Nancy Dabney Baird Harris, age 78, of Clifton Forge, Virginia, died Friday, July 10, 2026 at the Springs Nursing Home, Hot Springs.

She was born August 19, 1947 in Albermarle, Virginia, to the late Dabney Allan Baird and Nancy Bruce Baber Baird.

She was a homemaker throughout her life and a lifetime member of Women of the Moose.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Allen Bruce Baird; and grandson, Brett.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, David L. Harris; a daughter, Wendy Stewart (James); three sons, David Harris (Lynn), Michael Harris, Jason Harris (Tessia); grandchildren, Dustin, Kelly, Felisha, Tiffany, Paris, Briana, Kimberly and Kadie; great grandchildren, Aubrey, Jose’, Zuri, Lincoln, Nora, Lorena, Kannon, and Blake; her caregiver, Missy Campbell; many close friends; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, with Pastor Luke Benton officiating. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until time of service. Following the service her body will be cremated.

Gwendolyn Ann Wolfe, 76, of Covington, Virginia, died Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Brian Center Alleghany in Low Moor.

She was born June 26, 1950, in Covington, a daughter of the late Edna Woodson Lowe.

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Junior "Woofie" Wolfe; a granddaughter, Gracie Ann Spinks; one brother, Roy Lowe; and two sisters, Linda Hosey and Betty Fridley.

Gwen was a longtime member of Mt. Carmel Methodist Church and an active participant in the Women’s Morning Circle. She loved playing bingo, spending time with her family, and staying connected on Facebook. She especially cherished the fellowship of her church family and enjoyed going to Cucci’s Pizzeria. She was affectionately known by many as the “ticket lady” for the church’s annual fall bazaar.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Missy Wolfe (Robert Ryder) of Daleville; three granddaughters, Miranda Smithers of Roanoke, Kinley Spinks and Erica Spinks, both of Daleville; one brother, David (Norma) Lowe of Clifton Forge; one sister, Susie (Dale) Richmond of Longdale; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; two sisters-in-law, Sue Wolfe and Ruby Simmons, both of Covington; and two special cousins/best friends, Pat “Punk” Tabor and Lori Pullin, both of Covington.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with the Rev. Doug Hollenbeck officiating. The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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

Berlin Albert (BA) Fridley, Jr., 83, of Covington, Virginia, died Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the Brian Center – Alleghany in Low Moor.

He was born June 28, 1943, in Alleghany County, a son of the late Berlin A. Fridley, Sr., and Maxine Bess Fridley.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Hancock Fridley, and his sister, Sue Fridley.

BA worked as a self-employed contractor in the Alleghany Highlands for many years.

A longtime and dedicated member of Covington Moose Lodge #610, he served in numerous capacities over the years. In recognition of his exceptional service and commitment to the fraternity, he was honored with the prestigious Pilgrim Degree of Merit — the highest honor bestowed by the Loyal Order of Moose. He was also a strong and active supporter of Area 18 Special Olympics, generously giving his time and energy to the organization.

Survivors include his sons, Ricky Fridley and Michael Fridley, both of Covington; a granddaughter, Skylar Fridley of Covington; three sisters, Joyce Armentrout of Covington, Kay (Dean) Hicklin of Millboro, and JoAnne (Berkley) Paxton of Forest; three brothers, Ray (Susan) Fridley and Bo (Sue) Fridley, both of Covington, and David (Iva) Fridley of Rougemont, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In keeping with his wishes, his body was cremated.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with the Rev. Lynn Wright officiating.

Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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

The family suggests that memorial contributions in BA’s name be made to: Area 18 Special Olympics, c/o Cindy Givens, 305 S. Craig Ave., Covington, VA 24426.

On July 14, 2026, Ruby Bell Gum Dowdy peacefully entered into the presence of her Lord at the remarkable age of 102, surrounded by the love of her family.

She leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, unconditional love, quiet strength, and a life devoted to serving her family and others. To those who knew her, Ruby was the heart of her family — the matriarch whose kitchen was always open, whose laughter could often be heard through song, and whose greatest joy was simply being surrounded by the people she loved.

Ruby was born on May 30, 1924, in Green Bank, West Virginia, to the late Willis Austin Gum and Leah Alice Puffenbarger Gum. One of eight children, she spent her childhood in the mountains growing up on Stoney Run Farm and affectionately talked about "over home" any chance she had. Growing up in Pocahontas County taught her the value of faith, hard work, family, and appreciating life's simplest blessings. Throughout her life, no matter where she lived, her stories always found their way back to Green Bank — the farm, the mountains, the cool temperatures and harsh winters, and the people who shaped the woman she would become.

