Gardenia Watkins Webb
Mrs. Gardenia Watkins Webb, age 72, passed away Sunday September 7, 2003 in the Smyth County Community Hospital, Marion, VA. Gardenia was born February 23, 1931 in Meadowview to the late Augustine and Veester Patterson Watkins and was also preceded in death by a son, George Timothy Watkins, brothers, Douglas, Richard, Joe, James and Thomas Watkins, sisters, Maxine Logan, Madge Montgomery and Gloria Gregory. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Meadowview, VA. Survivors include her husband, Haley Webb, Meadowview, VA, five sons, Fred Allen Watkins, Washington, DC, Richard Lynn Watkins, Bristol, VA, Haley Thomas Webb, Jr., Bristol, TN, James Mark Webb, Blacksburg, VA, Lawrence Stanley Webb, Johnson City, TN, two daughters, Delores Ann Fullen, Bristol, TN and Barbara E. Webb, Johnson City, TN, 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. The funeral service will be conducted Friday September 12, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. John Shelton, Rev. William Austin and Rev. James Reddick officiating. Burial will follow in the Meadowview Cemetery. Pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Mink, John Smith, Warren Lindsey, James Fullen, Olen Smith, Ennis Fullen, Danny Ray Gregory, Marion Smith, Jr. The family will receive friends Friday, September 12, 2003 from 12:30 p.m. until service time in the funeral home

Craig Stephen Ross
Craig S. Ross, 37, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2003, in Nashville, Tennessee. He was born October 10, 1965 at South Williamson, Kentucky. He was formerly employed by The PC Clinic of Knoxville and former manager of Applebee’s in Knoxville. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, E.D. and Ina Bunn of Wayne, West Virginia and paternal grandparents, Rev. Paul and Pearl Ross of East Lynn, West Virginia. He is survived by:
His parents, Paul D. Ross, Sr. and Joanne Bunn Ross of Abingdon, Va.
One brother and sister in law, Paul D. Ross, Jr. and Sandy Ross of Abingdon, Va.
One half-sister and her husband, Paula and Jessie Register of Chattanooga, Tenn.
A special friend and nurse, Leslie Wyttenbach of Knoxville, Tenn.
Beloved nieces, nephews and their families
A funeral service will be conducted Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 1:00 PM in the branch facility of Farris Funeral Service on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon. The Rev. Robert Tolar, Jr. will officiate. Burial will follow in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6 – 9 PM Tuesday at the branch facility. Pallbearers will be Michael Biggs, Warren Scott, Craig Thompson, Jeff Beheler, David Pedigo, Robert Tucker, Dan Todd, Rick Long, Jamie Ross and Josh Ross. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either The Nature Conservancy, 146 E. Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210 or the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Guest Records, BU Station B #357727, Nashville, TN 37235. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who have tirelessly given of themselves with care, assistance, support and prayers during this difficult time.

Charles B. Rampley
Mr. Charles “Chuck” Buford Rampley, age 73, passed away Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at his residence. He had lived in the Meadowview area for 13 years and was of the Protestant faith. He was a navy veteran of the Korean War, and a supervisor with General Motors. He was a charter member and past Commander of VFW Post #3720 in Swartz Creek, Michigan. He was a past Commander of the American Legion in Peoria, IL and member of the American Legion in Swartz Creek, Michigan. He was a member of Masonic Lodge #458 in Swartz Creek, Michigan and a 32nd degree Mason. He was a member of the Scottish Rite of the Bay City Consistory, Bay City, Michigan. He also worked with the Demolay. He was preceded in death by one son, Joe Bland ,three brothers and one sister.
He is survived by:
His wife, Joy Rampley
Two daughters and sons-in-law, Theresa and David Crist of Abingdon, and Rhonda and Mark White of Abingdon
Four brothers, Carl Rampley, Joe Rampley, Jim Rampley and Leonard Rampley all of Bell City, MO.
One sister, Helen Winfrey of Bell City, MO
Several special nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be conducted Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. at Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Grady McGlothlin officiating. Music will be by singers from Blackwell’s Chapel. Military Rites will be conducted by Patton-Crosswhite VFW Post #6975. Entombment will follow in the Knollkreg Memorial Park Mausoleum. Pallbearers will be Grandsons and nephews. Visitation will begin at 7:00 P. M. on Friday at Farris Funeral Service with Mason rites given by Glade Spring Masonic Lodge #236. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association, P. O. Box 1249, Abingdon, VA 24212. The family would like to thank Total Homecare of Abingdon and Dr. Emory Robinette.

