Edward H. Worley
Mr. Edward Hugh "Pat" Worley, 76, passed away Saturday, Feb. 1, 2003. Mr. Worley was former owner of Abingdon Grading and Paving and has spent most of his winters in Okeechobee, Florida, for the past 13 years. He served two years in the U.S. Army and was preceded in death by a sister, Artist Worley. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Carlette Ferguson Worley; two daughters, Brenda Wampler, Abingdon and Loretta Vance, Cleveland, Va.; granddaughters, Lisa Minton, Christi Caywood, Jessica Wampler and Erica Wampler; grandson, P.J. Vance; great-grandchildren; Alyssa Minton, Kendall Minton, Dalton Gilbert and Cody McClure; sister, Rhoda Pippin; brothers, Glen Worley and Roscoe Worley; brother-in-law and special friend, Howard Garrett; and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2003, at 8 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Dr. Austin Cook and Rev. Charles Blevins officiating. Committal graveside services will be conducted Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2003, at 2 p.m. in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Military graveside honors will be provided by the Highlands Fellowship Honor Color Guard. Casketbearers will be P.J. Vance, Ray Worley, Jack Worley, Kenneth Worley, Paul Worley and Fred Wilson. Honorary casketbearers will be Dave O'Brien, Calvin Jones, Joe Andis, Bill Osborne, Harold Johnson, Ottie Thomas, Luther Johnson, E.H. "Nub" Bowers and his many special friends from Okeechobee. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home.

Hattie Mae Cullop
Mrs. Hattie Mae Cullop, 89, died Saturday, Feb. 1, 2003, in Johnston Memorial Hospital. She was a native of Washington County and had lived most of her life in Meadowview. She was a member of Bethel Independent Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Cullop; two sons, Mike Cullop and Gary Cullop; and one daughter, Helen Gilbert. Survivors include four sons, Bud Cullop of Laurel Bloomery, Tenn., Bob Cullop, Elizabethton, Tenn., Rich Cullop of Mendota and Eddie Cullop of Abingdon; one daughter, Lila Cook of Abingdon; 15 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Farris Funeral Chapel. Rev. John Massey will officiate. Burial will follow in Old Glade Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 6-9 p.m. at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Brian Cullop, Doug Cullop, Randy Cullop, Danny Cullop, Jim Cullop and Jack Cook. Honorary pallbearers will be Chris Warren, Travis Thompson, Eric Thompson, Dave Cook, Israel Stanton, Ronnie Groseclose and Billy Styke.

Juanita L. Hawthorne
Mrs. Juanita L. (Dean) Hawthorne, 91, died Monday at Valley Health Care. A native and lifelong resident of Washington County, she was a homemaker and attended Glade Hills Church of God. She was preceded in death by her husband, French L. Hawthorne; parents, Charles and Minnie Lester; four brothers, George, Howard, William and Joe; and one sister, Mary Lester. Survivors include her children, Shirley Bowers of Glade Spring, Charles W. (Bud) Hawthorne and wife Annie of Stonington, Ill.; Howard Hawthorne of Glade Spring, and Jimmy and wife Daisy Hawthorne of Glade Spring; grandchildren, Naomi St. John, Edward Heath and wife Betty, Ricky Bowers and wife Pam, Brian Bowers, Terry Hawthorne and wife Nancy, Dana Hawthorne, Gary Hawthorne and wife Shannon, Teresa Hawthorne, Michelle Aronson and husband Tom and Jimmy Hawthorne Jr.; great-grandchildren, Jeremy, Jarod, Jenna, Zachary, Samantha, Alisia, Josh, Nathan, Sarah, Steven, Mista, Benjamin and Jackson; and great-grandchild, Tyler. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. at Farris Funeral Chapel. Rev. J.L. Debord and Rev. Kenneth Poston will officiate. Burial will follow in Old Glade Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Rodney Anderson, Bobby Campbell, Joe Fore, Jesse Fore, Eddie Keesee, James H. Lester, Jerry McCrady and Ed Thomas. Honorary pallbearers will be James Thomas and Freddie Hawthorne. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home or any time at the home of Shirley Bowers, 33553 Croweville Drive, Glade Spring.

