Marguerite Lois Belcher
Mrs. Marguerite Lois Belcher, age 85, passed away Monday November 3, 2003 in Johnston Memorial Hospital.
Mrs. Belcher was born at Big Four, W. VA, and had lived most of her life in West Virginia before moving from McDowell County, W. VA, to Smyth County, Virginia in 1982.
She was a member of the Summit Baptist Church, Sugar Grove, VA and was preceded in death by her husband, Wade H. Belcher, Sr., her parents, Brooks and Mamie Scarberry, four sons, Wade H. Belcher, Jr., Donald G. Belcher, Darrell T. Belcher, David W. Belcher, and two grandchildren, Patricia Faye Finney and Bryan Kevin Phillips.
Survivors include a son, Taylor G. Belcher and wife, Lena, Hampton, VA, four daughters, Gloria Phillips and husband, Robert, Abingdon, VA, Rita Finney and husband, Ernie, Christiansburg, VA, Carole Dickerson and husband, Roy, Blacksburg, VA, Teresa Billings and husband, Louis, Sugar Grove, VA, twenty -two grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will be conducted Wednesday November 5, 2003 at 8:00 p.m. at the branch facility of Farris Funeral Service, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA. The Reverend Don Tate will officiate.
The graveside service will be conducted Thursday, November 6, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. in the Elkhorn Baptist Cemetery, Welch, W. VA. The Reverend Don Tate will officiate.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, November 5, 2003 from 6-8 p.m. in the branch facility of Farris Funeral Service,19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA.
Pallbearers will be grandsons and friends.
The family of Mrs. Belcher would like to thank Dr. Patrick Wallace, Dr. Ernest Henry, Dr. Guy Tillinghast and the 3rd floor nursing staff at Johnston Memorial Hospital.
Mrs. Betty Lou King Purifoy
Mrs. Betty Lou Purifoy, age 79, died Monday, November 3, 2003 at her home.
Mrs. Purifoy was born on August 27, 1924 in Knoxville, TN to the late Eliot Lester King and Bessie Louvinia Dykes King. She was also preceded in death by her husband Dr. Lewis M. “Mack” Purifoy, JR.
Mrs. Purifoy was a member of the Emory United Methodist Church and was retired from Emory and Henry College.
She is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Lewis M. Purifoy, III and wife Mary Ramsey of Charlottesville, VA and John King Purifoy and wife Sharon of Bristol, VA; grandchildren, Anna Purifoy and Adam Nottingham; a sister-in-law, Elizabeth McGinn of Charleston, WV and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, November 6, 2003 at the Emory United Methodist Church with Rev. Beverly Robinette and Rev. David St. Clair officiating. A graveside service will follow in the Holston Conference Cemetery in Emory.
In place of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Dr. Lewis M. “Mack” Purifoy, JR and Betty Lou Purifoy Memorial Scholarship Fund, C/O Emory and Henry College , P.O. Box 947, Emory, VA 24237.
At Mrs. Purifoy’s request, there will be no viewing or visitation at the funeral home.
Robert Earle Ryburn
Mr. Robert Earle Ryburn, age 77, passed away Tuesday, November 4, 2003 at his residence.
Mr. Ryburn was a member of the Old Glade Presbyterian Church and was preceded in death by his wife, Irene Lester Ryburn. He was a member of the Washington County Life Saving Crew for many years.
Survivors include two daughters, Jean Elmore and husband, Jerry, Meadowview, VA, Ann Crawford and husband, Jeff, Bristol, TN, one son, David E. Ryburn and wife, Jeano, Glade Spring, VA, a brother, Franklin Ryburn, Abingdon, VA, three grandsons, Charlie Elmore, Jimmy Elmore, Toby Ryburn, granddaughter, Sami Jo Ryburn, step-granddaughter, Jamie Rouse, several nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will be conducted Friday, November 7, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, located on the grounds of Forest Hills Memory Gardens, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA.
