Margaret D. Robinette
Mrs. Margaret Dutton Robinette, 65, of Meadowview, VA passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2003 at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, Virginia. She was a faithful member of Lebanon United Methodist Church where she had shared in teaching the adult Sunday School Class and also was President of the Lebanon United Methodist Women for over twenty years. She taught school in Fairfax County, Wise County, and Montgomery County. Mrs. Robinette was Principal of Lafayette Elementary School in Montgomery County for three years. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Honor Society. She was preceded in death by her father, George Ernest Dutton. Mrs. Robinette is survived by her husband, David P. Robinette of Meadowview, VA; one son, Mark D. Robinette of Marietta, GA; her mother, Mrs. Sara K. Dutton of Glade Spring, VA; one sister and brother-in-law, Rebecca and Wayne Whitson of Virginia Beach, VA; one brother and sister-in-law, James and Maggie Dutton of Roanoke, VA; nieces are Debbie Dutton of Charlotte, NC; Amy Whitson of Richmond, VA; Nephews are Michael Dutton and his wife Stephanie of Herndon, VA; Brian Whitson of Williamsburg, VA; three grand nieces, Jackie, Natalie, and Maria Dutton all of Herndon, VA. Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 P. M. on Friday, July 4, 2003 at Farris Funeral Chapel. Reverend Jim Denton, Reverend William Graybeal, and Reverend Beverly Robinette will officiate. Interment will follow in Knollkreg Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Bob Campbell, Glen Orfield, Mark Orfield, Phil Crane, Ken Mink and Conley Orfield. Honorary pallbearers will be Rev. Tim Graham, Rev. Kenneth Sprinkle, and Rev. Greg Garland. The family will receive friends Thursday, July 3, 2003 from 6-9 P. M. at Farris Funeral Service. Flowers will be accepted or those who wish may make a memorial donation to Lebanon United Methodist Church Greenway Road, Meadowview, VA. Special thanks to the Chilhowie Home Health who were her wonderful caregivers for many years.

Luvenia Barbara Smith
Reverend Luvenia Barbara Smith, age 73, went to be with the Lord, Tuesday, July 1, 2003. She was born March 9, 1930 in Cumberland County, North Carolina to the late Malachi and Albertha Blue. Against the tradition of the time, she was affectionately known as “Momma” and became an ordained minister in 1969. In 1970, she opened The Way of Peace Holiness Church in Brooklyn, New York where she ministered and nurtured all who crossed her path. After her retirement from the ministry, she moved to Chilhowie, Virginia where she was embraced as one of their own. She is survived by:
Her husband, William J. Smith
Four children, Sharon Smith of Uniondale, New York, Diane Smith-Patton of Chilhowie, Va., Dennis Smith of Chilhowie, Va., Shirley Smith of Boston, Mass and a man who has been more like a son, Stevie Patton, Sr. of Chilhowie, Va.
Eight grandchildren, Sha-Rein, DaySha, DaWayne, Joy, Stevie, Jr., Anthony, Treadwell and Krystal
One great granddaughter, DaySha Simone
A funeral service will be conducted Sunday, July 6, 2003 at 2:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Melvin Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the Chilhowie Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 PM Saturday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be DaWayne Patton, Anthony Patton, Treadwell Singfield, Stevie Patton, Jr., Junior Hudson and David Hudson.

Robert V. Thomas
Mr. Robert Vinston “Bob” Thomas went to be with the Lord, Tuesday, July 01, 2003. He was a native of Washington County, Virginia, was retired from CSX Railroad, and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. A most kind and gentle husband, of Hazel Hopkins Thomas and a loving father of Victoria Lynn Thomas Riedling and husband, Robert L. Riedling, Jr. and grandfather to Sydney Lauren Riedling, Robert Lewis Riedling, III and Nicole Leigh Riedling. He was preceded in death by his father William R. Thomas. Other survivors include his mother, Naomi Van Lear Thomas; Five brothers, William R. Thomas and wife Jeanie; Joseph V. Thomas and wife, Eloise; Gerald D. Thomas and wife, Sandy; John C. Thomas and wife, Linda; James Thomas and wife, Holly; Two sisters Mary Reeves Weber and husband, Ralph and Evelyn Silliman and husband, James, and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be conducted Thursday, July 3, 2003, at 8:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with The Reverend Jim Ricther officiating. A committal service will be held at 11:00 AM Friday in the Mountain View Baptist Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Bill Thomas, Robert Thomas, Kevin Thomas, James Silliman, Randy Garrett, Ty Hockett, Brian Hopkins, Dennis Hushour, Eric Thomas. Family and friends are asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:30 AM Friday for a procession to the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 246, Abingdon, Va 24212 or the Mountian View Cemetery Fund, 26697 Old Saltworks Road, Meadowview, VA 24361.

