WOODROW WILSON HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI PAGE

Obituaries, Page 18

Judith (Judy) A. Dyke, 62, of Beckley, passed away Monday, Sept. 3, 2007, after a long illness. Born June 6, 1945, at Beckley, she lived most of her life in Raleigh County. Ms. Dyke was a former employee of the Beckley YMCA. Ms. Dyke was retired from the Raleigh County Magistrate Court where she was employed as a clerk. Judy enjoyed reading, being with her family and friends and was an avid NASCAR fan. Ms. Dyke was preceded in death by her mother, Georgia Jarrell Morgan; and her father, Ramon Morgan. She is survived by two sons, Ronald Dyke of Huntington and his daughter, Sara; Michael Dyke and his wife, Kelly, of Beckley and their daughters, Lauren, Katelyn and Madison; two beloved brothers, Ramon Morgan and his wife, Judy, of Mississippi and Bill Morgan and his wife, Terri, of San Clemente, Calif., and two uncles, the Rev. George Smith and his wife, Audrey, of Beckley, Frank Swartz of Florida and an aunt, Jean Jarrell, of Seth. She is also survived by several nephews, nieces and their families and many special friends. Her viewing will be Thursday noon to 2 p.m. at Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, South Kanawha St., Beckley. Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, with the Rev. George Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to the ALS Foundation, ALS Therapy Development Institute, 215 First St., Cambridge, Mass. 02142 or go on-line at www.als.net/ join/donatenow.asp. West Virginia Western PA WV Chapter of ALS, 412-261-5940. Online condolences may be sent to our guest book at www.roseandquesenberry.nt. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley. [WWHS '63]

SANFORD, N.C. – Mrs. Gerry Beaubien Davis, 76, of 5007 Dove Path, Sanford, N.C., passed away Saturday, Sept. 1, 2007. Gerry was born in East Lansing, Mich., the daughter of the late Robert Beaubien and Gladys Webster Beaubien. Her early years were spent in Portsmouth, Va. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. She was a member of the Junior Women’s Club and Centenary Methodist Church. She was past president of the Elizabeth Manor Women’s Golf Association. From 1976 until 2001, she and George resided in Bridgeport and Montgomery, W.Va. In Sanford, Gerry was a member of Jonesboro United Methodist Church and sang in the choir. Gerry was an avid golfer and talented artist. Survivors include her husband, George Freeman Davis; a son, Robert Eric Davis and wife, Michelle, of Boca Raton, Fla.; two daughters, Linda Ann Barney and husband, Dr. John Barney, of Virginia Beach, Va., and Virginia Kendell and husband, Dr. Barry Kendell, of Chapel Hill, N.C.; a brother, Ronald Beaubian of Logans Port, Ind.; two half-sisters, Mary Parker Vaughan of Portsmouth, Va., and Ardella Scott of Lansing, Mich.; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, 2007, at the Jonesboro United Methodist Church with the Rev. Joe Wilburn officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the memorial service at the church. Memorials may be made to Jonesboro United Methodist Church, 407 W. Main St., Sanford, NC 27332 or Liberty Homecare and Hospice, 1005 Carthage St., Sanford, NC 27330. Condolences may be made at www.bridgescameronfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home.

BASSETT, Va. — Normajean Wood Hilbert Epler, 73, passed away Sunday, Aug. 12, 2007. For the past eight years, she had been the beloved wife and co-worker in the church with her husband, Evangelist David Epler. They ministered the last two years for Collinsville Church of Christ in Collinsville, Va. Normajean was born May 7, 1934, in Prosperity, the daughter of Stephen M. Wood and Miranda J. Sizemore Wood. She was a faithful member of the Church of Christ and also helped with many civic activities such as the Beckley Home Extension, the Red Cross, and helped organize the Prosperity reunion as well as other family activities. She worked with JC Penny Co., Gray Lumber Co. and Crossroads National Bank. She was preceded in death by her father and mother; her first husband, Ennis R. Hilbert; and brothers, Roman Wood, Howard Wood and James F. Wood. She is survived by her brothers, Stephen M. Wood, Blane Wood and Cleve Wood of Prosperity; her sisters, Eva Wood Cooper and Selda Wood Jarrell, both of Beaver, Daphine Wood Stokley of Beckley, Beaula Wood Karnes of Garden City, S.C., and Shirley Wood Lafferty of Prosperity; and her children, Jeffrey R. Hilbert and wife, Heidi, of Kenna, Karen Hilbert Worrell and husband, Michael, of Charlotte, N.C., and Robyn Hilbert of Martinsville, Va. Also surviving are grandchildren, Heather Charity and Megan Repass, Ashlea and Derek Worrell and Andrea and Joshua Hilbert; great-grandchildren, Jeramey, Caitlin, J.T. and Mia Kaylie; stepchildren, David J. Epler II and wife, Susie, of Lawton, Okla., Daniel E. Epler and wife, Linda, of Charlotte, N.C., and Deborah A. Hicks and husband, R.J., of Maryville, Tenn.; and step grandchildren, David III, Naomi, Joshua, Emily and Elijah Epler, Joshua and Brandon Hicks. Visitation will be 6 to 9 p.m. today with service at 11 a.m. Thursday at Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, 1901 S. Kanawha St., Beckley. Fred Ford, evangelist and longtime friend of the family, will be officiating. Singing will be directed by P.J. Hicks. Internment will be at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. Family and friends will be received after services at Prosperity Church of Christ for fellowship and food. Online condolences may be sent to our guest book at www.roseandquesenberry.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley. [WWHS ’52]

PELHAM, Ala. — Jimmie L. Bivins, 70, of Pelham, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2007, after a short illness. Jimmie was born in Norvell, Raleigh County, the son of a coal miner. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1954 and was an Air Force veteran for four years. After military service, Jimmie graduated from Morris Harvey College. In 1962, Jimmie began his career in government service with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms division of the Treasury Department in Richmond, Va. While most of his years with the bureau he investigated gun trafficking and bombings, his career began chasing moonshiners in the hills of Virginia. During his 25 years with ATF, Jimmie had various positions that relocated him and his family across the country. He was an agent in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Atlanta, and he finally landed in Birmingham where he was special agent in charge for Alabama and Mississippi. After his retirement, Jimmie was director of security for seven years at Samford University in Birmingham. He was a member of the Federal Criminal Investigators Association (FCIA), the Fraternal Order of Police Federal Lodge 23, and the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Association of Retirees (AFTAR). His tireless service to our country as a veteran and law enforcement officer has been often cited for excellence. Jimmie loved golf and was president of Chase Lake Country Club for two terms and a member since 1980. Many of his most precious friends and memories he found on the golf course. He was adored by his family and is survived by his wife, Phyllis; son, Doug Bivins (and wife Lin) of Chattanooga, Tenn.; daughters, Dee Dee Given of Hoover, Ala., and Donna Brandenburg (and husband Charles) of Pelham, Ala.; grandchildren, Drew, Doug and Chase Brandenburg and Trish Ballew (and husband John); and great-grandson, Tyler Prater. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and William Bivins of West Virginia; and his beloved brother, William “Billy” Bivins of Pelham. Also surviving are sisters, Mary Ann Davis and Nira Warden of St. Petersburg, Fla., Nancy Bivins of Pelham; brother, Robert Dean (Pat) of Robbinsville, N.C.; and many other cherished nieces and nephews and extended family. Jimmie was blessed with an outstanding group of friends both locally and across the U.S. Visitation will be 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, and memorial service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 23, at Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home, Highway, Hoover. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted at the Big Oak Ranch in the name of Jimmie Bivins at P.O. Box 507, Springville, AL 35146. The family wishes to thank family and friends for the love and affection of Jimmie during his lifetime. Arrangements by Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home, Hoover.

Larry Dean Davis, 67, of Maple Fork, died Monday, Aug. 13, 2007, at his home. Born Sept. 4, 1939, at Maple Fork, he was the son of the late Samuel Lewis and Delphia Lee Worrell Davis. Mr. Davis was a mechanic and electrician, having been last employed as the maintenance superintendent at Southern Regional Jail. He was a member of Maple Fork Baptist Church and the UMWA. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ruby McSpadden, and a brother, Lewis Alex Davis. Survivors include his companion, Brenda Baldwin Davis; two daughters, Katherine “Kathy” Davis Wilson of Flat Top Lake and Vicky Davis Wooten of Mount Hope; three sisters, Doris Marcus, Ella Treadway and Drema Stover, all of Maple Fork; and five brothers, Donald Davis of Daniels, Dennis Davis of Mansfield, Ohio, Jerry Davis of Maple Fork, Billy Davis of Kilsyth and Glen Davis of Maple Fork. Larry is also survived by a granddaughter, Kaitlin of Flat Top Lake; a grandson, Todd and his wife, Robin, of California; and his much beloved great-grandsons, Isiah and Garrett of California. Service will be 2 p.m. today at Tyree Funeral Home, Mount Hope, with the Rev. Harmon Davis officiating. Burial will be at Sam Davis Cemetery, Maple Fork. Visitation will be 1 to 2 p.m. today at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent at www.tyreefuneralhome.com Arrangements by Tyree Funeral Home, Mount Hope. [WWHS ’57]

Patrick Thomas Conner, age 18, of 113 Lode Drive, Beckley, died Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007, following an automobile accident in Beckley. Patrick was born on Oct. 14, 1988, in Beckley; he was the son of Tom Conner of Beckley and Sheryl Shields Conner of Bedford, Texas. Patrick had attended Woodrow Wilson High School and Maxwell Hill Baptist Church in Beckley. He had also made his home in Bedford, Texas. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Arlene Conner, Lorraine Conner, and Bob Shields. Surviving, other than his parents, are his sister, Lindsey Conner of Princeton; maternal grandparents, Martha Wood Gilmer and Jack Gilmer of Princeton. Services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at the Maxwell Hill Baptist Church in Beckley with Pastor Ken Killen officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Princeton. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. today at the church. Friends will serve as pallbearers. Online condolences may be sent to our guest book at www.roseandquesenberry.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.