As a young woman, Ruby ventured beyond the mountains to Washington, D.C to live with an aunt and take up employment with the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. It was there that an ordinary Greyhound bus ride changed the course of her life forever. On her route, Ruby found herself seated near a handsome young Navy sailor named Bill. Before he stepped off at this stop, he promised Ruby that he would be back to find her soon; he just needed to know how to contact her. Though hesitant, she handed him a pack of matches where she wrote her phone number. A few months later, a surprise phone call came in and Bill kept his promise – he came back to DC for Ruby and that chance meeting became the beginning of a love story that would span decades.

Ruby and Bill were married on February 24, 1947 in Washington, DC. Shortly thereafter, they packed their few belongings and moved to Craigsville, Virginia, to help Ruby's aunt run the historic Greystone Inn where she helped operate and cook for the family business until the hotel closed years later.

It was there in Craigsville that Ruby and Bill built a beautiful life together and raised a family rooted in love, faith, and hard work. They welcomed their children, Patsy Lynn “Patty”, William Carl "Billy”, Cynthia Louise “Cindy”, Alice Ann “Annie”, and Linda Sue. They also lovingly raised Scott Remington "Scotty," embracing him with the same unconditional love that defined their home - she was lovingly known as “Momma” to all six children.

Over the years, Ruby became woven into the fabric of the Craigsville and Augusta County community. She was a devoted member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Craigsville, the Craigsville VFW Ladies' Auxiliary, the American Legion Ladies' Auxiliary, the Women of the Moose, the Women’s Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and many other civic and service organizations that reflected her commitment to faith, patriotism, and helping others.

If you ever sat at Ruby's kitchen table, you never left hungry. Whether you stopped by for a planned visit or simply dropped in, there was always something cooking, a place waiting for you, and a conversation that made you feel at home. She loved tending garden, canning the harvest, and sharing both with family, neighbors, and friends. Music and dancing was always part of her home, and it was not uncommon to find Ruby singing and she and Bill two-stepping around the kitchen – all becoming part of countless family memories.

In 1997, after many happy years in Craigsville, Ruby and Bill moved to Staunton, Virginia. Their home on Baldwin Drive quickly became another place where family gathered and friendships flourished. Ruby became an active member of Christ United Methodist Church, where she remained a faithful member for the rest of her life. She delighted in telling others she lived "near the Statlers" and proudly considered herself a Stauntonian. At the age of 100 she was honored as a distinguished citizen of the city.

After 52 years of marriage, Ruby experienced the heartbreaking loss of Bill following his courageous and aggressive battle with cancer in 1999. Though she missed him deeply every day, she continued to live the remainder of her years with the same quiet grace and steadfast faith that had always defined her. Her home remained a place of warmth, hospitality, and love where children, grandchildren, neighbors, and friends were always welcome.

In the spring of 2026, Ruby began her final chapter when she moved to Millboro, Virginia, to live with her beloved granddaughter, Megan, and her great-grandchildren — "Mommaw's babies" — Carley Elizabeth, Chase Thomas, Caleb Dean “Little Meo”, and Cash Logan “Mommaw’s little man.” Watching them grow brought her a joy that words cannot describe. She loved sitting beside her picture windows watching the birds, deer, and chipmunks while trusting fully in God's plan for each new day in a place that reminded her of her West Virginia roots.

Ruby was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband of 52 years, Carl Lawrence "Bill" Dowdy; her parents; her siblings: Austin Gum, Basil Gum, Ernest Gum, Maxie Gum, Seraphine Gum, Bonnie Wilson, and Pauline Lucas; her beloved sister-in-love and lifelong best friend, Eva Gail Gum; the in-laws she loved as her own, Homer and Mamie Dowdy; and Bill's siblings whom she loved dearly, Tommy Dowdy, Irene Carter, and Mickey Patterson.

She leaves behind a family that was her greatest pride: Patty Moran and her longtime partner, Harry Harris, of Staunton; Bill Dowdy and his wife, Florence, of Kiawah, SC; Cindy Sensabaugh and her husband, Marvin, of Goshen; Annie Shiflett and her husband, Danny, of Craigsville; Linda Mader and her husband, Joe, of Staunton; and Scotty Lucas of Staunton.