Mary Ruth Widener
Mrs. Mary Ruth Widener, age 84, passed away Wednesday July 2, 2003 at her residence. She was preceded in death by a son, William R. Widener, Jr. and attended the Pilgrim Baptist Church. She was a native of Washington County, Virginia. Survivors include her husband, William R. Widener, Sr., a son and daughter-in-law, Coy James and Glenna Widener, Glade Spring, VA, grandchildren, Melissa Widener Sturgill, Woodbridge, VA and William R. Widener, III, Washington County, VA, several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted Saturday July 5, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. John E. Massey, Jr. and Rev. Mahlon Wyatt officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Damascus, VA. The family will receive friends Friday from 6-9 p.m. in the funeral home.

Charles Ray Rush
Mr. Charles Ray Rush, 89, of 1215 Texas Avenue Bristol died Friday July 4, 2003 at Wellmont Hospice in Bristol, TN. He is survived by his wife of 15 years: Vera F. Rush; one step-son: James H. Puckett and one step-grandson: Christopher Mikel Puckett of Kannapolis, NC; two sisters: Mary Sue Bevins of Bristol, VA; Frances Wright of Ohio; two brothers: Jim Rush of Bristol, TN; Paul Rush of Bristol, VA.; five special friends: Phil and Margie Tillson, Margaret Meade, Shirley Arnold, Evan Childress and Virginia Crane and several nieces and nephews. He was a member of Grace Baptist Church where he served as an usher. He served eight years in the military. He was a 32nd Degree Mason, The Scottish Rite, and a member of Jericho Temple and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He worked for twenty years with Univac. Funeral services will be held Saturday July 5, 2003 at 6:00 P. M. at Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens19145 Lee Highway Abingdon, VA. Rev. Dennis Burnette will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service. A committal service will be held on Sunday July 6, 2003 at 1:00 P. M. at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Military rites will be given at the gravesite by Patton-Crosswhite VFW Post #6975.

Eva Evans Turner
Mrs. Eva Evans Turner, 85, of Abingdon, VA passed away on July 4, 2003 at Grace Health Care. She was a retired employee of Suburban Shoe Center in Bristol, VA and a member of Abingdon Church of Christ Mrs. Turner is survived by one daughter: Lana and husband Jack McClanahan of Abingdon; one son: Douglas Turner and wife Margie of Pearisburg, VA; Grandsons: Greg, Pat, and Shawn McClanahan; granddaughter: Tami Connolly of Jacksonville, FL; great-grandchildren: Rachel, Eileen, Madison, Morgan and Peyton McClanahan; sisters: Fay Yeary of Coeburn, VA; Lillian Greer of Coeburn, VA and Ethel Herndon, Bristol, VA; several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Monday, July 6, 2003 at 3:00 P. M. at Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens 19145 Lee Highway Abingdon, VA. Mr. Bill Haywood and Mr. Joe Scroggin will officiate. In lieu of flowers, scholarship contributions may be made to High Rock Bible Camp P. O. Box 604 Abingdon, VA 24212.

Helen S. Davis
MRS. HELEN SPRINKLE DAVIS, died Monday, July 07, 2003, at the Bristol Regional Medical Center. She was a native of Saltville, Virginia and had lived most of her life in Bristol. She was a former member of the Madam Russell United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Leon F. Sprinkle, Sr. and Edgar Davis and a daughter, Nancy Ann Sprinkle. She is survived by:
Two sons, Wm. Malcolm Sprinkle of Abingdon, Va. and Leon F. Sprinkle, Jr. of Mechanicsville, Va.
One daughter, Frances S. Crumley of Bristol, Tenn.
One brother, Sam M. Galliher of Lebanon, Va.
Five grandchildren, Steven Crumley, Michael Sprinkle, Alicia Arney, David Sprinkle and Martin Sprinkle
A graveside service will be conducted Wednesday, July 9, 2003, at 5:00 PM in the Colonial Chapel of Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Pastor W.C. Amos and Rev. Steve Gobble officiating. The family will greet friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Marathon Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 1611, Bristol, TN 37620. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff on 4 West at Bristol Regional Medical Center for the kindness shown them.

Dr. Bruce Chandler Carruth
Dr. Bruce Chandler Carruth, age 77, died Monday, July 7, 2003 at his residence. He was born September 7, 1925 in Commerce, Texas to the late Joseph Enoch Carruth II and Bertha Felder Carruth. He was raised in Statesboro, GA and had lived in Emory for over forty years. Dr. Carruth served Emory & Henry College as professor of psychology for 28 years, beginning his era of teaching in 1962. He was a graduate of Millsaps College, received his master’s degree from Emory University and his Ph. D. from Vanderbilt University. Before coming to Emory & Henry College, he was a part time faculty member at Millsaps College, had served the Veteran’s Administration at Johnson City, TN and was in private practice as a clinical psychologist at Tennessee’s first mental health clinic. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 – 1945. After his retirement in 1990, he remained very active in the community serving a wide range of boards, committees and projects. He was a construction volunteer for Emory Service Project, aiding with area home repairs. He was a member of the Local human Rights Committee at Southwest Virginia Mental Health Institute, addressing the needs and challenges of mentally ill persons; he was serving as chair at the time of his death. He was also a member of the Regional Human Rights Committee. He was an active member of Emory United Methodist Church and was vitally involved with the children’s ministry called Superkids. His passions were art, drama music, poetry and literature. His love of music led him to personally purchase a set of fine stringed instruments for the sole purpose of loaning them to children in the community who wished to take lessons. He was also an extremely talented craftsman whose carvings defied the confines of wood. He is survived by his wife Deb Carruth: his daughter, Lauren and his son Chandler all of Emory; two brothers, Joseph E. Carruth III of McComb, MS and Rev. W. Carlton Carruth and wife Augusta of Brunswick, GA; a sister, Margaret Carruth of Dublin, GA. A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M., Friday, July 11, 2003 at the Memorial Chapel of Emory United Methodist Church with Rev. Beverly Robinette and Rev. Timothy Kobler officiating. In place of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts in memory of Dr. Carruth be made to the Emory United Methodist Church Children’s Ministry, P.O. Box 985, Emory, VA 24237. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

