Ellis Junior Vest, 77, of 405 Brentwood Drive, Covington, Va., died, Sunday, December 28, 2008 at his residence.

He was born June 10, 1930 in Alleghany County, a son of the late Gorman and Gracie Vest Vest.

Mr. Vest was the former owner/operator of Vest Lawn Care. For many years Mr. Vest was employed as a truck driver.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Vest was preceded in death by one brother, Thomas Vest and one sister, Elsa Via.

Surviving are a daughter, Aleata Gatewood of Norfolk; two grandsons: Michael Scott Smith and Daniel L. Smith, both Chesapeake; four great grandchildren; one step son, Robert A. Monson of Chesapeake; an adopted son, Tim Vest, Jr. of long Beach, CA ; one adopted daughter, Teresa Lynn Vest of Sherman Oaks, CA; one brother, James Vest and his wife, Louise of Linden, VA; one sister, Dorothy Walker and her husband, Sterling of Clifton Forge; and several nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Mr. Vest's wishes, his body will be cremated.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Arritt Funeral Home, Covington, Virginia.