Robert Burns Miller
Mr. Robert Burns Miller, 81, of Bristol, VA died Saturday September 13, 2003 at his home. Mr. Miller was a native of Fremont, Virginia. He was U. S. Navy World War II veteran. With his brother, R. C. Miller, he co-owned Miller Funeral Home in Clintwood, VA. He later relocated to Miami, FL and owned and operated a Standard Oil garage and service station. Mr. Miller was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Counts Miller. Survivors include one son: Robert Wilson (Bob) Miller and wife Debbie of Gainesville, FL; one daughter: Robin Miller Cox of Orlando, FL; two grandchildren: Robert Paul (Robby) Miller and Casey Pierce Miller. Funeral services for Mr. Miller will be held on Wednesday September 17, 2003 at 1:00 P. M. at the branch facility of Farris Funeral Service located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19145 Lee Highway Abingdon, VA. Pastor Darrell Harmon will officiate. Mr. Miller’s son, Bob Miller will deliver a eulogy. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Pallbearers will be: Ross Miller, Michael Miller, Thomas Asbury, Butch Bishop, Bruce Howard, Robby Miller, Casey Miller and Leon Harrell. Honorary pallbearers will be: Paul Pugh, Harold Stapleton, Ron Harrington and Joe Breeding. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P. O. Box 246 Abingdon, VA 24212 or to Wellmont Hospice House, 280 Steel’s Road Bristol, TN 24201.

Brett Selfe
Mr. Brett Selfe, age 20, died Monday September 15, 2003 in Abingdon, VA. Brett was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Selfe. Brett is survived by his mother, Karen Selfe, Abingdon, VA, his father, Jack Selfe, Mountain City, TN, his sister, Diane Johnson, Blountville, TN, his grandparents, Clay and Bessie Reece, Trade, TN, his Godmother, Sue Castle, Abingdon, VA, several aunts, uncles, nephew, nieces and cousins. The funeral service will be conducted Friday September 19, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel Mausoleum at Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Rev. Jerry Eggers officiating. Entombment will follow the service. Pallbearers will be Troy Casto, Max Blevins, Jr., Jimmy Fisher, John Smith, Terry Duggar, Curtis Johnson. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim Parsons, Willis Blevins, Dean Lipford, Jason Garrett, Midge Selfe, Susie Taylor, Jane Selfe, Carmon Blevins. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Highlands Community Services, (SAIOP), 432 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210. There will be no visitation in the funeral center, but friends may call at the home of his mother, 415 Oakland Street at anytime. Those attending the service are asked to assemble at the mausoleum by 1:50 p.m. on Friday.

Lillie Miller Merritt
Mrs. Lillie Miller Merritt, age 86, went to be with the Lord, Wednesday, September 17, 2003 in the Grace Healthcare Center following a long illness. She was born in Beuna Vista, Virginia and had lived in Chilhowie before moving to Abingdon eight years ago. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lucian Merritt. She is survived by:
A brother, Jim Miller of Baltimore, MD
Two sisters, Louise Gibson of Staunton, VA
Georgia Matthews of Asheville, NC
Her “Special Family”, Ella Campbell and Brent, Nancy, Charity and Seth Asher of Abingdon, VA
A graveside service will be held Friday, September 19, 2003 at 11:00 AM in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Rev. Bob McCormick officiating. Friends and Family are invited to the home of Ella Campbell immediately following the service. Pallbearers will be Tim Campbell, Marvin Casey, Hubert Neal, Greg Wright, Brent Asher and Seth Asher. Friends are to meet at the cemetery by 10:50 AM Friday. Family and Pallbearers are to meet at the funeral home for a procession to the cemetery.

