David E. Eggleston, 72, of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, passed away at his home on May 14, 2025, as a result of a sudden illness.

He was born March 8, 1953, in White Sulphur Springs, the son of the late Eldridge E. and Lola M. Phillips Eggleston.

David had worked with Firestone General in Florida before moving back to White Sulphur Springs and retiring from the Greenbrier Hotel.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by a special friend, Sheila Cottrell.

Those left to mourn the loss of David are his daughters, Amy Eggleston of White Sulphur Springs and Haven Hall (Roger, Jr.) of Neola; grandchildren Maggie Eggleston, Emily Nicole Blankenship, Cody and Cassie Hall; great grandchild, Leland Blankenship; brothers, Ron Eggleston (Jane) of Lewisburg and Michael Eggleston of Harts Run and the mother of his children, Kathy Crews (James).

A celebration of life will be on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. untill 8:00 p.m. at the Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in White Sulphur Springs.

Mr. Walter Leo Persinger, age 79, of Covington, Virginia, died Friday, May 16, 2025, at The Springs Nursing Center, Hot Springs.

Mr. Persinger was born May 16, 2025 in Alleghany County, the son of the late William Henry Persinger and Mamie Frances Tucker Persinger.

He was a lifetime resident of this community.

Walter served his country as a member of the United States Army.

During his working career, he was employed as an equipment operator with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for a number of years.

Mr. Persinger is survived by a brother, David Randolph Persinger of Bens Run, Covington; a sister, Corine Persinger of Vinton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Persinger was preceded in death by two brothers, Leonard Persinger and Lonnie Persinger, and three sisters, Claire Persinger, Betty Jane Beadles, and Lauraine Lackey.

A memorial service will be conducted at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home; to view Mr. Persinger's memorial tribute page, please visit www.lovingfuneralhome1913.

Richard (Rick) Wayne Gibson, age 57, of Covington, Virginia, died Sunday, May 18, 2025, at his residence.

Rick was born December 23, 1967, in Alleghany County to his parents, Larry and Karen Munsey Gibson.

In addition to his parents, he leaves to mourn his loss his wife of thirty-four years, Edna Keith Gibson; one son, Alex Gibson and his wife, Dorothy, all of Covington; one daughter, Rachel Gibson of Roanoke; a granddaughter, Charlotte Gibson; his brother, Michael Gibson and wife, Becky of Buchanan; a niece, Gabby (Griff) Wood; a nephew, Gabe Gibson and fiance, Rachel Mcel Downey; and numerous other family members.

Rick served his country in the United States Air Force; also, he was employed with Westrock for thirty-two years as a millwright and was a member of the local 675 union.

He got much joy riding his motorcycle and enjoyed tinkering in many things, making him a jack of all trades.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with the Rev. Bill Gilliand officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Memorial contributions in Richard Wayne Gibsons name may be made to ConnectionsPlus Healthcare+Hospice, 328 B Jefferson Avenue, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.

Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements for Mr. Gibson.

Online condolences may be shared with the family arrittfuneralhome.com.

Betty Lou Campbell (Nicely) Wall peacefully departed her earthly body on May 8, 2025, in Covington, Virginia, to join the Lord and loved ones who have gone on before her.

Born on August 23, 1967, in Staunton, Virginia, Betty was adopted by her parents, Ralph and Reba Nicely, when she was two years old and grew up near Clifton Forge.

She later lived in Roanoke before eventually returning to Covington.

She is survived by her husband, F. Raymond Wall; cherished sons, F. Anthony Wall and G. Aaron Wall; daughter, Nycole Wall, and granddaughters, Emily Jane Campbell and Alexis Marie Tingler. She is also survived by her dear sisters, Shirley (Nicely) McCoy, Alma Jean "Peggy" Nicely, and Betty Lou (Nicely) Bottenfield, as well as her beloved dog, Rambo.