James Robert Creasy
Mr. James Robert Creasy, 76 of Lenoir, NC, formerly of Washington County, VA passed away Wednesday July 8, 2003 at Frye Regional Hospital in Hickory, NC. Survivors include his wife: Eva June Creasy; four daughters: Gladys Wilson of Abingdon; Peggy Icenhour of Lenoir, NC; Linda Billiter of Abingdon; Kathy Brown of Lenoir, NC; three sons: Ernie Creasy of Milton, WV; Leon Creasy of Morganton, NC; Steve Creasy of Morganton, NC; twenty grandchildren; twenty-three great-grandchildren; three brothers and three sisters. A graveside service will be held Friday July 11, 2003 at 11:30 AM at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM Friday at Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens 19145 Lee Highway Abingdon, VA. Pallbearers will be John Billiter, Michael Hall, Jeffery Malone, Kevin Creasy, Leonard Creasy, and Steven Creasy.

Edith Marie Bailey Paulk
Mrs. Edith Marie Bailey Paulk, age 80, went to be with the Lord, Tuesday July 8, 2003 at her home in the Black Hollow Community. Mrs. Paulk was born in Dickenson County and had lived most of her life in Abingdon. She was a member of the Heavenly Rest Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Curtis M. Paulk, her parents, Tom and Emma Sutherland Bailey, two sisters, Sallie Rhea and Dora Burke, two brothers, Beecher Bailey and Warren Bailey. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Saundra and Mack Long, Abingdon, VA, one sister, Lilly Garrett, Lebanon, VA, one brother, Robert Bailey, Clinchfield, VA, also, Barbara Syphers, Delores Combs, Dempsey Combs, Janie Combs, twenty-four nieces and nephews, several great nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted Friday July 11, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Reverend Walter Statzer officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Fletcher, Everette White, Mark Spears, Henry Anderson, Roger Cunningham, William Bott, Kenneth Long, Lonnie Long. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions to the American Alzheimer’s Association, 207 N. Boone Street, Johnson City, TN, 37604. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home.

William Jessee Watson
Mr. William Jesse Watson, age 91, of the Grace Health Care Center and formerly of Glade Spring, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 9, 2003 at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon. He was born on May 17, 1912 in North Carolina to the late Bynum Watson and Mary Etta Watson . He was also preceded in death by a son, Harold A. Watson; a grandson Paul W. “Buster” Jones; three brothers, Lloyd Watson, James Watson and Ralph Watson and two sisters, Hazel Watson and Lucille Blevins. Mr. Watson was a retired farmer and had been a member of the Little Rock Baptist Church for 70 years. He is survived by his wife Nellie E. Watson; a daughter, Mrs. Paul A. (Ettie) Jones of Glade Spring; two granddaughters, Mrs. Joseph (Sharon) Lester and Mrs. Larry (Peggy) Thomas both of Glade Spring; two grandsons, Wayne Watson of Honaker, VA and Tim Jones of Glade Spring; six great grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren and several nieces & nephews. A graveside funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, July 12, 2003 at the Old Glade Presbyterian Church Cemetery with Brother Buster Mullins officiating. Interment will follow the funeral service. Casket bearers will be Tim Jones, Nathan Thomas, Bobby Blevins, Wayne Watson, Hunter Watson and Blake Watson. Honorary casket bearers will be Johnnie B. Osborne and Jason Lester. Those attending the service are asked to meet at the cemetery by 10:50 A.M. Saturday. The family would like to give a special thank you to the employees of Grace Health Care Center and to Dr. Robert Walker, Dr. Andrew Rhinehart and Dr. Patrick Wallace. The family will receive friends from 6-8 P.M. Friday at the funeral home.