Dennis W. Price
Mr. Dennis Wayne "Tiny" Price, 56, died Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2003, at the Johnston Memorial Hospital following a lengthy illness. He was born on Oct. 24, 1916, in Washington County, Va., and was preceded in death by his father, Charlie P. Price. He was a former resident of Florida and Georgia before moving back to Washington County. Dennis graduated from Lakewood Community College in Gainesville, Fla., and later became an instructor there. He was an avid Florida Gators fan and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was formerly employed at General Motors Corporation in Georgia for several years and later became an executive with West Georgia Electric. Dennis was a U.S. Army veteran having served in Vietnam with the 117th Helicopter Company. He was a gunner with the 117th and participated in the Tet Offensive. Dennis was a recipient of the Purple Heart, National Defense and Vietnam Campaign Medals as well as receiving his Helicopter Wings and expert rifle and pistol badges. He is survived by his mother, Margaret Kate Price of Meadowview; three sisters, Dixie Price Page and husband Tim of Amelia, Va.; Linda Price Stevens and husband Henry of Meadowview and Debbie Price Hurley and husband Joe of Oxford, Ohio; a stepson, Jeremy Arp and stepfather, Jennifer Arp, both from Carrolton, Ga.; several nieces and nephews; and four great-nephews and great-nieces. The funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, 2003, in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Pastor Russell Baldwin officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Military graveside rites will be provided by the V.F.W. Patton-Crosswhite Post 6975. Casketbearers will be Joe Hurley, Tim Page, Kendall Newberry, Robbie Harris, Tony Carrier, Mack Holmes and Mike Rhea. Honorary casketbearers will be Eddie Stevens, Mike Mays, Brian Klier, Roger Addair, Wayne Holmes and Claude Holmes. The family wishes to give a special thank you to the Johnston Memorial Hospital Home Health Care, especially Lisa Cregger and Kristin Tracy. The family will receive friends from 6-9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.. Farris Funeral Service, 427 E. Main St., Abingdon, is serving the family of Mr. Dennis Wayne Price.

Stephen W. Phelps
Stephen Wayne Phelps, age 46, died Tuesday, February 4, 2003, at the Wellmont Bristol Regional Medical Center in Bristol, TN after being hospitalized with heart complications. Stephen was a graduate of Indiana University, where he received his bachelor's degree in English and mathematics and received his master's degree in Linguistics from the University of Minnesota. At the time of Stephen's death he was the Opinion Page Editor for the Bristol Herald Courier newspaper, a position he had held since 1998 after previously serving as copy desk chief for six years. Before coming to Bristol, he had been with the Knoxville Journal for five years where he had served as city editor, assistant city editor and copy editor. From 1983 to 1986 Stephen worked as copy editor for the Colorado Springs Sun and held various positions with the Victoria Advocate, Lewisville Daily Leader, and the Ennis Press, all in Texas. Stephen won numerous design and editing awards as part of the copy desk teams in Knoxville and Colorado Springs and first place awards in feature writing, columns and editorials from the Texas Press Association. He was also honored by the Tennessee and Virginia Press Associations for column writing and editorials. In addition to being a journalist, Stephen was an educator and musician. At the time of his death, he was teaching an advanced reporting class at Emory & Henry College and had he been an adjunct instructor of English at East Tennessee State University's Bristol and Johnson City campuses. He played the acoustic and slide guitar, mandolin and the bouzouki and other instruments. He sang and played music with sister-in-law, Mary Tom Perkins as The Larkins. He is survived by his loving wife, Martha Perkins; his mother and step-father, Nell and Jim Merimee of West LaFayette, Ind.; and a sister, Laura Phelps of Fort Wayne, Ind. He is predeceased by his father William C. Phelps Jr. A celebration of Stephen's life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2003, in the Farris Cremation & Funeral Center, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon (276-623-2727). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in memory of him be made to People, Incorporated, 1183 W. Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210 and ear marked for the water fund program, a cause that Stephen cared passionately about. Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, 19415 Lee Highway in Abingdon is serving the family of Mr. Stephen Wayne Phelps.

Roy R. Blalock
Mr. Roy R. Blalock, 72, a well-known resident of the Abingdon Community, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, February 5, 2003 at his home. He was a native of Washington County, Va., and had lived in the Mendota and Abingdon areas most of his life. He was the son of the late Marion and Drucie Boger Blalock. He was a brick mason for many years and enjoyed farming and raising cattle his entire life. He was a member of Greendale Chapel and the Adult III Sunday School Class of the church. He was a veteran of the Korean Conflict, a member of the Abingdon Masonic Lodge No. 48 AF & AM and was active in the Republican Party. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Blanche Farmer Blalock. Survivors include his wife, Sue Blalock of Abingdon; one daughter, Barbara Plumer and husband Scott of Darnestown, Md.; two sons, Dennis R. Blalock and wife Tracey of Abingdon and Darel Blalock and wife Karen of Rich Valley, Va.; four stepdaughters, Debbie Mayhew and Lisa VanMeter, both of Jacksonville, Fla.; Diana Fry of Jeffersonville, Ind., and Teresa Hiatt of Dewitt, Mich.; one granddaughter, Tyler Dawn Blalock; and a special cousin, Marie Blalock Leonard. Funeral services will be conducted at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, 2003, in the Greendale Chapel with the Rev. Jerry A. Eggers and Rev. Olen Cassell officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with graveside services conducted by the Abingdon Masonic Lodge No. 48 AF & AM and Patton-Crosswhite V.F.W. Post 6975 of Bristol Tennessee. Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers will be Zane Pierce, Tom Barker, Wick Lotts, Eddie McConnell, Joe Andis, Jack Long, Cecil Scyphers, Jim Hay, Carl Lunsford, Buddy Pippin, Jim Baugh, Ed Buckner, Bart Almond, Kenneth Phipps, Sam VanDyke and the men of Greendale Chapel. The family will receive friends at the Greendale Chapel from 6 until 8 p.m. on Thursday. The family suggests that expressions of sympathy be in form of contributions to Greendale Chapel, P.O. Box 1314, Abingdon, VA 24212.