Cossie Curtis Boggs
Mr. Cossie Curtis Boggs, age 93, of 700 Dakota Road, died September 18, 2003 at his home. He was born in Pound, VA to the late Jarvey Boggs and Viola Cantrell Boggs. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Bernice Hash Boggs; two daughters, Loretta Boggs Morris and Brenda Boggs Risner; a sister, Dossie Boggs Craft and two brothers, Forrester Boggs and Veldon Boggs. Mr. Boggs was a loving father, step-father and grandfather to all of his family and a dear friend to many. He was a retired electrician after 45 years and was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. He was of the Baptist faith. Survivors include his wife, Estelle Hutton Boggs; a son, Wendell Boggs and wife Tana of Lincolnton, NC; a daughter, Joyce Mink and husband Frank of Abingdon; two sons-in-law, Bill Morris of Abingdon, VA and Joel Risner of Chattanooga, TN; three step-daughters, Glemma Bocock and husband Marty of Columbia, SC; Jean Honeycutt and husband Eddie and Jan Combs and husband Tom, all of Bristol; a step-son, Robert Martin of Beckley, WV; two brothers Berkley Boggs of Pound, VA and Dallas Boggs of Florida; a sister, Janice Boggs Hamilton of Pound, VA; a special grand daughter, Angela, as well as the following grandchildren; Curtis, Carolyn, Tiffany, Mary Ellen, Debbie, Laura, Keys, Randy, Mary Alice, Windy, Christy, Daniel, Nathan and Alison; ten great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, September 21, 2003 in the Knollkreg Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel with Rev. Dewey Williams and Rev. Sam Haynes officiating. Burial will follow in the cemetery. Those attending the service are asked to assemble at the Mausoleum Chapel by 1:50 P.M. Sunday. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 P.M., Saturday at Farris Funeral Service or anytime at Mr. Bogg’s home in Bristol. Honorary Casket Bearers will be Eddie Honeycutt, Tom Combs, Marty Bocock, Randy Jackson, Rusty Shortridge and Dan Saidla. The family has asked that memorial donations be made to the Bristol Life Saving Crew, 1601 Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA 24201.

Jason Carson "J. C." Harris, Jr.
Mr. Jason Carson “J.C.” Harris, JR, age 87, went to his Heavenly Father on Friday, September 19, 2003 in Johnston Memorial Hospital. He was born February 11, 1916, in Mt. Airy, NC to Jason C. Harris and Henrietta Barker Harris. He always enjoyed singing, having studied voice in high school and winning a state scholarship solo competition. He married his sweetheart, Kathryn Puckett, on January 1, 1937. They lived in Mt. Airy until he was transferred to Abingdon as manager of Kroger in 1943. He worked with Kroger and other grocery chains until joining Jeffries Hosiery/Renfro Corporation as a salesman in 1962. He remained with Jeffries until his retirement at age 70. J. C. enjoyed all sports, especially baseball and the Atlanta Braves. He loved spending time with his large family and many friends. He had a great sense of humor and loved to tease and have lively discussions about politics, sports and life. He also had a generous, unselfish spirit. He was a long-time member of Abingdon United Methodist Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Virginia Harris Sorenson; two brothers, Robert W. Harris and George F. Harris; and by his granddaughter, Deborah Paige Fletcher. J. C. is survived by his wife of 66 years, Kathryn Puckett Harris; his son and daughter-in-law, Jason C. III and Judy Gentry Harris of Abingdon; his daughters Vicki Harris Fletcher of Abingdon and Gloria J. Harris of Charlotte, NC; his daughter and son-in-law, Barbara H. Farris and David M. Farris of Abingdon. He is also survived by two brothers, Paul B. Harris and wife Anne of Wytheville, VA and Edwin G. Harris of Bristol, VA. His surviving grandchildren are Kimberly Farris Luke, David M. Farris II, Kelly P. Farris, Brooke Harris Bunn, Jason C. Harris IV, and Jennifer L. Harris. Additional survivors include thirteen great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins. The funeral service for J. C. Harris, Jr. will be conducted at 2:00 P.M., Monday, September 22, 2003 in the Abingdon United Methodist Church with the Rev. Bill Rowland, Rev. Betty Reiff, and Rev. Rayton Puckett officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Active pallbearers will be Tom Harris, Jim Gentry, Charles “Chip” Smith, Bob Bundy, Jim Bundy, Dewey Fulton, Kyle Skeens, Brett Combs. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Bunn, Edwin Harris II, Bob Luke, David Farris II, Kelly Farris, Jason Harris IV, Larry Bradley, Tim Bagwell, Nelson Stanley, Ray Puckett, Steve Puckett, Stan Puckett, Earl Stanley, Charles Viers, Donnie McCormick, Brandon Puckett, Jerry Westermoreland, Ted Westmoreland, Sheldon Terry. The family will receive friends from 6 – 9 P.M. Sunday at the branch facility of Farris Funeral Service, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon. Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations in honor of Mr. Harris may be made to the Abingdon United Methodist Church, 101 E. Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210. The family would like to especially thank the Home Nursing Service of Abingdon, the fifth floor nurses and other staff at Johnston Memorial Hospital, and their many friends from the church and community. The love, support and prayers have meant so much. The Forest Hills Memory Gardens branch facility of Farris Funeral Service is serving the family of Mr. J. C. Harris, Jr.

