Mollie Jean Messimer passed away peacefully on Jan. 25, 2024. She was a youthful 71 and is survived by her partner, Chris Ide, his son Ben and Ben’s wife Liz, brother Pete Messimer, niece Katie Anderson, and nephew Michael Messimer, countless friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, as well as a house full of her beloved Icelandic Sheepdogs.
She was a vibrant, young-at-heart, creative, and loving friend, active in her community, known for nurturing connections with her friends, her authenticity, and quirky humor. She was tenacious, a producer, and was an inspiration to many.
Mollie retired from a 40-year career in education. She taught at all levels, from kindergarten through Ph.D., and served as a Licensed Professional Counselor at colleges in Virginia and at the WV School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg. Her passion for education and her commitment to the environment led her to the Boxerwood Foundation, where she served as the first educational director to inspire future stewards of Earth. Her connection with her students was her joy; she helped countless to excel in their careers, many of whom became life-long friends.
Her love of travel and adventure brought her to places far and wide, including time in the Peace Corps in Kuwait and trips to Antarctica, Australia, Belize, Ecuador, Egypt, Greece, Japan, Peru, South Africa, Thailand, Zimbabwe, and many more. Mollie filled more than 6 passports with her travels to every continent. It was on her last overseas trip to Iceland where she fell in love with the national dog of Iceland.
Mollie became an advocate and ambassador for Icelandic Sheepdogs, entering the show ring with many of her dear pups as an owner-handler. Her dogs won many titles and championships at numerous shows, including at the AKC National Championship and Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Mollie herself was titled a Breeder of Merit for her conscientiousness and commitment. Her pups have found loving homes across the country.
Mollie’s love of vintage treasure hunting and environmental consciousness inspired her to begin a hobby secondhand business in antique mall booths. She became the owner of Patina in 2018 and a staple figure of Lewisburg.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Greenbrier County Humane Society, 151 Holiday Lane, Lewisburg, WV, 24901.
A celebration of life is to come at a later date.
Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg is in charge of arrangements. Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com.