Mildred F. Belcher
Mrs. Mildred Flannagan Belcher, 83, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2003, after a very courageous life. She was a lifelong resident of Washington County, Va. She was a member of the Wyndale United Methodist Church where she was a former member of the Missionary Society. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Wallace (W.E.) Belcher; a son and daughter-in-law, Wallace (Gene) and Vivian Belcher of Bristol Virginia; a daughter and son-in-law, Betty and J.D. Widener of Abingdon; three sisters, Elizabeth Owens, Audrey Lloyd and Doris Blevins, all of Abingdon; grandchildren and spouses, Connie and Jeff Ingle, Becky McCarter, Kim and Payne Woodby, Janet and David Groseclsoe, Lisa and Sam Cosnotti, Tracy and Jonathan Thomas, Gene Edward and Michelle Belcher; great-grandchildren, Alisha Ingle, Tony Ingle, Chris McCarter, Brooke McCarter, Gabriel Woodby, Justin Woodby, Corey Groseclsoe, Matthew Groseclose, Ashton Cosnotti, Samuel Joseph Cosnotti IV, Hunter Thomas, Kealan Belcher, Kage Belcher and Kye Belcher; great-great-grandchild, Cheyene McCarter; special friends, Dan and Lillie Mae Shortt; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be conducted Saturday, Feb. 8, 2003, at 7 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. John Sarver and Rev. Tom Gentry officiating. The family will visit with friends following the service. A committal service will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Family and friends are to meet at the funeral home by 1:35 p.m. Sunday for a procession to the cemetery. Pallbearers will be Payne Woodby, Joe Doss, Jeff Ingle, David Groseclose, Jonathan Thomas, Sam Cosnotti, Corey Groseclose, Gabriel Woody and Chris McCarter. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Moore, Billy Moore, Boyd Pender, Earl P. Wann and members of the Wyndale United Methodist Church. A special thanks goes out to the Bristol Regional Dialysis Center, to all doctors including, Dr. Tom Green and Dr. Doug Green, and others who helped with her care. Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Belcher's honor to the charity of your choice.

Oma T. Kelly
Mrs. Oma Taylor Kelly, 87, died Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2003, at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. She was a native of Smyth County, Va., and had lived most of her life in the Clinchburg area and moved to Chilhowie four years ago. She was a member of the Mahanaim United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Mary Taylor; her husband, James T. Kelly Sr.; and a daughter, Joanna Surber. She is survived by three sons, James T. Kelly Jr. and wife Angie of Meadowview, Va., Bill Kelly and wife Mary of Alexandria, Va., and George Kelly and wife Evelyn of Bristol Virginia; a daughter, Patsy Edmiston and husband Willard of Simpsonville, S.C.; a son-in-law, Jim Surber of Abingdon; one sister, Odelene Branson of Saltville; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be conducted Saturday, Feb. 8, 2003, at 2 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Bill Rowe and Rev. Scott Price. Burial will follow in the Mount Rose Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be grandsons. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Mahanaim United Methodist Church, c/o Mrs. Reta Vaught, 33439 Croweville Drive, Glade Spring, VA 24340.

Franklin D. Brown
Mr. Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Dee) Brown, 63, of Bristol, TN, died Monday, February 10, 2003 A native of Big Rock, VA, Mr. Brown had resided in this area since 1971. He was an ordained minister and one of the founders and a member of Painter Creek Church of Christ. He was the owner and operator of Dockside Family Campground and Painter Creek Mobile Home Park and the former owner of Painter Creek Marina which he owned for thirty years. Mr. Brown was the first Executive Secretary of Buchanan County. Survivors include his wife, Shirley M. Brown; a son, Franklin D. (Dee Dee) Brown II and wife Sabrina; a daughter, Leala (Love) Henson and husband Reuben; one brother, Emerson and wife Mickie; sister-in-law, Brenda Brown all of Bristol, TN; grandchildren, Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Corey) Brown III, Haleigh Love Henson, Francis Bobby Joseph (B. J.) Brown, Hannah Grace Henson. Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 13, 2003 at Painter Creek Church of Christ with Minister Richard Gaminde officiating. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery in Bristol, VA. Pallbearers will be Robert (Pee Wee) Brown, Franklin Matthew McClanahan, Mike Brown, Sr., Ronnie D. Stiltner, Johnny J. Stiltner, Dennis J. Stiltner, Daniel K. Stiltner and Larry Sparks. Honorary pallbearers will be Floyd (Red) Abrams, Allen Harkleroad and Rudy Brown. Mr. Brown's remains will lie in state beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 at the church. The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Painter Creek Church of Christ.