Betty was predeceased by her son, Matthew Christian Campbell; her parents; and four sisters and brothers.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at Lone Star Advent Christian Church in Clifton Forge on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2 p.m. Chris Fisher will preside.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation in Betty's name to Lone Star Advent Christian Church is welcome.

Wallace (Wally) Brook Robertson, 80, of Hot Springs, Virginia, passed away Thursday, May 15, 2025, near his residence on Switzerland Trail.

He was born September 16, 1944, in Hot Springs, Virginia, the son of the late James Louie Robertson and Phyllis May Masters Robertson.

Mr. Robertson was a self-employed machinist. He was a master welder who could fix anything. It was said he could weld a rubber band together. He passed his talent on to many young men in the area. He was a tough task master, but a wonderful teacher. He was the President of the "General Assembly" who met every morning at Bacova Junction.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during Vietnam.

He enjoyed life and spending time with his friend

s. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Hilda June Law Robertson, whom he married on October 26, 1968.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a brother, Willis Robertson and his wife, Charlotte of Lady Smith, Virginia.

He was preceded in death by a brother, James "Buck" Robertson; and two sisters, Vada Robertson and Wana Tidd.

Per his request, there will not be a funeral.

Friends may call anytime at the residence located at 1557 Switzerland Trail, Hot Springs.

The McLaughlin & Young Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Mary Virginia (Kitty) Chambers Crump was born August 1, 1924, in Lewisburg, West Virginia, passed from life to life eternal at home on May 10, 2025.

She was the fifth child born to the late Mary and Joseph Chambers and the last survivor.

She attended Bolling School and graduated from Garnet High School in 1943 in Charleston, WV. She attended Virginia State College and graduated from the Apex College of Cosmetology in Richmond, VA.

After graduating from Cosmetology School, she owned and operated a beauty shop in Lewisburg until her marriage to Charles "Sack" Crump. In 1958 and they moved to Charleston. She and Sack were happily married for 68 years.

She became a member of the John Wesley United Methodist Church at the young age of 12 and left her membership at John Wesley even after moving to Charleston. She loved music and sang her first solo at age five. She gained the affection of her future husband, Sack, when she sang "Avé Maria" one Sunday during worship. She sang in the Youth Choir and was a member of the John Wesley Senior Choir. She taught Sunday School and was also Sunday School Superintendent. While living in Charleston, she attended Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church, where she sang in the Youth Choir, Garnet Glee Club, Simpson Senior and Mass Choirs.

Kitty loved children and raised several relatives and other children. She has one foster granddaughter, Rev. Dr. Sharletta Green, and others she called "her children" including Christopher Harris. Ms. Kitty loved to read the Psalms, make quilts, bake cakes, and was well-known and loved for her Cinnamon Applesauce, which she gave as gifts.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles “Sack” Crump; her parents, Mary and Joseph Chambers; brothers, Buddy, Cyrus, and Harry Chambers; Sisters Beulah "Baboo" Chambers Lowe (Ralph) and Lillye Chambers Roane (Norman). Nieces Patricia "Pat" Chambers Hopkins and Victoria "Vickie" Roane; and one great-nephew, Robert "Bobby" Hopkins.

She is survived by her foster granddaughter, Rev. Dr. Sharletta Green; sister-in-law, Edith Boggs, Roanoke, VA; brother-in-law, Jarnelle "Jerry" Crump (Liz) San Francisco, CA; niece, Linda Callahan (Larry) Charlotte, NC; nephew, Vincent Roane (Margaret) Mechanicsville, VA; great-nephews, George Ashton (Monique) Rockville, MD; Dr. Randolph Ashton (Dr. Lydia) Madison, WI; Joseph Roane (Shannon) Atlanta, GA; Alexander and Austin Callahan, Charlotte, NC; great niece, Christina Brookman; Alderson, WV; great-great nephews, Andrew Ashton, Conrad Ashton, Dimitris Brookman, Parkersburg, WV, Aydrien Jackson, Alderson, WV, and Jalen Roane; great-great nieces, Sydney Ashton, Jordan Ashton, Dorian Ashton, Jada Roane and great great-great niece, Delilah Brookman; many beloved cousins and friends. The family wishes to thank the Hospice Care team for their care, support and love during Mary’s illness and the passing of Charles. Special thanks to nurse Leslie who was there in the final moments of their lives. Also, thank you to the Center Well nursing staff, the caregivers from Visiting Angels, and especially Brianna, Jessika (Butterfly) and Jazmen who were there at critical moments. Each of you played and important role in Mary, Charles, and Sharletta's lives. Blessings and Peace to each of you as you continue the work of caring for others.

