’s Unusual Final Resting Place
- Blue Ridge Now: More to Oakdale Cemetery Than Famous Angel
- 828 News Now: Tombstone Tales – Mayor Who Welcomed the Railroad to Hendersonville
- Leavitt Funeral Home: Obituary for Brenda Foster
- Trib Papers: Explore Hendersonville’s Rich Heritage with Mary Jo Padgett
- Wikipedia: Oakdale Cemetery (Hendersonville, North Carolina)
- Google Search: Hendersonville North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
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