E. Carolyn Vannoy
E. Carolyn Vannoy, age 59, died Sunday, September 21, 2003 at the Bristol Wellmont Hospice House. Born on September 13, 1944 in McDowell County, WV, she was a daughter of the late Carl Goodman and Mildred Walker Goodman. She moved to the Washington County area in 1960. Mrs. Vannoy was also preceded in death by her husband Franklin Vannoy, Sr. and her grandson, Zachary Vannoy. She was a member of the Friendship Baptist Church and Bill Akers Sunday School Class. She is survived by two daughters, Della Jo Stillwell of Glade Spring and Mary Jane Cardin of Dalton, GA; three sons, Bobby Vannoy of Yukon, OK and Pete Vannoy and Curtis Vannoy both of Glade Spring; two sisters, Ella Mae Jenkins of Abingdon, VA and Helen Church of Bristol, TN; two brothers, Kenny Goodman of Winchester, VA and Jimmy Goodman of Chilhowie, VA; nine grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 12 Noon Wednesday in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. David Sizemore and Rev. Rick Vannoy officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery in the Friendship Community. Casket bearers will be Ronnie Heath, Bill Heath, Eugene Bebber, Jimmy Anderson, Tom Brown and Dr. William Powers. Honorary casket bearers will be Johnny Vannoy, Chris Vannoy, Mike Vannoy, James Spurgeon, Jason Dunn and the Bill Akers Sunday School Class. In place of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the family, in care of her daughter, Della Stillwell. The family will receive friends from 11 AM Wednesday until the time of the funeral service a the funeral home or any time at the home of her daughter, Della, at 17080 South Fork River Road in Glade Spring.

Jeffery Kent Mann
Mr. Jeffery Kent Mann, 37, of Blountville, TN died Sunday September 21, 2003. A native of Washington County, VA Mr. Mann was of the Baptist faith. Survivors include his wife: Becky Mann; parents: Gilmer and Gladys Mann of Abingdon; one daughter: Jenny Frye of Blountville, TN; one son-in-law: Tim Frye of Blountville; three brothers: Buddy Mann, Bobby Mann both of Meadowview; Russell Mann of Abingdon; one sister: Kathy Kelly of Abingdon; two grandchildren: David Austin Frye and Summer Grace Frye; a niece and several nephews. A graveside funeral service will be held Thursday September 25, 2003 at 12:00 Noon at Mountainview United Methodist Church Cemetery. Rev. Howard Leonard will officiate. The family will receive friends from 10-11:30 AM Thursday at Farris Funeral Service in Abingdon, VA. Pallbearers: SGT. Brandon Mann, Chris Mann, Justin Mann, Tim Frye, Jason Frye, Tim Kendricks, and Junior Moore. Honorary pallbearers will be special nephews and SSG. Kevin Snuffer. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family.

Anna Jean Mullins
Mrs. Anna Jean Buckles Mullins, 68, of Murrells Inlet, SC, formerly of Abingdon died Monday September 22, 2003 at her home. Mrs. Mullins was born April 7, 1935 in Coaldale, WV to the late Rev. Ollie B. Buckles and Maggie Nash Buckles. She had lived in Murrells Inlet for the past 8 years. She was a career nurse of more than 40 years. She was instrumental in the set up and training of the first Intensive Care Unit at Lebanon General Hospital. Mrs. Mullins was of the Baptist faith. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Jimmie E. Buckles; infant sister: Judy Darlene Buckles. Survivors include four sons: Todd B. Mullins of Murrells Inlet, SC; Terry Mullins, Virgil W. Mullins both of Abingdon; Timothy W. Mullins of Bedford, VA; one brother: Joe H . Buckles of Stafford, VA; one grandchild: Mason Smith of Abingdon and one great-grandchild: Andrew Fusco of Murrells Inlet. Funeral services for Mrs. Mullins will be held at 11:00 A. M. Thursday at the branch facility of Farris Funeral Services located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens (19145 Lee Highway Abingdon, VA). Rev. Darrell Harmon will officiate. Burial will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6-8 PM at the Forest Hills branch of Farris Funeral Service. Pallbearers will be family and friends.