Homegoing service will be held at 1:00 p.m, Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the John Wesley United Methodist Church, 208 E. Foster Street, Lewisburg, WV 24901. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, Saturday, at the church. Burial will follow the service in the Lewisburg-Bolling Cemetery, Court Street N., Lewisburg, WV. In lieu of flowers you may donate in memory of Mary Crump to Hospice Care, 1606 Kanawha Boulevard, Charleston, WV 25387, or to the John Wesley United Methodist Church Building Fund, 1133 E. Washington Street, Lewisburg, WV 24901.

An online guestbook can be signed at www.morganfh.net.

Arrangements entrusted to Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.

Jerry Wayland Mansfield was born on July 28, 1933, in Clifton Forge, Virginia, to the Late Jerry Wayland Mansfield and the Late Esther Stevens Mansfield.

He transitioned into eternity on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. He was the first of four children.

Wayland, as many fondly called him, accepted Christ, the Messiah at an early age, under the leadership the Late Reverend A. A. Womack at Main Street Baptist Church, Clifton Forge. He was a Junior Deacon and attended regularly with his family.

He attended Jefferson High School and sang in the school chorus. They won many awards for their talent. He graduated from Jefferson High School as Valedictorian and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Virginia Union University, Richmond VA. While there, he was inducted into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He furthered his studies at North Carolina Central University, where he studied in the Graduate School in Durham, North Carolina.

He later moved to New York, married, and had one daughter, Medina Louise, and two sons, Jerry Wayland, III and John Christopher. He then began his career as a Social Worker. He retired from the city of New York as Supervisor of the Welfare Department, where he worked for approximately 40 years.

After completing his career in New York, he moved back home to Clifton Forge.

After returning home, Wayland became a volunteer in the Senior Citizens Program. He loved helping others and giving to worthy causes. He would often encourage young people to set and achieve their goals in life.

Wayland loved his hometown and the folks in it. He was a thinker and an intellectual. He loved sports, and he loved to read. Because he was such a humble man, you would never know until you spoke with him, how bright and intelligent he was. He would read the entire New York Times newspaper along with completing the crossword puzzles every day. Later in life, he also began reading the Washington Post as well. He was a chess player and acquired an enormous library of books containing many varied subjects.

No one was a stranger to Wayland. He would always greet you with a smile. Though he didn't like nonsense and had little patience for foolishness, he enjoyed his family and friends throughout his life. He will be greatly missed by all who know him.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, his sister, Louise Mansfield, his sons, Jerry Wayland, III and John Christopher; his first wife, the late Lucille Crocker Mansfield; and his second wife, the late Helen Sledge Mansfield; and his stepson, Bradley C. White.

Wayland leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife, June Elizabeth White Mansfield; his daughter, Medina Louise Mansfield, FL; his brother, The Reverend W. Ed Mansfield (Shirley); his sister, Apostle Medina Marble; his Stepdaughters: LaTasha T. Wallace (Reginald); Tara T. Roland (Tony); Dana T. Davenport (Wayne); his step granddaughter, Michelle; his Stepson, Larry G. White, (Stephanie), Germany; his Stepdaughters: Melaniee W. Reed; Karen W. Pierce; Vicki W. Pleasant (Thomas); Special family members: Agnes S. Berry (Aunt-FL); Audrey J. Guy (1st cousin-Hampton); Roland Sterns (1st cousin-MD); and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many relatives and friends.

