WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH - Patricia (Trish) Stuart Franck, [WWHS 1956] of 1704 N. Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach, and formerly of Jacksonville, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer, early Friday morning, Dec. 24. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 27, 2004, at Trinity United Methodist Church, where she was an active member until moving to Wrightsville Beach. The Rev. Alice Quarles will officiate. Burial will follow at Onslow Memorial Park. Trish was born in Beckley, W.Va., on March 12, 1938, the daughter of the late Louise Davis Stuart and Alexander Gordon Stuart. She attended Woodrow Wilson High School in Bristol, Va., where she was an honors student and held many offices. After graduating Woodrow Wilson, Trish attended Greenbrier College in Lewisburg, W.Va. At Greenbrier, Trish held many honors: president of the Student Government Association, a member of the Zeta Mu Epsilon Sorority, and a member of the Greenbriettes, the college choir. She also had the honor of representing Greenbrier College at the Queen Shenandoah XXXI Court. Her most prestigious honor, however, was the Janie Price Loving Cup award, the annual President's Award for leadership. After graduating from Greenbrier, Trish attended East Carolina University, where she continued to be a school leader; president of the Women's Judiciary Senate, and selected to represent her sorority, Kappa Delta, on the Inter-Sorority Council. Trish's most prestigious award at East Carolina University was her selection as "Who's Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities," an honor in recognition of her many accomplishments as a student at the university. Upon graduating from East Carolina University with a degree in early childhood education, she began a distinguished career in education with the Camp Lejeune Dependent's Schools. She touched many children's lives for over 30 years and will be remembered by many students as the teacher that motivated and gave them the "don't give up" attitude. After her retirement with the Camp Lejeune School System, she began a short, but most successful career with the Onslow County School System as a reading recovery teacher. Once again, her talents in teaching reading will be remembered by not only her students but her peers as well. Trish was very talented in teaching reading, and she shared her knowledge and expertise with many educators. Her love of teaching will always touch many lives. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lee Franck of Jacksonville; and her sister, Mary Louise Stuart of Lewes, Del. She is survived by her two wonderful and loving sons, John Martin Franck and his wife, Argie Saffo Franck, and Robert Stuart Franck and his wife, Susan Allen Franck, all of Wilmington. She leaves behind four delightful grandchildren, Katherine Patricia Franck, John Robert Franck and Reed Saffo Franck, children of John and Argie Franck, and Brodie Bain Franck, son of Stuart and Suzy Franck. In addition, she is survived by two brothers, Robert Bruce Stuart of Bristol, Va., and Alexander Gordon Stuart and his wife, Yvonne, of Hot Springs, Va. The family will receive friends tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. at Jones Funeral Home, Jacksonville. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, LifeCare Center, 725-A Wellington Ave., Wilmington, NC, 28401, or to Keep Onslow Beautiful, 604 College St., Jacksonville, NC, 28540. Trish loved life, her many friends, and gave unselfishly to all that knew her. More than anything in Trish's life was her love for her sons, their wives and her four grandchildren. She was a perfect mother where happy memories will be cherished forever. Her courage and strength will forever be a role model for all of us that love her.
VIENNA -- Joyce Ann Pennington Sassi, 44, formerly of Crab Orchard, died of a heart attack on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2004. Born March 4, 1960, at Morgantown, she was the daughter of Mary Pennington of Midway and the late Lester Pennington. She was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Leon Lewis Jr.; maternal grandparents, Howard and Sylvia Plum of Morgantown, and Robert and Florence Lewis of Bruceton Mills. Joyce was a 1978 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and was a member of Hilltop Baptist Church at Crab Orchard. She was a paralegal secretary and homemaker. Other survivors besides her mother include two daughters, Dawna Sassi of Vienna and Kyra Sassi of Parkersburg, and was expecting her first grandchild. She had three sisters, Debbie Taylor and husband, Terry, of Midway, Becky Moye and husband, Ricky, of Crab Orchard and Linda Pennington of Clearwater, Fla.; and two nieces, Michelle and Julie Taylor of Midway. Service will be 1 p.m. Friday at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Vienna. Burial will follow in Evergreen North Cemetery. Friends may call one hour before service Friday at the funeral home. Friends will serve as pallbearers. Arrangements by Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Vienna.
Lori J. Vecellio Honaker, 44, of 503 Maxwell Hill Road, Beckley, died Friday, December 24, 2004 in a local hospital after a two year battle with brain cancer. Born October 12, 1960 in Beckley, she was the daughter of Oscar and Lois Lickliter Vecellio, Jr. of Beckley. Lori was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and West Virginia University. She was formerly employed by WTNJ Radio for 16 years and later by the U.S. Postal Service at Mt. Hope and Charleston. She was a member of St. Francis deSales Catholic Church in Beckley, was a member of the Business and Professional Club and the Mt. Hope Lions Club. She was a member of the Board of Directors of the Raleigh County Humane Society and was involved in many other community activities. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Josephine and Oscar Vecellio, Mr. and Mrs. J.I. Hungate and Lois Johnson; and also by an aunt, Lillian Massinople. Lori was a lifelong resident of Beckley. In addition to her parents, survivors include her husband, Dale Honaker of Beckley; her sister, Lee Ann Vecellio of Charleston; aunts, Lena Nekoranec of Florida, Adeline Wuslich of Arizona, and Betty Britton of Beckley; mother and father-in-law, Alan and Linda Honaker of Beckley; two sisters-in-law, Gail Bailey of Arnett and Rhonda Gunoe of Bolt; many nephews and cousins also survive. Funeral liturgy will be held at 10 a.m. Monday from St. Francis deSales Catholic Church, Beckley with Rev. Samuel Sacus as celebrant. Rite of committal will follow in the Vecellio Family Room at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Mausoleum Chapel of Peace (#2). Friends may call at the Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley from 6 until 8 p.m. today where a vigil prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. led by Rev. Mr. Don Wise. Pallbearers will be Fred Persinger, Walter Peplowski, Jimmy Bonham, Jimmy Lucas, Jimmy Workman and Ben Boyce. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Mount Ho8pe Lions Club, Grant Lilly and John Peplowski. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
R. Steven Quesenberry, 60, of Bradenton, died November 9, 2004. Service will be 10 a.m., Friday, at Covell Cremation & Funeral Center, 4232 26th Street West, Bradenton. Survivors include wife, Becky; two sons; two brothers; and one grandchild. Memorials may be made to Youth for Christ, 1901 30th Avenue West, Bradenton.
Mary Ann Roberts, 76, of The Greystone Inn, Beaver, formerly of 524 North Lilly Dr., Beckley, died Sunday, Nov. 28, 2004, in a local hospital after a short illness. Born May 20, 1928, in Ronceverte, she was the daughter of the late Walter Augustus and Lillian Crickmer White. Mrs. Roberts was a retired teacher, having taught in the Raleigh County school system for many years, retiring from Crab Orchard Elementary School. She was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and Concord College, was a member of the Beckley Presbyterian Church and a former member of Black Knight Country Club. She was preceded in death by her first husband, John Beckley Campbell; her second husband, Richard H. "Dick" Roberts; and also a brother, Gus White of Louisville, Ky. Survivors include a son, John Michael Campbell and his wife, Wendy, of Fairhope, Ala.; two daughters, Margaret "Peggy" Hampton and her husband, Richard, of Crab Orchard and Carolyn S. Lloyd and her husband, Donald, of Beckley; grandchildren, Tim, Jon and Josh Campbell, Richard Hampton, Nick Lloyd, Andrea Lloyd Warden and her husband, Cliff; great-grandson, Nathan Warden; niece, Judy Goodwin of Louisville, Ky.; nephew, James White of Phoenix, Ariz.; and many care givers at The Greystone Inn. Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Calfee Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley, with the Revs. Robin Debnam and Steve Rector officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call two hours before the service on Wednesday at the funeral home. Family members will serve as pallbearers. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Connie Sue Ball, 67, of Beckley, passed away on Saturday, November 27, 2004. Connie was born December 26, 1936 at Hot Coal; she was the daughter of the late Charles Owen and Gladys Adams Boitnott. Connie graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1954, and graduated from St. Mary's Nursing School in 1957. Other than her parents, Connie was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Ball who passed away in 1986. Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Dana Ball Brooks and husband Randy of Beckley; brother, Charles Boitnott and wife Kate of Half Moon Bay, Calif.; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at Blue Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley. Entombment will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call from 12 noon till time of the service Tuesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Beckley Area Foundation, Inc., 129 Main Street Suite 203, Beckley, WV 25801 or the Woodrow Wilson High School 1954 Scholarship Fund by calling 304-253-3806. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
Sue Sisk, 83, of Wesley Street, Mabscott, died Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2004, at the Hubbard House in Charleston following a short illness. Born Dec. 1, 1920, in Danville, she was the daughter of the late Okey J. and Mary Elizabeth Jefferies Ballard. Mrs. Sisk worked as an office manager for over 40 years for Mabscott Supply Co., retiring at the age of 80. She was a great supporter and fan of the Mountain State University Cougars, West Virginia University Mountaineers and Woodrow Wilson High School football. She was a member of the "Magnolia Girls" of Mabscott, a former member of Calvary Baptist Church of Mabscott and attended Mabscott Methodist Church. Sue was an avid bowler for more than 50 years. She was preceded in death by her husband on Dec. 15, 1987, B.C. "Bud" Sisk. Survivors include a daughter, Kay Walker and her husband, Dave, of Boulder, Colo.; a son, Bill Sisk and his wife, Julia, of Jacksonville, Fla.; her grandchildren, John Sisk and his wife, Andrea, of Daniels, Melissa Caldwell of Thornton, Colo., and Mary Gigliotti and her husband, Phillip, of Louisville, Colo.; and her great-grandchildren, Josh and Caleb Sisk, Alexi and Kelsey Caldwell. Service will be 1 p.m. Monday at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Mike Evans officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