Sharen Kay Billings
Mrs. Sharen Kay Billings, age 46, passed away, Friday, July 11, 2003, at the Wellmont Hospice House. She was born in Washington County, Virginia, was formerly of Chilhowie and had lived in Bristol for several years. She was a member of the Grosses Creek Baptist Church. Sharen was a receiving clerk at Bristol Compressors and enjoyed working with flowers. She was preceded in death by her father, Elbert Powers and a brother, Ray Powers. She is survived by: Her husband, Mark S. Billings;Two sons, Brian E. Sheets and wife, Stephanie of Bristol, Va.; Marcus D. Billings of Bristol, Va.; Her mother, Rose Powers of Chilhowie, Va.; Four Brothers, Lloyd Powers and wife, Carolyn, J.C. Powers and wife, Judy, Darrell Powers and wife, Patty, Lee Powers and wife, Donna all of Chilhowie, Va.; Four sisters, Stella Powers of Maryville, Tenn., Velma Doss and husband, Doug of Chilhowie, Va., Karen Scyphers and husband, Gary of Abingdon, Va., Janice Blevins and husband, Ted of Max Meadows, Va.; Sister in law, Carolyn Powers of Chilhowie, Va.; Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law, Dennis and Sue Billings of Bristol, Va., and her beloved dog, Wienie. A graveside service will be conducted Sunday, July 13, 2003 at 3:30 PM in the Grosses Creek Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Carl Young and Rev. Sam Haynes officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 PM Saturday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Dennis Billings, David Scyphers, Garry Hammond, Wayne Smith, Nathan Leonard. Honorary pallbearers will be the forklift operators of the raw casting and receiving at Bristol Compressors. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the Wellmont Hospice House, 280 Steeles Creek Road, Bristol, TN 37620. The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff and fellow employees of Bristol Compressors and Wellmont Hospice House for all the kindness shown them during Sharen's illness.

Mary Jane Wheeler
MRS. MARY JANE WHEELER, age 70, died peacefully at home, July 11, 2003 and is now with the Lord. She was born November 19, 1932 in Russell County, Virginia but had lived most of her life in Washington County, Virginia. She was a member of the Rosedale Baptist Church. Jane will be remembered as an exceptionally loving wife, daughter, mother, grandmother and a very special friend to all. She was preceded in death by her father, John D. Meade and a daughter, Bobbie Jane Bolling. She is survived by: Her husband of 27 years, Douglas Wheeler; her mother, Fannie Belle Meade of Abingdon, Va.; one son, David Hamilton and wife Ruth of Abingdon, Va.; two stepdaughters, Kathy Burnette of Bristol, Tenn., Debbie Cross of Bristol, Va.; a brother, John Meade, Jr. of Bristol, Va.; two grandchildren Adam and Sara Hamilton; four step grandchildren, Todd and Alyson Cross, Reene Daugherty and Tyler Burnette; several nieces and nephews and a special friend, Ginger. A funeral service will be conducted Sunday, July 13, 2003, at 7:30 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Dr. Don L. Paxton officiating. A committal service will be conducted Monday at 11:00 AM in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum at Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Rev. John Stapleton. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Sunday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be David Cross, David Burnette, Donald Hinchey, Floyd McVey, Ralph Price and Adam Hamilton. Honorary pallbearer will be Harold Hilt. The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058 or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 246, Abingdon, VA 24212.

James Emitt Helton
Mr. James Emitt "Pops" Helton, 77, of Abingdon died Wednesday July 16, 2003 at Bristol Regional Medical Center. Mr. Helton was a native and lifelong resident of Washington County. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and Highlands Chapel Church. He is survived by four sons: Roger Helton and wife Linda Meadowview; Freddie Lee Helton and wife Christine of Abingdon; Glen W. Helton and wife Patricia of Abingdon; Tony Helton of Swords Creek, VA; four sisters: Sally Rust of Abingdon; Elsie Walden of Bristol, VA; Edith Fields of Abingdon; Irene Innis of Bristol; ten grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren. A graveside service will be held Saturday July 19, 2003 at 11:30 A. M. at Highlands Chapel Church Cemetery. Rev. Harry Booher will officiate. The family will receive friends Saturday before the service from 9-11 A. M. at Farris Funeral Service.

Amanda Eastridge
Mrs. Amanda Eastridge went home to be with the Lord, Thursday, July 17, 2003. She is at peace and resting in the arms of Jesus. She was a much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother and will be sadly missed by many. She was a member of the Temple Baptist Church and had lived all of her life in Washington County, Virginia. She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Charlie and Dorrie Casey, Abingdon, VA, one daughter, Louise Widener and special friend, Paul Call both of Abingdon, VA, six grandchildren whom she loves very much, Donna Davis, Trish Widener, Jerry Casey, Jeff Casey, Ronnie Casey, Tony Haney, five great grandchildren, Josh Lowe, Beth Casey, Emily Casey, Elizabeth Haney, Rachel Haney and Zebulon Roche. The funeral service will be conducted Sunday July 20, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. in the Temple Baptist Church with the Reverend John Wesley Price officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2-3 p.m. in Temple Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Knollkreg Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Josh Lowe, Jerry Casey, Jim Warren, Ronnie Meade, Kevin Price. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Bill Moody and the staff of Johnston Memorial Hospital and Virginia Home Health.