Bob G. Necessary
Mr. Bob G. Necessary, age 71, passed away Tuesday, February 11, 2003 in Georgia after a long battle with ALS. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Irene B. Necessary and his father, Howard G. Necessary. He was employed as an instructor with Virginia Highlands Community College with 30 years of service and was a U.S. Army Veteran. Survivors include three children, Tom Necessary of Abingdon, VA, Kim Worley of Atlanta, GA and Jeff Necessary of Myrtle Beach, SC; his mother, Virginia M. Necessary of Glade Spring, VA; four grandchildren, Lance, Connor and Brooke Worley all of Atlanta, GA and Hayley Necessary of Abingdon, VA. The funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 14, 2003 in the Farris Funeral Chapel, 427 East Main Street, with Rev. Harry Hight officiating. Private entombment services for the family will follow at Mount Rose Cemetery Mausoleum in Glade Spring. Casketbearers will be his many friends from the Greenway Creek Golf Course. There will be no viewing or visitation at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to the ALS Association, 27001 Agoura Road, Suite 150, Calabasas Hills, CA 91301-5104.

Robert Herndon
Mr. Robert T. "Bob" Herndon, age 61, of 33042 Lee Highway, died Monday, February 10, 2003 at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, VA. after a long battle with cancer. Born in Dickenson County and raised in Russell County, he was a son of the late Scott Herndon and Nannie Bryan Herndon of Castlewood. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Cody Herndon; four brothers, Billy Ray Herndon, Calvin Herndon, J.C. Herndon and Condee Herndon; and a niece, Tammy Salyer. Mr. Herndon is survived by his wife of 42 years, Mary Sue Salyer Herndon; a daughter, Gail Compton and husband Terry of Glade Spring; two sons, Robert T. Herndon Jr. and wife Wilma of Abingdon and Steve Herndon of Glade Spring; three special grandchildren, T.J. Compton, Tyler Compton and Taylor Michelle Herndon; three brothers, Junior Herndon of Church Hill, Tenn., Gobel Herndon of Dalton, Ga., and Beecher Herndon of Castlewood; many special friends including Jim Ashley, John Tignor, Bill Tignor, David Tignor, Claude Duncan, Buddy Harless, Roger Anderson, Clyde Anderson, Danny Boardwine, Hubert Price, Hunter Parris and Pete Cuddy. A graveside funeral service will be conducted at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, 2003, at the graveside in Old Glade Presbyterian Cemetery with Rev. Don Stanley officiating. Interment will follow. Casketbearers will be nephews. Those attending the graveside service are asked to assemble at the cemetery by 3:50 p.m. Friday. Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 246, Abingdon, VA 24212 or the American Lung Association, P.O. Box 1259, Abingdon, VA 24212. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home or any time at the home.

Mackie L. Parson
Mr. Mackie Lee Parson, 63, of Abingdon, died Thursday, February 13, 2003 at Bristol Regional Medical Center. Mr. Parson was a native of Mullins, W.Va. He was a retired farmer and a member of Outreach for Christ Chapel. Survivors include his wife, Patricia (Patty) Parson of Abingdon; one son, Jessie Reece Parson of Abingdon; three daughters, Teresa Shelton of Granite Falls, N.C., Renee Baker of Herndon, W.Va., and Rhonda Sizemore of Yadkinville, N.C.; sisters, Pansy Townsend of Hickory, N.C., Brenda Gentry of Icard, N.C., Kathy Parson of North Carolina, Jane Trent of Damascus, Linda Rhudy of Damascus, Coleen Graham of Glade Spring, Sue Parson of Saltville and Rita Fain; and eight grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2003, at Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon (276-623-2727). Rev. Tracy Puckett and Rev. Rick Wyatt will officiate. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be Wayne Gobble, Johnny Widener, Terry Trent, Gary Trent, Jackie Joe Trent and Randy Trent. Honorary pallbearers will be Robert Norris, Doug Norris, David Fogelsong, Roy Fogelsong Jr., Daniel Doane and Donnie Doane. The family will receive friends Saturday from 7-9 p.m. at Farris Cremation & Funeral Center, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to the family at 22239 Suffolk Dr., Abingdon, VA 24210.

Albert A. Wilson
Mr. Albert Andrew Wilson, age 69, passed away Thursday, February 13, 2003 in the Veteran's Hospital, Memphis, TN. Andrew had served in the U.S. Armed Forces and was preceded in death by his father, Reverend Vince Wilson; his mother, Josie Davis Wilson; and sisters, Ethel Boyd and Letha Minton. He is survived by a son and his wife, Albert "Jackie" and Patty E. Wilson, Petersburg, Va.; daughter, Mary Ann Weaver, Shelby, N.C.; a stepdaughter, Veanie Jane Patrick, North Carolina; brothers, Walter Wilson and wife Lorrene, Saltville, and Edwin Wilson, Lebanon; sisters, Eunice Dunford, Indianapolis, Anna Lee Stephenson, Charlotte, N.C., Louise Pierce and husband, Glenn, Indianapolis, and Betty Booher and husband Ronnie of Bristol Tennessee; grandchildren, Roy Allen Stout, Michelle Richardson, Jodie Weaver Blanton, Steven Andrew Wilson and Melissa Patrick; great-grandchildren, Brandon Weaver, Brandon Stout, Lindsey Richardson, Caitlin Stout and Tristan Richardson; and numerous nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at 10 a.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel, 427 East Main St., with the Reverend Ron Matney officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with military honors to be rendered by the Highlands Fellowship Veterans Honor Color Guard. Casketbearers will be members of the Honor Guard. The family will receive friends Sunday from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home.