Margaret Ella Bibb Johnson, 90, of Beckley, died Saturday, Nov. 20, 2004, at her residence of natural causes. Born Nov. 29, 1913, at Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Edgar Earle and Ella Campbell Bibb. Mrs. Johnson graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and Arlington Hall Junior College in Washington, D.C. She was a member of the Beckley Presbyterian Church, D.A.R., Monday Music Club, Rhododendron Garden Club and the Black Knight Country Club. She was preceded in death by her husband, Morton Alexander "Ping" Johnson and her son, M.A. "Alex" Johnson Jr. Survivors include her daughter, Susan Johnson High and her husband, Gilbert P. High Jr., of Philadelphia, Pa.; a daughter-in-law, Glenna Ha-milton Johnson of Beckley; grandchildren, Amanda High and her husband, David Moos, Gilbert P. High III and his wife, Maureen, David Alexander High and his wife, Lori, Katy Melgard and her husband, Christian, Bonney Bashore and her husband, Samuel, and Matthew Alexander Johnson. Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Beckley Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Robin Debnam officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call one hour before the service Wednesday at the church. Pallbearers will be Gilbert P. High III, David Alexander High, Matthew Alexander Johnson, E.E. Bibb III, Gilbert P. High Jr. and William Bolen. Memorial contributions may be made to the Beckley Area Foundation, 129 Main St., Suite 203, Beckley, WV, 25801, Hospice of Southern West Virginia, P.O. Box 1472, Beckley, WV 25802 or to the Beckley Presbyterian Church, 203 South Kanawha St., Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
HINTON - Freda Ruth Fox Bennett, 62, died at 11:05 a.m. Friday, Nov. 19, 2004, at her home following a long illness. Condolences may be sent to the family at info@ronaldmeadowsfp.com. Arrangements by Ronald Meadows Funeral Parlors, Hinton. Madeline 'Madge' Brammer Madeline Lucille "Madge" Brammer, 74, of Sixth Street, Beckley, died Thursday, Nov. 18, 2004, in a Beckley hospital following a short illness. Born Sept. 15, 1930, at Mabscott, she was the daughter of the late Boone and Cora Estaline Rickman Brammer. Miss Brammer spent her childhood in Mabscott and was a 1948 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. She also attended Beckley College. She worked as a claims representative for several insurance agencies in the Beckley area and had been a resident of Sixth Street since 1947. She was of the Christian faith. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Densil, Ronald, James and Thomas; and two sisters, Evelyn Butler and Bonnie Floyd. Survivors include two sisters, Bessie Gravely of Beckley and Goldie Brammer, with whom she shared her home; two brothers, Harold Brammer of Ronceverte and Robert Brammer of Beckley; and several nieces and nephews. Service will be 1 p.m. Monday at Melton Mortuary Cha-pel, Beckley, with the Rev. Howard Brammer officiating. Burial will follow in Calfee Cemetery, Mount Tabor Road, Beckley. Friends may call 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be nephews. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
RANSON -- Laurent "Ralph" Cordas, 48, formerly of Beckley, went to be with Keith Bailey and all God's angels on Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2004, at his home due to a sudden illness. Born Aug. 3, 1956, in France, he was the son of the late Morris G. and Mary L. Cordas of Beckley. Ralph had been a machine operator with Berryville Graphics Co. Before moving to Ranson, Ralph lived and worked in the Beckley area and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1974. He enjoyed hunting, playing golf and was a dedicated NASCAR fan. He is survived by his wife, Deborah K. Cordas; a brother, Jimmy Cordas and his wife, Karen, of Farmersville, Ohio; and a nephew, James Jr. Ralph touched the hearts of everyone who knew him and will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Service will be 11 a.m. today at Melvin T. Strider Colonial Funeral Home, Charles Town. Burial will follow in Edge Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations of sympathy may be made to the Cordas family, c/o James and Sonya Peters, 1801 Maxwell Hill Road, Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Strider Colonial Funeral Home, Charles Town.
James "Jim" Walker Word Jr., 80, who spent much of his professional life working to enrich our community, died Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2004. Born Dec. 23, 1923, he was the son of the late James Walker Word Sr. and Dora V. Tolley Word of Beckley. Mr. Word graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1942, served as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force from December 1942 until November 1945, then graduated in 1949 with a B.S. Degree in Business Administration from West Virginia University, where he was also a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. After graduation from college, Mr. Word worked with his father in the automobile business before joining his father-in-law, Matthias Powers, in 1954 in the investment and finance business. Mr. Word was president of Beckley Loan Co. and active in West Virginia banking as an organizer of Cardinal State Bank, organizer, director and chairman of the board of Gulf National Bank and National Bankers Trust, and director of Raleigh County National Bank, Summit Holding Co., United Bank and United Bankshares Inc. Mr. Word may best be remembered for this enthusiastic and dedicated support of the Beckley community. He was one of the organizers and the first president of the Beckley Area Foundation, established in 1985 to encourage philanthropic giving for the support of community charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health and human services, the arts and beautification. He was also a director of the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation and a board member of the Carter Family Foundation. Mr. Word was a member of Beckley Presbyterian Church, the Beckley Rotary Club, Beckley Masonic Lodge No. 95, Beni Kedem Temple Shrine, Mount Hope Commandery and the Beckley Elks Club. He was a past president of Black Knight Country Club and the Flat Top Lake Association, and a member of Glade Springs Country Club and Bonita Bay Club in Bonita Springs, Fla. Mr. Word received the Golden Eagle Award from the Woodrow Wilson High School Alumni Association and the Paul Harris Award from Rotary International and the Beckley Rotary Club. He was a member of WVU's Irvin Stewart Society as a result of his support for West Virginia University. Mr. Word served as commissioner for 12 years and chairman for six years of the West Virginia Turnpike Commission. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, the former Miss Sarah Jane "Sallie" Powers; his son, James "Jay" Walker Word III and daughter-in-law, Lisa Word, of Beckley; his grandsons, Matthew Word and Stephen Word; his daughter, Laura Word and son-in-law, Neilson Lamar Williams, of Arlington, Va.; and two sisters, Helen Word, deceased, and Mrs. Samuel (Marguerite) St. Clair of Alderson and Vero Beach, Fla. Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Beckley Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Robin Debnam officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Masonic Lodge No. 95 AF and AM will conduct graveside rites. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday at the church. Pallbearers will be Bill and Chuck Turner, Ed and Tim Thompson, and Justin and Mitchell St. Clair. Honorary pallbearers will be Warren Thornhill, William N. Turner, T.C. Weeks, Gus Shaffer, Gene Foster, Elmo Hurst, Tim Thompson, Charlie Connor and Austin Caperton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Beckley Area Foundation, 129 Main St., Suite 203, Beckley, WV 25801 and Beckley Presbyterian Church, 203 S. Kanawha St., Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
CARMEL, Ind. -- Lewis "Gale" Armstrong, 66, died Friday, Nov. 12, 2004, of a bone marrow disease in Indianapolis, Ind. Lew was born in East Beckley on Feb. 23, 1938, to Elizabeth and Lewis Wilson Armstrong Jr., a coal miner. He grew up at Bee Lick Knob and other mining towns, and graduated from Beckley's Woodrow Wilson High School in 1956. Lew once shied away from pizza (too exotic), only to wind up eating snails while living in France. He joined the Air Force three days after his 17th birthday, and served six years, three months, 10 days. (He counted.) Lew fell in love with Judy, a fellow airman. They were married 46 years and had three children, Karen, Laurie and Ken. Lew worked for the federal government for 38 years, retiring in 1994 from the Defense Department at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Indianapolis. He programmed computers from when they were big as a kitchen to the time they fit his palm. As a young man, he left West Virginia for Ohio because a job there paid 80 cents an hour more. He saw all 50 states without really meaning to and lived in France and Germany, where his family visited castles on weekends. But no matter where he lived -- be it Mississippi, South Carolina, Ohio, Washington, New Mexico or Indiana -- Lew always said his heart was in West Virginia. He talked of playing in the Greenbrier River as a boy, and before he died, asked to have his ashes returned to the state he loved so dearly. Lew's friendships survived time and distance. He liked skeet, bowling, euchre and pinochle. Keen on having Judy share his interests, he once bought her a .20-gauge shotgun for her birthday. She thanked him, and said that for his next birthday, she planned to buy him a dress. When Lew had brain surgery in his mid-50s, he lost his taste for hunting, whiskey and cigarettes. His love for his family, chocolate and John Wayne movies remained. Lew was unafraid to hug and say I love you. One of his only regrets was never going up in a hot air balloon. In recent years he lived in Carmel, Ind., on a golf course, where he kept watch on the 15th green and learned some new curse words. Lew is survived by Judy; his three children; grandchildren Ashley, Aaron, Emmett and Meghan; and great-grandson Cory. Lew's family will miss him very much. Friends may call 5 to 8 p.m. today at Shirley Brothers Mortuary, 9900 Allisonville Road, Fishers, Ind.
PRINCETON - Joseph J. Filipek, 80, of Princeton, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 2004, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Va., following a brief illness. Born March 22, 1924, in Raleigh, he was the son of the late Anton Filipek and Nellie Anelia Byk Filipek. On Nov. 11, 1950, he was united in marriage to Nellie Jacobowski. Mr. Filipek, "Joe," graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and attended Beckley College. He was an Eagle Scout. In 1943 he entered the U.S. Army infantry and served in the North Africa and Italian campaigns. He was wounded in battle and received the Bronze Star. He had over 40 years' experience in the mining industry and was a retired federal mine inspector. Joe was an accomplished carpenter and gardener. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, golfing and four-wheeling. He was an active member of Victory Pentecostal Church in Lindside. Survivors include his wife, Nellie Filipek; two sons, Joseph J. Filipek Jr. of Alexandria, Va., and Michael A. Filipek and his wife, Kristal, of Bluefield; two daughters, Rosanna Duncan and her husband, Lawrence, of Bluefield, Va., and Rebecca Smith and her husband, William, of Bristol, Tenn.; a granddaughter, Kimberly Smith; six sisters, Mary Peelish, Stella Novak, Lilly Janice, Blanche Champer, Rosie Bozo, and Stephanie Steele; and four brothers, Walter Filipek, Edward Filipek, Theodore Filipek and Andrew Filipek. Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home, Princeton, with the Rev. James Finley officiating. Interment will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Princeton. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House, 2224 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke, VA 24014, or Victory Pentecostal Church, Route 1, Box 102, Peterstown, WV 24963. The family would like to thank all of the staff at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and Princeton Community Hospital for their extraordinary care and loving support. Arrangements by Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home, Princeton.