The family of the Late Jerry Wayland Mansfield would like to extend heartfelt appreciation for the many prayers, acts of kindness, and love expressed to us during the illness and passing of our loved one.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service to honor Wayland will be conducted on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, with the Reverend Medina Marble and the Reverend W. Ed Mansfield officiating. The family will visit with friends on Tuesday afternoon from 12:00 noon until the time of service at Nicely Funeral Home.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, Central & Western Virginia Chapter in Charlottesville, VA or online at www.alz.org. To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com.

Bonnie Gordon Anderson, age 91, of 16118 Botetourt Road, (Gala), Eagle Rock, Virginia died on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at her residence.

Bonnie was born on May 17, 2025, in Circleville, West Virginia to the late Harry Jay Gordon and Effie Bennett Gordon.

She was a homemaker throughout her life and was a member of the Galatia Presbyterian Church, where she belonged to the Women of the Church. She loved her church family and enjoyed gardening and working puzzles. She was a good seamstress and a great cook.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William L. Anderson, and a brother, Randolph Gordon.

Bonnie is survived by her daughters, Twila Rankin (David) of Fincastle, Patty Mason (Dennis) of McAlester, OK, and Sheryl DuVall (Ken) of Troutville; three sons, Harry L. Anderson of Eagle Rock, Johnny Anderson of Eagle Rock, and Ricky Anderson (Sharon) of Buchanan; three sisters, Shelby Mullenix of Harmon, WV, Sandra Lambert (Eddie) of Mouth of Seneca, WV, and Wilma Lambert (Johnny) of Stuart; two brothers, Donald Gordon (Betty) of Circleville, WV and Ronald Gordon (Jane) of Green Bank, WV; fifteen grandchildren; a number of great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in Galatia Presbyterian Church in Gala, Eagle Rock, with Reverend Emily Hook and Reverend Robert McRae officiating. Interment will follow in Galatia Presbyterian Cemetery. The family will visit with friends at Gala Presbyterian Church on Wednesday from 12:00 noon until the time of service at the church.

Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, is handling arrangements.

Fawn Valentine, 75, of Alderson, West Virginia, passed peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father at 11:54 a.m. on 11 May 2025.

Fawn was born in North Ridgeville, Ohio, on 11 June 1949.

She was active in many Alderson organizations, including the Community Market, Alderson Main Street, and the Alderson Planning Commission. She was an active volunteer at Carnegie Hall and served as a community representative on the Greenbrier Valley CVB board.

In 2023, Fawn received the Alderson Citizen of the Year award. She served as president of the town of Alderson Municipal Planning Commission for over 10 years. The Community Market was one of her favorite volunteer activities. She volunteered for and managed the Alderson Community Market, obtaining grants to support many of the market's senior citizen programs.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother. She is survived by a sister in Lexington, KY, and many friends in Greenbrier, Summers, and Monroe Counties. She is also survived by Henry, her beloved red tabby cat, whom she found as a scrawny kitten and took into her home and heart.

Fawn was an excellent weaver and fiber artist. She taught weaving for many years at Carnegie Hall. She wrote extensively about quilts and quilt-making. She served on the West Virginia Heritage Quilt Search Board of Directors. From the information gleaned from interviews with quilters throughout West Virginia, Fawn wrote the book Echoes from the Hills, West Virginia Quilts and Quilt Makers.

In 2010, Fawn received the Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center Traditions Salute Award. This is an award given to a person who has demonstrated a passion and commitment towards the enhancement of West Virginia Folk Culture through education and public resources.

Fawn began her art studies at Mills College in Oakland, CA. After moving to West Virginia, she continued her art education at Concord University and earned her Master of Arts degree at Hollins University. She taught art at Alderson Elementary School and art history at Mountain State University. She also worked at FMRS Health Systems, a mental and social services organization, in Hinton.