Joyce Mock Wohlford
Mrs. Joyce Mock Wohlford, 51, went to be with the Lord Thursday, July 17, 2003 at the Wellmont Hospice House ending a 5 year battle with cancer. She faced the rigors of multiple treatments with unrivaled courage, bravery and eternal optimism. To many, Joyce was shy and quiet, but to those closest to her, she was known to have a fierce loyalty and a passion for justice tempered by a delightful sense of humor. Joyce dedicated her life in service to her family, home and church. She was an active member of Greenfield Baptist Church, Meadowview, where she enjoyed Sunday School and Vacation Bible Schools. Her children’s activities led her to joyfully serve in PTA, Little League, Rebel Regiment Boosters as well as Athletic Boosters always cheering for Eric and Tracy plus nieces and nephews. Joyce was preceded in death by her father, Carl Foster Mock. Survivors are her husband of 27 years, Gerald M. Wohlford, Jr.; son: Eric; daughter: Tracy; her mother: Vivian N. Mock; sister: Phyllis Thomas and husband David Thomas; brother: Glenn and wife Jan Mock of Denver, CO; nephews: Blake Melinger and Alex Mock; nieces: Brittany Mellinger and Mary Beth Mock. Funeral services will be held Sunday July 20, 2003 at 2:00 P. M. at Farris Funeral Chapel. Rev. Jim Cumbow and Rev. Thomas Capron will officiate. Entombment will follow in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 6-9 P.M. at the funeral home. Active and honorary pallbearers will be: Ernest Copenhaver, Roger Copenhaver, Bob Copenhaver, S. B. Copenhaver, Jr., Nathan Graybeal, Everette Neese, Jr., Dan Cannon, David Cannon, Gary Cannon, Larry Neese, Wayne Neese, Woody Neese, Allen Mock, Bill Neese, Sam Neese, and Blake Mellinger. A special thanks to a vast number of family, friends, and neighbors for prayerful support, food, and visits. A debt of thanks to Wellmont Hospice and staff, Johnston Memorial Hospital and staff, Home Health and Cancer Outreach. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society 205 W. Main St. Suite 23 Abingdon, VA 24210; Wellmont Hospice Home 280 Steele’s Road Bristol, TN 37620; Johnston Memorial Home Care 351 Court St. Abingdon, VA 24210.

Roscoe Goodson
Mr. Rosoce Goodson, 85, of Abingdon died Sunday July 20, 2003 at his home. A native and lifelong resident of Washington County, Mr. Goodson was a carpenter and cabinet maker for Miller and Bradley. He was a charter member of Faith Baptist Church where he faithfully served as a deacon, church treasurer and song leader. Survivors include his wife: Louise Goodson; two sons: Gene Goodson of Blountville, TN; James Goodson of Bristol, VA; one brother: M. L. Goodson of Danville, VA; five grandchildren: Kelly Crusenberry, David Goodson, Jamie Goodson, Regina Blevins and Donna Deaver; eight great-grandchildren: Heather Crusenberry, Israel Crusenberry, Hope Crusenberry, Madison Goodson, Summer Goodson, Caitlin Deaver, Laura Deaver and Allison Blevins; two very special friends: Mary and Jack Brewer. Funeral services will be held Tuesday July 22, 2003 at 11:00 AM at Faith Baptist Church on Rust Hollow Road. Rev. Carl Young will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6-8 PM at Farris Funeral Service. Pallbearers will be Jack Brewer, Jamie Goodson, David Goodson, Jimmy Singleton, Gary Crusenberry and Tommy Singleton. Honorary pallbearers will be members of Abingdon Senior Citizens.

Opal Vivian Venable
Mrs. Opal Vivian Venable, age 84, died Sunday, July 20, 2003, at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. She was born in Clinchburg, Virginia and had lived all of her life in Washington County, Virginia. She was of the Methodist faith and worked in the nursery at Bristol Regional Medical Center until her retirement. She is survived by:
A son, Douglas Thompson and wife, Brenda of Bristol, Tenn.
Two daughters, Patricia E. Lester and husband, Edward of Glade Spring, Va.
Brenda N. Wilson and husband, Robert of Meadowview, Va.
Two sisters, Agnes M. Holmes of Emory, Va.
Lorena Duncan of Meadowview, Va.
8 Grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren
A graveside service will be conducted Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 11:00 AM in the Knollkreg Memorial Park with Rev. Ronnie Blevins officiating. The family will receive friends from 7 – 8 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews. Family and friends are to meet at the funeral home by 10:40 AM for a procession to the cemetery.

Christine Anderson
Mrs. Christine Anderson, age 61, died Monday, July 21, 2003, at her home. She was a lifelong resident of Washington County, Virginia. She was of the Baptist faith and preceded in death by her husband, Dewey Anderson, Sr. She is survived by:
A son, Bill Anderson of Abingdon, Va.
Her mother, Roselle Murray of Bristol, Va.
Several step sons and step daughters
Five brothers, Vernon Murray, Pete Murray, Roscoe Murray, Arthur Murray and Clarence Murray all of Bristol, Va.
Several step grandchildren and step great grandchildren
A funeral service will be conducted Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at 1:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Larry Bales and Rev. James Beaver officiating. Burial will follow in the Knollkreg Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from noon until 1:00 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be family and friends.