Dorothy Belcher
Mrs. Dorothy M. Belcher, age 77, of Wildwood, FL died Monday September 22, 2003 at her home. Mrs. Belcher was a homemaker and a long time resident of Meadowview, VA. She was born in Chilhowie, VA. She is survived by a son, Larry of Baltimore, MD; daughters, Linda Dykes of Wildwood, FL and Kathy Kalb of Baltimore, MD; brothers, Dennis McBride of VA; and Bobby McBride of W. VA; 7 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 P. M., Friday September 26, 2003 at Farris Funeral Service in Abingdon. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A. M. Saturday at Farris Funeral Chapel. Rev. Allen Umbarger will officiate. Interment will follow in Mt. Rose Cemetery in Glade Spring, VA. Pallbearers will be: Darrell Belcher, Darrell Hawthorne, Skip Hinchey, Ralph Belcher, Bill Jones, and Matthew Tucciarella. Honorary pallbearers: Chris Hawthorne, Ricky Belcher, Terry Hinchey, and James Hintze.

Nell Litton Aven
Mrs. Nell Litton Aven, age 85, died Monday, September 22, 2003 at her residence. She was born September 25, 1917 in Washington County to the late Tom Litton and Martha Gobble Litton. Mrs. Aven was preceded in death by her husband Howard M. Aven and a son-in-law, James. E. Minnick. She was a member of the Green Spring Presbyterian Church. Survivors include a son, John W. Aven and wife Sandy of the Green Spring Community; three daughters, Martha Aven Burnette of Bristol, TN; Eva Aven Spear and husband George of Longwood, FL and JoAnn Aven Minnick of the Green Spring Community; a step-son, Howard Dwayne Aven of Cassopolis, MI; a sister, Mozell Colley of Jonesboro, TN; a brother-in-law, Epperson Terry of Cedar Springs, VA; three grandchildren, Whitney Nicole Aven, Suzanne Roberts Arias and Norman G. Roberts II; three step-grandchildren, Kenny Aven, Kevin Aven and Kerri Aven; one great grand child, Joshua Lee Roberts, five step-great grandchildren; several cousins, nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. Thursday in Green Spring Presbyterian Church with Rev. Larry Chafin officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Casket Bearers will be Tommy Colley, David Terry, Tim Terry, Tommy Litton, Roger Litton, Norman G. Roberts II and Ricardo Arias. Honorary Casket Bearers will be Eddie McConnell, Wallace E. Smith, Tommy Aven, Tommy McConnell, Epperson Terry and the members of the Green Spring Volunteer Fire Department. The family will receive friends from 7-9 P.M., Wednesday at the funeral home. Mrs. Aven’s family would like to give a special thank you to all her family, friends, members of the Green Spring Community and Naomi Barrett and the staff of Virginia Hospice for all their many kind acts that they have provided them. Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations may be made to the Green Spring Volunteer Fire Department, 22632 Green Spring Church Road, Abingdon, VA 24211 or to the Green Spring Presbyterian Church, 22007 Green Spring Church Road, Abingdon, VA 24211.

Dolly Colley
Mrs. Dolly Colley, age 80 of Bristol, TN died Tuesday September 23, 2003 at Indian Path Medical Center in Kingsport, TN. Mrs. Colley was a former resident of Bristol, TN, but had lived at Wexford House in Kingsport for over two years. Mrs. Colley was a former resident of Buchanan County, VA and moved to Bristol in 1973. She was a member of Jackson Memorial Church in Bristol, VA. She was a homemaker and an Avon representative. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Garland Colley and her son, Michael Colley and a grandson Gregory Lester. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Wilson and Polly Viers and all her brothers and sisters. She is survived by daughters, Barbara Dixon and Peggy Colley of Kingsport, TN; Janie and Sam Yates of Blountville, TN; Sandra and Michael Anderson of Richmond, VA; son: Jeffrey and Margi Colley of Bristol, TN. She is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and step grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 5-7 P.M. on Thursday September 25, 2003 at Farris Funeral Service followed by a funeral service at 7:00 P. M. Her loving nephew, Aven Owens will officiate. A graveside committal service will be held on Friday September 26, 2003 at 1:00 P. M. at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the cemetery by 12:50 P. M. The family would like to thank the staff of Wexford House in Kingsport for their loving care. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wexford House Activity Fund or to the Gideon Foundation.