Johnathon Tyler Ray Moore, 18, of Maple Fork Road, Mount Hope, died Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007, during a vehicle accident. Born April 8, 1989, in Beckley, he was the son of Kenny and Cindy Duncan Moore of Maple Fork. Johnathon Tyler was a 2007 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. He enjoyed playing his guitar, fishing, skateboarding, sports and being with friends and family. He had attended Maynor Freewill Baptist Church. Other survivors include a brother, William Kenneth Moore, and a sister, Amanda Marlee Moore, both of Maple Fork; grandparents, Bill and Donna Duncan of Maple Fork and Bill and Ida Moore of South Sandbranch Road, Beckley; aunts and uncles, Mike Duncan of Maple Fork, Billie Moore and Joe Jackson of Beckley, Diana Bragg and her husband, Jeff, of Odd, Susan Adcox and her husband, Mike, of Kansas City, Gayle Snyder and her husband, Barry, of Beaver and Clifford Moore of Beckley; and many cousins, friends and loved ones. Service will be 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley, with the Rev. Bill Parker and Pastor Forrest Gray officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. David Hensley, Kenny Whitt, Aaron Scarbro, Garrett Prince, Matt Linkswiler and Tyler McMillion will serve as pallbearers. Ashley Thornquest, Aaron Hunt, Dale McGuire and Derreck McMillion will serve as honorary pallbearers. Friends may gather with the family 6 to 9 p.m. today and one hour before service Friday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley.

Kristen Marie “Kiki” Ledwell, 16, of Beckley, passed away Saturday, Aug. 11, 2007, of injuries received in a car accident. Born April 14, 1991, she was the daughter of Donald Allen Ledwell and Ruth Marie Shelford. Kristen was a student at Woodrow Wilson High School and a member of Calloway Heights Community Church. She had a special friend, Dali from India, that she supported through the Christian Children's Fund. Kristen was also an organ donor. She loved art, music, and animals. Kristen was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents; a cousin, Aaron Daniel Shelford; and her special dog “Honey.” Those left to cherish her memory include her mother, Ruth of Beckley; her father, Donald and his wife, Faye, of Coeburn, Va.; a brother, Brian Ledwell of Wisconsin; her maternal grandparents, Eugene and Betty Shelford of Bradley; two uncles, Tim Shelford and his wife, Elizabeth, of Hatfield, Pa., and Daniel Shelford and his wife, Tammy, of Left Hand; cousins, Cassandra and Jennifer Shelford of Left Hand, and Timothy and John Wiley Shelford of Hatfield; several aunts and uncles and many special friends. Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley, with the Rev. Roy Owens and the Rev. Gary Ring officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. Officers from Southern Regional Jail will serve as pallbearers. Friends may gather with the family 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the Christian Children’s Fund and/or the Raleigh County Humane Society. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley.

Frankie (Pippin) Livsey. THE VILLAGES — Frankie M. Livsey, 69, died Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2007. Mrs. Livsey was born in Beckley, W.Va., and moved to The Villages from Pembroke Pines in 2004. She was a word processor for the City of North Miami; and attended St. Timothy Catholic Church, Lady Lake. Survivors include her husband, Chester F.; daughter, Cassie Cline, Ocala; brother, Barney Pippin, The Villages; and one grandson. Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, with a prayer service at 6 p.m. Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, The Villages, is in charge of arrangements. [WWHS ’55; from The Villages Daily Sun]

In Loving Memory of our father, husband, and best friend, Roger Dale Raines of Crab Orchard, who went to be with the Lord, his savior on August 6, 2007. He was 58 years of age. Born on March 22, 1949 in Beckley he was the son of the late Covey Rex and Thelma Gertrude Toney Raines. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Danny R. Raines and two sisters: Linda Blaylock and Mary Ann Raines. Roger worked for Ford Motor Company in Cleveland, Ohio and the coal mines in West Virginia. He was graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. Roger spent most of his life taking care of everyone who was around him. He always had a smile on his face. He couldn’t go a day without singing to you. He loved to play the keyboard and sing Christian music. He loved to fish and be with his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Marilyn Miller Raines; three daughters: Patricia Ann Spencer and husband Scott of Dover, Ohio, Angela Lynette Raines of Crab Orchard and Thelma J, Reeves and husband Timothy of Prosperity; four grandchildren: Sebrina Raines, Covey D. Raines, Kelsey Dawn Spence and Scotty Dean Spencer Jr.; a brother, Michael D. Raines of Eccles; and three sisters: Sandra Allison of Shady Spring, Betty Metrick of Beckley and Patricia James of Virginia. Funeral services will beconducted be at 1 p.m. Thursday, August 9th in the Melton Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Cecil Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Clear Creek. Friends may call this evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. The family requests no flowers and that donations of sympathy can be made to help with expenses. Condolences may be mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

HUDSON, N.C. — David Homer Harvey, 87, of Hudson, formerly of Grandview, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2007. Born March 6, 1920, he was the son of the late David Henderson and Chloe Farley Harvey. Homer was a retired cabinet maker/woodworker and was last employed with Cole Cabinet Co. for 13 years. He made the office desk/chair for Gov. Hulett Smith while he was in office. Homer graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and was an U. S. Army veteran, serving in World War II and the Korean Conflict, and served many years in the National Guard. He was a Christian and served in a number of churches through the years. He served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher in various churches. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Grandview. Homer enjoyed fine woodworking, hunting, gardening and his grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother, Paul Harvey; and sisters Ellen Lewis, Sadie Page, Eula McGrath and Ruth Holding. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Virginia Fay Wood Harvey; his son, David Homer Harvey II and his wife, Nancy, of Shady Spring; two daughters, Deanna Lee Prewitt and her husband, Keith, of Covington, Va., and Susanna Fay Dennie and her husband, Jerry, of Hudson; two brothers, Herman Henderson Harvey of Beckley and Robert Harvey and his wife, Jan, of Blairsville, Ga.; sister, Sybil Wood of Princeton; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Homer trusted Christ as his Savior in his latter 20s and faithfully served the Lord all these years. He had an intense love for his family and they for him. We all are left with wonderful memories, from his wife, Fay, of 66 years to his six grandchildren. He will be fondly remembered by family and friends. Service will be 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 5, at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley, with Pastor John Rinehart officiating. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. Grandsons and sons-in-law will serve as pallbearers. They are Jim McMorrow, Steve McMorrow, Jerry Dennie, Keith Prewitt, Andy Harvey and Josh Harvey. Friends may gather with the family 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley. [WWHS ’40]

LAWTON, Okla. — Judith Ann Waddell Phillips, 57, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, July 29, 2007. Born May 20, 1950, she was the daughter of Wilburn K. and Lacy Gertrude (Akers) Waddell. She grew up in Skelton and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1968. She married Ronald R. Phillips Sr. and moved to Lawton in 1986. Judy was a proud grandmother, a homemaker and a volunteer for the American Red Cross. She attended Harper Freedom Church. She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant son, Anthony Golden Phillips. Judy will be sadly missed by her two sons, Ronald R. Phillips Jr. and Chris Phillips, both of Lawton; her granddaughter, Kate-Lynn Phillips of Lawton; two brothers, Ronald Waddell and his wife, Jan, of Bridgeton, N.J., and William “Hoppy” Waddell of Beckley; three sisters, Mary Toney and her husband, Jim, of Sandston, Va., Cindy Hicks and her husband, Harold, of Jefferson City, Tenn., and Michelle Hayes of Beckley; former sister-in-law, Ruby Cobb of Crab Orchard; and brother-in-law, Mark Hayes of Beckley. She is also survived by 11 nieces and nephews. Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, at Skelton Freewill Baptist Church in honor of her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to assist the family with arrangements. Lawton Ritter Gray Funeral Home is serving the Phillips family.

On Monday, July 16, 2007, Mary Waddell Basham of Beckley, formerly of Sophia, passed away in a Beckley care center following a long illness. She was 85 years of age. Born Mary Emma Waddell on May 7, 1922, at Pemberton, she was the daughter of the late Jeter and Lina Cook Waddell. Mary spent her childhood at Pemberton. A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1940, she was a longtime resident of Sophia, moving to Beckley in 1965. She was of the Christian faith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Edward Basham, in 1977. Mary was the beloved mother of Barbara Bowman and her husband, Larry, of Ocala, Fla.; the dear grandmother of Michael Carl Bowman and David Alan Bowman and his wife, Nicole, all of Orlando, Fla.; the great-grandmother of David Cole Bowman of Orlando; the fond sister of Kathleen Hand and Gale Waddell, both of Richmond, Va., Nancy Davidson of Baltimore, Md., Charles Waddell of York, Va., and the Rev. Jack Waddell of Chatham, Va. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Graveside service will be 11 a.m. today at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley, with the Rev. Jack Waddell officiating. There will be no public visitation. Close friends are invited to meet at the cemetery and attend the graveside services. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

SPANISHBURG — Dorothy Marie Hatcher Dillon, 81, of the Rich Creek Road, Spanishburg, died peacefully Saturday, July 14, 2007, at her residence. Born July 12, 1926, at Affinity, she was the daughter of the late Willard Lee Basham and Florence Sinda Shrewsbury Basham. Dorothy was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister. She was a member of Spanishburg United Methodist Church, the church choir, the United Methodist Women and had worked in many areas of the church. She enjoyed gardening, raising her flowers, quilting and doing crafts. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Eugene Hatcher; her second husband Lowell T. Dillon; and four siblings, Ralph Basham, Roy Basham, Beulah Rowe and Bonnie Troupe. Survivors include her children and their spouses, Larry and Judy Hatcher of Albuquerque, N.M., William “Bill” and Sue Hatcher of Princeton, Jack and Betty Hatcher of Stafford, Va., and Donald and Sharon Hatcher of Mechanicsville, Md.; stepsons and spouse, Charles and Rita Dillon of Hanover, Va., and James Dillon of York, Va.; 16 grandchildren; 15 great- grandchildren; sisters, Orean Kirk of Mullens, Delphia Ann Chow of Port Scott, Kan., and Edna Umile and husband, Al, of Coatesville, Pa. On Thursday, July 19, 2007, at 11 a.m., we will celebrate the life of Mrs. Dillon from the Burns Wornal Chapel of the Memorial Funeral Directory on the Athens Road in Princeton with Pastor Casper Dalton officiating. Burial will follow in the Blue Ridge Memory Gardens, Beckley. Friends may visit with the family 6 until 8 today at the funeral home. Family and friends may share messages of love and concerns with online condolence via www.memorialfd. com Memorial gifts of love can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1111 Lee Street, E., Charleston, WV 25301 The honor of serving the Dillon Family has been given to the Memorial Funeral Directory & Cremation Center on the Athens Road in Princeton.