William R. Burnett
Mr. William R. Burnett, 76, passed away Saturday, Feb. 15, 2003, in the Valley Health Care Center, Chilhowie. Bob was a native of Kingsport and at age 17 volunteered and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, being wounded in the line of duty. He left the service and worked many years for Kingsport Armature and Electric before accepting a position as plant engineer with JP Stevens in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., and worked for JP Stevens for 21 years. He was a divisional engineering manager at JP Stevens Clemson manufacturing location when he retired. Bob was a member of the Glade Spring Masonic Lodge and the Kingsport Masonic Lodge and attended the Mahanaim United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Desse Burnett and William S. Burnett; a sister, Bernice Ferguson; and a brother, Reece Burnett, both of Kingsport. Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Eula Vickie Gates Burnett, Glade Spring; sons, Michael Burnett of the home, and Bill Burnett and wife Peg, Greenville, N.C.; grandsons, William Burnett, Dallas, Michael Burnett, Greenville and Charles Burnett, Greenville; a sister, June Davis, Kingsport; and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted Sunday, Feb. 16, 2003, at 7:30 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel, 427 East Main St., with the Reverend R.J. Cullop officiating. The committal graveside service will be conducted Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at 1 p.m. in the East Lawn Cemetery, Kingsport. Those attending the service on Monday are asked to assemble at the cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 7 until 7:30 p.m. in the funeral home. Farris Funeral Service, 427 East Main St., Abingdon, is serving the Burnett family.

Shirley M. Minton
Mrs. Shirley McDonald Minton, age 64, of Abingdon, died Saturday, February 15, 2003 at Johnston Memorial Hospital. Mrs. Minton was a native of Morgantown, WV and the daughter of the late Brooks McDonald and Ida Murray McDonald. She was a waitress and a member of Rosedale Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband, Daniel Minton of Abingdon; two brothers, Delbert McDonald and Dale McDonald both of Morgantown, WV; several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel, 427 East Main Street. Rev. Mahlon Wyatt will officiate. The family will receive friends thirty minutes prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the animal shelter of the donor's choosing.

Henry A. Dickerson
Henry Ashby Dickerson Jr., 88, died Feb. 15, 2003, in Abingdon. He was born on Aug. 6, 1914, in McAlpin, W.Va., to the late Henry Turner Ashby Dickerson and Sara Ann Gatens Dickerson. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Mildred Runner of Morgantown, W.Va., and six younger brothers and sisters. Henry graduated from West Virginia University in 1939, with a degree in electrical engineering. He later earned a master's degree at the University of Buffalo. While attending West Virginia University, he won the 1938 NCAA national heavyweight boxing championship. Henry was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving in the Pacific Theatre as a combat engineer during World War II. He worked for Westinghouse Electric for his entire career of some 47 years. It was in 1971 when Westinghouse Electric opened their new copper wire division plant in Bristol that he and his wife moved from Buffalo. He was a Mason for 54 years and was a member of Abingdon Masonic Lodge 48. He and his wife belonged to State Street United Methodist Church in Bristol. He is survived by his children, Doris Coward of Austin, Texas, Patricia Mitchell and husband Jim of Dallas, Ashby Dickerson of Abingdon and Jane Dickerson and husband Dick Levins of Minneapolis; one brother, Joe Dickerson and wife Marie of Calypso, N.C.; grandchildren, Catherine Coward, Peter Coward, Andrew Coward, Brian Mitchell, Karen Fawcett, Jennifer Dickerson, James Levins and Claire Levins; and great-grandson, Rohan Silbaugh. The funeral will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, in the State Street United Methodist Church with Rev. Nelson Woody officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:15 a.m. until the time of the service Saturday in the church parlor. A private interment service will be held at a later date in Morgantown, W.Va.

Mary Lee P. Turner
Mrs. Mary Lee Powers Turner, age 54, passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2003 in Grace Health Care of Abingdon. She was a native of Sullivan County and was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Grace Bailey Taylor; and a sister, Dorothy See. She was a member of the Denton's Valley Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband, Danny Turner, Haysi; sons, Clark B. Powers Jr., St. Paul, and Lucas J. Powers, Abingdon; a daughter, Mary Ray and husband Craig, Saltville; stepsons, Marty Turner, Haysi, Steve Powers, Meadowview, Craig Turner, Georgia, Va.; a brother, Alvin Taylor, Bristol Tennessee; sisters, Margaret Greer, Bristol Tennessee, and Hazel Mitchell, Bristol Virginia; grandchildren, Justin, Kaitlin and Jessee Powers, Miranda and Gracie Ray, Whitley Roark, Alexis and Mackenzie Powers; and several nieces and nephews and many friends. The funeral service will be conducted Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, at 2 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Pastor Floyd Nelson and Rev. Paul White officiating. Interment will be in the Rhudy Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grace Health Care Center Activity Fund. The family would like to thank the staff of Grace Health Care for their special care of Mary. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. in the funeral home.

