Amanda Love

Amanda Love, 52, of Parkersburg, WV passed unexpectedly on Monday, November 4, 2013.She was preceded in death by her mother, Carolyn McAtee Radcliff and father Charles Ewing Radcliff.She is survived by two sisters, Tammy Radcliff Havens, of Gainesville, TX and Kelly Radcliff Mallett, of Marietta, OH and several nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends.Amanda developed a career early in life as a well known entertainer, traveling and performing throughout the Midwest, Mid Atlantic and Southern regions of the United States.It was not an easy road to success – Amanda performed as a female impersonator beginning in the late 70's, at a time when gay rights were first developing and faced much opposition. Through her personal demeanor, stage presence, comedic wit on the microphone, and sheer determination, Amanda became revered as an inspiration, a leader, and a respected celebrity on the club circuit. She was able to use this status in her travels to break down early stereotypes about transgendered individuals and carry a valuable message of tolerance, understanding and concern for human rights that in later years helped promote more overall acceptance.She was also an accomplished hair stylist and business owner, opening and operating her own salon in Parkersburg called Illusions Hair Odyssey during the mid 80's and early 90's. Her charitable contributions included work with post-treatment cancer survivors and the American Cancer Society. Amanda was very involved throughout the years in supporting and organizing fundraising events for HIV/AIDS related organizations and prevention programs as well as the Family Crisis Intervention & Outreach Center.In recent years Amanda opened a local nightclub called Club Utopia, and through this business and her expertise as seasoned performer continued to inspire and mentor a number of other entertainers now working throughout the nation.She will be remembered not only for her devotion to the art and theatre of female impersonation on stage – but also for her kindness, generosity, charitable work and her uncanny ability to fill the room with laughter and enjoyment.We invite you to join us in remembering Amanda Love by attending a gathering of friends and family at Lambert-Tatman Funeral home, 2333 Pike Street, Parkersburg on Saturday, November 9, 2013 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service from 2:00-3:00 pm.In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions toward service preparations.