Robin Lee Smith Blankenship, 41, of Ewart Avenue, Beckley, passed away Friday, Nov. 5, 2004, at her home. Born on Aug. 26, 1963, in Beckley, she was the daughter of Regina Smith Keadle and her husband, Tom, of Beckley and the late R.T. "Chuck" Smith. Robin spent her childhood on Circle Street. She was a 1982 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. She was formerly employed by Raleigh General Hospital, with 22 years of service. A resident of Ewart Avenue the past seven years, Robin and her family formerly lived on Nebraska Avenue. She will be remembered as a loving wife and mo-ther, a precious daughter, granddaughter, sister, cousin and friend. Robin embraced everyone she met with openess and loving radiance, that was truly her unique gift. Robin never met a stranger ... Always a smile and a big hug for everyone as she would call you "Honey." As a mom, Taylor, Bill, Robert, Charlie and Clayton were the focus of her life. She loved following Nascar with her best friend and husband, Bobby. Robin loved telling a good joke and hearing others laugh. She loved the holidays and curling up with her Mom and sisters to catch up on family gossip. Her memory will be cherished by her family and friends. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Henry and Beatrice Smith; maternal grandfather, William Myles; paternal uncle, Jim Smith; maternal aunt and uncle, Betty and John Ratliff; and her father-in-law, William Homer Blankenship. In addition to her mother and stepfather, survivors include her husband of 10 years, Bobby Wayne Blankenship; a daughter, Taylor Katherine Blankenship and a son, William Marshall Blankenship, both at home; her husband's sons, Charles Edward Blankenship of Beckley, Robert Kelley Blankenship of Princeton, and Clayton Arthur Blankenship of Shady Spring; a granddaughter, Chloe Blankenship; two sisters, Vicky Stone and her husband, Harold, of Daniels and Laura Allen and her husband, Jim, of Memphis, Tenn.; her maternal grandmother, Millie Faini of Beckley; her uncles, Bill Myles and his wife, Katy, of Glen White and Dr. Curt H. Thomas "Uncle Buddy" and his wife, Rosalie, of Lochgelly; her mother-in-law, Roxie Catherine Blankenship of Dobson, N.C.; sisters-in-laws, Judy Richardson of Dobson, Becky Keith of Oxford, N.C., and Pat Hayes of Meadow Bridge; brother-in-law, Rex Allen Blankenship of Columbia, S.C.; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Melton Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Bill Parker officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. Friends may call this evening from 6 until 9 p.m. at Melton Mortuary. Pallbearers will be Charlie Clayton, Robert and Rex Blankenship, Robby Ratliff, Rocky Floyd, Harold Stone and Kent Bailey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Taylor and William Blankenship Trust Fund; c/o Nothwestern Mutual, 238 Neville St., Suite 100, Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
Thelma Grace Cavendish Cantley, 86, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2004. The only child of Wyatte and Grace Cummings Cavendish, she was born near Gauley Bridge in 1918 but grew up in Skelton where her father was an official for the New River Co. She attended Raleigh County schools and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1935. Later she earned A.B. and Master's degrees from Marshall University in elementary education. She spent 39 years teaching in Fayette and Raleigh County elementary schools. Both Thelma and Eustace Cantley were charter members of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Shady Spring. For several years they lived at Flat Top Lake, but following retirement from Raleigh County Schools they also spent time in Louis-ville, Ky., and Lake Worth, Fla. Her husband of 54 years, Eustace Glen Cantley, preceded her in death in 1995 after retiring as assistant principal at Marsh Fork High School. Thelma is survived by five children, Glen "Ike," Byron "Ron," and Steve, all of Lake Worth; daughter Mary-Jo Broyles and husband, Joe, and grandchildren, Kyle Broyles and Stephanie Woerner, of Louisville; and Cyntha Susan "Susie" Sayre and husband, Kin, and grandchildren, Grace and McKinley Sayre, of Beckley, and Thomas Sayre of Atlanta, Ga. Service will be 1 p.m. Monday at Blue Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley. Interment will be held at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. The family requests that expressions of sympathy be directed in Thelma's honor to Hospice of Palm Beach County, Attention: Community Development, 5300 East Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33407. Please specify JFK Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
Glennis Dale Conner, [WWHS '60] 65, of Stanaford, died Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2004, at Beebe Hospital in Lewes, Del. Glennis was born July 2, 1939, at Sandstone, the son of Vonetta Conner and the late Dale Paul Conner, who departed this life June 19, 1983. Other than his father, Glennis was preceded in death by a daughter, Dale S. Bibb, on June 19, 1994. He is survived by his daughter, Pam Conner of Lewes; two grandsons, Tony Bibb and Tommy Mansfield; three brothers, Bobby Conner and Yoli of Carson, Calif., James Conner and wife, Helen, of Goose Creek, S.C., and Thomas Conner and wife, Mary Lou, of Indianapolis, Ind.; a sister, Phyllis Voultsides and husband, George, of Bishopville, Md.; and several nieces and nephews. Service will be 2 p.m. Sunday at Blue Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Phillip Lilly officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
Judy A. (nee Blankenship) Cecil, [WWHS '59] age 63 of Phoenix, AZ passed away on October 23, 2004. She was born on June 26, 1941 in Williamson, WV to James W. and Ora M. Blankenship. She is survived by her beloved husband of 42 years, Norris L. Cecil; daughter Kelly Cecil; son Steve (Jody) Cecil; brother Kelly (Nancy) Blankenship; grandmother to Megan Cecil and aunt to Lisa (Bill) Welsh and great-aunt to Will Welsh. Judy was a crafter at heart. She loved to make and share her crafts with family, friends and co-workers. Judy was loved by all who knew her and will be greatly missed. A Memorial Visitation will be from 5-8 P.M., Wednesday, October 27, 2004 at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ. In lieu of floral tributes, memorial contributions may be made in Judy's memory to the Arizona Humane Society, 1521 W. Dobbins Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85041 or the charity of your choice. From the Arizona Republic
ORMAND BEACH, Fla. - Jesse T. Adkins, [WWHS '58] formerly of Prosperity, died Sunday, June 13, 2004, at Ormand Beach Memorial Hospital in Florida. Born Jan. 15, 1940, he was the son of the late Jesse A. Adkins and Mae Minerva Plumley Adkins. He was also preceded in death by an infant son, Tommy and a brother, Brady R. Adkins. Mr. Adkins had served in the Navy 20 years and was Chief Petty Officer, he also fought in the Vietnam Conflict for two years and was a member of the VFW. He was a carpenter for many years. Survivors include four children, Donna Wilson and husband, Chris of Port Orange, Fla., Sharon Gutierrec and husband, Ed of Port Orange, Fla., Diana Hulvey of Port Orange, Fla. and Daniel Adkins and wife, Jo Ann of Dothan; two sisters, Dreama Lyons and husband, Homer of Shady Spring and Glenna Bennett of Loraine, Ohio; a foster sister, Betty Vandall and husband, Ronnie of Logan, Ohio; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. His body will be cremated and returned to West Virginia. There will be no services. Arrangements by Allen-Summerhill, 126 E. New York, Deland, Fla.
Danny Ray Stover, 49, of Eccles, fought a courageous battle with cancer and passed away at his home surrounded by his devoted and loving wife and family. Danny was born Feb. 1, 1955, in Beckley, the son of the late Dennis O. Stover and the late Billie Lou Huguenot Stover. Danny attended Glen White Church of God. He had a passion for golf, he had a love for the outdoors and was a No. 1 WVU fan. Danny graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1973. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Toni' Denise James-Stover; a son, Zachary Gray Stover at home; three stepsons, Lee Andrew James, Andrew Chase James and Wesley Bruce James, all of Temple, Ga.; four brothers, William Stover and wife, Janice, of Bradley, Jerry Stover and wife, Julie, of Fairdale, Barry Stover and wife, JoAnn, of Bradley and Michael Stover and wife, Theresa, of Crab Orchard; a sister, Sharon Stover of Columbus, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews. Service will be 3 p.m. Monday at Glen White Church of God with Rev. Jesse A. Farley officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Tabor Cemetery. Brothers and brothers-in-law will be serving as pallbearers. Friends may call 2 p.m. until time of service Monday at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Glen White Church of God, Glen White, WV 25849. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
Paul R. Sharpenberg, 46, [WWHS '76] of Mabscott, departed this life and entered into life eternal on Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2004, in a Charleston medical center. Paul was born April 24, 1958, in Morgantown, the son of Warren D. Sharpenberg and Grace Williams Sharpenberg. Paul was a member of Glen White Church of God. Paul was currently employed as office manager at Bays Inc. He was a graduate of Concord College with a degree in business administration and was a member and president of Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity at Concord. He also had a master's degree from the U.S. Sports Academy in Mobile, Ala., with a degree in sports management. He loved all sports. Paul was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Frank Paul and Maud Sharpenberg of Morgantown; maternal grandparents, E.H. and Rosa Poage Williams of Marlinton; and a sister, Jane Lee Sharpenberg. Other than his loving parents, those left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife, Alvada Farley Sharpenberg; a sister, Margaret Ann Bays and her husband, Jerry, and a brother, Thomas E. Sharpenberg and his wife, Debie. Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Glen White Church of God with Dr. Daniel F. Boling, the Rev. Malcolm Brownlee, the Rev. Jesse A. Farley and David M. Griffis officiating. Entombment will follow in the Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, Beckley. Music will be provided by the Glen White Church of God Choir, of which Paul was a member. Pallbearers will be Donald Brown, Donnie Peters, Kyle Handy, Troy Bailey, Duke Stover, Bill Daniel, Jack Bryant and Jerry White. Honorary pallbearers will be Men of the Glen White Church of God. Friends may gather with the family from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Blue Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
Irene L. Andrighetti, of Westwood Drive, Beckley, died Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2004, at age 84 after an extended illness. Born Jan. 26, 1920, at Thorpe, she was the daughter of the late John and Elizabeth Markovics Granila. Mrs. Andrighetti attended McDowell County schools and spent her early years in Kimball, moving to Beckley in 1937. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1938. A registered nurse, she was a graduate of the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing in Charleston in 1938. A post graduate of Margaret Hague Maternity Hospital in Jersey City, N.J., she worked at the Hague until 1943, returning to Beckley. She was employed at Beckley Hospital and Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital in the capacity of obstetrics nurse, retiring in 1985 from BARH. She was a member of St. Francis deSales Catholic Church, West Virginia Nurses Association and District No. 10 Nurses Association. She was truly dedicated to her profession. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Merle M. Andrighetti; two sisters, Elizabeth of Canada and Mary Barska of Beckley; and a son-in-law, Larry G. Bays. Survivors include two sons, Robert "Bob" Andrighetti and John D. Andrighetti, both of Beckley; two daughters, M. Theresa Bays of Beckley and Martha A. Simkins of Fountain Hills, Ariz.; a sister, Helen G. Pitotti and husband, Dario, of Beckley; granddaughters, Julie Bays, Amy Andrighetti and Elizabeth Simkins; and grandsons, Max Bays, Austin Reinshuttle, Scott Andrighetti and Andrew Simkins. Funeral liturgy will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Francis deSales Catholic Church, Beckley, with the Rev. Samuel S. Sacus as celebrant. Rite of committal will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. today at Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley, where a rosary service will be recited at 8:30 p.m., led by the Rev. Mr. Don Wise. Grandsons, nephews, family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Donations may be made in memory of Irene Andrighetti to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 626 S. Oakwood Ave., or St. Francis deSales Catholic School, 614 S. Oakwood Ave., Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
George Zutaut, 60, of Beckley, passed away Sunday, Oct. 10, 2004, in a Charleston area hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
MURRELLS INLET, S.C. -- Polly Joanne Tilley Lock died Sunday, Oct. 3, 2004, in South Carolina. Born June 27, 1934, at Mullens, she was the daughter of Lena C. Neal Tilley and the late Verlie Ward Tilley. Mrs. Lock was a 1952 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley. She was a homemaker and a member of St. Michael Ca-tholic Church. Survivors include her mother Lena C. Neal Tilley of Murrells Inlet and her husband of 47 years, John J. Lock; and a daughter, Sharon L. Tilden and husband, Robert, of Oakland, N.J. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Michael Catholic Church directed by Goldfinch Funeral Home, Murrells Inlet, S.C. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church School Fund, P.O. Box 2659, Murrells Inlet, S.C. 29576. An online guestbook is available at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gold-finch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel, Murrells Inlet, S.C.