She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren and (great grandchildren): Carl and Dayna Dowdy (Hailey and Hannah - her two favorite Old Maid players) of Golden, CO; John and Sarah Dowdy (Caden and Nora - her little piano player) of Ballwin,MO; Brian Harlow (Brianna) of Staunton; Megan and Tommy Ady (Carley, Chase, Caleb, and Cash) of Millboro; and Daniel Shiflett-her little Leo of Staunton. Additionally her bonus grandchildren Matt and Sam Mader of Stuarts Draft (Zoe and Jack) and Justin Mader of Churchville. She is also survived by a dear sister-in-law, Becky Darnell. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who were blessed by her love and friendship. The family would also like to recognize the special friendships she shared with Eddie Homes, Cassie Holsinger, Claire Harper, and her lifelong best friend Geraldine Snyder – all of whom loved Ruby as family.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to Ruby's devoted in-home caregivers, Emily, Wendy, Afton, and Amie, whose compassion, kindness, and faithful service allowed her to spend her final months where she most wanted to be—at home, surrounded by those she loved. Also, a special thank you to the staff of Bath Community Hospital for providing care for Ruby over the last several years - in her room, #208.

Funeral services will be on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, (1512 Churchville Ave., Staunton, VA) with Pastor Dale White officiating. Burial will follow in the Oaklawn Mausoleum & Memory Gardens where she will be laid to rest alongside Bill. Visitation will be on Monday prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the church.

Active pallbearers: Brian Harlow, Daniel Shiftlett, Matt Mader, Justin Mader, Jack Mader, and Colby Berry. Honorary pallbearers: Tommy Ady, Fred Mader, Bobby Benson, Butch Smiley, Rader Dod, John Avoli, Mahlon Webb, and Mike Poole.

Those who knew Ruby knew she loved flowers and cards. If you would like to share a memory of her, please mail a card with your memory to her Bath County home at 2611 Westminster Road, Millboro, VA 24460.

Glenda Nadine Gibbs, age 93, of Monterey, Virginia, passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at her home.

She was born February 16, 1933 in Baltimore, MD, a daughter of the late Harvey and Neada Mae (Earnst) Covell.

On March 22, 1969, she married Clifford Ward Gibbs, who preceded her in death in 2001.

Retired from Frederick Memorial Hospital, Glenda had been employed in housekeeping. Always an active lady with a strong work ethic, following her retirement she continued to work alongside her niece in private housekeeping for many years. Above all, Glenda found joy in helping others and truly loved simply being with her family.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by a son, Gene Tomlin; five brothers, Marvin, Paull, Odell, Charles and Harvey Covell Jr.; and two sisters, Miriam Covell Minnick and Elizabeth Covell.

She is survived by her daughter, Penny Gibbs of Monterey; five grandchildren, David Kemp, Heather Kemp, Jessic Tomlin, Lindsay Dawson and Garrick Tomlin; eleven great-grandchildren; as well as five great-great-grandchildren; as well as a number of nieces and nephews.

Per her wishes, her body was cremated and her family will commemorate her life at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to ACG Hospice, 427 Lee Jackson Highway, Suite A3 Staunton, VA 24401.

The Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell, Virginia, handled the arrangements.

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Johnny L. Lawson, of Eagle Rock, Virginia, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Johnny departed this world on July 2, 2026, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, humor, and love.

Born on December 3, 1940, in Wise County, Virginia, Johnny was the son of the late Earl Anderson Lawson and Dona Baker. He was the last surviving member of his siblings, having been predeceased by all his brothers and sisters. Johnny carried the memories of his family with him, as he was known to share stories and laughter, keeping their spirits alive.

In 1963, Johnny married the love of his life, Joyce N. Lawson, and together they built a life filled with love and companionship. This union blessed them with a son, Johnny Lee Lawson Jr., and wife, Rhonda Falls Lawson. The family continued to grow with the joy of their two grandchildren, Michael Justin and James Gordon Suthers, and six great-grandchildren: Caden, Cameron, Corbin, Julian, Bristol, and Marley Suthers.

Johnny proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the U. S. Army from 1960 to 1964, embodying dedication and bravery. After his military service, he embarked on a successful career, working for Rowe Furniture and later at Smith Transportation Company.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Johnny found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as hunting on North Mountain and playing rounds of golf with friends.

A man of faith, Johnny was an active member of Mt. Carmel Church in Eagle Rock, Virginia, where his presence was a blessing to many. He was known for his quick wit, warm smile, and a knack for delivering a perfectly timed joke, traits that endeared him to all who knew him.

Johnny's family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Salem VA Medical Center and Good Samaritan Hospice, especially Lyn, Chasity, Jessica, and Sarah, for their exceptional care and support during his final days.

A celebration of Johnny's life will be held on August 1, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Mt. Carmel Church, Eagle Rock, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in honor of Johnny's generous spirit and love for helping others.