Ralph Allen Hughes
Mr. Ralph Allen Hughes, age 64, died Monday, July 21, 2003 from injuries sustained in a farming accident. He was born on February 8, 1939 in Washington County, VA. He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Hughes; a grandson, Christopher Hughes and his father-in-law, Maben Howard Compton. He was a retired-disabled coal miner and was a U.S. Army Veteran. He is survived by his wife, Lois Hughes; his mother, Mary Fannie Hughes; a daughter, Michele Lynn Goodson of Abingdon; three sons Richard Hughes, Timothy Hughes and Michael Hughes all of Abingdon; a sister, Clara Mabe of Abingdon; three brothers, Kenneth Hughes of Abingdon, J. D. Hughes of Los Angeles, CA and Larry Hughes of Lebanon, VA; his mother-in-law, Zora Mae Compton of Honaker, VA; three grandchildren, James Brian Hughes, Hannah Renee Hughes and Abigail Victoria Hughes; and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 12:00 Noon Thursday, July 24, 2003 in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Harless Hess and Rev. David Harless officiating. Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by the V.F. W. Patton-Crosswhite Post #6975 Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Casket bearers will be selected from family and friends. The family will receive friends from 11:00 A.M. Thursday until the time of the funeral service. In place of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to them, 426 Arnold Street, Abingdon, VA 24210.

Helen Pippin Degges
Mrs. Helen Pippin Degges, age 69 died Tuesday, July 22, 2003 at her home. Mrs. Degges was born on November 14, 1933 in Washington County, VA. She was preceded in death by her father George Pippin and a sister, Betty Pippin. She was a member of the Walnut Springs Church. She is survived by her husband Ernie Degges; a daughter, Sherry Marie Leal of Eden, OK; her mother, Blanche Pippin of Abingdon, VA; a sister, Ruth Haselden and husband Mack of Hahira, GA; two brothers, James Pippin and wife Mary of Columbia, SC and Lewis Pippin and wife Jo of Bristol, VA; a grandson, Jeremiah Kutz of the U.S Air Force and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. A graveside funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 P.M., Friday, July 25, 2003 in Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Dr. Austin Cook officiating. Interment will follow the service. The family will receive friends 7:00 to 9:00 P. M. Thursday at Farris Funeral Service. Those attending the funeral service are requested to assemble at the cemetery by 12:50 A.M. Friday.

Dewey Junior Vannoy
Mr. Dewey Junior Vannoy, age 78, died Wednesday, July 23, 2003, at the Bristol Regional Medical Center. He was born in Washington County, Virginia to the late Jessee and Irene Vannoy. He was a member of the Bluff City United Methodist Church. Dewey was a retired U. S. Army Veteran serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam as Sergeant Major and earned numerous medals. Mr. Vannoy was a retired employee of Line Power Manufacturing. He is survived by:
His wife of 55 years, Martha Jean Orr Vannoy
One son, Jeffrey A. Vannoy and wife, Kristy of Ramona, California
One daughter, Leona Streng of Bristol, Tennessee
One brother, Tommy Lee Vannoy of Blue Ridge, Georgia
One sister, Eyvonne Wood of Sarasota, Florida
Five grandchildren, Aaron Streng, David Streng, Breanna Vannoy, Megan Vannoy and Nathan Vannoy
A funeral service will be conducted Saturday, July 26, 2003, at 2:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Pastor Karen Albers officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Patton Crosswhite VFW Post #6975. Entombment will follow in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM Friday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Aaron Streng, David Streng, Scott Lawson, Lowell Shaw, Charles Stieler, Mick Davenport. Honorary pallbearers will be Richard Ball, Charlie Blevins, Charles Hurley, Mike Miller and the Adult Bible Class. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions be made to the Bluff City United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 190, Bluff City, TN 37618.

Leovia Crosswhite Moore
Mrs. Leovia Crosswhite Moore, age 93, died Thursday, July 24, 2003, at the Westhaven Retirement Living. She was a lifelong resident of Washington County, Virginia. She was a member of the Meadowview United Methodist Church. Leovia was preceded in death by her first husband, Zollie Crosswhite and second husband, Dewey Moore. She is survived by:
One son, R. D. Crosswhite and wife Penny of Marion, Ohio
Two daughters, Doris Ann Hart and husband, Bill of Springfield, Va.
Shirley Rector and husband, Wayne of Meadowview, Va.
One brother, Joy Hayter and wife, Ernestine of Abingdon, Va.
6 Grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren
Several step children and step grandchildren
A special friend and caregiver, Teresa Boyd
A funeral service will be conducted Sunday, July 27, 2003, at 4:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Katye Fox officiating. Burial will follow in the Knollkreg Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 7 – 9 PM Saturday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Steve Rector, Scott Rector, Matt Rector, Chuck Porter, Bob Hayter, Freddie Hayter. Honorary pallbearers will be the men of the Meadowview United Methodist Church. In lieu of the flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Meadowview United Methodist Church building fund, P.O. Box 255, Meadowview, VA 24361 or Hospice of Southwest Virginia, 600 Westridge Road, Wytheville, VA 24382.