On Sunday, July 15, 2007, Yvonne Pack Meade of the Sweeneysburg Community passed away in a Beckley hospital following a short illness. She was 71 years of age. Born Yvonne Cecilia Pack on Jan. 21, 1936, Yvonne was the only child of the late Roy Darren and Ruth Simmons Pack. A lifelong resident of Sweeneysburg, Yvonne was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1951. After finishing high school, she furthered her education when she trained with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, D.C. Yvonne’s greatest contribution to society was that of wife and mother. She raised six children and dedicated her life to them and her husband. The greatest job of all, that of being a homemaker. In her leisure time she enjoyed sewing. Yvonne is the beloved wife of James “Jim” William Meade for the past 43 years. She is the loving mother of Gloria Parker and her husband George of Ruthers Glen, Va.; Loretta Henslee and her husband Randy of Maryville, Tenn.; Jamie Meade, Rhonda Meade, Blaine Meade and Annie Taylor and her husband Charles all of Sweeneysburg; the dear grandmother of several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Wednesday at 3 p.m. at the Melton Mortuary Chapel, with Pastor Nick Mumejian officiating. Burial will follow in the Meade Family Cemetery at Sweeneysburg. Friends may call Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. and one hour prior to the services on Wednesday. Pallbearers will be family members and friends. Condolences may be mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

On Thursday, July 12, 2007, Odell E. Jessup, a Christian gentleman, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, public servant and good friend, passed away at the Doug and Lucy Bowers Hospice House. He was in his 85th year. Odell Earlwood Jessup was born on May 30, 1922, at Sophia; he was one of 13 children born to the late Grant M. and Emma Clements Jessup. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters and seven brothers. Mr. Jessup spent his childhood at Sophia and Mt. Tabor. A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in 1942, he excelled in football and track. He served in the National Guard and was an aviation cadet with the U.S. Navy during WWII. A graduate of Mountain State University and the University of Charleston, he also studied at Appalachian Bible College. The owner of OE Jessup Company, a wholesale feed and grocery store, he was in business for 25 years. Odell had a love for politics. The elected assessor of Raleigh County for 14 years, he retired in 1988 due to ill health. He was an active member of the Maxwell Hill Baptist Church, and was instrumental in the fundraising committee for the Appalachian Bible College. Mr. Jessup was a past member and served on the board of directors for the Beckley YMCA, Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce and the Raleigh County Sheltered Workshop. He held membership in the American Legion Post 32 and was past president of the Beckley Rural Development council. A former little league baseball manager, he was active in raising monies for the Beckley YMCA facility. Odell was the Raleigh County chairman for the West Virginia Kidney Foundation, where he helped procure the first dialysis machine for citizens of Raleigh County and the surrounding area. In his leisure time, Odell was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman. In addition to the Jessup family, he was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Ethan Hunter Jessup. Odell Jessup is the beloved husband of Ethel Taylor Jessup, the past 64 years. They have made their home on Maxwell Hill since 1960. The loving father of Sharon England and her husband Ronald of Beckley; Dr. Earl Jessup and his wife Beth of Barrie, Ontario, Canada, and Larry Jessup and his wife Daphne of Crow; the dear grandfather of Penny Carrico, Chuck Jessup, Wendy Poteat, Natalie Cochran, Crystal Miller, Jay Jessup, Susanna Owen, Rachel Jessup, Joel Jessup, Jeff England, and Jennifer Meadows; 14 living great-grandchildren and a brother, Nat Henry “Jimmy” Jessup of Crab Orchard. Funeral services will be held Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Maxwell Hill Baptist Church with the Rev. Ken Killen and Dr. Earl Jessup officiating. Entombment will follow in the Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum in Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. today, Saturday, at the church and one hour prior to the services on Sunday. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Donations of sympathy can be made to the Doug and Lucy Bowers Hospice House, P.O. Box 1472, Beckley, W.Va. 25802. Condolences may be mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

Betty Swann, age 67, of Beckley, died Thursday, May 24, 2007, at the Beckley Appalachian Regional Hospital, following a long illness. Born at Beckley on March 29, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Mason and Lulu Marie Quesenberry Parker. She was a homemaker. Survivors include her son, Daniel Swann of Beckley; daughters, Brenda Calderis of Beckley and Kathy Swann of South Carolina; a brother, Frank Parker of Memphis, Tenn.; two grandchildren, Christina Black of Beckley and Jennifer Black of Beckley; and six great-grandchildren. There will be no services or visitation. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home in Beckley. [WWHS '58]

Jerold Alvin Wade, 19, of Beckley, was found dead in his off-campus apartment at Marshall University Tuesday by his landlord. Huntington authorities said today Wade's death was due to pneumonia. The son of Mrs. Paul Dingess, Wade was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. His mother, a teacher at Sylvia Elementary School, and his stepfather, a teacher at McGraws Elementary School, live at 117 Fulton Ave., in Beckley. Funeral arrangements are incomplete. [WWHS '70; Raleigh Register, Sept. 6, 1972]

On Sunday, June 24, 2007, Jody Andrew Dunbar passed away at Crab Orchard. He was 32 years of age. Jody was born Aug. 29, 1974, in Beckley. He was the beloved son of Norma Lee Bennett Bowles of Crab Orchard and Jerry L. Dunbar Sr. of Bluefield. Jody spent his childhood at Crab Orchard. He was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, he held the rank of lance corporal. A resident of Orange County, Calif., for a number of years, he returned to the Beckley area in 2005. While in California, he was a lineman for the telephone company. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dr. Lloyd and Mildred Dunbar; and his maternal grandparents, Percy Bennett and Nina Bennett Worley. In addition to his parents, Jody was the dear brother of Jerry Lynn Dunbar II and his wife, Young-Oak, of Hanau, Germany, and Wade Bowles of Crab Orchard. Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Sutphin Cemetery, Brethern Church Road, Crab Orchard, with the Rev. Scott Lester officiating. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

Billy Joe Neal, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend went to his eternal home on March 5, 2007, at the age of 76 years and 11 months. He was born April 2, 1930, at Lawton. He was the son of Lacy Warren Neal and Addy Catherine Fox Neal who preceded him death. His older brother Lacy Warren Neal Jr. also preceded him in death. Bill graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley, and attended West Virginia University. He took many courses pertaining to the aluminum smelting business and worked for Kaiser Aluminum & Chemical Corporation from 1958 until his retirement in 1985. For Kaiser he worked in the Reduction Plants in Ravenswood, W.Va., Tacoma, Wash., and Tema, Ghana, West Africa. He also did supervisory work for Kaiser in both Germany and Wales. Bill started as a laborer and advanced to Reduction Manager. Bill accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior as a teenager and served in various capacities in the churches were he lived. He was a charter member of the First Presbyterian Church of Ripley, where he served as Elder and worked on building committees and various other works for the Lord. He served as chairman of the board of trustees, building committees and assistant treasure at the Chapel of Christian Faith in Lady Lake, Fla., where he lived for the last 20 years. He had been an active member of the Masonic Lodge in both Fayetteville and Ripley. His wife, Geneva Cutright Neal, having married April 29, 1950, survives him. Also surviving are two sons and their wives, David Mark Neal (Sharon) of Gonzales, La., and Charles Douglas Neal (Lori) of Mukilteo, Wash.; two grandchildren, David Mark Neal Jr. and Samantha Lacy Neal; three stepgrandchildren; and his sister, Kathryn Neal Redman of Alexandria, Va. At Bill's request, there will be no viewing. There will be an entombment service at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in the Mausoleum of Peace in Beckley, at 2 p.m. Friday, March 9, conducted by the Rev. William McMorran. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Bill's memory may be made to The First Presbyterian Church of Ripley, The Chapel of Christian Faith in Lady Lake, Fla., or to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Dr., Beckley. [WWHS ’48; Charleston Gazette]

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Earle Raymond Keaton, major, U.S. Army (retired), 88, of 214 Fernwood Drive, died Monday, June 25, 2007, at Mary Black Memorial Hospital. Born July 22, 1918, in Beckley, he was the son of the late Clovis Claibourne and Josie Martin Keaton. A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley, he attended the University of Louisville. At the age of 15, he joined the National Guard, and after six years of service, he began active duty in 1941 as a 2nd lieutenant in the 150th Infantry West Virginia National Guard. He served in Panama, guarding the Panama Canal, 1942-43. Upon returning to the states, he was stationed at Camp Croft where he met and married his wife, Caroline, in 1944. He then served in the European Theatre for 18 months and later served in Korea and Japan. After his retirement from the U.S. Army in 1960, he was employed with the South Carolina State Employment Security Commission in Spartanburg, retiring in 1981. He was a member of Central United Methodist Church where he was a former trustee, member of the Methodist Men’s Club and an usher. He was a member of the Military Officers Association, Lan-Yair Country Club and the Creek Club. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Caroline Spencer Keaton; a daughter, Jane Keaton Turnage of Pauline, S.C.; a son, Earle R. “Rusty” Keaton, Jr. and his wife, Margaret, of Greenville, S.C.; a granddaughter, Jennifer Turnage McCarter of Inman, S.C.; two grandsons, Earle R. “Chip” Keaton III and his wife, Wendi, of Bedford, Va., and Gary Keaton of Easley, S.C.; a step-grandson, Gene Giddens of Cambridge, England; seven great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Josie Turnage; four brothers; and three sisters. Visitation will be 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. today at Floyd’s Greenlawn Chapel. Graveside service with full military rites will be 11 a.m. Thursday, June 28, at Oakland Cemetery, Gaffney, S.C., conducted by the Rev. Luther H. Rickenbaker III. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Josie Turnage Scholarship Fund, c/o the Spartanburg County Foundation, 424 E. Kennedy St., Spartanburg, S.C. 29302 or to Central United Methodist Church Building Fund, 233 N. Church St., Spartanburg, S.C. 29306. The family is at the home. An online guest register is available at www.floydmortuary.com. Arrangements by The J. F. Floyd Mortuary, Spartanburg.

MILLVILLE, Ky. — Carl Lewis Neff, 94, passed away Thursday, June 21, 2007. Mr. Neff was born July 12, 1912 in Layland, and was the son of the late Mary Jane and Robert Tilden Neff. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Reeda Neff; a daughter, Donita Lodmell of Millville; a son, Donald Neff and his wife, Pat, of Springfield, Va., a brother, Joe Neff of Kimbolton, Ohio; a sister, Velma Bostic of Oak Hill; nine grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sisters, two brothers and a son-in-law. Carl graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, Beckley, Concord College, Athens, George Peabody College, Nashville, Tenn., and taught math in West Virginia at Shady Spring and then Sophia High Schools where he later became the principal. Having also graduated from the Armored Officers Candidate School in Fort Knox, Ky., he served in World War II and retired as a major from the active Reserves. He was a member of the Woodrow Wilson Football Hall of Fame, a 35-year member of the Sophia Lions Club and served as president and secretary of the Raleigh County Education Association. Carl attended Sophia United Methodist Church and Versailles United Methodist Church. Service will be 2 p.m. Monday, June 25, at Blackburn and Ward Funeral Home, Versailles, Ky., with the Revs. Rebecca Peterson and Mike Lehman officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, Beckley. Visitation will be noon until time of service Monday at the funeral home. Memorials contributions are suggested to Hospice of the Bluegrass, 208 Steele St., Frankfort, Ky. 40601 or Versailles United Methodist Church Building Fund, 110 N. Court St., Versailles, Ky. 40383. Online guestbook available Blackburnandward.com. Arrangements by Blackburn and Ward Funeral Home, Versailles.