Johnny L. Lawson will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family, extended family members, and countless special friends. His legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The Botetourt Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Chester Bernard ("B.") Goolrick III, 80, died on July 6, 2026, only two weeks after the discovery of a malignant brain tumor (glioblastoma). Until his last two weeks, he continued to be the consummate storyteller, bon vivant, concert-goer, and gourmand.

B. was the proud grandfather to Mattox, dad to Allie, and husband to Faye.

B. was born in Lexington, Virginia, on May 4, 1946, and enjoyed what he considered an idyllic childhood along Whistle Creek with his father, Chester, who taught British history at VMI, his mother, Esten Cooke Goolrick, brother, Robbie, and sister, Lindlay.

B. attended Williams College in Massachusetts before being drafted into the Army in 1968. He served three years in Germany before returning home and graduated from Washington and Lee in 1973.

On July 4, 1973, he met Faye Hamby, a recent Hollins graduate. They married in 1974 and celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary on December 28, 2025.

B. began his journalism career as a reporter for The Staunton Leader and then earned his master’s from Columbia University School of Journalism. He and Faye moved to Atlanta in 1977, where he joined The Atlanta Constitution. A reporter there from 1977 to 1981, he quickly developed a reputation as one of the city’s most accomplished and versatile reporters, recognized by his peers as a premier wordsmith with a novelist’s eye for colorful detail. He and a colleague, Paul Lieberman, became known for lengthy, award-winning investigative series on topics such as minimum wage violations and challenges to the Voting Rights Act. One series, “The Underpaid and Under-Protected,” won the 1979 Grand Prize from The Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Awards; another, on the Voting Rights Act, won the 1981 American Bar Association Silver Gavel Award for newspaper writing.

Recruited to the Atlanta bureau of The Wall Street Journal in 1981, Chester continued to write major front-page articles, as well as sparkling feature stories and travel pieces. In 1982, just back from a WSJ assignment in Trinidad, he suffered a near-fatal cerebral aneurysm, one month before the birth of his daughter, Allie. (He was released from the ICU the day she was born, and swore that she, as an infant, waved directly at him through the glass of the nursery.)

After recovering, B. devoted his life to being a great husband, dad, and grand-dad; reading The New Yorker and the New York Times; cheering the Atlanta Braves; and practicing the high art of singing tenor with community choirs and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta. Being able to sing worldclass choral repertoire, especially the Brahms Requiem, gave him immense pleasure.

Bebo was Allie’s doting dad and best friend, attending every swim meet and school event and tagging along to every rock concert she’d allow. In 2019, he became the proud grandfather to Mattox, who brought him endless joy and called him the world’s best granddaddy and best story-reader.

B. maintained a deep love for Rockbridge County throughout his life. In 2025, the family moved from Atlanta to the Brownsburg area, where Bebo happily entertained lifelong friends and family often, sharing meals and endless stories on the Goolricks’ front porch.

The family is memorializing B. through donations to Pro-Publica, the Pulitzer-winning nonprofit reporters’ organization dedicated to “investigative journalism in the public interest.” ProPublica exemplifies the beliefs Bebo stood for throughout his life: the essential role of a free press, and the compelling need to preserve the integrity of journalism.

To donate to ProPublica in memory of B., go to give. propublica.org. Select “Dedicate my donation,” and type in “Chester Goolrick” at the prompt.

Plans for a memorial service will be announced later.

James Thomas Kvach, 80, of Lexington, Virginia, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on July 14, 2026.

Jim was born in 1945 and grew up on a grape farm in Avon, Ohio. As a child he helped his mother, Anna and father, Frank in all aspects of crop production and harvesting. This experience undoubtedly caused him to always dream of having his own farm.

After retiring from working as chief scientist of the Armed Forces Intelligence Center in 2006 and after doing research and teaching at Johns Hopkins University, he then planted his own large produce garden in Lexington. This garden produced on average between 1 ½ -2 1/2 tons of vegetables and fruit each year for the last 19 years. He took this produce to the Rockbridge Area Relief Association’s Neighborhood Grocery, doing all the planting, harvesting, and delivery for most of those years. Last year he gave a plot of his garden to a group of Master Gardeners who tended their part of the garden and helped Jim with his part as well. It was a perfect relationship, and the effort became known as the “Giving Garden,” which continues in 2026.