Margaret Smith Keaton, 90, of Orchard Avenue, Beckley, died Friday, Oct. 1, 2004, in a Beckley hospital following a short illness. Born Jan. 9, 1914, in Terra Haute, Ind., she was the daughter of the late James W. and Maude Foley Smith. Mrs. Keaton was a lifelong resident of Raleigh County and a 1933 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. She was a member of First Christian Church, Courthouse Square, Beckley, and a member of the Friendship Sunday School Class. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell M. Keaton, on April 22, 1989; a granddaughter, Kimberly Lane; and five brothers and four sisters. Survivors include two daughters, Sandra Lane and husband, Charles, and Karen Wesley and husband, George, all of Beckley; a son, Alan "Butch" Keaton and wife, Deborah, of Daniels; seven grandchildren, Gregory and Phillip Lane, Leslie Miller, Kelli Hill, Chad and Brian Keaton, and Jeff Vass; 10 great-grandchildren, Emily, Cameron, Matthew and Ashlee Lane, Brooke, Parker and Grant Miller, Sydney and Garret Hill, and Noah Vass; sand a sister, Lorene Scarborough of Dover, Del. Service will be 2 p.m. Sunday at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. James Lowe officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call 1 p.m. until time of service Sunday at the funeral chapel. Pallbearers will be grandsons. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
PARKERSBURG -- Patricia Mary Thornley, 41, formerly of Beckley, died Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2004, from the results of an automobile-related accident in Snellville, Ga. Ms. Thornley was a 1981 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and a 1984 graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. She was the daughter of the late William H. and Athlene Waddell Thornley of Crab Orchard. She is survived by two daughters, Alyssa Renee Davis, 15, and Amanda Athlene Davis, 14, both of Vienna; a brother, George Thornley of Concord, N.C.; and a sister, Margaret Legato of Snellville. Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Lambert-Tateman Funeral Home, Vienna. Burial will follow in Parkersburg Memorial Gardens. Friends may call 9 a.m. until time of service Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for her daughters. Arrangements by Lambert-Tateman Funeral Home, Vienna.
On Saturday, Sept. 25, 2004, in the early morning hours, Margaret Sanna Sizemore died peacefully at her home on Silver Streak Road at Camp Creek. She had battled cancer for several years. Margaret was 62 years of age. Born May 7, 1942, in Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Josephine Greco Sanna. Margaret spent her childhood in Beckley, where she worked for Beckley Manufacturing. A former employee of JC Penney Co., she worked 11 years for Allied Chemical in Hopewell, Va. Margaret began a longtime career in the medical field, working for Dr. John Cannell at Flat Top and Beaver Family Care. A devout member of the Church of God Family Worship Center, she was founding member of the "Show of Hands" sign language performance and ministry group based in Beckley. She provided sign language interpreting at her church. She will be remembered as a loving wife, sweet sister and sister-in-law, and a steadfast friend. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul and Nick Sanna; and her mother-in-law, Sylvia Sizemore Bennett. Survivors include her husband of 42 years, Jack; two brothers, Leonard Sanna and his wife, Toni, of San Francisco, Calif., and Sam Sanna and his wife, Beverly, of Beckley; two sisters, Mary Sanna Harrison of Gallipolis, Ohio, and Victoria "V.J." Monarchy and her husband, Bob, of Beckley; a sister-in-law, Bobbie Sanna of Shady Spring; several nieces and nephews and a host of friends. Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Church of God Family Worship Center, 223 Pinewood Drive, Beckley, with the Rev. Mark Schrade officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call 5:30 to 9 p.m. Monday at the church and one hour before service Tuesday. Pallbearers will be Ken Turner, Eddie Polk, Bob and Junior Sanger, Howard Vest, Ron Ferguson and members of the "Show of Hands" of her church. Donations of sympathy can be made to Community Hospice of America, P.O. Box 6364, Blue Prince Road, Bluefield, WV 24701. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
Emma Lee St. Clair, 76, a resident of the Raleigh Center, Ritter Drive, Daniels, died Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2004, in a Beckley hospital following a long illness. Born on Nov. 24, 1927, at Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Joe and Emily Marie Swatzyna Hawks. Emma spent her childhood in Beckley, where she graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. She was married to James St. Clair on March 4, 1961, who preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 1980. A former resident of Harper Road, she was a member of the First United Methodist Church on South Heber Street. She is survived by her step children, Kathleen Armentrout and her husband, Richard, of Daniels and their children, Deborah Mills, Susan Hodges and Timothy Armentrout, James R. St. Clair and his wife, Ann Marie, of Austin, Texas and their sons, Christopher and Mark; and six great grandchildren also survive. Committal service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Sunset Memorial Park in Beckley with the Rev. Paul Blizzard officiating. Those wishing to attend the service are asked to meet at Melton Mortuary by 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
Barry C. Hefner, 53, of Carlton St., Beckley, died Saturday, Sept. 18, 2004, following a short illness. Mr. Hefner was the son of the late Lawrence and Dixie Blake Hefner. Mr. Hefner was retired and was the former owner of National Security. He was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and spent his working career providing security and protecting business mainly in the Raleigh County area. Mr. Hefner built his business to be the largest security patrol service in West Virginia before retiring. After retirement, he saw his dream come true by building National Protection Services Training Center, the first and only Security Officer Training Center in West Virginia. He enjoyed riding his ATV, spending time with his grandchildren and his dog, Critter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry. He is survived by one son, Christopher; three grandchildren; and another adopted son, Steve. Friends may call today from 6 until 9 p.m. at the Melton Mortuary. Committal service will be 3 p.m. Tuesday at Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum with the Rev. Roger Tolliver officiating. Entombment will follow. Pallbearers will be Brian Tolliver, Ed Price, Mike Hopkins, Steve Patterson, Mark Whitely, Bob McComas and Steve Tanner. Those wishing to attend the committal service are asked to meet at Melton Mortuary by 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Hefner requests that donations be made to the building and training funds of National Protection Security Officers Training Center. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
HOLLYWOOD, Fla. - Dr. Nellie Hope Ellison Dry, 78, died Thursday, Sept. 9, 2004, after a brief battle with kidney disease. Born Sept. 4, 1926, in Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Margaret Laura Green and Lacy Ernest Ellison. She was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Wilson Dry. Survivors include two daughters, Tina Dry of Altamonte Springs, Fla., and Suzan Dry Noden and husband, David, of Cary, N.C.; grandson, Eric Christopher Noden of Cary; a sister, Dollie Ellison Roach and husband, Ronald, of Beckley; a niece, Laura Roach Salyers of Beckley; and a grandnephew, Steven Wayne Roche of Beckley. Dr. Dry was an educator at Concord College, Meredith College, Appalachian State University, Versailles High School, the University of Kentucky, East Carolina University, Ball State University, Florida Keys Junior College and Broward Community College. She was a member of the Woodrow Wilson High School Class of 1944, and she was honored in 1988 with a Golden Eagle Award. She received her B.S. from Concord College, her M.S. from the University of Kentucky and her Ed.D. from Pennsylvania State University. In 1982, she was recognized by the former governor of the state of Florida, Robert Graham, as an outstanding Floridian for her accomplishments at Broward Community College. Dr. Dry was also a consultant for several publishers, co-authored two textbooks and authored numerous articles for professional publications. Nellie was an active member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Hollywood, often working 15-20 hours a week in the office after her retirement. She was a former member of First Baptist Church of Beckley. Memorial service was Friday at St. John's, and her ashes will be buried with her husband in Mount Pleasant, N.C. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to St. John's Lutheran Church, 2919 Van Buren St., Hollywood, Fla., or to First Baptist Church, 422 Neville St., Beckley.
David Frederick Farris, 66, of 106 Freeman St., Beckley, died Monday, Sept. 13, 2004, at Raleigh General Hospital following a brief illness. Born March 5, 1938, in Beckley, he was the eldest twin son of the late Felix Peter Farris and the late Jean E. Kent Farris Korn. Mr. Farris was a 1956 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, where he excelled in football, wrestling and track. He attended Marshall University and West Virginia University and served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1967. David was an avid stamp collector and history buff. He enjoyed the outdoors, hiking, bird watching, visiting with friends and family. David was a big WVU fan and loved football and golf. He never met a stranger, and was always quick with a joke; he loved to laugh. He was a member of First Church of God in Beckley. Survivors include his wife of 16 years, Celia A. Coffman Farris; two daughters, Carolyn Jean Farris of Beckley and Beverly Ann Farris and her companion, Johnny Wall, of Beckley; a stepdaughter, Catherine R. Sexton of Beckley; his twin brother, Donald Felix Farris and his wife, Virginia, of Virginia Beach, Va.; a sister, Ann Kent Smith and her husband, Kenneth, of Forest, Va.; granddaughter, Dana Gayle Farris of Beckley; grandson, Joshua John David Farris of Beckley; great-grandson, David Ian Scott Henderson of Beckley; and many nieces and nephews. Service will be 3 p.m. Thursday at First Church of God, 2809 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley, with the Rev. Vondie Cook officiating. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. today at the church. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Activities Association or the First Church of God building fund. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at RandQ@ citynet.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.