Douglas P. Malone Sr., 72, of Grafton, died Monday, June 18, 2007 at his residence following a lengthy illness. He was born in Glen White, WV, and had lived in Grafton for the past eight years. Prior to moving to Grafton he resided in North Ridgeville for over 30 years. He was a 1953 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley, WV and had attended Baldwin Wallace College in Berea for two years. He was employed by the Ford Motor Company for 51 years of credited service and retired in 1998. While at Ford he worked as a Millwright and then as a Union Committeeman. He then served as the International Benefits Representative for the last 21 years that he was with Ford. He was a member of UAW Local #1250 in Brook Park and also was a member of the Brook Park Community Church of the Brethren. He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Green Bay Packers, anything Notre Dame and NASCAR. He also enjoyed golfing, gardening, music and spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife of 8 years, Jean (nee Sheme) (formerly Horner); three sons, Douglas P. Malone Jr. of Chillicothe, David Malone Sr. (Paula) of Crestwood, KY, and Kevin Malone of North Ridgeville; two step-daughters, Cyndi Bova (Chuck) of Brunswick and Kim Manochi (Steve) of Brunswick; one step-son, Dony Horner (Terry) of Seville; one granddaughter, Angela Malone; three grandsons, Ryan Malone, Kyle Malone and David Malone Jr.; eight step-grandchildren, Sean Brunner, Zach Corcoran, Samantha and Chaz Bova, Dony and Dylan Horner, Savanah and Joe Manochi; two great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, David A. and Rose (nee Coley) Malone; three brothers, Pat, Hugh and Bob Malone; three sisters, Theresa Gilliespie, Ruth Malone and Elizabeth Martin. The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 and 6 to 9 P.M. Wednesday at the Liston Funeral home, 36403 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville, where Funeral Services will be 11 A.M. Rev. Terry Vaught from Brook Park Community Church of the Brethren, will officiate. Burial will be at Butternut Ridge Cemetery in Eaton Township. Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. [Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, Ohio]

On Saturday, June 16, 2007, Louise Stanley of Beckley passed away in a Fayette County care center following a long illness. She was 77 years of age. Louise was born on Feb. 21, 1930, at Hemphill. She was the daughter of the late Clyde Austin and Edna Elizabeth Jones Bryner. Louise spent her childhood in Beckley. A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, she attended Concord University (Concord College) where she received a degree in education. Louise retired from Park Junior High School. A member of First Christian Church, Court House Square, she had been a member of the Beckley Junior Women’s Club, and in her leisure time she enjoyed art. In more recent years, she and her beloved husband of 57 years, Warner Stanley, enjoyed wintering down South where they had homes in New Smyrna Beach, Fla., and Myrtle Beach, S.C. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Melton Mortuary Chapel with the Rev. Don Snyder officiating. Burial will follow in the Stanley family plot at Sunset Memorial Park in Beckley. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today, Tuesday, at the mortuary and one hour prior to the services on Wednesday. Condolences may be mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

Cynthia Ann Goodson died Wednesday, May 2, 2007, at Thomas Memorial Hospital after a short illness. Born June 28, 1952, she was the daughter of Clarence William Goodson Jr. and Wanda D. Smith. Cynthia graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, Beckley, in 1970 and graduated from West Virginia State College (now West Virginia State University), Institute, in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work. Cynthia was employed for many years at first Union Carbide, then Dow Chemical Corporation in South Charleston as a Materials Handler and as a Data Entry Clerk. Cynthia was preceded in death by a great-grandmother, Evelyn Tyree of Beckley; maternal grandparents, William Dow Sr. and Johnnie Mae Dow of Dayton, Ohio; paternal grandparents, Clarence William Goodson Sr. and Annie Mae Goodson of Harper Heights; three aunts, Mary Page of Wilmington, Del., Doris Dow of Bronx, N.Y., Carrie Evelyn Dow of Dayton, Ohio; and two uncles, Walter Ernest Dow of Long Island, N.Y., William Dow Jr. of Dayton, Ohio. Left to cherish her memory are her loving mother, Wanda D. Smith of Beckley; brother, Adib Aqeel of Beckley; great-aunt, Geneva Jasper of Beckley; maternal aunt, Gloria Dow of Dayton, Ohio; and numerous cousins. Also left to cherish her memory are special friends, Patricia Canada of Beckley, Martee Jackson of Charleston, Cathy Turner of Deepwater, Loretta Pettway of Charleston, and other special and dear friends too numerous to mention. Cynthia was loved and cherished by all who knew her and she will be greatly missed. Service will be held Monday, May 7, at 1 p.m. at St. Paul Baptist Church, 812 B St., St. Albans, with the Rev. Michael A. Poke Sr. officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Arrangements entrusted to Preston Funeral Home, Charleston. [Charleston Gazette]

Elsa Marie Thewes Deck, 94, of Newark, Del., formerly of Charleston, died Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007. Elsa was born Oct. 12, 1912, in Brooklyn, N.Y., to the late Jacob and Josephine Peulen Thewes. She was preceded in death in 1999 by her husband of 60 years, James Emmett Deck. She attended St. Anthony's Catholic Church. She is also preceded in death by brothers, Alfonso A. of Beckley, Frank R. of South Charleston, and Jacob W. of Charleston; by sisters, Mary M. Raver and Erna Thewes of Charleston; and son-in-law, Baron A. Bryan of Glen Dale. Elsa is survived by her daughters, Rebecca Jeanne Bennett of Newark, Del., and Susan Marie Bryan Chambers of Moundsville; brother, Richard F. Thewes of South Charleston; sister, Cecilia Griffith of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; grandchildren, Dana Marie Kessler of Troy, Mo., Baron Allen Bryan of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Catherine Marie Moore of Reading, Pa.; great-grandchildren, Jacob Wayne Bryan, Baron Alex Bryan, Kaylee Marie Kessler and Krista Marie Kessler. Mrs. Deck was graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley. She was employed as a sales clerk by the Diamond Dept. Store for more than 30 years until the store closed and then by Stone and Thomas into her 80s. Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church with Father Dismas Young officiating. Burial will be in Spring Hill Cemetery, Charleston. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6, at Bartlett Burdette Cox Funeral Home. A Christian wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m. An online guest registry is available at www.bartlettburdettecoxfuneralhome.com. [Charleston Gazette]

On Monday, June 11, 2007, Rebecca J. Chatfield of Beckley died suddenly at her home. She was 57 years of age. Known affectionately as Becky, Rebecca was born Feb. 25, 1950, in Beckley; she was one of seven children born to the late Ervin and Nancy A. Jennings Chatfield. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, James and Gary; and sisters, Linda Chatfield and Carol Wessells. Becky spent her childhood at Calloway Heights. She was a loyal and faithful employee of State Farm Insurance Co. for a number of years in the Beckley area. She had attended Memorial Baptist Church where she was a member of the Adult Sunday School Class. Becky was a lover of life. She loved to drive fast, wear western clothes, travel, dine out, cook and embroider. A lover of the Native American culture, she enjoyed antiques and collectibles. She will be remembered for steadfast friendship, her kindhearted ways and her love of animals. In addition to her family, she was preceded in death by dear companion, Robert Fleshman III. She was the loving sister of Patricia Shanholtzer and Nancy Joyce Agati; dear sister-in-law to Kendall Shanholtzer and Claude Wessells; the fond aunt of Kristen Stenson, April Pike, Torina Collis and James, Mark, Allen and Kendall Chatfield; and John Collis; the great-aunt of Richard Pergolizzi, Johnny Collis Jr. and Kaitlyn Pike; many cousins, among them Kenneth Jennings, of Beckley; the beloved friend of Jo Fleshman, Doris Farrugia, Gale Quesenberry, David Walker, Suzanna Morris, her goddaughter, Sara Colosi, her beloved pet, Cinder, and many, many other friends. Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Paul Blizard officiating. Entombment will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Friends may call 1 p.m. until time of the service Saturday at the funeral home. Condolences may be e-mail-ed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley. [WWHS ’68]

Dennis R. Shumate, 62, of 12 Polo Ridge Circle, Columbia [S. C.], died Friday, May 18, 2007 in Richland Memorial Hospital. Mr. Shumate was born in Beckley, West Virginia, a son of the late Vince L. and Imogene Acord Shumate. He attended Marshall University and West Virginia University and was a US Air Force veteran of the Vietnam Era. Mr. Shumate was owner of Shumate Appraisal Services, Inc. He was a member of Incarnation Lutheran Church and a member of the George Rogers Foundation Board. A beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, he is survived by his wife Lou Ringer Shumate; a daughter, Jennifer Shumate of Georgia; a son, Joshua D. Shumate of Columbia; two step-sons, Robert E. Morgan and Brian D. Morgan both of Columbia; two brothers, James Vincent Shumate of Surprise, AZ and Ronald Dean Shumate of Austin, TX; three grandchildren, Tyler Shumate, Ethan Shumate, and Michelle Shumate; godchildren, Christopher and AnnaMarie Ringer; a great niece, Carter Coggins; and his beloved dog, Buddy. Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM Monday at Incarnation Lutheran Church by the Rev. Dr. James Parham, Bishop David Donges, and the Rev. Phillip Coggins. Interment will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM Sunday at the Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine St. The family will be at the residence, 12 Polo Ridge Circle. Memorials may be made to Incarnation Lutheran Church, 3005 Devine St. Columbia, SC 29205 or to the George Rogers Foundation, PO Box 205, Columbia SC 29202. Messages to the family may be sent via email at notes@whitakerfuneralhome.com. Whitaker Funeral Home, Newberry, is assisting the family.