Pearl L. Hollett
Mrs. Pearl Loyd Hollett, 85, died Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at the Cambridge House Nursing Home in Bristol. Born in West Virginia, Pearl was a daughter of the late Taylor Loyd and Eliza Mullins Loyd and was preceded in death by her husband, Bayrd Hollett; three sisters, Eva Harris, Pansy Baumgardner, Mae Whitaker; and two brothers, Elihue Loyd and Mack Loyd. She was a former resident of Pennsylvania and Hollywood, Fla., before moving back to the Bristol area. Mrs. Hollett was a member of the Hollywood Church of God. She is survived by a sister, Leona Hutton of Bristol Virginia; two brothers, Emmitt Loyd of Abingdon and Paul Loyd of Bristol Tennessee; a daughter, Mary Ann Beese of Westchester, Pa.; a grandson, Gregory Beese of Westchester; and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, at the Chapel of Memories Mausoleum of Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Rev. Charles Sherfey officiating. Entombment will follow the service. Those attending the service are asked to assemble at the Mausoleum Chapel by 10:50 a.m. Thursday. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Warren D. Coldiron
Mr. Warren David Coldiron, age 18, of Abingdon, died Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, TN. Mr. Coldiron was born July 23, 1984, in Washington County. He was employed by Abingdon Cinemall. He enjoyed fishing and playing guitar. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, David Clifton Lowe and step-grandfather, Lonnie Stitt. Survivors include his wife, Alisha Davenport Coldiron of Abingdon; his unborn daughter, Haley Jade; father, Dennis Coldiron of Bristol Virginia; mother, Janie Coldiron of Martinsville, Va.; and maternal grandmother, Virgie Stitt of Blountville. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Mount Calvary Baptist Church. Rev. Paul Price will officiate. Interment will follow in the Holbrook Cemetery in Dickenson County, Va. Pallbearers will be Tom Lisk, Jason Billy Clark, Jeff Mann, Bernie Gobble, Brandon Mann and Chris Mann. Honorary pallbearers will be Clarence Gobble and Will Hayes. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Walter K. Breeding
Mr. Walter Kermit Breeding, 73, died Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at the Bristol Regional Medical Center. He was a native of Buchanan County, Va., and had lived most of his life there until moving to Abingdon 25 years ago. He was a member of the East Bristol Freewill Baptist Church and was a U.S. Army veteran serving in Korea. He is survived by his wife, Edna Childress Breeding; one brother, Lee Breeding of Ocala, Fla.; four sisters, Meril Doyon and Adaline Lockhart, both of Fairfax, Va., and Gladys Dingus and Dorothy Chaney, both of Ocala; and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at 1 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Willis Osborne officiating. Burial will follow in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be Everett Delaney, David Delaney, David Ratliff, Kyle Breeding, Ronnie Sliger and Donald Belcher. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

James D. Head
Mr. James Darius Head, age 49, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2003 in the Seven Rivers Hospital, Crystal River, Florida. He had been a resident of Virginia, Delaware and Florida and had lived in Meadowview for the past eight years. He was preceded in death by his father, James Henry Head; and a sister, Gail Wyatt. Survivors incldue his wife, Martha Richardson Head, Meadowview; two sons, David William Head, Meadowview, and James Darius Head Jr., Homosassa, Fla.; his mother, Alice Head, Glade Spring; a sister, Janet Nelson, Glade Spring; and a grandson, Joshua James Head, Homosassa. Burial for Mr. James Darius Head will be in the Old Baptist Cemetery, Glade Spring, VA. The family will receive friends Sunday, February 23, 2003 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. in the funeral home. The family requests that no cut flowers or cemetery flowers be sent, but prefers home arrangements to be sent to the residence.