Beecher Rosevelt Robins
Mr. Beecher Rosevelt Robins, age 63, died Wednesday, July 23, 2003 in Fairfax, Virginia. He was born in Russell County, Virginia and had lived in Meadowview before moving to Fairfax forty years ago. He was a member of the Centreville Assembly of God where he was a Trustee, former Deacon and assisted his wife teaching the Primary Class for twenty years. He was a graduate of the Washington County Technical School in auto mechanics. He was a former yard foreman at the Maryland Cast Stone Company in Rockville, Maryland before becoming a maintenance supervisor for the Culmore Realty Company where he had worked 25 years. He is survived by:
His wife, Nancy Nickels Robins
Three daughters, Lisa Michelle Swaney and husband, Richard of Athens, W. Va.
Susan Diane Bates and husband, Anthony of Lynchburg, Va.
Kimberley Lynn Catron and husband, Robert of Athens, W. Va.
Three brothers, Charlie Robins, Clarence Robins and James Alfred Robins all of Meadowview, Va.
A sister, Pearl Bricker of Chilhowie, Va.
Nine grandchildren, Krystin Swaney, Robert Paul Catron, Alexis Bates, Joshua Swaney, Kassie Catron, Bryan and Brandon Bates, Lindsey Bates and Nathaniel Catron
Three brothers in law whom were like brothers, Jim Nickels, Buddy Nickels, Kenneth Nickels
We will always remember your warm smile, your laugh and gentleness that was you. You showed your love in the things you did to help make each of our lives easier. You taught us compassion for others by the examples you set. You truly had a servant’s heart. You left a legacy to people that is rich with love and humility. You will live in our hearts forever. A funeral service will be conducted Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 2:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. David Forkey and Rev. Jim Nickels officiating. Burial will follow in the Mountain View Methodist Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7 – 9 PM Saturday night at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Derek Nickels, Clarence Robins, Jr., Michael Robins, David Robins, James Nickels, Mike Wyatt. Honorary pallbearers will be Don Emmert, Odell Moore, Carl Berglund, Buddy Nickels, Frank Moore and Kenneth Nickels.

Ray Hubble
Mr. William Ray Hubble, age 65, died Friday, July 25, 2003 at his home. He was born on June 2, 2003 in Dickenson County, Virginia to the late Gordon Hubble and Winnie Sutherland Hubble. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Clady Johnson. Ray was a member of the Mt. Carmel Christian Church and the Man to Man Men’s Fellowship Group of the church. He was a retired coal miner, having retired from the Clinchfield Coal Company. He is survived by his wife, Marie Hubble; a son, Freddie Hubble of Abingdon; a daughter, Karen Suarez of Florida; a sister, Maxine Chandler of Nora, VA; two brothers, Hugh Hubble of Dante, VA and Tommy Hubble of Castlewood, VA; three grandchildren, Peyton, Bianca and Natonyah and several nieces & nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 P.M., Monday, July 28, 2003 in the Mt. Carmel Christian Church with Pastor Larry Johnson officiating. Interment will follow in the Kiser-Sutherland Cemetery in Dante, VA. Casket Bearers will be John Billiter, Clifford Hawley, Louis McVey, bill Mink, John Mitchell, Ron Musick, Jim Osborne, Ben Repass, Tom Repass, Andrew Widener, Harvey Widener, Joe Yarber and Carrol Austin. Special Casket Bearers will be Jacob Andis, Andy Andis, Austin Hubble and Lee Turner. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 P.M., Sunday at the Mt. Carmel Christian Church.

Angela Dawn Goodson
Miss Angela Dawn Goodson went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 26, 2003 after a long illness. Angela was born in Abingdon, VA to Homer Lee Goodson and the late Mary Edith Goodson. She was a graduate of East Tennessee State University and worked as a counselor at Blue Ridge Job Corp. She was a member of the Woodland Baptist Church and was an avid fan of softball, basketball and fishing. Angela was preceded in death by a sister, Peggy Goodson; twin brothers, Lonnie Mike Goodson and Roger Dale Goodson and her mother Mary Edith Goodson. She is survived by her father, Homer Lee Goodson; brothers, Richard Goodson and wife Gloria of Lancaster, PA, Donald Ray Goodson of Abingdon, Freddie Lynn Goodson and wife Alisa of Piney Flats, TN; a sister, Jane Gobble and husband Gene of Abingdon; nephews, Kevin and Robbie Gobble of Atlanta, GA, Joshua Goodson , Curtis Goodson and wife Melinda all of Abingdon, Roger Goodson and wife Cindy of Bristol, VA, Adam and Andrew Goodson of Piney Flats, TN; nieces, Jade and Cassidy Goodson of Abingdon and Shelley Goodson of Piney Flats, TN; a special cousin, Tammy Lester of Abingdon; her faithful companion Jasper and lots of loving friends. The funeral service will be conducted at 8:30 P.M., Monday in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Bob McCormick and Rev. Jerry Eggers officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8:15 P.M., Monday before the funeral service. They will also be gathering at the home of her Sister, Jane Gobble and husband Gene, 19191 Wyndale Road, Abingdon. A graveside committal service will be conducted at 1:00 P.M., Tuesday at Knollkreg Memorial Park. Family members will gather at the home for a procession to the cemetery on Tuesday. Pall bearers will be Kevin Gobble, Robbie Gobble, Curtis Goodson, Joshua Goodson, Adam Goodson, Andrew Goodson and Roger Goodson. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Lester, Johnnie Hicks, Jonathan Howard and Nathan Robinette. Flowers or memorial donations may be made to the Gastroparesis Foundation, Care of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk A30, Cleveland, OH 44195.