Fawn was a member of St. James Episcopal Church in Lewisburg. A celebration of her life well-lived will be held at St. James (468 Church Street, Lewisburg) at 11 a.m. on Thursday, 22 May 2025.

Fawn loved flowers, but she preferred them growing outside in gardens. Instead of flowers, please make donations in Fawns memory to Alderson Hospitality House, 203 High Street, Alderson, WV, 24910.

The Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Saundra Kay Simms, 75, of Lewisburg, West Virginia, passed away Sunday afternoon, May 11, 2025.

Born on May 16, 1949, in Landisburg, WV, she was the daughter of the late Robert Lee Bennett and Mabel Elizabeth Bennett.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Lester Curtis Simms; two brothers, Wally and Robert.

Saundra was a devoted, loving mother and grandmother.

She was a longtime member of Shuck Memorial Baptist Church.

She loved her friends and enjoyed spending time with them. She enjoyed dancing and traveling.

Survivors include one son, Curtis (Stephanie) Simms; two daughters, Cindy (Scott) Meadows, Melissa (Scott) Swann; seven grandchildren, Elizabeth Meadows, Ashley Meadows, Aaron Meadows, Bridget Meadows, Ty Swann, Kerstyn Simms, and Aurora Simms; two great-grandchildren, Teddy Lewis, Zayden Lewis; two sisters Pamela (Dwight) Lewis, Dorothy Gwinn; two brothers, Russell (Debbie) Bennett, Leo (Darnell) Bennett.

Service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Shuck Memorial Baptist Church with Pastor Johnathan Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Greenbrier Memorial Gardens in Lewisburg. The family will serve as pallbearers. Friends may gather with the family one hour prior to the service at the church.

Flowers are appreciated or donations of sympathy may be made to Shuck Memorial Baptist Church, 841 Washington Street, West, Lewisburg, WV 24901.

The Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Warren Clayton Tyree, 103, of Lewisburg, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the Peyton Hospice House in Lewisburg.

Born on January 9, 1922, in Rainelle, WV, he was the son of the late Edward L. and Minnie Cochran Tyree.

Clayton was a proud U.S. Navy World War II veteran and a dedicated member of the Lewisburg United Methodist Church, AARP, Ruritan National, and a Lifetime Member of the American Legion, VFW, and Greenbrier Historical Society.

During his spare time, he built six houses, showcasing his skills and dedication.

He enjoyed a fulfilling 26-year career at The Greenbrier.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Leona Tyree; sisters, Edith Tyree, Christine Crane, Arietta Arnett, and Doris Watson.

Clayton is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Patricia Tyree; children, Gail Stone, Gary Tyree (Nancy), Mike Tyree (Gilda), Mark Tyree (Lisa); stepchildren, Mark Humphreys (Betsy), Bruce Humphreys (Heather); ten grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Rosewood Cemetery in Lewisburg, WV, with Pastor Bev Columbo officiating. There will be no visitation.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to the Patricia and Clayton Tyree Scholarship Fund c/o: Greenbrier County Community Foundation, P. O. Box 1682, Lewisburg, WV 23901.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.morganfh.net.

Arrangements by Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.

Mrs. Carole Lemon, age 82, of Covington, Virginia, died Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Hickory, NC.

She was the wife of the late Earl "Trucky" Lemon.

Mrs. Lemon was born May 13, 1943, in Alleghany County, the daughter of the late Jack O'Conner and Helen O'Conner.

A lifetime resident of this community, she was employed at Thrift Drug and by Westvaco before her retirement.

Carole was a lifetime member of McAllister Memorial Presbyterian Church.

An avid bowler, Mrs. Lemon was a member of the bowling league as well as a member of the Alleghany County Bowling Association.