The Reverend Charles DeBord and Reverend Wayne Kestner will officiate. Interment will follow in Mt. Rose Cemetery, Glade Spring, VA.
Pallbearers will be Fred W. Lester, Ted E. Lester, Jr., Don Wright, Mike Harris, Billy Lester, John D. Lester, Joe Lester.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Washington County Life Saving Crew, P. O. Box 65, Abingdon, VA 24212.
The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Farris Funeral Service, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA.
David Allen Wagner
Meadowview, VA — David Allen Wagner, 51, died Friday, November 7, 2003. A native of Abingdon, he had lived in the Meadowview community for the past ten years.
He was a graduate of Abingdon High School and a carpenter by trade. He was an avid musician, a skilled wood carver, and an outdoor enthusiast.
Survivors include his mother, Lillian Hite Wagner of Meadowview; one sister, Gloria Wagner Surber and her husband, Tony Surber of Glade Spring; three nieces, Jennifer Surber, Mollie Surber, and Annie Surber, all of Glade Spring; several aunts and uncles, and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward W. Wagner.
The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:15 a.m. Monday morning at the Forest Hills branch of Farris Funeral Service, Abingdon , VA, or anytime at the home of Tony and Gloria Surber, 445 Maple St., Glade Spring. A graveside service will follow the visitation at 11:30 a.m. with the Rev. Jim Denton officiating.
Honorary pallbearers will be Charlie Warren, John Radick, Mike Brillhart, Harold Weddle, Mike Wagner, Paul Eddie Scyphers, Joe Pless, Allen Pless, Joe Litton, Billy Bartch, and Bob Vessey.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Virginia Creeper Trail Club P. O. Box 2382 Abingdon, VA 24212.
Roby Lee Orr, Sr.
Mr. Roby Lee Orr, Sr. , 84 of Glade Spring died Saturday November 8, 2003 at Abingdon Manor.
A native of Washington County, VA, Mr. Orr was retired from USG Corporation and a member of Old Glade Presbyterian Church.
Survivors include his wife: Erma Hazel Orr; four sons: Roby Lee Orr, Jr. of Damascus; Walter A. Orr of Cumberland; Joe Orr of Meadowview; Jack Orr of Glade Spring; three daughters: Ruth Ann Arington of Glade Spring; Eloise Thomas of Johnson City, TN; Linda Ceri of Madison; two sisters: Margie Orr Trent of Damascus; Lillian Carver of Cleveland, TN; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A graveside funeral service will be held Sunday November 9, 2003 at 3:00 P. M. at Old Glade Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Rev. Tim Byrd will officiate.
David E. Thomas
Mr. David E. Thomas, age 60, passed away Saturday, November 8, 2003 in Johnston Memorial Hospital.
Mr. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, G. W. and Helen Thomas and a brother, George R. Thomas. He attended the Seven Springs Presbyterian Church and was employed with Emory and Henry College for over 39 years.
Survivors include his wife, Ann Thomas, Glade Spring, VA, a brother, Jeff Thomas, Ronceverte, W. VA, papaw Dave’s three special girls, Skylar and Maddie Thomas and Emily Horne, several nieces and nephews.
The graveside service will be conducted Monday November 10, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. in the Mount Rose Cemetery, Glade Spring, VA with Rev. Tom Sullivan and Rev. David St. Clair officiating.
The procession will leave the funeral home at 12:30 p.m. Monday.
Pallbearers will be Bob Johnson, Temple Musser, Brian Hamilton, Dewey Lusk, Laurn Becker, Jack Olinger.
A special thanks to Dr. Swann, the fifth floor nurses at Johnston Memorial Hospital and family and friends who provided love and support throughout the years.
The family will receive friends Sunday from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home.