In addition to his interest in farming, he was a master furniture builder, always working in cherry wood and always using the Shaker furniture style to build his family much of their furniture. In addition to building dining room and kitchen tables and grandfather clocks both for his wife and for the families of his son and daughter, he also built each of his four grandsons legacy Shaker wall clocks and mantel clocks. All the furniture was meticulously built and often custom designed.

Jim was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving four years active duty from 1970 to 1974 and 22 years reserve duty as an Air Intelligence officer, retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1996. While on active duty, he served with the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Korat Air Force Base in Thailand during the Viet Nam War and later at the Pentagon.

Jim and his wife, Kathy moved to Lexington 20 years ago and considered that decision one of the best that they have ever made. Jim joined several nonprofit organizations and eventually chaired some of them in addition to being very active in the work that they do. Some of those organizations include Habitat For Humanity, Rockbridge Area Relief Association, Boxerwood, and Master Gardeners. He was particularly proud to have helped build 37 Habitat homes. For the past 18 years he has also produced a daily report on international public health that was utilized by countless health professionals worldwide and even some interested Lexingtonians.

Jim is survived by Kathy, his wife and best friend of 58 years. His son, John lives in Lexington, and his two sons, Ben and Thomas, attend Ole Miss University, and their mother, Ann lives in Huntsville, Alabama. His daughter, Jenny and her husband, Dave live in Earlysville and have two sons, Charlie and Sam, who attend James Madison University. His much-loved dog, Buddy, continues to go to his garden to dig up and eat old cabbage plants and to look for Jim.

The funeral will be on July 21, and final arrangements include a Funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church at 11 a.m., a graveside ceremony at Oak Grove Cemetery after Mass, followed by a celebration of life reception at noon at Rockbridge Area Relief Association (RARA).

Donations in his memory may be made to RARA and Boxerwood.

Thomas Emerson Hostetter, 80, of Lexington, Virginia, died Saturday, July 11, 2026, at his home.

Born March 17, 1946, he was a son of Carl Edward Hostetter and Emma Josephine Bane Hostetter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Carl Hostetter Jr. and wife, Shirley; and his sister, Patsy Link and husband, Pete.

Thomas retired from Mohawk Industries with over 49 years of service.

Surviving are his nephews, Bucky (Laurie), Michael and Randy (Tina); special great-nephew, Chad Hostetter (Amy); great-great-nephew, Caleb; great-great-niece, MaKinlee; many other family, friends and coworkers.

A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Friday, July 17, at Collierstown Presbyterian Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 16, at Harrison Funeral Home.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.

Wilson Lee Carter, 81, of Glasgow, Virginia, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital.

He was born January 8, 1945, in Rockbridge County, a son of Woodrow Wilson Carter and Reva Lee Rhodes Carter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Wayne “Pee Wee” Carter.

Wilson graduated from Parry McCluer High School and served in the U.S. Navy

Surviving are his daughter, Kim Gormley; sisters, Shirley Humphrey and Susie Hawkes (Bill); and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be no service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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

Ian Treger of Lexington, Virginia, passed away in May 2026 while on a hiking trip in Peru. He was 29.

Born on October 25, 1996, Ian was raised with a deep curiosity about the world that would come to define his life.

He attended Saint James School in Hagerstown, Maryland, graduating in 2015, before spending a gap year in Germany, living with his host family, Bettina Wiedmann and Joe Ritzer, to learn the German language and immerse himself in the culture. That year abroad sparked a lifelong passion for travel, language and connecting with people from different backgrounds.

Ian went on to attend Washington and Lee University, graduating in 2020, where he was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Order. Soon after, he built a career in investment banking, but his heart remained devoted to learning new cultures, whether through teaching, traveling or simply seeking out his next adventure. He was an avid reader, a passionate hiker and never happier than when he was outdoors.

Ian is survived by his parents, Neil Treger and Michelle Ludwig, as well as his sister, Sarah Treger. He will be forever cherished by his beloved host family, Bettina Wiedmann and Joe Ritzer, and their daughters, Florentina, Roberta and Emmi Ritzer, and his honorary nephew, Laken Ross.

He is preceded in death by his four grandparents: the late Barbara Scott, George Ludwig and Lois and Carmen Pentifallo.

The family will host a memorial service on August 26 at 11 a.m. at University Chapel at Washington and Lee.

Dennis Wayne Brinkley, also known as "Spud", "Slug", "44", age 63, of Millboro, Virginia, passed peacefully on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at his residence after a courageous four-year battle with Multiple Myeloma.

He was born October 19, 1962 in Hot Springs, Virginia, to the late William “Bud” Brinkley and Peggy Doyle Brinkley.

Dennis retired from Smurfit Westrock power department after 31 years of service.