Mrs. Lemon is survived by three sons, Ralph "Jr." Hepler, Paul Hepler and Michael Hepler; a step daughter, Ellen Wesby, five grandchildren, Adam Hepler, Taylor Hepler, Ebony Bacon, Cameron Wesby and Danielle Davis; eight great grandchildren, Lily Hepler, Isaiah and Willow Johnson, Oaklee Davis, Caleb and Corey Davis, Tytus and Gabby Bacon; and two sisters, Norma Curtin and Martha Wilhelm.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Lemon was preceded in death by her husband, Earl "Trucky" Lemon, a stepdaughter, Rita Lemon, a granddaughter, Ashleigh Hepler, and two brothers, Jesse O'Conner Sr. and Wallace O'Conner.

A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m, Saturday, May 17, 2025, at McAllister Memorial Presbyterian Church with Rev. Jim Moss officiating. The family will receive their friends from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

The family suggests that memorial tributes take the form of contributions to McAllister Memorial Presbyterian Church, 900 Alleghany Avenue, Covington, VA 24426.

Arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home; to view Mrs. Lemon's tribute page, please visit www.lovingfuneralhome1913.com.

Beverly Harrison Morgan, age 87, of Covington, Virginia, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at her residence.

She was born on May 27, 1937, in Nevada, Missouri, a daughter of the late Floyd and Helen Roush Harrison.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Fagen, and two special friends, Nora and Corkey Rothrock.

Beverly worked as a teacher's assistant in the Covington City Public School system for many years.

She was a member of Grace Brethren Church in Covington and the Star City T-bird Car Club in Roanoke.

She leaves to mourn her loss, her husband, Charles "Buck" Morgan of Covington; her children, Larry (Paige) Morgan of Covington, Loveda (Ricky) Mixson of Pensacola, FL, Kevin (Linda) Morgan of Pensacola, FL, Cecil (Nancy) Morgan of Roanoke, and Anita Morgan of Covington; six grandchildren, Nick, Shane, Gracelyn, Bryan, Morgan and Alex; three great-grandchildren, Zoe, Layla and Aden; two sisters, Joyce Braun of Georgia and Davona (Don) Duncan of Robertsdale, AL; three brothers, Dennis (Jane) Makin, Kenny (Gail) Makin and Donnie Makin all of Pensacola, FL; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, in the Chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with Rev. Bill Gilliand officiating. The family will receive their friends at 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Entombment will take place at Alleghany Memorial Park.

Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of Mrs. Morgan's arrangements.

Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Ruth Ann Wright, 73, of Fincastle, Virginia, passed away Saturday, May 10, 2025.

Born May 26, 1951 in Madison, WV, to the late Mary Susan Stevens McBrayer and Roy McBrayer, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Arthur Wright, Jr.; grandchild, Decklyn Trent; and mother-in-law, Roxie Dollman Wright.

She is survived by her sons, Allen Shaun Wright and Richard Alan Wright (Dawn); daughter, Amanda Wright Tribbett (Andrew); grandchildren, Bo Jordan (Dawn), Hannah Jordan (Chris), Ria Jordan (Jesse), Caitlyn Myers (Drew), Annagail and Alizabeth Tribbett; great-grandchildren, Lillith Jordan, Junior Trent, Natalie Chapman, Rikki Murray, and J Murry; long time best friend, Penny Finn; and numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends who are considered family.

She was a devoted daughter and sister, as well as a loving wife to Jr, of 18 years. She was a firm, but loving mother to Shaun, Alan and Amanda. Though technically a step-mother to Alan and Amanda, people always said that we looked alike - and honestly, we didn't feel the need to tell them differently. She was our Ruthie. She was Nana to her grandbabies and greats, a title she wore proudly. And a longtime best friend to Penny.

Ruth was greatly involved in the Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department for years. She was the volunteer potato salad maker (often making 10+ gallons at a time!), fundraiser coordinator, whether it be meals or auctions.

Ruth also performed equipment maintenance, repair, and installation related to bottling machines for Coca-Cola Bottling Company for 20 years, and was a CPR instructor. When she retired from Coke due to illness, she decided that she needed a Koi pond in the backyard. She sat on the ground, too weak to stand, and dug that pond by hand. She was a determined lady!