Ruth Frances Osborne
Mrs. Ruth Frances Osborne, age 88, died Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2003 at Wellmont Hospice House in Bristol. She was a native of North Carolina and had lived in Washington County many years. Mrs. Osborne attended Woodland Hills Church of Christ and was the widow of Bradley Osborne. She was preceded in death by 2 sisters: Hattie Hoover and Goldie Pennington; 3 brothers: Carl Price, Clive Price and Ervel Price; 1 daughter-in-law: Mona Osborne; 2 sons-in-law: C. D. Calloway and Larry Parsons. She is survived by 3 sons: Wilmer Osborne and wife Betty and David Osborne both of Abingdon; Robert Osborne and wife: Marlissa of Bristol, TN; 2 daughters: Mary Calloway, Abingdon and Jean Parsons, Kingsport, TN; 2 brothers: Elmer Price of West Jefferson, NC and Burl Price of Lenoir, NC; 2 sisters: Edna Osborne, Wapato, Wash. And Hettie Osborne of Warrensville, NC; 14 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren and 7 great great grandchildren. Also surviving is a special future son-in-law: Tom Hudson. Funeral services for Mrs. Ruth Frances Osborne will be held at 1:30 PM Saturday, September 27, 2003 at Farris Funeral Chapel with Paul Viers, Minister, officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. View Baptist Cemetery. Pallbearers: Dennis Arnold, Jonathan Calloway, Cody Calloway, Danny Calloway, David Calloway, Freddie Herndon, Ricky Watson and Jackie Scyphers. Honorary bearers: Douglas Carrier, Bruce Olivo, Colin Lavigne, David Osborne, Jr., Johnny Nunley, Michael Morrison, Corey Anderson, Rodney Woodward and Jordan Calloway. The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 PM Friday at Farris Funeral Service, 427 E. Main St., Abingdon, VA and suggest memorial contributions to Wellmont Hospice House, 280 Steels Rd., Bristol, TN 37620

Helen E. St. John Counts
Mrs. Helen E. St. John Counts, age 82, went to be with her heavenly father on Wednesday, September 24, 2003 after a courageous battle with cancer. Helen was born May 27, 1921, a daughter of the late P.W. and Pearl St. John. She was a lifelong resident of Washington County, Virginia and had lived much of her life in the Hayter’s Gap Community but had resided in the Smyth Chapel Community for the last thirty years. Helen retired from the Abingdon Hardwood Mfg. and was a member of the Greenfield Baptist Church. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother(Nannie) and a friend to all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Douglas Counts, her parents, one sister, Margie Caudill and brothers Preston, Thurman and David St. John. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. She is survived by: Her daughter, Judy Kay Counts Brown and husband, G.C. Brown of Meadowview; One granddaughter, Cindy Brown Fields and husband, Mark Fields of Meadowview; Two great granddaughters who were the light of her life, Alyssa Lindsey Fields and Leanna Faith Fields both of Meadowview; Three sister-in-laws, Ruth Taylor and Nell Counts of Abingdon, Va., Laura Slemp of Easley, SC; Several nieces and nephews. Special caregiver and friends Mildred and Jack Campbell, Roy and Betty Barrett and Sharon Kestner. A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 27, 2003, at 11:00 AM at the branch facility of Farris Funeral Service located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, Va. Rev. Tom Caprin and Rev. John Stapleton will officiate. Entombment will follow in the Chapel of Memories Mausoleum at Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends from 7 – 9 Friday at the Farris Funeral Service, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon. Pallbearers will be Jimmy Brown, Micky Catron, Jack Campbell, Leon Caudill, Charlie Jessee, Dick Taylor and Mike Taylor. Honorary pallbearers will Roy Barrett, Johnny Delp, Don Rutherford, George Owens, Barry Love, Tom Taylor. Memorial contributions may be made to the Washington County Chapter of the American Cancer Society/Rosedale Team, P.O. Box 246, Abingdon, VA 24212. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the family and friends who showed concern and kindness during Helen’s illness.