Mildred Louise Smith, 73, of Mt. Hope passed away on Monday, November 24, 2003, at her home. Mildred was born October 2, 1930, in Hinton, the daughter of the late Othor Harman Garten and Ruby Irene Garten. Granddaughter Erin Crawford also preceded her in death. Survivors include her husband, David Smith, of Beckley; a daughter, Kimberly Ferrell and husband Mitchell of Hurricane; a son, F. David Barton and wife Lisa of Beckley; her precious grandchildren, Ricky Crawford, Jame Barton, Brianne Gilkerson and husband Ryan, Chase Barton, Lori Ellis, Betsi Ferrell and Kerry Meadows; and two great-grandchildren. According to her wishes Mildred will be cremated and a private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley. [WWHS '48]

David Smith, 74, of Mt. Hope passed away on July 13, 2004, at CAMC in Charleston following a short illness. David was born on August 20, 1929, in Beckley, the son of the late William J. Smith Sr. and Eura Lowery Smith. He was a U. S. Air Force veteran, having served in the Korean Conflict as a Staff Sergeant. He was a retired route supervisor for Flavo-Rich and the former owner of Smith's Grocery and Meat Market of Beckley. He truly enjoyed fishing. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Louise Garten Smith, in November of 2003; 3 brothers and 3 sisters. Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Kimberly Ferrell, and her husband Michael of Hurricane; a son, F. David Barton and his wife Lisa of Beckley; grandchildren, Brianne Gilkerson and her husband Ryan, Chase Barton, Lori Ellis and her husband Marty, Betsi Ferrell and Kerry Meadows; a brother, George Reuben Smith, of Goodlettsville, TN, and a cousin, George R. Wilson and his wife, Betty, of Beckley. There will be no services and in keeping with Mr. smith's wishes, he will be cremated. Arrangements entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley. [WWHS '48]

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Adrien Donnell Scales entered the earthly phase of his destiny at 3:26 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, 1970, in Greensboro at the L. Richardson Hospital. He was born the son of the late Bishop James A. Scales and Bishop-Designate Connie T. Scales, and was the twin brother to Andre Donnell Scales. He was born again through baptism and the infilling of the Holy Ghost of God on May 26, 1981. On April 12, 2003, he acknowledged the call to ministry. He then sought to enhance his knowledge basis and to learn the how-tos of ministry through classes at Evangel Cathedral Bible School in Upper Marlboro, Md., and Calvary Bible Institute, Washington, D.C. On Wednesday, May 30, 2007, he slipped from this life into the continuing life on the other side surrounded by family and close friends. From birth he had been a part of Power House of Deliverance Church of the Apostolic Faith in Greensboro, being christened by the late Bishop J.H. Covington, presiding bishop, and continuing under the leadership of Bishop W.L. Washington, current presiding prelate. He had also served ministry under the pastorate of his father, Bishop James A. Scales, and his mother, Bishop-Designate Connie T. Scales, at Holiness Church of Jesus in Beckley. Being a “preacher’s kid,” church became a vital part of his life. He was active in Sunday school, choir, youth department and as minister of music in his home church. Upon moving to Washington, D.C., and after becoming a member of Greater Mount Calvary Church, he was part of the Susie Owens Chorale and the Men’s Praise Team. As a member of The Victorious Praise Singers he sang on their initial recording project, “So Much To Thank God For.” His melodious tenor voice repeatedly blessed many as it ushered us into the presence of God. He was an honor roll student throughout his academia. He was listed in Who’s Who among high school students. Following his graduation from Woodrow Wilson High School, he earned both the Bachelor of Arts and Master’s degrees in criminal justice from Marshall University. He was a recipient of the Carter G. Woodson Fellowship and taught a semester at Marshall University in the Criminal Justice Department. Adrien moved from Washington, D.C., to Huntington in January and began working at Green Acres, a facility to assist the autistic, as a supervisor/case manager. Although only there a short time, his impact was tremendous as he had shown kindness, concern and professionalism. His bubbly personality attracted people to him and he would help anyone that he could. He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Bishop-Designate Connie T. Scales; his twin brother, Andre D. Scales of Washington, D.C.; his brother, David Lamont Scales of Beckley; two aunts, Mrs. Carolyn Cummings (Delma) of Reidsville, N.C., and Mary Ann Wimple of Reidsville; two great-aunts, Mrs. Delia Harris of High Point, N.C., and Mrs. Emaline Alston of High Point; an uncle, Bishop William L. Washington (Alice B.) of North Carolina; numerous cousins; two adopted sisters, Gloria Oglesby of Huntington and Minister Cynthia Riley of Middletown, Del.; and his sweet pea, Destiny Riley. There are some very special friends who include Keith Combs, Willie Edwards and Prince Hardin. His pool of friends extends beyond the ability to include in this obituary and in our effort we will surely leave out very significant individuals. Please be comforted in the fact that you know who you are and what the relationship has been. Service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at Power House of Deliverance Garden Cathedral, Greensboro, where friends may call one hour before service, with Ministers Bishop William L. Washington and Bishop Designate Delores Duren officiating. Burial will follow in Greenhill Cemetery, High Point. Friends may also call 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday at Holiness Church of Jesus, 127 Ringleben St., Beckley. Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie and Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

Ruth Anna Graham Jones, 83, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 31, 2007. She passed away at Reston Hospital Center in Reston, Va., following complications from recent cancer surgeries. Born March 28, 1924, in Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Ernest Taylor Graham and Grace Bell Jones Graham. Ruth was a lifelong resident of Beckley and a 1942 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. She was an active member of Memorial Baptist Church in Beckley for over 61 years and worked in the church kitchen until taking time off for cancer surgery in February. Ruth was also a former employee of the Town & Country retail store in Beckley. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, William Alfred Jones, in 1999; and a brother, Robert Harvey Graham, in 1996. Ruth is survived by her daughter and husband, Connie and John Godby of Sterling, Va.; a brother and wife, Pete and Ann Graham of Beckley; a sister and husband, Helen and Dick Brattin of Portland, Ore.; four grandchildren, Sherri Camann of Winchester, Va., Julie Camann and husband, David, of Sterling, Lori Medley and husband, John, of Purcellville, Va., and John Godby Jr. and wife, Julie, of Sterling; 12 great-grandchildren; one brand new great-great-granddaughter; two nieces and five nephews. Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Memorial Baptist Church, Beckley, with the Rev. Paul Blizard officiating. Entombment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum, Beckley. Friends may call 6 to 9 p.m. Monday at the church. Deacons of the church will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Memorial Baptist Church Building Fund, 1405 S. Kanawha St., Beckley, WV 25801. Online condolences may be sent to our guest book at www.roseandquesenberry.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — Carolyn Sue (Hutchens) Short passed away on Monday, May 28, 2007, in Overland Park after a brave battle with colon cancer. Carolyn was born in Beckley in 1948. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and Beckley College. She moved to southern California and then returned to Beckley in 1978 to serve the executives of Westmoreland Coal Co. She moved to Tallahassee, Fla., in the early 1990s where she was a frequent volunteer at Birdsong Arboretum as well as her children’s schools. She moved to Las Vegas, Nev., in the late ’90s where she helped run a small business. She relocated with the business to Overland Park in 2002 and worked until the month of her death. Carolyn loved to travel and was a British car enthusiast, winning several prizes at nationally sanctioned car shows. She is survived by her husband, L. Mark Short, and her three children, Phillip C. Meyers of Greenwich, Conn., Jennifer L. Kemp of New Orleans, La., and Savanna K. Kemp of Overland Park. She is also survived by a large and loving extended family. A very special thank you to the loving care given by the professionals at Kansas City Cancer Center on Holmes Boulevard. A viewing will be 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 1, followed by service at 7 p.m., at D.W. Newcomer’s Sons Chapel, 8201 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park. As an alternative to flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Carolyn’s name to the Kansas City Hospice Foundation, 9221 Ward Parkway, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64114 or Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Attn: Gifts & Donations, 1275 York Ave., New York, NY 10021. Fond memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.dwnewcomers.com. Arrangements by D.W. Newcomer’s Sons Overland Park Chapel, Overland Park. [WWHS '66]

CASHIERS, N.C. — George Arnold Gunter Jr., 73, died May 17, 2007, in Cashiers. Born Dec. 16, 1933, at Lillybrook, he was the son of the late George A. Sr. and Gertrude E. Gunter. George served with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict as a high speed radio operator, being honorably discharged after a tour of four years service. Retiring from C&P Telephone Co. after 33 years of service, George lived in Sugar Grove before moving to Cashiers. He was preceded in death by a sister, Georgia N. Gilmore. He is survived by a son, George A. Gunter III of Parkersburg; three daughters, Joy Elizabeth Held, Terry Donne Gunter and Georgia Anne Gunter, all of Parkersburg; a son-in-law, Christopher Murnaham of Parkersburg; a daughter-in-law, Cathy Gunter of Parkersburg; three grandchildren, Aurora Elizabeth Held, Kitri Sierra Held and Jeanetta Jean Gunter, all of Parkersburg; three sisters, Gail Looney and Nelda Gallaher, both of Beckley, and Betty Verduce of Grosse Ile, Mich.; and several nephews. Memorial service will be held in Beckley at a later date. Arrangements were by Moody Funeral Home, Sylva, N.C.

In loving memory of Melissa Jean Ford, April 14, 1961 - May 21, 2007. Melissa was loved by all who's life she touched. Melissa is survived by Mary Cannella, her life partner and soulmate; her sister, Deborah Saddler; her brother, Edward Ford and her niece, Heather Lilly; and her best friend in the world, Christy Roberts. Memorial Services will be Saturday at 11AM at the Collison Family Funeral Home, 3806 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, with Reverend John Middleton officiating. A Viewing is being held Friday from 6-8PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at dystonia-foundation.org. Services entrusted to COLLISON FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, HOWELL BRANCH CHAPEL, 3806 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, FL. 407-678-4500 [Orlando Sentinel] A guestbook is here.