Later, she opened Cornerstone Crafts in Fincastle, and was a small business owner of The Wright Service. She quickly became lifelong friends with her customers, making it very difficult for them to be satisfied with any other housekeeper after she officially retired in 2016.

She found joy in the simple pleasures - a good cup of coffee, Bob Ross, working in the yard, sewing, crafting, or sharing a Coca-Cola and a bag of Fritos. She loved riding motorcycles with Daddy, solving puzzles, and never turned down chocolate ice cream or a margarita on Friday night with friends.

We are incredibly grateful for the compassionate care she received from the doctors and staff at Carilion 6 West (Sheena, Dan, Jaden, Sarah, Robert, Megan, Renee, 'T', Bev, and Isaac), and to her hospice team (Tracy, Megan, and Hillary). Thank you for making her final days at home peaceful.

Though we are heartbroken, we are also so thankful for the years we had with her, the memories she gave us, and the love she poured into every one of us.

Bessie Louise Knave Hawes of Buena Vista, Virginia, passed away on Monday, May 12, 2025, at her home.

She will be missed by her family, but they take comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with her husband, Lovell William "Bill" Hawes, the love of her life.

Bessie was born on September 3, 1939, in Delphine. She was the daughter of Willie Smith Knave and Agnes Jean Sprouse. She was the fifth of seven children. Her parents and siblings called her "Betty Lou".

She met her husband, Bill, in 1954 at the age of 15. They married five years later on December 12, 1959. They were happily married until Bill's death in 2024.

Bessie and her husband owned and operated Poplar Hill Exxon for over 25 years.

Bessie enjoyed reading, gardening, jigsaw puzzles, and word search puzzles. She was a great softball player and a passionate Atlanta Braves fan. More importantly, Bessie was a fine Christian woman who loved God. She was the best wife, mother, and grandmother that anyone could wish to have.

In addition to her parents and husband Bill, she was preceded in death by three brothers: Jim, Walter, and Douglas Knave; and three sisters, Eleanor Clarke, Kathleen Phinney, and Daisy Hite.

Bessie is survived by three children: sons, Dennis Hawes and Bruce Hawes (Wendy), both of Buena Vista, and daughter, Karen Hawes of Salem; two grandsons, Billy and Joshua Hawes; and one granddaughter, Kelsey Hawes, all of Buena Vista. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

The family would also like to thank Bessie's caregiver, Kay Dean, for taking such good care of mom this past year.

The family will receive family and friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Friday, May 16, at Blue Ridge Baptist Church in Buena Vista. The service, conducted by Pastor Ralph Coleman, will follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow after the service at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.

Freda Duff Clark, 60, of Natural Bridge, Virginia, died Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

She was born April 5, 1965, a daughter of the late Danny D. Campbell and Violet Taylor Campbell.

Surviving are her sons, Jeffery Breeden and Dillon Moore.

No service is planned at this time.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.

Lea McGovern, D.V.M., passed away at 97 on April 10, 2025, at the Kendal in Lexington, (Virginia) and will be laid to rest at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Springfield, Pa., close to other family.

Lea was a pioneer all her life. She was one of the first women to earn the distinction of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1955 from the University of Pennsylvania. Thereafter, Lea held practice in New Town Square, Pa., before working as a food inspector for the Food and Drug Administration.

Lea was intellectually curious, a true scientist who was intent on understanding how things work and why they worked the way they did. Lea also had a flair for fashion and design and had her own design studio for a few years after retiring from the FDA. Lea stayed active, volunteering at the Kennedy Center and for the National Park Service in "retirement."

She lived in many places, and for nearly a decade, she called the Waterview in Arlington her home, where she made friends to add to others she met in other places along her journey, and where she was always the life of the party.