Lorena Venable Duncan
Mrs. Lorena Venable Duncan, age 80 passed away, Monday, November 10, 2003, at the Valley Health Care Center after a courageous battle with cancer. Born July 14, 1923, she had lived her entire life in Washington County, Virginia. She was the daughter of the late Robert Thomas and Lucy Castle Venable. Lorena was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, John Wallace Duncan; three brothers, Hubert Venable, Robert Venable, Link Venable and three sisters, Stella Snapp, Mary Duncan and Opal Venable. She was a member of the Smyth Chapel United Methodist Church.
Survivors include Her daughter, Lois Duncan Wetzel and husband, Fred of Johnson City, Tenn. ;Her son, John Duncan and wife, Nancy of Emory, Va.; Three beloved grandsons, Chris Duncan and wife Stephanie of Abingdon, Va., Tim Duncan and wife, Amy of Abingdon, Va., Fredric Wetzel of Knoxville, Tenn.; Two special great granddaughters, Madison Duncan and Hannah Duncan both of Abingdon, Va.;
A sister, Agnes Holmes of Emory, Va.; Several nieces and nephews
A funeral service will be conducted Thursday, November 13, 2003, at 1:00 PM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Tim Blevins and Rev. Beverly Robinette officiating. Burial will follow in the Holston Conference Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 7 – 9 Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be Chris Duncan, Tim Duncan, Fredric Wetzel, Fred Duncan, Fred Holbrook and Allen Duncan. Honorary pallbearers will be Tom Freeman, Doug Thompson, Robert Snapp and Bobby Duncan.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Smyth Chapel United Methodist Church P.O. Box 136, Emory, VA 24327.
Thelma Meade Bateman
Mrs. Thelma Meade Bateman, age 85, died Monday, November 10, 2003 at her home. She was born in Coeburn, Virginia and had lived most of her life in Washington County, Virginia. Thelma was a member of the Abingdon Church of Christ and the State Street Church of Christ in Bristol. She was preceded in death by her husband, A.D. Bateman, two sons, Ray and David, a daughter, Josie and grandson, Darren. She is survived by
Her children, Wallace and Helen Bateman of Chesapeake, Va.
Roy and Shirley Bateman of Blairsville, Ga.
Evelyn and Bob Campbell, Abingdon, Va.
Richard and Donna Bateman, Blountville, Va.
Darlene and Nelson Hayter, Meadowview, Va.
Julia and Lex Robinson of Chilhowie, Va.
Vickie Warden of the home
Howard and Connie Bateman, Abingdon, Va.
Lee and Lucinda Bateman, Pensacola, Fla.
Special sister and brother, Joe and Clara Bateman of Riverview, Fla.
Brother, Harold Meade of Old Fort, N.C.
27 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren and 14 great great grandchildren
Special friends, Lillian Haywood, Kate Scroggins, Lucille Phelps and many children she opened her home to for care and nurturing.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, November 13, 2003 at 11:00 AM in the Abingdon Church of Christ with Bill Haywood and Dan Bailey, Ministers officiating. A song service will be held from 10:30 until time of service. Burial will follow in the Knollkreg Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6 – 9 PM Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be men of Abingdon Church of Christ and the State Street Church of Christ. Honorary pallbearer will be Dr. Patrick Wallace.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cancer Outreach Foundation, 206 Abingdon Place, Abingdon, VA 24211 or the charity of your choice.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Misty Workman, Mollie Hale, Kim Stallard and Melissa Barton of Hospice and Pallative Care of Virginia for all the kindness and care shown to Thelma.
Willard D. Sharrett
Mr. Willard D. “Billy” Sharrett, age 62, died Wednesday November 12, 2003 at his residence. Billy was a native of Bristol, VA and had been a member of the Central Baptist Church for 19 years where he served as Sunday school superintendent and Deacon. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Sharrett and Annie Gaynelle Arnold and a grandson, Joshua Sharrett.
Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Joan Reynold Sharrett, a son, Steven Sharrett and wife Kristi, a daughter, Stephanie Jenkins and husband, Kerry, all of Bristol, VA, five grandchildren, Adam Sharrett, Kayela Sharrett, Keri-Ann Jenkins, James Legg, Chris Doss, step-father, Morris J. Arnold, Bristol, VA, two step-sisters, Betty Wampler, Bristol, VA and Mary Durand, Maryville, TN.
a step-brother, Morris Arnold, Jr., Kingsport, TN.
The funeral service will be conducted Friday, November 14, 2003 at 8:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Les Ketron officiating. The committal graveside service will be conducted Saturday, November 15, 2003 at 11:00 a.m. in Forest Hills Memory Gardens. The procession will leave the funeral home Saturday at 10:40 a.m.
Pallbearers will be Irvin Stringer, Don Lowe, Dwayne Dillard, Will Dillard, Lee Reynolds, Bob Sharrett, Jerry Sams, Ricky Tester.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Cancer Outreach Foundation, 206 Abingdon Place, Abingdon, VA 24211.
The family will receive friends Friday from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home.
Frances Steelman Batten
Mrs. Frances Steelman Batten, age 79 of Abingdon, VA went to rejoice with her Lord on Thursday, November 13, 2003. She was a native of Russell County, but lived most of her life in Abingdon, VA. She was the daughter of the late J. R. and Elizabeth Vance Adkins.
She and her late husband, Howard Steelman, and late sister-in-law, Geneva Fulton, co-owned and operated several restaurants for many years. Some of which were, City Café, Wall St. Café, Bus Station Restaurant and Fulton’s Grill.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Kenny Bowman, second husband, Howard Steelman, and third husband, Dewaine Batten; five brothers and five sisters.
Survivors include two sons, Roger Bowman and wife Dorothy of Saltville, VA; Dallas Bowman and wife Cookie of Newport News, VA; one daughter: Geneva Reynolds of Abingdon, VA; two sisters: Roma Ball of Centerbury, Ohio and Margie Stanley of Cleveland, Ohio; a special niece, Eva Fuller of Drill, VA; 14 granchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren. Also survived by her special loving church family and pastor, Billy Owens and wife Sarah of The Little Storehouse Baptist Church in Abingdon. Also survived by several nieces, nephews, and in-laws too numerous to mention.
We would like to give a special thank you to Virginia’s Hospice of Rural Retreat. Naomi, Naomi Barrett, Penny Bise, Nurse Beverly Henley and care giver, Donna Abel. Also a special thank you to Dr. Jolanda Cook and nurse Cindy at Abingdon Family Practice and Dr. Ann Hays and nurses at Mountain Gastroenterology.
Funeral services will be held Sunday November 16, 2003 at 2 PM at Farris Funeral Chapel. Pastor Billy Owens will officiate. Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens.
The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 6-8 PM at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be Debbie Sullins, Dave Cannon, Roger Bowman, Jr., Richard Bowman, Keith Bowman, David Reynolds, Eugene Bowman and Michael Puckett.
Honorary pallbearers are Kenny Bowman, Roger Bowman, Sr., Dallas Bowman, Jr., Men of the Little Storehouse Baptist Church.
Odessa Brown Harrison
Mrs. Odessa Brown Harrison, age 80, passed away Thursday, November 13, 2003, at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. She was born June 3, 1923 in Abingdon, Virginia, had lived in Washington, D.C. but spent most of her life in Abingdon. She was a faithful member of the Charles Wesley United Methodist Church where she was on the Board of Trustees and the Board of Treasury. Odessa was a former employee of the Johnston Memorial Hospital and retired from Abingdon High School. She was a member of the Abingdon Senior Citizens and was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin F. Harrison, Sr. and a granddaughter, Stephanie Elizabeth Hayden.