Billy Edward Lester
Billy Edward (Bill) Lester, 59, a well-known resident of the Abingdon area, went to be with the Lord on Friday evening, February 21, 2003, at the Wellmont Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, TN. He was a native of Washington County, Va., and had lived in the Abingdon area his entire life. He was born July 4, 1943, a son of the late Tom Lester and the late Mildred Branch Lester Kestner. He was a former member of the Abingdon Police Department and was a retired lieutenant of the Washington County, Virginia Sheriff's Office, having served as a road deputy, deputy jailer and head of court security at the Washington County, Virginia Court House. Bill was well-known for his love of gospel music and was a talented musician and singer. He was a member of Greendale Chapel where he was very active in the music program and was a member of a singing group, the Revivals. He was a member of the Abingdon Masonic Lodge, No. 48 A.F. & A.M. and was deeply loved by all who knew him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Betty Thomas; his stepfather, Nelson Kestner; one stepbrother, Frank Kestner; and one stepbrother-in-law, Fred Barker. Survivors include his wife, June Rasnake Lester of Abingdon; two sons, Jason Lester and wife Angie and Mark Robinson and wife Carol, all of Abingdon; one daughter, Beverly Robinson Hooker and husband Scott of Abingdon; five brothers, Charlie Branch and wife Annette, Roger Lester and wife Annette, Jerry Lester and wife Gail, Wayne Lester and wife Debbie and Don Lester, all of Abingdon; two sisters, Lorene Woodward and husband John of Abingdon and Alice Clawson and husband Jim of Catawba, N.C.; one stepbrother, Charlie (C.D.) Kestner and wife Bessie of Abingdon; one stepsister, Geneva Barker of Abingdon; one brother-in-law, Yokley Thomas of Meadowview; one stepsister-in-law, Audrey Kestner of Abingdon; four grandchildren, Jacob Robinson, Kendra Hooker, Jessica Harosky and Abigail Lester, all of Abingdon; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, Feb. 23, 2003, at 6 p.m. in the Greendale Chapel with the Rev. Jerry A. Eggers officiating. The family will receive friends following the funeral service. Graveside services will be at 4 p.m. Monday in Forest Hills Memory Gardens conducted by Washington County, Virginia Sheriff's Office Honor Guard and the Abingdon Masonic Lodge No. 48 AF & AM. Members of the Washington County, Virginia Sheriff's Office will serve as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers. Additional honorary pallbearers will be men of the Greendale Chapel, his nephews and his many, many host of friends throughout the area. Friends attending the graveside service are asked to meet at the cemetery. The family suggests that memorials may be in the form of contributions to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 2680, North Canton, OH 44720 or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058.

William K. Tilson
Mr. William Kyle Tilson, 90, died Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. He was a lifelong resident of Washington County, Va. He was a member of the Yellow Springs United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Edith Farris Tilson; a son, Cody F. Tilson; son-in-law, Larry W. Gobble; two sisters; and five brothers. He is survived by a daughter, Sharon T. Gobble of Meadowview; a sister, Ruth Booth of Edinburg, Va.; grandsons, Nathan Tilson of Meadowview, Shane Tilson of Chicago and Scott Gobble of Meadowview; three great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Tilson of Meadowview. A funeral service will be conducted Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, at 1 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Connie Mach Farmer and Rev. Katye Fox officiating. Burial will follow in the Mountain View Baptist Cemetery. The family will receive friends from noon until the time of service. Pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews. The family would like to express gratitude to the staff of Westhaven Retirement Center for the care given to Mr. Tilson. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Yellow Springs United Methodist Church, 12200 Lindell Road, Meadowview, VA 24361.

Lou E. Burgess
Ms. Lou Eckles Burgess, age 76, died Sunday, February 23, 2003 in the Grace Health Care Center. Born in Russell County, she was a daughter of the late W.J. Suit and Rosa Smith Suit. She was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Linda Carol Burgess. Ms. Burgess was a retired employee of the Meade Paper Corporation in Kingsport with 20 years of service and was a member of the Oak Grove Baptist Church in Mt. Carmel, Tenn. She is survived by her sisters, Esther Hale and husband Noah B. Hale of Meadowview, Marie Beck of Washington, D.C., and Edith Dean and husband Hubert Dean of Church Hill, Tenn.; her former husband, Beecher Burgess of Kingsport; and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003, in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. David Critcher officiating. Interment will follow in Church Hill Memory Gardens, Church Hill, Tenn. Casketbearers will be family and friends. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Elizabeth T. Eastridge
Mrs. Elizabeth Thomas Eastridge, 76, of Glade Spring, died Monday, February 24, 2003 at Johnston Memorial Hospital. Mrs. Eastridge was a native and life long resident of Glade Spring. She was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith. Survivors include her daughter, Connie and husband Scottie Arnold of Glade Spring; one grandson, Matthew Arnold of Blacksburg; two brothers, Jim Thomas of Abingdon and Earl Thomas of Tampa, FL; five sisters, Doris Smith of Norfolk, Anne Helton of Birmingham, AL, Hattie Helton of Christianburg, Jo Ryburn of Chilhowee and Christine Cannon of Meadowview. A graveside funeral service will be held Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. at Old Glade Presbyterian Church Cemetery with Pastor Robert L. Neace officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The Humane Society, P.O. Box 1586, Bristol, VA 24203.

Ernest C. Johnson, Jr.
Mr. Ernest Clines (Ernie) Johnson, Jr. age 50, of Glade Spring died February 22, 2003 at Bristol Regional Medical Center. A native of Richlands, VA, Mr. Johnson was a tow motor driver with Bristol Compressors. He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest C. Johnson, Sr. and a daughter, Nicole Eva Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Josephine (Jo) Johnson of Glade Spring; mother, Ella Mae Johnson of Abingdon; sons, Kevin Johnson of Miamisburg, OH and Earnest Cline Johnson III of Fairborn, OH; daughters, Amber Kay Johnson of Glade Spring, Jenna Marie Johnson of Middletown, OH and Crystal Gail Arnold of Glade Spring; brothers, Johnny Johnson of Deland, FL, Edward and wife Teresa Caleburth of IL; sisters, Beverly Dalton and husband Robert of Polk City, FL, Betty Jo Thompson and husband Jerry of Texas, Eula Mae Vought and husband Jeff of Kentucky and Mary Alice Dye and husband Keith of Myrtle Beach, SC; nine grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held Friday, February 28, 2003 at 6:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel, 427 East Main Street, with Rev. Paul Stanley officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home.