Tex Lee Campbell
Mr. Tex Lee Campbell, age 80, died Saturday, July 26, 2003 at the James H. Quillen Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center at Mt. Home, TN. He was a native of Unicoi, TN and was preceded in death by his wife, Virgie Mae Campbell. He is survived by a step-son, Samuel Chapman of Bristol, VA; a sister Sarah Ann Campbell of Unicoi County, TN; three grandchildren, Mary Jane Turner, Bonnie Ann Barnett, Christina Chapman and five great grandchildren The funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, July 29, 2003 in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Dewey Fields and Rev. Richard Edwards officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Casket bearers will be family and friends. The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M., Tuesday until the time of the funeral service.

Virgie Marie Neese Copenhaver
Mrs. Virgie Marie Neese Copenhaver, age 89, passed away, Sunday, July 27, 2003, at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. She was a lifelong resident of Washington County, Virginia. Marie helped establish the High Point Baptist Church in 1947 where she was a dedicated member. She was an active member of the Women’s Missionary Society, the Home Demonstration Club and her community until her illness prevented it. She was the daughter of the late Arthur B. and Lucille Frye Neese, Sr. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Preston Copenhaver, two sisters, Goldie Tilson Copenhaver, Ruby Graybeal and four brothers, Everett Neese, Carl Neese, Oscar Neese and Noel Neese. She is survived by:
Two sons, Robert Y. Copenhaver and wife, Becky of Meadowview, Va.
Roger P. Copenhaver and wife, Betty of Meadowview, Va.
One daughter, Mildred M. McThenia and husband, Dean of Meadowview, Va.
Two brothers, Arthur B. Neese, Jr. of Meadowview, Va.
Bernard Neese of Abingdon, Va.
Two sisters, Vivian Mock of Meadowview, Va.
Dorothy Cannon of Glade Spring, Va.
6 Grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren
Special friends and caregivers, Rosa Salyers and Melissa Ashley
A funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, July 29, 2003 at 2:00 PM in the High Point Baptist Church with Rev. David Critcher and Rev. Mahlon Wyatt officiating. Burial will follow in the Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6 – 9 PM Monday at the funeral home or anytime at the homes of the children. Pallbearers will be the following nephews, Earnest Copenhaver, Stuart Copenhaver, Everett Neese, Jr., Woody Neese, Bill Neese, Sam Neese, Jim Neese, Wayne Neese, Larry Neese, Danny Cannon, Gary Cannon, David Cannon, Glen Mock, Nathan Graybeal. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the High Point Baptist Church Memorial Fund, 31495 Blue Springs, Road, Meadowview, Va. or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 4700 Rutledge Pike; Knoxville, TN 37914.

Dennis Howard Tracy
Chief Petty Officer, Dennis Howard Tracy, U. S. Navy, retired, age 78, died Wednesday July 30, 2003 at his residence. He was a former resident of Chicago, IL moving to Abingdon, VA ten years ago. He was a member of the Abingdon United Methodist Church and volunteered at the Stone Soup Food Pantry. He served thirty-eight years of dedicated military service in the U. S. Navy, serving in three wars, World War II, Korean War and the Vietnam War. Survivors include a son, Dennis Howard Tracy, Jr., Washington State, two daughters, Jacquline Elaine Loller, California, Barbara Jo Tracy, Tennessee, sister, Mildred Becker, Oregon, three grandchildren, Richard Loller, Shawna Tracy, Tracy Mendoza, two great grandchildren, Jordon Housien, Jamie Mendoza. A memorial service will be conducted Monday August 4, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Abingdon United Methodist Church with Rev. Betty Reiff officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Faith In Action, P. O. Box 2419, Abingdon, VA 24212.

Donald Wayne Davis
Mr. Donald Wayne Davis, age 51, died Thursday, July 31, 2003, at the Tazewell Community Hospital. He had lived most of his life in Washington County, Virginia. He is survived by:
His mother, Mary Lynn Gregory of Meadowview, Va.
His step father, Kenneth Gregory of Meadowview, Va.
One son, Richard Davis of North Carolina
One daughter, Angel McCormack of North Carolina
One brother, Robert Davis of Abingdon, Va.
Three grandchildren
A graveside service will be conducted Sunday, August 3, 2003, at 2:00 PM in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Mr. Troy Allen officiating. The family will receive friends from 7 – 9 PM Saturday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be family and friends. Family and friends are ask to meet at the funeral home by 1:30 PM Sunday for a procession to the cemetery.