She is survived by: Two sons, Benjamin Franklin Harrison, Jr. and wife Vondell Zina of Stafford, Va., Herbert Peter Harrison and wife, Deborah Grace of Charleston, S.C.; Grandchildren, Daniel Allen Laws, John Thomas Laws, Maria DeAngela Harrison, Jason Ev’rett Harrison and Tracy Denice Harrison; Ten great grandchildren and one great great grandson; A host of nieces, nephews and cousins including, Vanessa Anderson, Lindsey Hubner and Ulysses Cox, Jr.; A special longtime friend, Credell Fonte’
A funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, November 18, 2003, at 2:00 PM in the Charles Wesley United Methodist Church with Rev. Don Watkins officiating. Burial will follow in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens.
The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 PM Monday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be James Anderson, Benjamin Harrison, Herbert Harrison, Ulysses Cox, Jr., Lawrence (Alex) Cox and Jason Harrison. Honorary pallbearers will be Lemuel Wheeler, David (Blascoe) DeBose, Lawrence Anderson, Charlie Trent, Charles Lucas and John Sheffey.
Ona Slone Belcher
Mrs. Ona Slone Belcher, age 74, passed away, Sunday, November 16, 2003 at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. She was born in Pike County, Kentucky and had lived many years in Grundy before moving to Abingdon. She was a member of the Pilgrim Baptist Church, where she was President of the Pilgrim Seniors, and a former member of the Grundy Baptist Church. Ona was retired from the Grundy Post Office and preceded in death by her husband, Franklin R. Belcher.
She is survived by: Her son, Brian Belcher and wife, Gail of Vansant, Va.; Her daughters, Karen Belcher Cecil and husband, Bill of Madison Heights, Va., Cheryl Belcher Matney of Roanoke, Va.; A brother, Lon Slone of Paris, Ky.; A sister, Sonia Rittenbacker of Chicago, Ill.; Four grandchildren, Wesley Wright, Matthew Belcher, Kristopher Cecil and Michael Belcher
A funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, November 18, 2003, at 10:00 AM in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Elden Bergen officiating. A committal service will be held at 1:30 PM in the Mountain Valley Memorial Park in Grundy, Va.
The family will receive friends from 7 – 9 PM Monday at the funeral home.
Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of Pilgrim Baptist Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Pilgrim Baptist Church, 16438 Pilgrim Lane, Abingdon, VA 24211.
Janice Goodpasture Bussey
Janice Goodpasture Bussey, 57, passed away Sunday, November 16 at Wellmont Bristol Regional Medical Center following a brief illness. She was born in Johnson City, TN, grew up in Bristol, TN and had lived in Abingdon, VA for 35 years. She was the daughter of the late Malcolm and Myrtle Swiney Goodpasture of Bristol.
Survivors include her husband, Luther Bussey, Abingdon; two sons, Christopher Bradley Bussey and his wife, Becky; and Gregory Brent Bussey and his wife, Amy, both of Abingdon; a brother, Joe Goodpasture and his wife, Ann, Abingdon; a sister, Patsy Musick and her husband, Eddie, Winchester, VA; four grandchildren, Lydia, Julia, Haleigh and Carter Bussey; and a number of very special nieces, nephews, cousins and brothers- and sisters-in-law.
Mrs. Bussey received her R.N. degree from Johnston Memorial School of Nursing and was an honors graduate of Bluefield College. A well-known and highly respected nursing educator, she retired after 31 years as a health occupations instructor at the Neff Center for Science and Technology. More recently she had been an instructor at Virginia Highlands Community College and performed onsite reviews for the Virginia State Board of Nursing.
She was a member of Shady Grove United Methodist Church where she was a member of the choir and active in a number of church activities.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Farris Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Don Watkins and Dr. Ross Dampier officiating. Internment will follow at Knollkreg Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be Bo Boyd, Fred Fisher, Calvin Gobble, Mike Hagy, Ron Harrington and J.B. Kinder. Honorary pallbearers will be the men of Shady Grove United Methodist Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Shady Grove United Methodist Church, 329 Whites Mill Rd., Abingdon, VA 24210.