James D. Boardwine
Mr. James David Boardwine, age 56, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2003 in the Johnston Memorial Hospital. He was a native of Smyth County and had lived most of his life in Washington County. He was a member of the Mt. Carmel Christian Church and was employed by General Engineering. Survivors include his wife, Linda K. Boardwine and a son, Travis S. Boardwine, both of Meadowview; his mother, Loretta Gilliam; a sister, Janie Russell; brothers, Billy, Eddie and Jamie Gilliam, all of Chilhowie, Va.; and an aunt, Nadine Keesee, Meadowview. The funeral service will be conducted Thursday, Feb. 27, 2003, at 7:30 p.m. in the Mt. Carmel Christian Church with Minister Larry Johnson officiating. Pallbearers will be Dan McVey, David Boardwine, Kenny Gobble, Fred Duncan, Chas Russell and Pat Stallard. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mt. Carmel Christian Church, P.O. Box 266, Meadowview, VA 24371 for a fund in memory of Jimmy. The committal graveside service will be conducted Friday, Feb. 28, 2003, at 10 a.m. in the Mountain View Baptist Cemetery. Those attending the service on Friday are asked to assemble at the church by 9:30 a.m. for the procession to the cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the church.

Evelyn S. Elswick
Mrs. Evelyn Marie Stallard Elswick, 79, formerly of Jenkins, KY, passed from this life on February 28, 2003 at Johnston Memorial Hospital. Mrs. Elswick was a homemaker, devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. She was a faithful member of the Pilgrim Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lonnie and Laura Bolling Stallard; and one son, Edward Omar Elswick. Surviving are her husband, James Curtis Elswick Sr.; daughters, Patricia S. Graham (Jim) of Wise, and Edith Ann Collins (Alfred) of Isom, Ky.; son, James Curtis Elswick Jr. (Jerry) of Jenkins, Ky.; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends and loved ones. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6-9 p.m. at Farris Funeral Service, Abingdon. Funeral services will be held Monday, March 3, 2003, at 11 a.m. at Farris Funeral Chapel, Abingdon, with Rev. Robert Allen Bevins and Pastor Elden Bergen officiating. The committal service will begin at 3:30 p.m. at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens in Big Stone Gap, Va. Pallbearers will be Anthony Graham, A.J. Collins, William Collins, Sammy Adkins, Joshua Shortt and Matthew Shortt. Phillip Webb will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

Domitila Makayela Gomez
Domitila Makayela Gomez, infant daughter of Ruben and Ashley McCracken Gomez, went to be with her Lord Friday, February 28, 2003 in the Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston Salem, NC. Makayela was born July 8, 2002 and was preceded in death by her great grandmothers, Dorothy Snead and Mary McCracken. Other survivors include her maternal grandparents, Silas and Brenda McCracken, Granite Falls, NC; maternal great grandparents, Lewis Snead, Abingdon, VA and Silas Eller McCracken, Granite Falls, NC; paternal grandparents, Lazaro and Domitila Canalles, Honduras. The funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, March 4, 2003 at 3:30 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel, 427 East Main Street. Reverend Harry Booher, Reverend Carl Hamm and Reverend Carl Penry will officiate. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Casketbearers will be Ruben Gomez and Johnny Jones. The family will receive friends Monday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the funeral home, 427 East Main Street and anytime at the home of an aunt, Diane Pendergrass, 16050 Spring Valley Road, Abingdon, VA.

Spanish Translation:
Domitila Makayela Gómez, la hija infantil de Rubén y Ashley McCracken Gómez, fue a estar con su Señor Friday, el 28 de febrero de 2003 en la Universidad de Bosque de Estela el Centro Médico bautista, Winston Salem, NC. Makayela nació el 8 de julio de 2002 y se precedió en la muerte por sus grandes abuelas, Dorothy Snead y Mary McCracken. Otros sobrevivientes incluyen sus abuelos maternales, Silas y Brenda McCracken, el Granito se Cae, NC; los grandes abuelos maternales, Lewis Snead, Abingdon, VA y el Silas Eller McCracken, que el Granito se Queda, NC; los abuelos paternales, Lazaro y Domitila Canalles, Honduras. El servicio fúnebre se dirigirá martes, el 4 de marzo de 2003 a las 3:30 postmeridiano en el Farris la Capilla Fúnebre, 427 Calle Principal Oriental. Harry Booher Reverendo, Reverendo Carl Hamm y Reverendo Carl Penry oficiarán El entierro seguirá en los Bosque Colinas Memoria Jardines. Casketbearers será Rubén Gómez y Johnny Jones. La familia recibirá lunes de los amigos de 7:00 - 9:00 postmeridiano en la casa fúnebre, 427 Calle Principal Oriental y cuando quiera en la casa de una tía, Diane Pendergrass, 16050 Camino de Valle de Primavera, Abingdon, VA.