Elizabeth Ann (Yago) Jackson [WWHS '49]. Born in Beckley on October 13, 1931 to John & Gladys Yago, passed away on January 8, 2004 from a short battle with cancer. Libby spent most of her adult life in Indianapolis, In. and relocated in 2001 to Gainesville, Ga. She is survived by her husband, Willard S. Jackson, brother & sister-in-law, Mr & Mrs. John W. Yago Jr. of Bethesda, Md., daughter and son-in-law Dayna & Andrew Vendal of Alpharetta, Ga, son Willard J. Jackson of San Diego, Ca. and four grandchildren. Libby loved her 'roots' in Beckley and had so many fond memories and dear friends from that time in her life.
Robert Ivan Estep Sr., 73, of Honda Drive, Beckley, died Saturday, Sept. 11, 2004, at his home following a long illness. Born Feb. 20, 1931, in Beckley, he was the son of the late Harry Estep and Edna Christian Estep Doug-las. Mr. Estep was a 1949 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and he served briefly in the U.S. Army. He worked for many years as a plumber and pipe fitter for W.C. Rogers Plumbing and Heating, and he retired from Mountaineer Auto Mall. He enjoyed working in his woodworking shop and helping others, and he was a member of the Beckley Fishing and Hunting Club. He attended Breckenridge Baptist Church in Bolt. His first wife, Joyce Rogers Estep, preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife, Nancy Brooks Estep; a son, Robert I. Estep Jr. and wife, Yolanda, of Beckley; daughters, Marsha Estep Gillespie and husband, Stephen, of Shady Spring and Lisa Estep Cunningham and husband, Scott, of Calabash, N.C.; grandchildren, Craig Estep, Jessica Caruthers, Valerie Goodson, Keith Gunter, Casey Gillespie and Lynsey Cunningham; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Albert Lee Estep and wife, Theodosia, of Beckley; and a niece. Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Dewey Lowe and the Rev. Mark Schrade officiating. Entombment will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Family members and friends will serve as pallbearers. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
DUNBAR - Ella Blanche Kincaid, 86, of Dunbar, died Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2004, at Quarry Manor Personal Care Home, Charleston. Ella was born Dec. 24, 1917, in Meadow Bridge, and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley in 1939 and also attended Beckley College. She worked at the Stanaford Post Office for a number of years after graduating from high school and then worked in the billing office at the Beckley Hospital for 35 years before retiring in 1980. Ella lived her last two years at Quarry Manor in Charleston where she made many friends with residents and staff alike. The family wishes to acknowledge and thank the staff of the Quarry Manor for their personal care of and friendship with Ella. Survivors include nephew, H. Ray Gravely of Charleston; great-nephew, Matt Gravely and wife, Kim, of Charleston; two great-nephews, Chris Gravely of Dunbar and Stephan Smith of Huntington; brother-in-law, Okie Lewis, and niece, Arlene, of Beckley; niece, Dixie Kincaid of Minden; and many other nieces and nephews. Graveside service will be 4 p.m. today at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley, with the Rev. John A. Lares of Beckley. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Kanawha Hospice Care Inc., 1143 Dunbar Ave., Dunbar, WV 26064. Arrangements by Good Shepherd Mortuary, South Charleston.
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- Michael C. Howery, 63, [WWHS '58] formerly of Beckley, died Dec. 26, 2003. Michael was born in Beckley on Sept. 10, 1940. Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Friday at Huse Memorial Park, Fayetteville. [Register-Herald, Sept. 2, 2004]
Robert Wayne Taylor, 57, of Taylor Farm Road, Glen White, died Friday, Aug. 27, 2004, in a Beckley hospital. Born May 20, 1947, at Beckley, he was the son of Delphia Workman Taylor of Glen White and the late John Cleo Taylor. Mr. Taylor spent his childhood at Glen White, where he has resided for the past 40 years. He was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and he was a disabled coal miner last working for Maple Meadow Mining at Fairdale. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era, where he was a graduate of Army Engineer School. He was an antique car show enthusiast and will always be remembered as a beloved son, husband, father and brother. In addition to his mother, survivors include his wife, Rhedas Gay Goff Taylor; a daughter, Jessica Taylor and his sons, Scott and Stacy Taylor, all of Glen White; two brothers, John Taylor and his wife, June of Mount Hope and Curtis Taylor of Glen White and by his mother-in-law, Azie Goff of Beckley. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Taylor Cemetery, Workman's Creek with the Rev. Loretta Taylor, Mike Lilly and Charles Lilly officiating. Burial will follow. Friends may call from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesday at the Melton Mortuary Chapel. Those wishing to attend the graveside service are asked to meet at the mortuary by noon. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. In keeping with Mr. Taylor's wishes, the family has requested no flowers, any condolences may be sent to the family. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
Dr. Richard Granville Starr, 78, of Beckley, died Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2004 in a local hospital following a long illness. Born Nov. 15, 1925, at Glen Morgan, he was the son of the late Granville P. and Marie Radford Starr. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Anna Marie Burleson. Dr. Starr was a 1943 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and served with the U.S. Navy from September 1944 to June 1946. He entered the West Virginia University medical program in 1948 and received his A.B. degree in 1949 and his B.S. degree in 1950. He then entered the School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvanian in 1950, receiving his M.D. degree in 1952. He served his internship at the University of Pennsylvania from 1952-1953. He returned to Beckley and entered private practice at Raleigh General Hospital from 1953-1955 and then returned to the University of Pennsylvania to serve his residency in general medicine from 1955-1957 and under the Robinette Foundation became a Fellow in Cardiology, 1957-1958. After again returning to Beckley, Dr. Starr was in private practice in internal medicine from 1958 until his retirement in 2002. He was a 1965 Diplomate of the America Board of Medicine. An active staff member of Raleigh General Hospital, he served as chief of medicine for several years, and also chairman of the Utilization and Review Committee. Dr. Starr held staff appointment at Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital, was a member of the American College of Physicians, member of the American Society of Internal Medicine and member of West Virginia Society of Internal Medicine. He was a member of the Raleigh County Medical Society, holding the offices of secretary, vice president and president in the 1960s, and was currently an honorary member. Dr. Starr was a member of the American Medical Association and was a distinguished member of the West Virginia Medical Institute Board of Trustees for 26 years. During his initial term he was appointed treasurer and from 1978 until his retirement, he served as secretary. In recognition of his dedication to health care quality and many years to WVMI, the board named him Emeritus Trustee on July 11, 2004. He was a medical expert for the Bureau of Hearings and Appeals of the Social Security Administration since 1970. He was appointed clinical professor of medicine volunteer faculty with Marshall University in 1977 and again on July 1, 1984, and was an examiner for Consolidated Public Retirement Board of West Virginia. Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth Jane Lorenz Starr; his two sons, Richard Granville Jr. and wife, Nancy Barnard-Starr, and their children, Richard Granville Starr III, Alexander Walker Starr and Thomas Austin Starr, all of Auckland, New Zealand, and Mark Stephen Starr and wife, Melissa, and their children, Peter and Alexander Charles Starr, all of Miami Beach, Fla.; his daughter, Stephanie McCormick-Goodhart and husband, Leander, and their children, Emma, Anna and Leander Goodhart III, all of St. Mary's County, Md.; his sister, Charlotte Lilly of Beckley; and his brother, Howard Starr of Palm Bay, Fla. Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 200 Virginia St., Beckley, with the Rev. John Weise and the Rev. Joseph A. Rickards Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call at 5 to 8 p.m. Monday at the church. Pallbearers will be Richard G. Starr Jr., Mark Starr, Leander McCormick-Goodhart, Leander McCormick-Goodhart III, Walker Starr and Kenneth Borders. Honorary pallbearers will be Dan Bickey, Ben Cook, Sam Crichton, Dr. R. Mark Hatfield, J.C. Higgins, Dr. Cordell Honrado, Phillip T. Jarrell, Dr. Walter Klingensmith, Dr. Paul Loflin, Dr. Robert Marshall, Purnal "Judge" McWhorter, Dr. D. Edward Neil, George Puckett, Dick Radford, Robert Sayre, Howard Starr, Dr. Mabel Stevenson, Rivers Varn, Richard Waichler, Dr. Stafford Warren and members of the Raleigh County Medical Society. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Dr. Richard G. Starr to the American Cancer Society, 301 RHL Blvd., Suite 6&7, Charleston, WV 25309. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Belinda Tywana Flynn, 39, [WWHS '83] of 1308 F St. Beckley, died Aug. 20, 2004. Born Nov. 11, 1964, at Beckley, she was the daughter of Zenobia Phillips Flynn of Beckley and the late John Edward Flynn Sr. Ms. Flynn was a telemarketing employee and a member of New Birth Baptist Church. Other survivors besides her mother include a daughter, Bria' A. Armstrong of Beckley; two brothers, John E. Flynn Jr. and wife, Winett L., of Woodbridge, Va., and Darrell A. Flynn and wife, Karen, of Atlanta, Ga.; a sister, Rita Smith and husband, Reggie, of Hampton, Va.; six nephews, Johnathan, Cameron, Joshua and Darrell A. Flynn Jr., Christopher Morton, Reggie L. Smith Jr. and Andre/ Smith; and two nieces, Brittani C. Flynn and Breana Johnson. Service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at Mount Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. Jerry Staples officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call one hour before the service on Wednesday at the church. Services entrusted to Ritchie and Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.
Police are continuing their investigation of the murder of Belinda Tywana Flynn, 39 of East Beckley. Flynn was found dead early Friday from a gunshot wound to the head. Beckley Police Detective Lt. Cedric Robertson said an area resident called the police station after hearing a single gunshot. Robertson said Sunday police are continuing to gather evidence through conversations with neighbors. "We are in the process of developing people of interest," Robertson said. "We have conducted several interviews in the neighborhood in order to gain information." Flynn's body was transported to the state medical examiner's office in South Charleston for autopsy. "We expect to hear from the medical examiner on Monday," Robertson said. Robertson has reported that the narcotics unit is involved with the investigation. No information regarding the a suspect is being released at this time. "We won't be able to release any information on the persons of interest until an arrest is made," he said.
