Chattanooga Remembers Aline Maclin, A Community Icon and Philanthropist

Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of a Beloved Figure, Aline Maclin

Chattanooga, Tennessee, recently bid farewell to one of its cherished residents, Vera Aline Vanzant Maclin, who passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024, at the age of 86. Aline’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven together with her passions for dance, gardening, and philanthropy, leaving a legacy sure to inspire future generations.

A Life Rooted in Chattanooga

Aline was born in Rossville, Georgia, on September 18, 1938, as the adored only child of Valter Vanburen Vanzant and Jennie Mae Hale Vanzant. She spent her childhood in downtown Chattanooga, growing up in the historic neighborhoods of Cameron Hill and North Chattanooga. Aline was a proud attendee of local schools, including McIntyre and Clara Carpenter elementary schools, Dickinson Jr. High, and she graduated from Chattanooga Central High School in 1956.

During her time at Central High, Aline dazzled her peers as a majorette and champion dancer. Her spirit remained alive even after graduation as she kept close ties with her classmates serving on the reunion committee.

A Passion for Performance

After completing high school, Aline’s love for dance led her to the Tennessee Technological Institute in Crossville, Tennessee. There, she excelled as a majorette and feature twirler in the band, captivating audiences under the direction of Dr. WJ Julian. Aline’s talents earned her recognition as she was elected Secretary of the 1956 Freshman class and landed first runner-up in the Miss Chattanooga Pageant both in 1956 and 1957.

One of her unique life experiences occurred in the summer of 1958 when Aline had the opportunity to become a Rockette at Radio City Music Hall, a position she held briefly. While she enjoyed the spotlight, the hectic schedule proved too demanding for her.

A Legacy of Dance and Community Service

Throughout her life, Aline showed unwavering dedication to various forms of dance, mastering ballet, baton, jazz, and tap. She was proud to be a member of Dance Masters of America and Dance Educators of America. In the early 1970s, she became the first female co-choreographer for the United States Military Academy’s 100th Night Show. From 1975 to 1981, Aline owned and led the O’Neal Academy of the Dance, operating schools across several towns, including Soddy-Daisy and Dayton.

But Aline’s passion didn’t stop with dance, as she developed a love of gardening that became a defining aspect of her life. She was an active member of the Crestwood Garden Club, serving as president for two terms and earning distinction as a certified Flower Show Judge. Her enthusiasm for gardening was matched only by her dedication to uplift her community as a former treasurer for the Chattanooga Council of Garden Clubs.

Bringing Joy to Others

Aline had a big heart which she shared generously. For several years, she was a member of the Alhambra Lady Shriners Clown unit, where her antics brought joy and laughter to countless ill children. Aline’s generosity and commitment to service will surely be remembered by those whose lives she touched.

A Lasting Family Bond

Aline is survived by her children: John W. O’Neal, II, Rebecca A. O’Neal, Gordon V. “Van” O’Neal, and Matthew A. O’Neal, as well as her stepchildren: Colleen Maclin Schmitt, Kathleen Maclin Wilkinson, and William F. “Trey” Maclin, III. She was also blessed with grandchildren who will cherish her memory: Gracie, Garrett, Jack, Ben, Justin, and Bailey.

Honoring Aline’s Memory

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Aline’s life on Thursday, September 26, at the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home from 5-8 p.m.. Following the visitation, a private burial with interment will be held at Chattanooga Memorial Park. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate teams at Morning Pointe at Shallowford, Senior Saints Home, and Gentiva Hospice for their exceptional care during Aline’s final years.

Aline’s vibrant spirit and enduring legacy will not just be felt within her family but throughout the entire Chattanooga community, and she will forever be missed.