FAYETTEVILLE — Teresa Lee Hovanski Johnson, 55, died Monday, May 14, 2007. Memorial service will be 2 p.m. today at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens Mausoleum No. 3, Beckley. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the WVU Eye Institute, Children’s Vision Rehabilitation Program, Attn: Paula Lang, P.O. Box 9193, Morgantown, W.Va. 26506. Checks should be made payable to the WUV Foundation. Online condolences may be sent at www.tyreefuneralhome.com Arrangements by Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hil. [WWHS '69]

FAYETTEVILLE — Michael Ray Burns, of Fayetteville, left this earthly life to enter his heavenly home on Saturday, May 19, 2007. Born Feb. 6, 1953, in Huntington, the son of the late Sylvester Ray Burns and Rosetta Lee Phelps Burns. Mike was an instructor of broadcasting for the Raleigh County Board of Education and a substitute teacher for Fayette County. He was a member of the Church of Christ in Oak Hill. Mike is survived by his wife of 30 years, Sharon Burns; his son, Andrew Miller Burns and wife Nellie Marie Burns; two beloved grandsons, Eli Miller Burns and Isaac Morgan Burns, all of Fayetteville; and a loving circle of extended family, cousins, brothers and sisters in Christ, co-workers, and friends. His remains rest at High Lawn Funeral Home Chapel, 1435 E. Main St., Oak Hill, where the family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. Monday (today), and where service will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday, with Mr. Gene Miller officiating. Entombment will be in High Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Fayette County Public Library of Surprise Valley Youth Camp, P.O. Box 951, Beckley, WV 25801. Arrangements by High Lawn Funeral Home Chapel, Oak Hill. [WWHS '71]

Mrs. Virginia Cooper Bonds, 88, of Beckley, died Tuesday, May 22, 2007, at a local hospital afer a long extended illness. Born March 10, 1919, at Mullens, she was the daughter of the late E. Freely and Portis Ann Stovall Cooper. Mrs. Bonds attended local schools and was a 1936 graduate of WWHS. A retired educator, having taught for 35 years, she was a 1940 graduate of Marshall University and obtained her Masters Degree from Ohio State University in 1945. Virginia was an active member for over 50 years and past matron of the Bethlehem Chapter No. 71, Order of the Eastern Star, member and past worthy high priestess of the Judea Shire No. 13 Order of the White Shrine in Beckley. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Beckley, where she was also a member of the Pathfinders Sunday School Class, serving as treasurer. Virginia was an active member of the Shepherd’s Center and had been for the beginning of it’s organization. She was also a member of the NRTA, Raleigh County Educators Association, Christian Women’s Club, and Town and County Home Makers Extension Services, serving as secretary for many years. Virginia enjoyed traveling and sightseeing, especially her travels to Europe, Scotland, Alaska and Hawaii. She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Woodrow Bonds; brother, William Edward Cooper; half brother, Fred V. Cooper; half sister, Myrtle Boggess; and sister-in-law, Sylvia Mae Bond. Surviving are nieces, Frances Scyphers of Athens, Irene Bowen of Dalton, Ga., Connie Cooper of Beckley, Paulette Bond of Tallahassee, Fla., Janet Evans of Oklahoma City, Okla.; nephews, E.K. Boggess of Peterstown, Harry F. Cooper of Daytona Beach, Fla., Joseph Bond of Charleston and Jimmy Bond of Guam; and brother-in-law, Paul Bond of Beckley. Special thanks to her care givers, Cubie, Linda, Audra, Velda, Roxanne, Bonnie and Kim. Also surviving are several cousins and her extended church family. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Friday from the First United Methodist Church, 217 South Heber Street, Beckley, with Dr. Bob Stoddard officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may call 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Friday at the church, where a service will be held by the Bethlehem Chapter No. 71, OES at 12:30 p.m. Online guest book is available at www.calfeefh.com Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Mrs. Bonds to the First United Methodist, 217 South Heber Street, Beckley, WV 25801 or to charity of choice. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.

William M. Kershner, 69, passed away on Thursday, May 17, 2007, in Arbors of Sylvania. He was born in Alderson, West Virginia, to Harold and Mary Katherine Kershner. Before his retirement, William was employed by the Auburndale Company for many years. During his time there he worked in with specialized machinery, its transportation, and installation and project estimating. William's hobbies included traveling, cooking, and building doll houses for his granddaughters. He loved camping and often stayed at Sunny's in Wauseon Ohio. He was a former member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He enjoyed spending time with friends and will be remembered especially for his sense of humor. William is survived by his loving family, sons, Matt (Terry) Kershner, Mark (Susan) Kershner; grandchildren, Stephanie, Sara, Ashley, Timmy, Megan, and Taylor; siblings, Robert Kershner, James (Elaine) Kershner, and Martha (Jimmy) Branham. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Joni. Williams's family wishes to extend special thanks to all of the nurses, staff and caregivers at Arbors of Sylvania and at St. Anne's for the excellent care that he received. Friends are invited to visit from 2:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday, May 21, 2007, in the Ansberg-West Funeral Home, 419-472-7633 where services will begin on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. Entombment in Ottawa Hills Memorial Park Cemetery. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the American Lung Association of Ohio. [WWHS '56]

Michael “Mickey” Algie Paul O’Dell, age 58, 304 Lucas Drive, Beckley, W.Va., went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, May 12, 2007, at Raleigh General Hospital, following a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, having been diagnosed on April 22, 2007. Born Sept. 1, 1948, in Beckley, W.Va., Mickey was the son of the late Paul and Imogene Cottle O’Dell. He was also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Okey and Gladys Lester of Glen White, W.Va., with whom he made his home during his teen years. His paternal grandparents, V.O. O’Dell and Isabelle Pridgen, as well as his mother-in-law Ann “Dolly” Sampson and Uncle Billy Cottle also preceded him in death. He is survived at home by his wife of 38 years Sharon, his son Jonathan Michael O’Dell and his grandson Joseph Michael O’Dell, whom he loved dearly and for whom he fought so hard to live. There are also two other children whom he considered as grandchildren, Charlie Clay and Ryan Pittman of Sophia, W.Va. Other survivors include his sister Vickie Lynn O’Dell, Richmond, Va.; brother David Patrick O’Dell, Portsmouth, Va.; father-in-law, Lawrence R. Sampson, Beckley, W.Va.; sister-in-law Marcia Sheets and husband Dana, Beckley, W.Va.; brothers-in-law Lawrence R. Sampson Jr. and wife Debbie, Wilkesboro, N.C., David Sampson and wife Natalie of Charleston, W.Va., and Greg Sampson, Charleston, W.Va. Other survivors include nephews Brian Sampson and wife Missy of Wilkesboro, N.C., Matt Sampson, Charleston, W.Va., Shawn Sheets currently serving with the U.S. Army in Iraq and wife Tabitha of Savannah, Ga.; and niece Mandi Sampson, Baltimore, Md. Additional survivors include a great-nephew Alex Sheets, Oak Hill, W.Va.; and great-nieces Kirsten Sheets, Oak Hill, W.Va., and Jada Sheets, Savannah, Ga. He is also survived by three aunts, Ida Mae Ford, Ramona Cottle and Mabel Sampson all of Beckley, W.Va. Mickey was the Manager and Owner of NAPA Auto Parts Service Inc., Beckley, W.Va., for 25 years prior to selling the stores in 1995. Since his retirement, he enjoyed spending time and caring for family and friends. Mickey formerly coached Beckley Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball teams and supported Youth Activities in the area. He is a member of Pinecrest Baptist Church in Portsmouth, Va., and has attended Lighthouse Baptist Church in Daniels, W.Va., for the past several years. Services will be Wednesday, May 16, 2007, at 1 p.m. at Melton Mortuary, Beckley, W.Va., with Lighthouse Baptist Pastor Larry Cochran officiating. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call Tuesday, May 15, 2007, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Melton Mortuary, Beckley, W.Va., and also one hour prior to the service on Wednesday, May 16, 2007. Pallbearers will be Paul Mallamas, Eddie Hodges, Claude “Sarge” Maynard, David O’Dell, Greg Sampson, Lawrence Sampson Jr., David Sampson, and Dana Sheets. Grandsons will be honorary pallbearers. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions to be made to the Youth Bus Ministry at Lighthouse Baptist Church, 650 Grandview Road, Daniels, WV 25832. Condolences may be mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley. [WWHS '67]

WAYNESBORO, Va. — Lt. Col. (retired) Charles Joseph Cascio, 72, of Waynesboro, died Monday, May 14, 2007, at the University of Virginia Medical Center. He was born Nov. 19, 1934, at Stanaford to the late Joseph and Carmela Cascio. He was a 1952 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. He attended West Virginia University on a track scholarship, and graduated in 1956 with a degree in business management, and a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. He served his country in the Army on active duty for 20 years, including a tour in Vietnam. While in the Army, he was awarded the Legion of Merit, as well as numerous other medals for outstanding service and accomplishments. After retiring from the Army, Lt. Col. Cascio embarked on a career as a real estate professional. He was employed with Montague, Miller and Co. in Waynesboro. He was a passionate golfer and gardener. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Marie. Lt. Col. Cascio is survived by his wife of 47 years, Patricia; a daughter, Natalie and her husband, Alec, of Blacksburg, Va.; a son, Tony and his wife, Julie, of Birmingham, Ala.; four sisters, Margaret and Anne of West Virginia, Josephine of New Jersey and JoAnn of Georgia; and three grandchildren, Adam, Ben and Cate. Private memorial service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the UVA Leukemia Research Fund, c/o Dr. John Densmore, at the UVA Medical Center, Box 800716, Charlottesville, VA 22902. [An obituary which includes a guestbook is here.]

Gloria E. Gill Banfield, 80, of Shady Spring passed away Sunday, May 13, 2007, at her home. Born Feb. 20, 1927, she was the daughter of Walter and Beatrice Gill. Gloria graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1944. She was a homemaker and enjoyed painting in her spare time. She retired from E.M. Payne Co. in 1980. Gloria was a member of Perry Memorial Methodist Church of Shady Spring. Gloria was preceded in death by parents Walter and Beatrice Gill and husband Jack Banfield. Those left to cherish her memory include daughters Diana Beck and husband Gordon of Bluefield, Susan Justice and husband James of Cool Ridge; grandsons Matthew Beck of Bluefield, Christopher Randall and Steve Lawrence of Mt. Morris, Pa.; granddaughters Leslie Beck of Williamsburg, Va., Laura Tighe and husband Bob of Morgantown; great-grandsons Cody Beck of Bluefield, Coleton Beck of Bluefield; sister Helen Crews of Melbourne, Fla. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2007, at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley, with Rev. Susan Rector officiating. Burial will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Pallbearers will be grandsons and family. Friends may gather with the family from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley.