Anne Perkinson Buchanan
Mrs. Anne Perkinson Buchanan, age 76, died Monday November 17, 2003 in the Johnston Memorial Hospital. Anne Buchanan grew up in Glen Allen, Virginia and was a secretary in state government in Richmond, Virginia. In 1949, she married Dr. Archibald Chapman Buchanan, Jr. and they moved to Abingdon.She was a member of the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church where she was active in various activities including the church circle. Anne was a supporter of the arts, including Barter Theatre and the William King Arts Center; and she was a longterm member of the Book Lovers Club. Dr. and Mrs. Buchanan were members of the Glenrochie Country Club for many years and they both loved golf. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Archiblad Chapman Buchanan, Jr. and her father, Robert L. Perkinson.
Survivors include a daughter, Barbara Shepherd and husband, David Shepherd, Vienna, VA, a son, Archibald Chapman Buchanan, III and his wife, Michelle Buchanan, Knoxville, TN, her mother, Maudie Perkinson, Ashland, VA, a sister, Doris Zimmerman, Baltimore, MD, three grandchildren, Lauren Buchanan, Ben Shepherd and Julie Shepherd.
The funeral service will be conducted Thursday, November 20, 2003 at 10:00 a.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Rev. Robert Tolar officiating. The interment will be conducted Thursday, November 20, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Maplewood Cemetery, Tazewell, VA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church, 136 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24212.
The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. in the funeral home.
Luther M. Talbert
Dr. Luther M. Talbert died peacefully November 17, 2003 at his home in Chapel Hill, NC. Dr. Talbert was born December 30, 1926 near Meadowview, Washington County, VA to the late Marcus A. and Mary Thompson Talbert. He graduated from Meadowview High School in 1943 and enlisted in the U. S. Navy where he served for the duration of World War II. He returned to Washington County to attend Emory and Henry College, and upon graduation, began his medical training at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. After completing his training in 1958, he joined the faculty at the University of North Carolina. Dr. Talbert was clinician, researcher and teacher at UNC until his retirement in 1993. He was instrumental in establishing the North Carolina Area Health and Education Centers (AHEC) to provide continuing education for North Carolina physicians. Dr. Talbert served as director of the UNC Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Fertility, and director for the In Vitro Fertilization/Gift Program. He served in numerous positions of leadership for his profession, including service as Director for the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Upon his retirement from UNC, he embarked on a second career as a leader for the North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine in Cary, NC, now named the Talbert Fertility Institute in his honor. Dr. Talbert was able to continue his work until August of 2003. He treasured his relationships with his colleagues and patients and often reflected on his good fortune to have worked with, and on behalf of, so many wonderful people. He was recently awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for all his unwavering commitment to women's health and dedicated service to the state of North Carolina.
Dr. Talbert is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife, Annie B. Edmondson Talbert and children, John and wife Cheryl, Seattle, Washington, Luther and wife Hope of Bozeman, Montana and Cay Bacon, Tampa, Florida and grandchildren, Ryan and Caytie of Seattle, Washington, Molly and Kristine of Bozeman, Montana and Catherine and Luke of Tampa, Florida. He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Elizabeth Neese and is survived by a brother, John Talbert and sisters, Eleanor Williams, Eva Edmondson, and Becky Gumm, along with numerous nieces and nephews. His love for and belief in all members of his family is a continued inspiration.
The graveside service will be conducted Friday, November 21, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. in the Greenfield Baptist Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Robert Seymore. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, November 22, 2003 at 5:00 PM in the Binkley Baptist Church in Chapel Hill, N.C.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Luther Talbert Infertility Trust Fund,
c/o South Trust Bank, Tryon Road, Cary, NC 27511.
Della Murphy
Mrs. Della Murphy passed away on November 18, 2003 in Vancouver, Washington. She and her deceased husband, Raymond Murphy had lived in Abingdon from 1980 to 1997.