Jean G. Moore, 77, of Beckley, died at her residence Friday, Aug. 20, 2004, following a two-year courageous battle against ovarian cancer. Born Oct. 26, 1926, in Ligon, Ky., she was the daughter of the late Charles W. Gardner and Peggy Gardner Adkins. She was a 1944 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and a 1970 graduate of the Raleigh County Vocational School of Practical Nursing. She worked as a nurse for 18 years at Beckley Hospital, retiring in 1988. She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Woodrow H. "Woody" Moore, in 1991; a son, William H. "Bill" Moore, in 2002, and a sister, Norma Harris. Survivors include her daughter, Kathy L. Pittman and her husband, Ron, of Athens, Ohio; her son, Danny Joe Moore and his wife, Sheri, of Beckley; seven grandchildren, Daniel, Josh and Katie Rose Pittman of Athens, Ohio, Amanda and Sarah Katherine Moore of Beckley, and Aaron and Kristin Moore of Dublin, Ohio; and two sisters, Nettie Comer of Prosperity and Sherleen Lynch of Peoria, Ariz. Friends may call 4:30 to 6 p.m. Monday at Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley, with a memorial service immediately following at 6 p.m. with the Rev. Dan Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Pallbearers will be Josh and Daniel Pittman, Dr. Francis Hajash, Doug Cox, Bobby Zutaut and Dwight Bellomy. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Place of United Methodist Temple, 201 Temple Drive, Beckley, WV, or to Hospice of Southern West Virginia, P.O. Box 1472, Beckley, WV. Condolences may be e-mailed to calfeefuneralhome@yahoo.com. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Nellie E. Hutchens, 75, of 172 Whitestick Road, Beckley, died Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2004, at Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital following a long illness. Born Sept. 5, 1928, in Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Nunzrato and Carrie Salango Cernuto. She was a retired secretary for West Virginia Glass Co. with 15 years of service and a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. Her hobbies included working with her flowers and cooking. She was a life-long Beckley resident. She was preceded in death by her son, James E. Hutchens Jr.; and her stepmother, Louise Cernuto. Survivors include her son, Danny Hutchens and wife, Freda, of Lewisburg; her longtime friend and loving companion, Bob Ellison of Beckley; brothers, Mel Cernuto and wife, Pansy, of Crab Orchard, Bob Cernuto and wife, Joyce, of Stanaford and Charles Cernuto and wife, Lou, of Beckley; a sister, Pauline Bonham of Crab Orchard; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and special friends, Delma Gentry, Pansy Cernuto, Agnes Walker, Gladys Souk, Mackey Gonzales, Vesta Quinn and Frances Burgess. Service will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Rose and Quesenberry Peace Chapel, Beckley, with Mr. Christopher Booth officiating. Burial of cremains will follow at a later date at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call 2:30 p.m. until time of service Sunday at the funeral home. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at RandQ@ citynet.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.
MOUNT HOPE - Henry Randall Bowling, age 59, [WWHS '63] died Saturday, Aug. 14, 2004, at his home following a short illness. He was born at Beckley on Dec. 11, 1944, and was the son of the late Henry Bowling and Winnie Cox Bowling Fink. Mr. Bowling was employed by the WV Parkway Authority and was a former employee of Montgomery Ward Optical Department. Mr. Bowling was of the Baptist faith, a member of the Beckley Masonic Lodge No. 95 AF and AM, the Order of the Eastern Star, and the Calico and Jeans Square Dance Club. He had made his home at Mount Hope since 1978. He was preceded in death by his half sister, Janet Coffman and a step sister, Jessie Chandler. Survivors include his wife of 26 years, Lois Foley Bowling; daughters, Beronda Liss and husband, Stanley of Prince George, Va. and Deana Jean Bowers and husband, Dean of Westland, Mich.; two grandchildren, Stosh Liss and Dyson Bowers; and many nieces and nephews. Committal services and entombment will be held at 1 p.m. today at the Wallace Memorial Cemetery Mausoleum at Clintonville, with an eulogy given by his daughters, Beronda Liss and Deana Jean Bowers. There will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Southern WV, P.O. Box 1472, Beckley, WV, 25802 or a charity of choice in memory of Mr. Bowling. Condolences may be emailed to the family at RandQ@citynet.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home in Beckley.
Robert Leon Hollandsworth, 79, of Beckley, died Monday, Aug. 9, 2004, at 8:30 a.m. in Raleigh General Hospital. His health had been deteriorating throughout the past year. Born June 24, 1925, at Beckley, he was the son of the late J.T. and Ida Feazell Hollandsworth. Mr. Hollandsworth was a retired C.P.A. having worked with the Internal Revenue Service, Mason & Bashaw and as a comptroller for Perry & Hylton. He was an elder, trustee and former chairman of the board of the First Christian Church in Beckley. He was a World War II U.S. Marine veteran and a lifelong resident of Beckley. He was preceded in death by sisters and brothers, Edith H. Stover, Jack Hollandsworth, Thomas Lee Hollandsworth, Priscilla Mae Martin and Dennis E. Hollandsworth. Survivors include his loving wife, Nancy Danks Hollandsworth; a sister, Doris Collier of Beckley; two daughters, Roberta Casey and her husband, Michael, of LaGrange, Ga., and Pamela Ann Hollandsworth of Beckley; two sons, Leon J. Hollandsworth of Beckley and Thomas K. Hollandsworth and his wife, Sharon, of New Baltimore, Mich.; four granddaughters, Kelly Anne Johnson, Kristen Marie McRae, Kathryn Allison Casey and Porsche Renee Richmond; and a great-granddaughter, Ashley Nichole Johnson. Service will be 1 p.m. Thursday at the Calfee Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Don Snyder officiating. Burial will follow in the Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Michael Casey, Eddie Crouse, Bill Danks, George Massing, John Rogar, Warner Stanley, Dave Turner, and Richard Wood. Honorary pallbearers will be Buford Crouch, Bill Hurst, Bob Malcolm, Jack McClung, Tom Prince, Jack Standifur, and Lacy Tredway. Memorial gifts or donations of sympathy may be made to the First Christian Church, Beckley. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Ruth Marie Harris, 79, of Beckley, died Thursday, Aug. 5, 2004, at the home of her daughter, Rita Harris, and her son-in-law, Ray Stoddard, in Dover, N.H. Ruth was born on Aug. 29, 1924, at Hinton, she was the daughter of the late Ray L. and Josie E. Williams Martin. Ruth spent her childhood in Hinton, came to the Beckley area at the age of 13, and has been a resident of Beckley for the past 66 years. She was a 1942 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and before her retirement she was employed by the National Mine Academy. She was a member of the Memorial Baptist Church. In addition to her daughter and her son-in-law, she is survived by her grandsons, Sean Mahoney and his wife, Bonnie and Matthew Mahoney and his wife, Jennifer, both of Winston-Salem, N.C., as well as three great-grandchildren. Service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Melton Mortuary Chapel with the Rev. Paul Blizard officiating. Entombment will follow in the Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum, Beckley. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Friends and family will serve as pallbearers. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
HAMPTON, Va. - David "Timmy" Rodes, 69, formerly of Beckley, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2004. He was born Sept. 26, 1935, at Meadow Creek to Decosta Gooch and Edna Richmond Rodes. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Thomas "Mickey" Rodes and Ellen Pruett; and a nephew, Dale Pruett. David is survived by his wife, Dorothy, and son, Michael, both of Hampton; his sister, Katherine "Sue" Nazworth and husband, Shep, of Jacksonville, Fla.; sisters-in-law, Shirley Rodes Wendelken of Marietta, Ohio, and Jeanette Kulizowski and husband, Al, of Macon, Ga.; brother-in-law, William Pruett of Lake City, Fla.; mother-in-law, Christine Ensmiger of Macon; aunt, Axxon Ceperely and husband, F.F., of Charleston; a special niece, Pamela Rodes Dolinger of Beckley; other nieces and nephews, Jerry Rodes of Indian Lakes, Mich., Michael Rodes of Tallahassee, Fla., Kay Coppola of Bradford, Mass., William Pruett of Jacksonville, David Pruett of Winter Garden, Fla., and Dwayne Walker of California; and several great-nieces and nephews. David was a 1953 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. After school, he enlisted in the service, where he spent the next 20 years. He retired from the military, settling in Hampton, Va. He worked for several companies over the next 30 years. David returned several times yearly to West Virginia to visit and reminisce his youth. Memorial service will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Pensulia Funeral Home, Newport News, Va. Submitted by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.
Albert Lancianese, 79, died Monday, July 5, 2004, in Las Vegas, Nev. Born at Tamroy, he was the son of the late Frank and Adelina Lancianese. Albert was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and West Virginia University, and a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He was a World War II veteran of Normandy and retired from the federal government. Survivors include his wife, Floretta Terry Lancianese; two daughters, Cherene Cooper and Teresa Felts; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, June Murphy of Hampton, Va.; five brothers, George Lancianese of Huntington, Angelo Lancianese and James Lancianese, both of Mount Hope, Pasco Lancianese of Bradley and John Lancianese of Beckley; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Private interment will be held at High Lawn Memorial Park, Oak Hill. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 4510-C Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston, WV 25302. Arrangements by High Lawn Funeral Home Chapel, Oak Hill.
CHARLESTON - Merritt Clay McDaniel, 76, passed away at home on Tuesday, July 27, 2004. He had lived in the Kanawha Valley most of his life and was a Catholic. He was a retired investigator with the attorney general's office. He also had worked for Park Pontiac as service and sales manager. He was a part-time driver for Quick Delivery and General Truck in South Charleston. He retired after serving 20 years in the Army Reserve. He was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley and attended Beckley College for one year. He was a retired regional director in West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio for the Loyal Order of Moose, past worthy president for No. 519, VFW and American Legion, Elks Lodge No. 202 in Charleston and FOPA No. 4. He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Tom and Debbie McDaniel of Charleston and John R. "Jack" and Dianne McDaniel of Smithfield, Va. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Heather Dawn and Matthew Wolfe of Kenna, Thomas J. McDaniel Jr. of Sissonville, Alice Marie McDaniel of Charleston, John R. "Jack" McDaniel II of Smithfield, Joshua McDaniel and Terra McDaniel of Newport News, Va., Stacey and Mike Holland of Newport News, and Cindi and Mike Strickland of Newport News, and eight great-grandchildren. Funeral Mass will be 11 a.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral with Father P. Edward Sadie officiating. Friends may call 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Barlow-Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia St. E., Charleston, where a Moose Pilgrim service will be held at 3 p.m. and a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to Kanawha Hospice Care, 1143 Dunbar Ave., Dunbar, WV 25064. Arrangements by Barlow-Bonsall Funeral Home, Charleston.