Scott Hedrick McCulloch, 48, died Thursday, May 10, 2007, following a short illness. Born March 3, 1959, in Beckley, he was a son of Carolyn Hedrick McCulloch and the late John Howard McCulloch Jr. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a brother, Hugh Chapman McCulloch. He is survived by his wife, Colleen Cox McCulloch; children, Ian Lambourne McCulloch and Olivia Shattuck McCulloch, both at home; stepdaughter, Kristen Noel McCulloch of Charlotte, N.C.; a brother, John Howard McCulloch III and his wife, Jane Gorman, of Boulder, Colo.; nephew, Samuel Scott McCulloch of Jacksonville, N.C.; niece, Madison Kate McCulloch, and stepniece, Jordan Rachael Gorman, both of Boulder; paternal aunt, Polly Jo McCulloch Masters of Ancramdale, N.Y.; cousins, Joellen Masters of Boston, Mass., Catherine Masters of Deer Isle, Maine, and John Masters of Ancramdale; many cousins of the Teiche and Smith families, in-laws, nieces and nephews of his wife. Scott was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and held Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Juris Doctor degrees from West Virginia University. He practiced law for the last 21 years, most recently as a partner in Bibb & McCulloch, PLLC. His professional affiliations included membership in the American Bar Association, and the bar associations of the states of West Virginia, Texas and North Carolina. Memorial service to celebrate Scott’s life will be 2 p.m. Monday, May 14, at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, Beckley, with the Rev. Eric Miller officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before service at the church. Memorial gifts to the Beckley Area Foundation John Howard McCulloch fund or the charity of one’s choice are requested in lieu of flowers. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley. [WWHS '77]

On Wednesday, May 9, 2007, Doris Aaron went to be with the Lord at the Lucy Bowers Hospice House. She was 73 years of age. Born Doris Ann Riley on June 18, 1933 in Rhodell, she was one of three children born to the late Martin Leonard and Marion Elizabeth Mann Riley. Doris moved to Beckley in 1937, where she graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1951. She married Duon “Duke” Aaron on Dec. 30, 1955; Duon died on June 1, 1985. Doris worked at People’s Life Insurance Co. until 1961; with the birth of her first son, she became a caring and loving mother from that time on. Doris was a member of First Baptist Church for 50 years, where she was a member of the Fellowship Sunday School Class. A dedicated volunteer at the Helping Hands Community Resource Center, she worked there from 1989 to 2006. Doris Aaron will be remembered as a caring, loving, compassionate and hard-working individual who was always willing to give a helping hand. In her leisure time she like to quilt and spend time with her grandchildren. Doris was the beloved mother of Craig Aaron and his wife, Carol, of Morgantown and Glen Aaron and his companion, Judy, of Charleston; the loving grandmother of Christopher, Caitlyn, Steven and Stephanie; the dear sister of Patty Richmond and David Riley and his wife, Ruby, all of Beckley; the fond sister-in-law of Rebecca Aaron of Beckley, Jeanette Murray of Matthews, Va., and Ann Aaron of Birmingham, Ala.; several neices and nephews also survive. Service will be 1 p.m. today at Melton Mortuary Chapel, Beckley, with the Rev. Dr. Phil Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may noon until time of the service. Pallbearers will be family members and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored by memorial donations to the Lucy Bowers Hospice House, P. O. Box 1472, Beckley, WV 25802 Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

Lucy Sue Bowers “Sookie” Wilson died on Sunday, April 29, 2007, at Charleston Area Medical Center after a short illness. She was the daughter of the late Karl Douglas and Lucy Ragland Bowers and sister to the late Dr. Karl Douglas Bowers Jr. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert G. Wilson. She is survived by her daughter, Ann Wilson Worley and her husband, Terry L. Worley; a son, Robert G. Wilson Jr. and his wife, Denise G. Wilson; three grandchildren and best friends, Ryan G. Wilson, Kelsey Ann Wilson and Taylor W. Callahan, all of Beckley. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy Bowers Davis of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; and number of nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at the Beckley Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Adrian Pratt officiating. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until time of the service on Thursday at the church. A private interment will follow in St. Stephens Episcopal Church Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the WVU Alumni Association, the Beckley Presbyterian Church, or All Soul’s Episcopal Church in Daniels. An online guest book is available at www.calfeefh.com. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley. [WWHS '46]

GALLOWAY, Ohio — George E. Groseclose, 73, passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2007. He was a U.S. Army veteran who was raised in Beckley. He was preceded in death by parents, Bailey and Lucille Groseclose, and brother, Richard Groseclose. Mr. Groseclose is survived by his loving wife, Gail; sons, Scott and Mike (Mary); daughter, Beth (Matt) Hartman; and grandchildren, Thomas, Abigale, Benjamin, Ryan, Jack, Elena and Evan. Friends may call 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Tidd Funeral Home, 5265 Norwich St., Hilliard, Ohio, where service will be 10 a.m. Saturday. Interment will follow in Alton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society, 3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct., Hilliard, Ohio, 43026, www.tiddfuneralservice.com. Arrangements by Tidd Funeral Home, Hilliard. [WWHS '52]

David Alan Shrewsbury, major, U.S. Army, retired, 56, of Harker Heights, Texas, formerly of Beckley, died Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at his home. Born Oct. 24, 1950, at Logan, he was the son of Anna Lee Gadd of Flatwoods, Ky., and the late Benton Davis Shrewsbury. He was the stepson of Sarah Shrewsbury of Ringold, Va. David was raised in Beckley, where he was a member of First Baptist Church and a 1968 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. He received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., in 1968 and graduated in 1972. He was commissioned a second lieutenant in armor. He graduated from the U.S. Army Airborne and Ranger school in 1972; Armor Officer Basic Course, Fort Knox, Ky., 1973; Infantry Officer Advance Course, Fort Benning, Ga., 1979; and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kan., in 1984. While serving as a deputy professor of military science at West Virginia University, he earned a Master of Public Administration degree in 1986. David’s military honors and awards include the Army Meritorious Service medal (3 oak leaf clusters); Army Achievement medal (2 oak leaf clusters); National Defense medal and the Army Service medal; parachutist badge and the Ranger Tab. He was inducted into the Order of Saint George for excellence in armor. In 1992, he retired from the Army and entered into a career in defense contracting. His professional affiliations include past president and member of the Board of Directors of the Heart of Texas West Point Society (HOTWPS); Rotary International and the Killeen-Heights Rotary Club where he was a Paul Harris Fellow; and American Legion Post 573. David is also survived by his wife, the former Nora Ann Wesson, whom he married on Aug. 30, 1975, at Fort Hood, Texas; a son, Benton Wesson Shrewsbury, captain, USAF, Baghdad, Iraq; brother, Robert L. Shrewsbury of Harker Heights; three sisters, Elizabeth Pollastrini of Winfield, Mary Walker of Waynesburg, Pa., and Joann Bragg of Fayetteville; and many nieces and nephews. Service was Monday, April 23, at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Killeen, Texas, followed by burial, with full military honors, at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen. Memorials may be made to The Association of Graduates, 698 Mills Road, West Point, NY 10996, or www.AOGUSMA.org, or The Rotary Club of Killeen-Heights Charitable Corporation, P.O. Box 2638, Harker Heights, TX 76548. Please include the name and return address with memorials. Online condolences may be sent at www.tyreefuneralhome.com. Submitted by Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hill.

Beatrice Ann Scott went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 19, 2007, following a short illness. Bea, as she was known to her loved ones and friends, was born in Stanaford; she was the daughter of the late William and Catherine Cooper Smith. Bea was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and resided in Fayetteville with her husband of 42 years, Robert L. Scott. Bea worked as a real estate agent for Walbrown Real Estate in Oak Hill, W.Va. Mrs. Scott was preceded in death by brothers, Thomas Fisher, John Andrew, Dougal Baird, William Fisher and Alexander Cooper Smith; and sister Janet Fisher Smith. She was the beloved mother to two daughters, Heather Scott Clark and Lori Scott Bell and husband, Lawrence Bell. She was Grandmother to Hadley Olivia Clark and Cooper Ian and Aiden Parker Scott Bell. She is survived by sisters, Catherine Scott, Mary Smith and husband Fred Smith, Marion Smith, Peggy Carter and husband Franklin Carter, and Janet Smith; and brother Robert Smith and wife Reva Smith. She is survived by many nephews and nieces. Mrs. Scott was the picture of a Christian wife and mother. Everyone who knew her loved her. She was an active member of her church, Grace Community Church, a church family that she loved dearly. Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, April 22, 2007, at the Grace Community Church located at Lanark, W.Va., with Pastor Philip Lilly officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Friends may call from 6 to 9 p.m. today, Saturday, at Calfee Funeral Home in Beckley. Nephews will serve as pallbearers, and men of the Grace Community Church will serve as honorary pallbearers. Online guest book is available at www.calfeefh.com. Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.

Ralph Robert Beckett died suddenly Saturday evening, April 14, 2007, at the age of 46, of a heart attack at home with his family on South Kanawha Street, Beckley. He was the son of Joan Maples Beckett and Ralph L. Beckett and brother of Rebecca Beckett Clay. He was born Jan. 5, 1961, in Phoenix, Arizona. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Robert and Evalene Maples and Robert and Generva Beckett. He is survived by his parents, Ralph and Joan; his sister, Rebecca; his niece and nephew, Sydney and Tyler; numerous cousins throughout the U.S. and China, and many friends throughout the years. His family roots were from Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana with families associated with automobiles, timber, engineering, coal mining and teaching. His last years were spent in Beckley at his childhood home on S. Kanawha St. This was the same home his great-grandfather and family (John and Addie Jane Bair Maples) built in 1915. Ralph required hemodialysis three times a week for 19 years due to a rare genetic abnormality of his kidneys. The Raleigh Dialysis Center, the doctors and staff there, plus the staff of Raleigh General Hospital, were his extended family and friends. Ralph was educated in the public schools of W.Va. He attended Lincoln Elementary, Stratton Jr. High and was a 1979 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, where he loved to run cross country. His college career included Concord College, Beckley College, a BS in Aviation Management from Florida Institute of Technology at Melbourne, Fla., and a Masters of Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, Fla. He was a member of Alpha Eta Rho International Aviation Fraternity and a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). While in college, through the ROTC, he went through the 44th Company Airborne training at Ft. Benning, Ga., and we imagine him now continuing the sky diving he loved so much. He was an Eagle Scout, Troop 1452 and had many fond memories of scouting and jamborees. During his college years, he worked at Vecellio and Grogan in the shop. After college, he was employed with BizJet, West Palm Beach, Fla., and self-employed on his return to W.Va. He had several keen interests: planes (both flying them and jumping out of them), automobiles, scuba diving and buying and selling (especially on Ebay). He had great memories of his travels through California, Canada and the east coast. He often said the only two things he didn’t get to do were: one, have a family; and two, have a career, where he made a lot of money to buy more toys. Ralph’s gift to all was his amazing ability to communicate with anyone and quickly have them laughing so hard that their jaws ached. He was able to rise above any situation and bring such humor and laughter that it physically changed the world around him. That power inspired each and every person he encountered and left a memory and strength beyond value. Ralph was a Christian and his family and friends rejoice in his joining the presence of God. We imagine him running in fields with his Creator as he had dreamed. Graveside service will be 3 p.m. Saturday, April 21, 2007, in the Sunset Memorial Park Mausoleum on Harper Road, with the Rev. Tom Lilly and David Fondale officiating. Visitation will be 1 to 3 p.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the charity of your choice or to the Beckley Area Foundation, WWHS Class of ’79. There will be a Celebration of Life service in the gardens of the family home sometime in June 2007. Pallbearers will be Mike Rizzi, Jay Adam, Martin Njoku, George Underwood, Alex Walls and Calvin Crowe. Honorary pallbearers will be Commodore Andy Pachuta, Major David Walker, ret., Capt. Steve Tanner, Capt. Steven Pachuta, Mike Fairlie and Andy Footo. Online guest book is available at www.calfeefh.com Arrangements by Calfee Funeral Home, Beckley.