She was born January 29, 1916 in Fairview, Virginia, one of 11 children of Henry and Rosa Robinette. She married Raymond Murphy in 1946 until he passed away in July 1990.
Della graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in 1937 and started a teaching career in Virginia. Della and Raymond had one daughter, Barbara Lynn. In 1955, having moved to Hamilton, Ohio, Della began teaching at Ross Elementary School and retired in 1980. Upon retirement, Della and Raymond moved to Abingdon, Virginia where they found a welcome community in the Shady Grove United Methodist Church.
Della taught Sunday school and sang in the church choir at Shady Grove United Methodist Church. After retirement, she volunteered at the Senior Center calling on home-bound people, reading to the blind and teaching adult literacy.
She was a member of the Retired Teachers Association, the AARP and held offices in the United Methodist Women and the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was a master gardener, devoted Christian and loving mother. She is remembered for her generosity, ability to listen and a great sense of humor.
In 1997, she moved to Vancouver, Washington to live with her daughter and son-in-law and to be closer to her granddaughter.
She is survived by her only child, Barbara Robinette and son-in-law, David Kolberg, Vancouver, WA, her granddaughter, Abby Murphy Harris and grandson-in-law, Troy Sean Harris, Vancouver, WA, her great-granddaughter, Olivia Simone Harris, (1 year old) and many other loving family members and friends.
A memorial and graveside service will be conducted Sunday, November 23, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. in the Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Rev. Paul Blessing officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Shady Grove United Methodist Church, 329 White’s Mill Road, Abingdon, VA 24210.
The family will visit with friends following the service at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service.
Ruby LaVerne Hodel Blevins
Mrs. Ruby LaVerne Hodel Blevins, age 80, passed away on November 22, 2003 at the home of her daughter after an eight-year struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
She was born on December 26, 1922 in Childress, Texas to Otto and Hazel Hodel. She married Burl F. Blevins on January 27, 1946 and resided in Bristol, TN for over fifty years. She was the owner of Blevins Construction in Abingdon, VA which her husband founded in 1954. She was a faithful member of the State Street Church of Christ and was known for her compassion and love for others.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Burl F. Blevins and a grandson,
David Dutton.
She is survived by her daughter, Janet Cook and husband, Kenneth of Abingdon, and sons, Larry Blevins and wife, Sharon of Herndon, VA and Rick Blevins of Abingdon, VA; grandchildren Susan Ruble and husband, Tim, Sarah Dutton, Matthew Dutton, Leigh Toweson and husband, Kyle, and Erin Blevins; great granddaughter, Madalyn Ruble; sister, Dee Riddle and husband, Tom of Edmond, OK and brother Max Hodel and wife, Joanne of Anchorage, AK.
The funeral service for Mrs. Ruby Blevins will be conducted Tuesday November 25, 2003 at 3:00 p.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel with Mr. Bill Haywood, Minister officiating.
Interment will follow in Forest Hills Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Hospice and Palliative Care of Virginia (P. O. Box 349-Norton, VA 24273)
The family will receive friends Monday from 7-9 p.m. in the funeral home.
Raymond "Bo" Cole
Mr. Raymond (Bo) Cole was born on August 1, 1933 in Jewel Ridge, VA. He passed away on Nov. 25, 2003 in Abingdon.
Mr. Cole was the son of the late Byrd and Okie Cole of Cedar Bluff, VA. He had lived in Abingdon for seven years, moving from Buchanan County. He was a U. S. Army Veteran of the Korean War and was stationed in France. He was retired in 1990 from General Electric of Winchester, VA where he was a plant supervisor. He was a member of Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church and Abingdon Lodge #48 A.F. & A.M. and the Lions Club of Oakwood, VA. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be greatly missed.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Shirley Matney Cole and one son, Tommy Cole, two brothers, Rufus and Ralph Cole.