But Lea's true love was God and her pets, including Reilly, who was named after her mother (her mother's maiden name), and PB Wiggs who joined Lea at the Kendal. Both dogs were Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens, a small hound breed, and served as wonderful "meet and greeters" of everyone they would encounter. It was a quality they shared with their owner and mother.

Lea will be missed, but her determination and perseverance as a woman of distinction and accomplishment will live on forever.

Robert Lee (Bobby) Austin, 75, of Buena Vista, Virginia, peacefully left his earthly home on May 9, 2025.

He was born February 4, 1950.

Bobby leaves behind his beloved wife of 51 years, Brenda Henson Austin; daughter, Lana Austin; son, Frankie Austin (Courtney); grandchildren, Kabell and Presley Austin; sister Doris Austin Tomlin (Earl); and many special nephews and nieces.

Bobby was preceded in death by his father, Robert Earl Austin, his mother, Katie Gilbert Austin, and his sister, Joyce Austin Rice.

As a child, Bobby was in the Boy Scouts, and his father was a Scout leader. Throughout his life, Bobby loved working on anything with an engine, enjoyed riding his motorcycle, and often spent time with his children and nephews on his boat at Elon and Lake Moomaw. He loved country music and old westerns and could often be found watching "Bat Masterson" or "Gunsmoke" at full volume.

Bobby retired from Mohawk Industries in 2013 after 44 years of dedicated service. He then made it his mission to spoil his grandchildren as much as possible. He passed down his love of tinkering on automobiles to his grandson Kabell and made sure his precious Presley was always treated like a princess.

Bobby's unique laugh was contagious and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. A memorial service will be held at Bolling Gross and Lotts Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 20, at 2 p.m., with visitation one hour before.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Buena Vista Fire Department.

We would like to send a special thank you to the nurses from Connections Plus Hospice for their gentle and thorough care of Bobby until the end.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Larry Paul Hough, age 81, of Monterey, Virginia, passed away Sunday, May 11, 2025, at Brookdale Assisted Living in Harrisonburg.

Born on November 20, 1943, in Waukegan, Illinois, Larry was a son of the late Paul Donald and Mavis Marie (Hardy) Hough.

A Navy veteran, Larry had a wide variety of interests including photography, drawing and painting pictures, pottery, wood working, and refurnishing furniture. He created handmade spinning and fly rods, stones and gems, growing pumpkins, reading, as well as flying radio-controlled airplanes.

A devout Christian, Larry was an active and long-time member of Living Faith Church in Franklin, WV. Along with his wife, they worked to advocate and support Weekday Religious Education in Highland County. He was also an ardent supporter of the Highland County Library, and was among the original group of community members who worked for the library's establishment.

A former member of the Local Emergency Planning Committee, he also held memberships with the American Fisheries Association, Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship, and the Monterey Lion Club.

In their retirement years, Larry and Jane enjoyed spending time together, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and especially their daily walks through Monterey.

In addition to his parents, Larry was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Jane Wilson Hough on January 17, 2025; as well as his brother, Gerald Hough.

Surviving members include his daughters, Heather Hough of Covington, Amanda Fuller and husband, Ron of Manchester, TN, and Amber Hubbard and husband, Paul of Thornton, CO; his grandchildren, William Hubbard, Benjamin Hubbard, Emma Hubbard, Julia Hubbard, and Sarita Hough; sisters-in-law, Mary Skwierawski of Burlington, WI, and Julia Hough of Bloomington, IL; step mother, Helen Hough of Largo, FL; and step sister, Patricia Snow and husband, Marty of Lutz, FL.

A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Living Faith Church, Franklin, WV, with Pastor Brad Mitchell officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. A private interment will be conducted in Monterey Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Harley Gardner, Rick Lambert, Tom Harper, Mike Waggy, Rock Evick and Greg Lambert.

In memory of Larry, donations may be made to Gideons International, Pendleton Gideon Camp, P. O. Box 582, Franklin, WV 26807, or to a charity of your choice.

The Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell, Virginia, is handling the arrangements.