KINGSPORT, Tenn. - John "Mack" Phillips, 62, died Wednesday, July 21, 2004, at Wellmont Hospice House in Bristol, Tenn. Mr. Phillips was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and received a B.S. degree from West Virginia Tech and a master's degree from West Virginia University. He retired from Westmoreland Coal Co. and A and L Industrial as a human resources manager. Mr. Phillips was a member of Crossroads United Methodist Church. Preceding him in death were his father, Ralph Phillips; maternal grandparents, John and Thelma Hagamon; paternal grandparents, John and Martha Phillips; and a sister, Connie Gillooly. Surviving are his wife, Wilma Sue Phillips; a daughter, Debra Louise Green and husband, Joey, of Monroe, N.C.; two grandchildren, Amanda and Josh Green; mother, Bea Phillips of Morehead City, N.C.; a sister, Jean Boswell and husband, Wayne, of Newport, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews. Service will be 8 p.m. Friday at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home Chapel, Kingsport, with Dr. J. Spurgeon McCartt officiating. Entombment service will be 4 p.m. Saturday at Forest Lawn East Mausoleum, Matthews, N.C. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads United Methodist Church Building Fund, 200 Bays Cove Trail, Kingsport, TN 37660. E-mail condolences may be sent to hamlettdobson@charter.net. Arrangements by Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport.
Mary Elizabeth Doss, 79, of Sophia, passed away Wednesday, July 14, 2004, at Raleigh General Hospital following a short illness. Born Aug. 26, 1924, at Pemberton, she was the daughter of the late Karl Hugh and Delfa Marie Jones Fink. She was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. In her early career she was employed by the Black Diamond Coal Company of Affinity. She worked many years at the A&P Store, from which she retired in 1981, as a bookkeeper. Mrs. Doss was also a member of the First Baptist Church in Sophia. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Arben Doss, on May 25, 1982; and by her two brothers, Eugene Edward Fink and Ranny Garland Fink. Those left to cherish her memory are daughter, Linda Richmond and husband, Jack Richmond Jr.; a grandson, David Scott Richmond and his wife, Tami; their three children, Brian Scott, Tyler Sean and Megan Olivia Richmond; her beloved sister, Naomi Marie McCormick of Beckley; and several nieces and nephews. Services will be 1 p.m. Sunday at Williams-Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Sophia, with the Rev. Jim Mundy officiating. Entombment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Pallbearers will be Randy Karl Fink, Fred Hayes, Jeff Hayes, Alan H. Larrick, Charles B. McCormick. Honorary pallbearers will be Jack Richmond Sr., Harvey Richmond Jr., and C. Douglas Richmond. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Arrangements by Williams-Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Sophia.
Thelma Vannoy Minter, widow of Colie H. Minter of Beckley, Myrtle Beach, SC., and Lexington, Ky., died Jan. 19, 2004, in Lexington, Ky. She was born Oct. 18, 1917, in Sullivan. She was the daughter of the late William Roe Vannoy and Leota Wyatt Vannoy and the sister of the late Alma JoHaden (Richard). Mrs. Minter had been a long time resident of Beckley, where she graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and attended Beckley College. Thelma was an active member of the Beckley Presbyterian Church, Phymosia Garden Club, Beckley Woman's Club and Black Knight Country Club. Upon Mr. Minter's retirement, Colie and Thelma moved to Arcadian Ill., Myrtle Beach, SC. Thelma was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Myrtle Beach, where she served as elder and was an active member of the hand bell choir. Six years ago, following the death of her husband, Thelma moved to Richmond Place Retirement Community in Lexington, where she resided until her death. During her years in Lexington, Thelma was an associate of the Second Presbyterian Church and an active volunteer at local hospitals. She is survived by two sons, Thomas D. (Carolyn) and Michael (Elizabeth) Minter, all of Lexington; her daughter and son-in-law, Colette Minter Meadows (Frank) of Flat Top; six grandchildren, Barbara Hughes of Houston, Texas, Lisa Stephenson of Dallas, Texas, Stephen Meadows of Cleveland, Ohio, Scott Meadows of Charlotte. N.C., Christopher Minter of Lexington, Ky., and Amanda Minter of Pittsburgh, Pa., and four great grandchildren. Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, July 3, at the Beckley Presbyterian Church. Friends are invited to visit with the family at the church, beginning at 10 a.m.
DENVER, N.C. - Andrew Noel Ennis Jr., 61, [WWHS '61] died Thursday, June 24, 2004, at his home in Denver. Son of the late Andrew Noel Ennis and Elsie Smith Ennis, Mr. Ennis was born in Beckley on Nov. 11, 1942. He attended Woodrow Wilson High School and graduated from Staunton Military Academy, where he was a member of the Howie Rifle Society. A graduate of East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, he was active in the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Mr. Ennis was employed by Belk Store Services where he was the new store operations coordinator and winner of the Pacesetter Award. He was a stained glass teacher for Central Piedmont Community College and had a love for gardening, woodworking, cooking and sailing. A Civil War enthusiast, Mr. Ennis was published in the Civil War Times about the book he was currently writing. Mr. Ennis served on the Board of Directors of the Fairmeadows Swim and Racquet Club, where he served as president. He was a secretary for the Kings Point Sailing Association and served as commodore for two years. He was president of the Deep Water neighborhood boating association. He was also a member of the East Lincoln Betterment Association and Unity Presbyterian Church. A loving father throughout his life, he was involved in many activities with his children, including coaching his daughter's softball team, leading his son's Boy Scout troop, coaching for the South Park Little League, and was affiliated with the Indian Guide and Indian Princess programs. Survivors include his wife, Bonnie M. Ennis; a son, Andrew Noel Ennis III and wife, Laura Ennis; a daughter, Melanie Lyn Turner and husband, Thomas Scott Turner; a grandson, Thomas Andrew Turner; a sister, Harriet Louise Teel and husband, Marvin R. Teel; a niece, Alicia Fay Johnston and husband, Edmond J. Johnston Jr.; and a grandnephew, Timothy Bryce Johnston. Memorial service will be 4 p.m. today at Unity Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends at the church's fellowship hall following the service. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 102454, Atlanta, GA 30368, or Hospice of Lincoln County, 107 N. Cedar St., Lincolnton, NC 28092. Arrangements by Raymer Funeral Home, Huntersville, N.C.
Mark Warvariv, 43, [WWHS '79] of Prosperity, passed away Tuesday, June 22, 2004. Born April 25, 1961, in Washington, D.C., he was the son of Dr. Eugene and Tamara Pozniakiv Warvariv. Mr. Warvariv was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. He graduated from Yale University where he earned a degree in biology. He was a partner in Bio-Remediation Technologies Inc. He was an accomplished violinist. Other than his parents, he is survived by two brothers, Dr. Vasyl Warvariv of San Francisco and Taras Warvariv and his wife, Dr. Monica Hauptman, of Tucson, Ariz.; a nephew, Tarik Alexander Warvariv of Tucson; and an extended family and friends. Service will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. Andrews Ukrainian Orthodox Church, South Bound Brook, N.J. Burial will follow in St. Andrews Cemetery, Franklin Township, N.J. Hagen-Chamberlain Funeral Home, Bound Brook, N.J., is entrusted with the service in New Jersey. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley.
Charles Howard Cook, 53, of Cabell Heights, Beckley, died Tuesday, June 22, 2004, in a Beckley hospital following a short illness. Born June 25, 1950, at Cabell Heights, he was the son of the late Charles Haskell and Mabel Marie Lilly Cook. Charles was a 1969 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and he was employed as a mechanic for Fairchild International for many years. He was well known for his talent with anything mechanical and could fix anything. Charles was of the Baptist faith. His survivors include a son, Greg of Fayetteville; a sister, Barbara M. Melton and husband, H.E., of Cabell Heights; a niece, Lavette Sturgill of Beckley; and a large extended family. Service will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with Mr. Ken Overdorf officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Tabor Cemetery, Beckley. Friends may call noon until time of service Thursday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Larry Metrick, Everett Reece, Jimmy Tolbert, Roger Pierce, Michael Jagodzinski and David Norris. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
Edward Thomas Shanks Sr., 87, of Beckley, died Tuesday, June 8, 2004, in a Charleston area hospital of natural causes. Born Feb. 19, 1917, in New Bedford, Mass., he was the son of the late Dr. Charles and Mary Cochrane Shanks. Mr. Shanks was valedictorian of his high school graduating class and attended Harvard University, earning his degree in chemistry in 1943. He then joined the U.S. Navy in 1943 and became a gunnery officer and meteorologist aboard the USS Belleau Wood from 1943 to 1944, seeing combat action in the Pacific Theater. Mr. Shanks was then stationed in Shanghai, China, at the time of the Chinese Revolution. He later joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed at the DMZ in Korea and later was stationed at Langley AFB in Virginia where he met his wife, Margaret Rose Prince, whom he married on Feb. 23, 1957. Their son, Edward Jr., was born and the entire family moved to Tokyo, Japan, for three years, where twins, Elaine and Charles, were born. He then was stationed at Hanscom AFB in Massachusetts. Mr. Shanks served a total of 21 years in the Navy and Air Force, retiring with the rank of major. Mr. Shanks and his family moved to Beckley in 1965 and he accepted a position teaching math at Woodrow Wilson High School. He was a member of First Christian Church, Beckley, and taught the Men's Bible Class for several years. He was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Shanks Jr. Survivors include his wife, Margaret Rose Prince Shanks; two sons, Edward Shanks Jr. and his wife, Gloria, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., and Charles Shanks of Beckley; and daughter, Elaine Shanks of Beckley. Service will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Calfee Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. James D. Lowe Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Edward T. Shanks Sr. to First Christian Church, 119 N. Fayette St., Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
NEWARK, Calif. - Ethel Lee Sarver, 77, formerly of Crab Orchard, died Tuesday, June 1, 2004, at her residence. Born Sept. 18, 1926, at Helen, she was the daughter of the late Sont and Rosa Jordan Crews. Mrs. Sarver was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, was a homemaker and had been a resident of Newark for the past 54 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Theodore T. Sarver, in May 1996; and a brother, James Robert Crews, in 1992. After Mrs. Sarver's death on June 1, her sister, Cleo Raynes of Florida, died June 2, 2004. Survivors include her three daughters, Patrice Sarver of Las Vegas, Nev., Janet Amador of Berkeley, Calif., and Sharon Sarver of Chicago, Ill.; her son, Thomas Sarver of Houston, Texas; a grandson, Kevin Alemedia of San Francisco, Calif.; and her sister, Ruth Ann Crews Horton of Crab Orchard. Graveside service and burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley, with Ray Yates officiating. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday at Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley. Those wishing to attend the service are asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:30 a.m. Friday. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Henry Lee Walker, Jr., age 59, [WWHS '63] son of the late Henry L. and Jimelle Walker of Beckley, WV. Survivors are his wife of 34 years, Judy Walker; son, Henry L. Walker III of Jacksonville, FL; and daughter, Brooke Walker, of Worthington, OH.; his sister, Jimelle Bowen of Huntington, WV; and brother, David Walker of Beckley, WV; and many relatives and special friends. Henry is a 1969 graduate of West Virginia University from the School of Business. While at WVU he was an active member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. Henry was a Financial Planner for 34 years with Lincoln Financial Advisors. He was associated with Steinhaus Financial Group of Worthington, Ohio. Some of his professional associations include Million Dollar Round Table, Registered Representative of National Association of Security Dealers, member of Chartered Life Underwriters, Prevent Blindness Ohio board member. Henry has been an active member of the Worthington community for over 20 years which include Indian guides, cub scouts, boy scouts, girl scouts, Worthington Presbyterian Church and Worthington Hills Country Club. Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the SCHOEDINGER WORTHINGTON CHAPEL, 6699 North High Street (1/2 mile south of I-270), where a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday June 7, 2004.