Survivors are his wife: Marilyn Coleman Osborne Cole; one daughter: Vicki and spouse Keith Foreman of Winterville, NC; one step-son: Mark Osborne of Hickory, NC; two grandsons: Kyle Foreman and Hunter Osborne; one sister: Cretta and spouse Winston Reed of Cedar Bluff; two brothers: Rex Cole and spouse Yvonne of N. Tazewell and Richard Cole and spouse Shelby of Cedar Bluff and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 29, 2003 at 2:00 P. M. at Farris Funeral Chapel. The Reverend Robert Tolar, Jr. will officiate. Interment will follow in Green Hills Memory Gardens in Claypool Hill.
Pallbearers will be nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be the men of the Breakfast Club of Hardees and the Lunch Bunch at Cracker Barrel.
The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6-8 P.M.at the funeral home. Masonic rites will be presented by Abingdon Lodge #48 A.F. & A.M.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made American Cancer Society P. O. Box 246 Abingdon, VA 24212 or American Heart Association P. O. Box 5216 Glen Allen, VA 23058.
Charles E. Anderson
Mr. Charles Early Anderson, 71, Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather went to be with the Lord November 25, 2003.
Charles was born in Saltville, VA, and is of the Christian faith. After graduation, he joined the Air Force where he rose to the rank of Tech. Sergeant in Radio Transmissions. While in the service, he returned home on visits where he met and fell in love with Mattie Bell Gillespie whom he married after his four year tour of duty and settled in Abingdon, VA. He worked at Raytheon as a Quality Inspector for 34 years before retiring. He was preceded in death by his mom and dad, Mr. And Mrs. Ray Anderson of Saltville; brother, Franklin Delano Anderson; sister, Fannie Lou Denia Olinger and sister Louella Mae Anderson.
He is survived by his wife Mattie G. Anderson; son Greg E. Anderson and wife Rita of Abingdon; daughters Debbie A. Sullins of Abingdon; Linda A. Caruthers and husband Mark of Meadowview; Patricia A. Reynolds and husband David Mark Reynolds of Bristol, TN; grandchildren: Matthew Reynolds, Johnathon Widener, Alex Anderson, Travis Sullins, Heather Sullins and Chris Anderson as well as two great-grandchildren. Also surviving three brothers, Henry Anderson of Bristol, VA; George Anderson and wife Carolyn of Troy, MT; and Roy Anderson and wife Brenda of Rogersville, AL; five sisters: Helen Ford of Akron, OH; Dorothy Hall of Bristol, VA; Delephine Coffer and husband Rev. Courtney Coffer of Clover, VA; Rose Anderson and husband Frank of Bumpass, VA and Pauline Perkins of Woodbridge, VA., also several nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Mark Brady Caruthers, Alex Anderson, Travis Sullins, Matthew Reynolds, Johnathon Widener, Lewis Hall.
Funeral services will be held Friday November 28, 2003 at 6:00 P. M. at Farris Funeral Service Forest Hills Chapel located at 19415 Lee Highway Abingdon, VA. Rev. Jerry Eggers and Rev. Kerry Henley will officiate.
The family will receive friends immediately following the service.
A committal service will be held Saturday November 29, 2003 at 11:00 A. M. at Forest Hills Memory Gardens.
Chester L. Mannel
Mr. Chester Louis Mannel, II, age 58, passed away Tuesday November 25, 2003 at his residence.
Mr. Mannel was a veteran of the U. S. Army having served in Vietnam.
Survivors include his wife, Donna Mannel, Bristol, VA, two daughters,
Nancy Mannel Poole, Bristol, VA, Tammy Mannel, Ft. Meyers, Florida, a son, Chester Louis Mannel, III, Bristol, VA., a sister, Katherine Blanchard, Alabama, grandchildren, Adrienne Poole, Jarron Mannel, Joseph Sullins, Austin J. Aarends, several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Saturday November 29, 2003 at 11:30 a.m. in the Farris Funeral Chapel.