He was a member of Blue Grass Hunt Club, Warm Springs Hunt Club, Virginia Bear Hunters Association and a member of Woodland Union Church.

He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing softball in his younger years, and coaching his children throughout their childhood. Most of all, he loved spending time in the mountains listening to the sound of the hounds while bear hunting with his son and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ed Brinkley and father-in-law, Donald Loan.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Julie Loan Brinkley; daughter, Danielle Martin (Chris); son, Derek Brinkley (Elizabeth); sister, Frances Brinkley; grandchildren, Bryce Martin, Brexton Martin, Beckett Brinkley, and twins arriving in August, Boone and Remi Brinkley; mother-in-law, Betty Loan; brother-in-law, Dale Loan (Annette); sister-in-law, Tammy Entsminger (Carter); special friends, Greg and Cindy Smith, Janet Plecker; “sister from another mother”, Becky and Pastor David George; and numerous other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, co-workers and hunting buddies.

In keeping with his wishes, his body will be cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in Woodland Union Church, Millboro, with Pastor David George officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon until time of service at the church.

The family would like to thank ACG Hospice, doctors, and nurses at Emily Couric Cancer Center and UVA Health Cancer Center, Augusta.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to Doris L. Via Cancer Fund, P. O. Box 174, Hot Springs, Virginia 24445 or to the Fairview Cancer Crusade, 21793 Mountain Valley Road, Millboro, Virginia 24460.

The Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, is handling the arrangements.

Blanche Rachel Perkins, 86, of Covington, Virginia, died Monday July 13, 2026 at her residence.

She was born October 23, 1939 in Bath County, a daughter of the late John and Icyphine Shifflett Perkins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Jerry Keyser; seven brothers; and three sisters.

Blanche retired in 1993 as a bus driver for the Alleghany Highlands School Board after 26 years of dedicated service.

She was a longtime member of Temple Baptist Church, the Red Hat Ladies, and Chapter #911 of the Women of the Moose. She also worked for several years as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

Survivors include her children, Kay Hoke (Don Hoyt), Gail Crickenberger, Sherry Keyser, and Michael (Bonnie) Keyser, all of Covington, and Dale (Karen) Keyser of Waterloo, SC; two grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert Perkins of Covington; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In keeping with her wishes, her body has been cremated.

A celebration of life will be conducted at a later date.

Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

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

Robert Lee Erskine, 80, of Ronceverte, West Virginia, passed away Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Robert was born June 8, 1946 at Ronceverte to the late Roscoe Madison and Mary Kathryn Morgan Erskine.

Robert attended the Pentecostal Holiness Church at Second Creek and had worked in the lumber industry.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Kay Weikle Erskine; brother, Jesse Darrell Erskine and sisters-in-law, Susan Erskine and Carol Erskine.

Surviving include sisters, Bessie Reed and husband, Benjamin and Rebecca Kirk and husband, Stephen; brother, Tony Erskine. Several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026 at the Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg with Pastor Michael Erskine, Pastor Keith Rasnick and Pastor Keith Delatte officiating. Burial followed at the Honaker Cemetery on Coffman Hill.

Visitation was held from 12:00 p.m. until time of the service at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Those serving as pallbearers were Jeffrey Erskine, Wesley Reed, Jay Bennett, Billy Morgan, Jamie Hoke and Madison Erskine.

The Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Jeffrey Scott (Jeff) Welch, 66, of Buchanan, Virginia, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Skillen "Junior" and Janie Ann Landes Welch and brother, Kevin Welch.

He is survived by his son, Brandon Welch; and grandchildren, Ryleigh, Bronson, Grayson, and Janie Welch.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

The Botetourt Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Susan (Susie) McClung Culpepper, 74, of Lexington, Virginia, passed away peacefully at her home with family members at her side on July 8, 2026, after battling pancreatic cancer.

She was the daughter of Dr. John H. McClung and Charlene M. McClung, both of whom predeceased her in death.

She is survived by her husband, Robert (Bob) S. Culpepper; their four children, Sam C. Cardozo (Genevieve) of Austin, Texas, Julia C. Garner (Thomas) of Wilmington, N.C., Anne C. Widener (Scott) of Charlottesville, and Scott B. Culpepper (Carrie) of Brooklyn, N.Y.; and eight grandchildren, namely Parker, Hudson, Charlie, Anna, Stuart, Mack, Marguerite, and J.J. She is also survived by her four sisters and brother, Patti McClung of Boise, Idaho, Nancy McClung of Hendersonville, N.C., Marney McClung of Hendersonville, N.C., Barbie Call of Harrisonburg, and Jay McClung of New Kent.