Robert Leslie "Bob" Long of North Highland Drive (Max-well Hill), died Friday, June 4, 2004, at his home with his loving family at his side. He had been in declining health in recent years. He was in his 93rd year. Born at Fairfax, Tenn., on March 26, 1911, he was the son of the late Charles Leslie and Annie Bowie Long. Bob settled in Beckley at the age of 7. He was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School where he excelled in sports. He was inducted into the Woodrow Wilson Football Hall of Fame. A member of First Baptist Church on Neville Street, Bob was the co-owner of Pete and Bob's Drive Inn on Robert C. Byrd Drive, Dot's Packette and was one of the original owners of King Tut Drive Inn. In his early years he drove for Greyhound Bus Lines. He will be remembered by his family as a beloved husband, father and grandfather. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Frances Keith Long, in 1958; a daughter, Vicky Kay Long, in 1969; a son, Robert L. "Robbie" Long Jr., in 1996; a grandson, Craig Long, in 2002; and a sister, Sybil Long. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy "Dottie" Akers Long; a daughter, Patricia Dobbins of San Antonio, Texas; a son, Randy Long and his wife, Trish, of Austin, Texas; his twins, Sibbie Long and Scott Long and his wife, Karla, all of Beckley; five grandchildren, Lynda Dobbins, Mike Dobbins, Leslie, Matthew and Klara Long; a brother, Harry Long and his wife, Elda, of New Port Ritchie, Fla.; and his dear friends, Bob Davis and Larry Burgandine. Committal service will be 2 p.m. Sunday at Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum, Beckley, with Dr. David Carrico officiating. Burial will follow in the Long Family plot at Sunset Memorial Park. Friends may call 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Melton Mortuary, Beckley. Those wishing to attend the committal service are asked to meet at the mortuary by 1:30 p.m. Pallbearers will be Bob Davis, Nelson Green, C.R. Brown, Greg and Felix Shumate, Marcus Drennen and Matthew Long. The family requests that donations of sympathy be made to First Baptist Church, 422 Neville St., Beckley, WV 25801, or Hospice of Southern West Virginia, P.O. Box 1472, Beckley, WV 25802. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.
James A. "Sonny" Thompson, 77, [WWHS '44] of 100 Holliday Dr., Beckley, died Sunday, May 30, 2004, at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown following a long illness. Born Dec. 28, 1926, at Beckley, he was the son of the late Arthur Thompson and Hallie Bowling Thomp-son. Mr. Thompson was a retired manager of the Beckley Hotel. He was a member of the Maxwell Hill Baptist Church. He was past Sunday School superintendent and a Sunday School teacher. He was a member of the Black Diamond Ham Radio Club and a World War II U.S. Army veteran. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Ruth Lucille Thompson and Mary Virginia Adkins. Survivors include his wife of nearly 59 years, Helen Kirtley Thompson; two sons, Pastor James A. 'Buster" Thompson Jr. and wife, Marcie, of Winston Salem, N.C., and Thomas Martin and wife, Kathy, of Beckley; two daughters, Linda Miller and husband, Ron, of Charlotte, N.C., and Terry Peery and husband, Dr. Bill Peery, of Beckley; six brothers, Earl Thompson of Marion, Ohio, Phillip Thompson of Knoxville, Tenn., Charles Ray Thompson of Bea-ver, Thomas Thompson, address unknown, Elmer Thompson of Elyria, Ohio, and Butch Thompson of Grandview; and grandchildren, Dr. Bill Peery II, Scott Peery, Nicole Miller, Ronald Miller II, Melissa Thompson, Thomas Thompson Jr. and Krystal Thompson. Service will be 8:30 p.m. today at Rose and Quesenberry Peace Chapel with Pastor James A. "Buster" Thompson officiating. Private graveside rites and burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call from 6 p.m. until time of the service today at the funeral home. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at RandQ@ citynet.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.
Peggy D. Lynch, 77, of Beckley, a loving mother and grandmother, died Monday, May 31, 2004, in a local hospital after a short illness. Born Oct. 2, 1926, at Killarney, she was the daughter of the late Earl S. and Harriett Hughes Davenport. Mrs. Lynch formerly worked in the payroll department at Appalachian Power Company for 10 years and later worked as an accountant for Nash-Campbell Flooring. She was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and a member of Beckley Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Lynch loved her gardening and the birds the garden attracted. She was a lifelong resident of Raleigh County. She was preceded in death by her husband, Chester A. "Buddy" Lynch Jr., in June of 1985; and two brothers, Earl and John Davenport. She is survived by two daughters, Erin Lynch of Grandview and Carla Lynch of Beckley; a sister, Frances Dale of Oak Hill; five grandchildren, Ben, Amanda, Grace, Katy and Andrew; and one great-grandson, Tyler B. Carte. Service will be 2 p.m. today at the Calfee Funeral Home Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Malcolm Brownlee officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call one hour before the service today at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Edward Bragg Jr., John Bartlett, Jimmy Dale, Frank Marra, Gary Donovan and Mark Serge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Peggy Lynch to the Salvation Army, 312 South Fayette St., Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Anna Rae Peterson, 66, died Friday, May 28, 2004, at home after a long illness. Born Aug. 8, 1937, in Beckley, she was the daughter of Raymond and Anna Peterson. Anna Rae graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1957. She made several long-standing, wonderful relationships with those she graduated with. She loved helping and organizing her high school reunions, for the reunions brought back her friends and great memories. Anna Rae loved a fun party. Anna Rae led a remarkable life. She had the remarkable ability to face any challenge, or diversity, head-on, and make a joke. She loved life, and lived it to the fullest. She was the champion of the underdog. Anna Rae worked as an operating room technician for 30-plus years, the last 20 years at Beckley Hospital. After reluctantly retiring from a job she adored, she went on to manage Dias Floral Shop with her sister Helen. Anna Rae is survived by her brother, James Peterson and wife, Connie; her sister, Helen Peterson Weeks and husband, Russell Weeks, with whom she resided; her three nieces and nephew to whom she was a second mother, Theresa Peterson Lewis and husband, James, Sharon Weeks-Tolbert and husband, James, Pamela Peterson-Parsons and husband, Russell, Emily Peterson and Russell Weeks III and wife, Kelley. She was also the proud great-aunt of Haley and Paige Lewis, and Maggie, Sarah and Jenna Weeks, all of Beckley. Funeral liturgy will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Francis deSales Catholic Church, Beckley, with Rev. Samuel S. Sacus as celebrant. Rite of committal will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday at Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley, where a rosary service will be held at 8 p.m., led by Rev. Mr. Don Wise. Pallbearers will be James Lewis, Russell Parsons, Michael Dempsey, James Tolbert, Aaron McCleary and Russell Edgar Weeks. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.
Ralph Thomas Withrow, 86, of Orchard Avenue, Beckley, died Tuesday, May 25, 2004, in a Beckley hospital following a long illness. Born Sept. 8, 1917, at Sprague, he was the son of the late Lon W. and Blanche Henrietta King Withrow. Mr. Withrow spent his childhood at Sprague and attended Woodrow Wilson High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, serving as a platoon sergeant in the Ardennes and central Europe region. He also served in the active Reserves for 30 years. Following his military service, he was affiliated with the New River Company Stores and later went to work for Appalachian Tire Co. A resident of Orchard Avenue for 56 years, he was a member of Memorial Baptist Church, a life member of Beckley Moose Lodge No. 1606, where he was a Pilgrim of the Moose, and a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Bivens Withrow, in 1988; a sister, Edith Holdren; and seven brothers, Albert, Leonard, Carlos, Harry, Gordon, Arnold and Jack Withrow. Survivors include a daughter, Sharon Santolini and husband, Vince, of Falls Church, Va.; two granddaughters, Angela Le and husband, Minh, of South Ridging, Va., and Gina Thomas and husband, Vincent, of Falls Church; three great-grandchildren, Joseph Santolini and Jordan and Ryan Le; and a brother, Russel Withrow of Beckley. Service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Paul Blizard officiating. Entombment will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, Beckley. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Loyal Order of the Moose Pilgrim Rites will be conducted by Beckley Lodge No. 1606 at 8 p.m. Pallbearers will be members of Beckley Moose Lodge No. 1606. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.