Violet Cecilia Hines
Violet Cecilia Payne Hines, age 97, died at her home Thursday, September 25, 2003. She was the daughter of the late Nathan Thomas Payne and Mary Cecilia Arnold Payne of Buckingham County, VA She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Mike Hines and a daughter Joyce Hines Schaffer. Violet was a 1926 graduate of the University of Virginia School of Nursing. Dr. and Mrs. Hines began their medical career at Drill, Virginia in 1928. They moved to Abingdon in 1932 and established a family practice which continued until the death of Dr. Mike in 1954. Mrs. Hines continued her nursing career at Johnston Memorial Hospital as nursing supervisor until her retirement and she served many years as a private duty nurse. Violet was a member of the Abingdon United Methodist Church, the Lake Perry Wesley Circle; the former Ladies Bible Class; Member of UVA Nursing Alumni; was a charter member of the Washington County Life Saving Crewettes; was a long time active member of the P. T. A., band boosters and athletic club in the Town of Abingdon. Violet was an active rosarian. For many years she maintained a home in Yalaha, Florida where she was a citrus grower. She also enjoyed operating a farm in Washington County, Virginia for many years. She is survived by 1 daughter: Peggy Hines Mask and husband Dunavant Mask, Bolivar, TN; 1 son: Bobby M. “Mickey” Hines and wife Jeanette Hines, Abingdon, VA; 1 sister: Annie Payne White, Charlottesville, VA. Violet had 9 grandchildren: Elizabeth Mask Reynolds, Dunavant Mask, III, Margaret Mask Gildard, Kay Schaffer Wills, Robert E. Schaffer, M. Keith Hines, Dawn Hines Dennison, J. B. Wright, Jennifer Wright Litton. 8 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Violet had several special care givers: Jo Morrow, Mabel Widener, Hazel Hall, Madge Boyd and Sue Campbell. Funeral services will be held at the Graveside at Knollkreg Memorial Park at 5:00 PM Saturday, September 27, 2003 with the Rev. Betty C. Reiff officiating. Pallbearers will be Keith Hines, Dunavant Mask, III, Bob Schaffer, J. B. Wright, David Litton, Rick Gildard and Albert Reynolds. Those attending the funeral are requested to assemble at the cemetery by 4:50 PM on Saturday. The body will be taken to the residence at 169 Stonewall Heights, Abingdon, VA on Saturday to lie in state until time of the funeral. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 PM Saturday at the residence. Violet loved flowers; however, in lieu of flowers those wishing to do so may send a contribution to their special charity.

Frances A. (Frankie) Mitchell
Abingdon, VA; Frances A. (Frankie) Mitchell passed away on August 14,2003, at Wellmont Bristol Regional Medical Center. Mrs. Mitchell was a well-known and respected antiques and collectibles dealer in Abingdon for many years and was a member of the Abingdon United Methodist Church. She was a native of north Georgia and after graduating from high school attended Piedmont College in Demorest, Georgia, on a basketball scholarship. She is survived by four children: B. David Mitchell, Kansas City, MO, Donna Mitchell Moore, Abingdon, VA, Nicki M. Jenkins and her husband Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Robert G. Jenkins, Vienna, VA, and James E. "Buddy" Mitchell and wife Jeanie Kreger Mitchell, Abingdon, V A. She is also survived by eleven grandchildren, three great grandchildren and five brothers and sisters. They include six granddaughters: Lisa A. Mitchell, Bristol, TN, Mary K. Mitchell, Swainsboro, GA, Lara E. Jenkins, Newport News, VA, Kathryn K. Mitchell, Abingdon, VA, Molly A. Mitchell, Abingdon, V A, and Anne W. Mitchell, Abingdon, V A, and five grandsons, Christopher Mark Moore, Hardeston, NJ, Christian Patrick Moore, Chicago, IL, C. Scott Jenkins, Tallahassee, FL, Brian D. Mitchell, Madison, AL, and James E. Mitchell, Jf., Helena, AL. Her great­grandchildren are Angelina Genevieve Moore, Hardeston, NJ, Brendan Douglas Mitchell, Madison, AL, and Djuna Frances Moore, Chicago, IL. Her sisters and brothers are Thelma Baker, Gainesville, GA, Marjorie Mallonee, Hickory, NC, Betty Harless, Jonesville, VA, James M. Ammons, Centre, AL, and Don B. Ammons, Vestavia Hills, AL. A brother, Jack Ammons, predeceased Mrs. Mitchell. Memorial services will be private. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in remembrance of Mrs. Mitchell are requested to make such contribution to the church or charity of their choice. Farris Funeral Service was of service to the family.