Susie received her undergraduate degree (BA) from Queens College, Charlotte, N.C., in early childhood education and English literature and later received her master’s degree (MA) in early childhood education from the University of Virginia.

She started her teaching career at the UVA Child Development Center in Charlottesville, where she served as lead teacher. She then taught at St. Anne’s-Belfield School, also in Charlottesville, where she served as its first preschool director and lead teacher.

She returned to Lexington when she married her husband, Bob, and for the next 10 years taught at what is now Southern Virginia University, serving as division chair, early childhood instructor, preschool director and lead teacher of the preschool program.

Over the years, she also taught at Central Elementary, the Norfolk Academy in Norfolk, Sedgefield Elementary and Elizabeth Lane Elementary in Charlotte, N.C., where she was named Teacher of the Year.

When she retired from full-time teaching, she continued to serve as a substitute teacher for Central Elementary, Waddell Elementary, and Lylburn Downing Middle School on a regular basis because teaching was her passion and she loved being with the children she taught. In her spare time she enjoyed swimming, gardening, and cooking delicious meals. She was a magical teacher and a wonderful person who will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at a time and place to be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.

Mrs. Regenia Mae Griffith Brown, age 94, of Covington, Virginia, died Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, Roanoke, Virginia. She was the wife of the late Marvin N. Brown.

Mrs. Brown was born May 12, 1932 in the Earlhurst section of Alleghany County, the daughter of the late Dennis R. Griffith and Virgie Kincaid Griffith.

She was a lifetime member of this community and a graduate of Dunlap High School. Regenia was a homemaker who enjoyed taking care of her family.

Mrs. Brown was a longtime member of Fletcher Chapel Church where she served her church as a Sunday school teacher, being on the PPR committee and social concerns. Regenia loved doing craft shows, doing ceramics and working in the yard until a friend took over mowing. She also enjoyed feeding and making water for the hummingbirds.

Regenia leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Cynthia "Cindy" J. Brown of Wytheville; a grandson, Joseph Christopher Martin; a number of nieces and nephews on both the Griffith and Brown sides of the family, special friends and her beloved church family.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Brown was preceded in death by three brothers, Wade Griffith and wife, Mary, Frederick Griffith and wife, Audrey and Guy Griffith; an infant brother, Bobby Griffith; a sister, Pauline Carter; and special companion, Daisy Mae.

A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, July 16, 2026 from the chapel of Loving Funeral Home with Rev. Lynn Wright officiating. Interment will follow in Fletcher Chapel Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Barry Marshall, Butch Lane, Dennis Tuckwiler, Dewayne Wolfe, Charlie Wiley, Bob Knabenshue and Hunter Fridley. Alternate pallbearer will be Wayne Mann. Honorary pallbearers will be James P. "Pat" Loving, Jr., Garland Campbell, Clinton Phillips, Ray Keen and members of Dunlap Rescue Squad who faithfully responded when called to assist Mrs. Brown.

The family will receive friends on Thursday morning from 11:30 a.m. until time of service at Loving Funeral Home.

In addition to sending floral tributes, the family suggests that memorial tributes take the form of contributions to Fletcher Chapel Church, P. O. Box 494, Covington, VA 24426 or Dunlap Fire and Rescue, P. O. Box 218, Covington, VA 24426.

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

Phyllis Tarbox Brogan, 77, of Hot Springs, Virginia, passed away Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the Springs Nursing Center in Hot Springs.

Beloved wife and mother, Phyllis is survived by her two sons, Brian Brogan and Albert Brogan, both of Radford, Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Brogan, in 2021.

There will be no services at this time.

The McLaughlin & Young Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Joan Ogden Burch, 87, of Buena Vista, Virginia, passed away on July 7, 2026, at her home.

Joan was the daughter of Clinton Ogden and Edna Ramsey Ogden.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Leslie “Pig” Burch, and her sister, Phyllis Ogden Risser.

Joan was raised in Buena Vista and was a proud graduate of Parry McCluer High School. She retired from Aramark food services after more than 30 years.

As a person who relied on her faith for strength and guidance, Joan was a long- standing member of the First Brethren Church in Buena Vista.

Affectionately known as “Gigga” by her grandchildren, she loved to make quilts and blankets for family and friends, shop at yard sales and collect antiques, especially dolls.