James Calvin Lyons, 82, of Wirtz, Va., formerly of Pineville, W.Va., died peacefully at his home on April 13, 2007. Born in Beckley, W.Va., Dec. 2, 1924, Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John Arley and Winnie H. Cook Lyons; three brothers: George, Bill, and Louis; and two sisters: Emma and Mary. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Doreen Box Lyons, and three daughters: Pamela Cook and her husband, Earl, of Waxhaw, N.C., Suzanne Cook and her husband, Arlis, of Cody, Wyo., and Elaine Dannemiller and her husband, Al, of Charlottesville, Va. Grandchildren who adored him are Jeffrey Earl Cook and his wife, Deonna, of Kernersville, N.C., James Lyon Garrett Cook of Greensboro, N.C., Amanda Cook of Fort Collins, Colo., and Rebecca Caitlyn Durham of Charlottesville, Va. “Grandan” also leaves two great-grandsons, Tyler and Tanner Cook of Kernersville, N.C. In addition to his immediate family, Jim is survived by two brothers, John of Kansas and Joe of Oregon; a sister, Pat Parker of Florida; a sister-in-law, Janet Lyons of Martinsburg, W.Va.; several special nephews and nieces. Jim enlisted in the U.S. Army in January 1943. During WWII Jim served with the 180th Chemical in the Pacific Campaign in New Caledonia, Cebu and Mindanao in the Philippine Islands, and Guadalcanal and New Georgia in the Solomon Islands. He was with the first troops to occupy Japan under Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Jim was a 1943 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School. He attended Concord College, Mercer University (Macon, Ga.), and earned his Doctor of Jurisprudence from Washington and Lee University in 1951. After graduation, he and his family moved to Pineville, where he enjoyed the practice of law for 38 years. In addition to serving as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for six years, Jim served as Divorce Commissioner for many years. Serving as Mental Health Commissioner in Wyoming County was one of his most rewarding positions. During his career, Jim served as Judge on the W.Va. Court of Appeals for six years, and as a Judge on the W.Va. Court of Claims for several years. Jim was a member of the West Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, W.Va. State Bar, and served as past president of Rotary International in Pineville. He was also a member of the American Legion and the Washington and Lee Alumni Association. He was a current member of the Red Valley United Methodist Church, and a former member of the First United Methodist Church of Pineville, where he served on the Methodist Board of Trustees. After retiring from his law practice in 1989, Jim moved to Burnt Chimney, Va., to enjoy a leisure life with boating as a favorite activity. Jim’s body was cremated according to his wishes. His cremains will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery. Family visitation will be held at the Red Valley United Methodist Church on Monday, April 16, one hour prior to a 2 p.m. Memorial Service. Condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 298, Wirtz, VA 24184, or www.tharpfuneralhome.com. Memorial donations may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice, 3825-A Electric Road, SW, Roanoke, VA 24018, or Red Valley United Methodist Church, 30 Red Valley Road, Boones Mill, VA 24065. Arrangements by Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Smith Mountain Lake, 721-9375.

On Tuesday, April 10, 2007, Charles Moody of Sophia umpired the girls’ softball game at Independence High School. On Wednesday morning, April 11, the Good Lord called “Moody” to be his umpire in heaven. He was in his 80th year. Born Aug. 22, 1926, in Mabscott, he was the son of the late William and Ardenia Thompson Moody. Mr. Moody was a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He was an employee of National Security and a disabled coal miner after working for Stotesbury and Slab Fork Coal Companies for 25 years. He was a member of Mabscott Holiness Church. Mr. Moody was a Little League umpire for 50 years-plus and an SSAC football and basketball referee, and softball and baseball umpire for 60-plus years. He loved Independence High School athletics and all other Raleigh County school athletic programs. There wasn’t a ballgame he didn’t thoroughly enjoy. He was an avid fisherman. He was preceded in death by three brothers, William “Buck” Moody, Donald P. Moody Sr. and Dillard Moody; and two sisters, Alyese Moody and Marjorie Moody Meadows. Survivors include his wife, Regina Beatrice Bolen Moody; three sons, C. Darrell Moody and wife, Becki, of Flat Top, Rodney Moody and wife, Connie, of Sophia and Richard Moody and wife, Susan, also of Sophia; grandchildren, Grayson Moody of Sophia, Barbara Moody Wood of Barboursville and Charlie Moody of Crab Orchard; great-grandchildren, Sarah Marie Wood of Barboursville, Michael Shane Moody of Tampa, Fla., Amber Woody of Shady Spring and Jessica Crook of Crab Orchard; great-great-grandson, Landon Nicholas Moody of Tampa; many nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. Service will be 1 p.m. Sunday, April 15, at Mabscott Holiness Church with the Pastor E.G. “Buzz” Keller officiating. Interment will be in Hot Coal Cemetery, Sophia. The family will receive friends 6 to 9 p.m. today at the church. Pallbearers will be Charlie Moody, Morris Niday, Jim Kirk, James Meadows, Terry Poe, Roy Johnson, Joe Goddard and Scotty Cuthbert. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Grim, Ricky Potter and Ronnie Thompson. Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at melton@wvdsl.net. Arrangements by Melton Mortuary, Beckley.

Gloria Vipperman Shuff, 81, passed away Tuesday, April 10, 2007, at Appalachian Regional Hospital after a long illness. Born July 21, 1925, in Beckley, she was the daughter of Derb and Virgie Hager Vipperman. Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Earl Vipperman, and a sister, Betty Tindila. Those left to treasure her memory are her husband of 52 years, Murray Shuff; her sister, Joyce Groseclose; nephews, Dennis Vipperman and Mark Groseclose; a niece, Patricia Crawford; a sister-in-law, Bonnie Whitener and her husband, Earl; sister-in-law, Mary Shuff of Charleston; and several nieces and nephews. Her first employment after graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School was at Grants department store. She entered the bookkeeping field and became office manager for Vipperman Construction Co. Murray and Gloria owned and operated Meadows Lumber Co. for 25 years. She was a member of First Christian Church, where she was an active participant in the women’s activities of the church. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She belonged to the Fayette and Raleigh County Genealogy Society and served as treasurer for a number of years. She was a member of several business and professional organizations, including the Quota Club and the Woman’s Club. Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 14, at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley, with the Rev. Don Snyder officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, Beckley. Friends may gather with the family 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley.

Charles "Chuck" William Taylor II, 37 of Huntington, W.Va., was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus, in paradise on April 6, 2007. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday at the Ferrell-Chambers Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin West officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Memorial Park, Milton. He was born February 23, 1970, in Bluefield, W.Va. He was graciously adopted by Charles William and Mildred Annette Taylor. He leaves behind a wonderful, kind and loving wife and son, Denise and Christian Taylor, which dearly love him and will greatly miss him until they meet again in paradise; his parents, Charles and Mildred Taylor, of Beckley, W.Va.; one sister, Ramonia Carr of Charlotte, N.C.; and one sister-in-law, Angela Bennett of Madison, Ala. He also leaves behind two very special people that loved him unconditionally, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mac and Darlene Jeffery. Chuck was the kindest hearted person that you could ever meet; he loved to cook and was great in doing so, but, most importantly he loved his son, which he named Christian, and his wife, Denise, with his whole heart. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and loved God and his church. He will also be sadly missed by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Calling hours will be from noon until service time Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.Ferrell-ChambersFuneralHome.com. [WWHS '88]

Bob Cernuto, 76, of Stanaford passed away Friday, April 6, 2007. Born July 24, 1930, at Stanaford, he was the son of Nunziato Cernuto and Carrie Salango-Deluca. He was raised by Louise Greco Cernuto. He was a dedicated Christian and devoted his life to his family and friends. Bob loved sports and work. He loved snow skiing, traveling, helping people, carpentry work and fixing things. He was the President and Co-Owner of West Virginia Glass. Bob was inducted into the hall of fame at both Woodrow Wilson High School and Beckley College. He was a member of the North Beckley Church of Christ. Bob served his country proudly in the United States Army. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a daughter, Kim Lynette Cernuto, and sisters, Nellie Cernuto Hutchens, and Pauline Cernuto Bonham. Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 50 years, Joyce Stanley Cernuto; three daughters, Rhonda Smilek and husband, Stephen, of Beckley, Tonya Cernuto McDowell of Fayetteville, and Tara Mullins and Michael of Beckley; grandchildren, Stephen, Krysten, and Ryan Smilek, Lauren and McKenna Entsminger, and McKinley and Shaina Mullins; brothers, Mel Cernuto and wife Pansy, and Nunz Cernuto and wife Lou; brother-in-law and children, Shelby J. Stanley and wife Sharon; sister-in-law, Jill Boblett and husband David; several loving and caring nieces and nephews; and Bob’s dog Kat. Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Blue Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley, with Minister Adam Davis officiating. Entombment will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Beckley. Gary Raines, Steve Tanner, Sydney McClure, Warren Entsminger, Ronnie Coleman, and Steve Smith will be serving as pallbearers. Friends may gather with the family from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.blueridgefuneralhome.com. Blue Ridge Funeral Home, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley, is in charge of the arrangements. [WWHS '47]

Matthew C. Lawson, age 19, of Prosperity, died Thursday, April 5, 2007, at his home. Born at Beckley on May 14, 1987, he was the son of Michael Lawson of Crab Orchard and Rosemary Mays Lawson of Prosperity. He had attended Woodrow Wilson High School. He enjoyed skateboarding, music, fishing, and the outdoors. He also loved his family. Surviving other than his parents are his sisters, Jennifer Lawson of Jackson, Ohio, Kristine Lawson of Mt. Hope, and Lydia Lawson of Prosperity; paternal grandmother, Helen Lawson of Beckley; a niece, Parker Jarrell and her father Nick Jarrell of Mt. Hope; fiancee, Chauntelle Nettles of Glen Morgan; uncles and aunts, Lawrence Lawson of Beckley, Daniel and Suzanne Mays of Chesapeake, Va., Randy and Eulah Mays of Albany, Ohio, and Jane Anne Lawson of Beckley. Funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Monday at the Rose and Quesenberry Peace Chapel in Beckley, with Rev. Ken Killen officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Beckley. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Online condolences may be sent to our guest book at roseandquesenberry.net. Arrangements by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home in Beckley.