JAMES RICHARD HUGHES
Mr. James Richard Hughes, age 39, passed away Friday, September 26, 2003 in Lebanon, Virginia. Richard was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Allen Hughes, his paternal grandfather, Charlie Hughes and his maternal grandfather, Maven Howard Compton, a nephew, Christopher Allen Hughes. He received an honorable discharge from the U. S. Navy. Survivors include two daughters, Hannah Renee Hughes and Abigail Victoria Hughes both of Damascus, VA, his mother, Lois Compton Hughes, Abingdon, VA, two brothers, Timothy Allen Hughes and Michael Wayne Hughes both of Abingdon, VA, a sister, Michelle Lynn Hughes Goodson, Abingdon, VA, his maternal grandmother, Zora Mae Compton, Honaker, VA, paternal grandmother, Fannie Mary Hughes, Abingdon, VA. The funeral service will be conducted at 12 Noon Wednesday, October 1, 20003 in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Harless Hess and Rev. David Harless officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by the Highlands Fellowship Church Color Honor Guard. Casket bearers will be selected from family and friends. The family will receive friends from 11 A.M. Wednesday until the time of the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the family.

Curtis L. Ramsey
Mr. Curtis L. Ramsey, 94, of Abingdon died Sunday September 28, 2003. He was born in Sydnorsville, Franklin County, Virginia on January 31, 1909, the only son of the late Lottie Young and William Lee Ramsey. His wife, Martha Harrison preceded him in death in 1982. Educated at Ferrum Training School, graduating in 1929, he received his BA and MA degrees from The College of William and Mary, and completed a year of doctoral study at The University of Virginia. Curtis L. Ramsey spent his career in education. Family and education were the most important things in his life. His first jobs were teaching and principal positions at Sontag, Wade, Burnt Chimney, Boonsboro and Huddleston schools. In Bedford he was the general supervisor of Bedford County School System. From 1952-53 he continued work on his doctorate at The University of Virginia. Mr. Ramsey came to Abingdon fifty years ago in 1953 to be the principal of William King High School and became the first director of the University of Virginia’s Regional Center for Continuing Education in Southwest Virginia. He retired in 1978. He was a member of the American Association of School Administrators, past President of the Retired Teachers Association and past President of Ferrum College’s Distinguished Alumni Award for service to education. Mr. Ramsey received many honors throughout his life. Governor Charles Robb presented the Service to Youth Award from the Model General Assembly Committee in recognition of his service to the youth of Virginia in 1985. He served on the Board of Directors for the State YMCA for many years until his death. In 1990 he was presented the Benjamin M. Beckham Medallion from Ferrum College, which is given annually to an individual who has made a significant contribution to both the college and educational community and who best exemplifies the Ferrum College motto “Not self, But Others”. Mr. Ramsey was once quoted as saying “not many can say they have had the privilege of awarding each of their four daughters their high school diploma.” He is survived by his daughters, Martha Lee Benz of Holland Point, MD; Susan Ackerman of Simsbury, CT; Ann Ramsey of Charlotte, NC; Julia Walker of Cincinnati, OH; and five grandchildren, James Lee Ackerman, Mollie Benz, Elizabeth Ackerman, Bryan Walker and Catherine Walker. He is survived by one nephew and three nieces. His three sisters, Lorene Bixby, Gladys Ramsey, and Gertrude Moore, preceded him in death. The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to Helen Holbrook, Ann Murray, Faye Anderson, and Ruby Phibbs (deceased), whose care and devotion made such a difference in Mr. Ramsey’s life throughout his last years. The family is also grateful for the care provided by Westhaven Retirement Living and Hospice of Big Stone Gap. A scholarship in his memory will be established at Ferrum College in Virginia. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Ferrum College: Office of Development, P. O. Box 1000, Ferrum, Virginia 24088, marked for the Curtis Lee Ramsey scholarship. The family will received friends at Farris Funeral Service on Tuesday September 30, 2003 from 6-8 P. M. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P. M. on Wednesday October 1, 2003 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. The Rev. Craig R. Wylie will officiate. Interment will follow at Knollkreg Memorial Park.