Joan is survived by her children, Marty Burch, Pete Burch (Julia), and Lori Burch Ferranti (Tom); a sister, Andrea Ogden Moore (Stephan); grandchildren, Emma and Brock, Andrew and P.J., Tino and Trevi; great grandchildren, Hudson and Jackson; along with many extended family members and friends. She will be missed so much by so many, and will be forever remembered for her love, kindness, and care she provided for her family and those around her.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 13, at Bolling, Grose and Lotts Funeral Home.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 14, at Green Hill Cemetery.

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

James (Jim) Monroe VanMetre, IV, of Lewisburg, West Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Charleston Memorial Hospital, on July 7, 2026.

Born in 1944 in Palo Alto, CA, Jim grew up on the VanMetre family farm in Martinsburg, WV, later moving to Lewisburg.

He was a 1962 graduate of Greenbrier Military School and a Vietnam War veteran.

Jim was a bridge inspector for the WV Department of Highways. He was a member of the Greenbrier Military School Alumni Association, United Service Organizations, the Greenbrier Valley Chapter of The Senior Circle, NRA, National Society of the Sons of American Revolution, and the Harley Davidson Owners Group.

He participated competitively in Cowboy Action Shooting, winning many trophies and held membership in the Single Action Shooting Society.

Jim was a lifelong member of the Lewisburg Volunteer Fire Department, an avid outdoorsman, and motorcycle enthusiast.

Jim was predeceased by his first wife, the mother of his daughters, Linda Holt VanMetre, by his parents, James M. and Wilda B. VanMetre, his in-laws, Forest and Betty Holt, his sisters, Sandra V. Judy and Dorothy “Dottie” VanMetre, and brother-in-law, Robert J. Tate.

Jim is survived by loving family members including his wife, Cathy Ingram VanMetre; daughters, Judy (Timothy) Poore of Midlothian, VA, and Karen (John) Arbuckle of Lewisburg; cherished grandchildren, Dr. Jaelynn Parks, Victoria Parks, and Samuel Poore; sister, Julie VanMetre Tate of Ashland, VA and brother-in-law, Jerry (Alice) Judy; his niece, Lisa J. (Lee) Metchick and nephews, David Judy, Jeb (Jennifer) Tate, Lee Tate; grandniece, Jamie Tate and grandnephew Aiden Metchick. He is also survived by two stepdaughters, Ashley Mandeville and Amy Burdette and their husbands/families.

d Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at the Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home with Rev. Ron Miller officiating. Burial with Military Honors conducted by American Legion Post #26 followed at the Rosewood Cemetery.

Visitation was held Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 pm at the Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg.

Brandon Mikel Phillips, 50, of Lewisburg, West Virginia, passed away on July 9, 2026.

He was born May 18, 1976 in Clifton Forge, Virginia, the son of Thomas W. Phillips of Lewisburg and Bobbie Welch Gardner of Renick.

In his youth he attended Ronceverte Presbyterian Church.

Preceding Brandon in death were his paternal grandparents, Homer and Alta Baker Phillips and his maternal grandparents, Howard and Mae Welch.

Surviving are his son, Tyler Lykens of Greenville, WV.; parents, Tom and Carmen Phillips of Lewisburg; mother, Bobbie, and Jim Gardner of Renick and his brother, Alex and Desiree Phillips of Lewisburg.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at the Riverview Cemetery in Ronceverte with Pastor Bobbie Gardner officiating.

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

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the loss of Richard Andrew (Dick) Fleshman age 82, passed away July 9, 2026 peacefully at home in Alderson, West Virginia.

He was born July 24th, 1944 in Buck, West Virginia, a son to the late Betty and Howard Fleshman.

Richard served his country in the U. S. armed forces in the naval division. He was machinist mate 2nd class aboard the USS Tautog 639 and was a proud veteran serving six years in the service.

He was a loving father, son, brother and friend. He was funny but stern and always there for wisdom or to lend a hand when a neighbor needed him.

He settled in Alderson and worked as a skilled carpenter and enjoyed singing at over 80 churches and was a devoted Christian.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Alice Faye Fleshman; four daughters, Vivian Fleshman (one child), Jennifer (one child) and husband, Tom Miller, Elizabeth (two children) and husband, Doug Newbrough, Laura (six children) and husband David Chapman; and two grandchildren.

Richard’s siblings: Howie Fleshman, Royce and wife, Sherry Fleshman, Janet Bragg and Causby Parker.

There will not be any funeral services or celebration of life as per the family's request.

The Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Helen Louise Gaylor, 98, of Covington, Virginia, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at Alleghany Health and Rehab in Clifton Forge.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are being handled by Arritt Funeral Home.

Charlotte Ann Brant, 73, of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026.

Charlotte was a devoted Christian whose faith guided her throughout her life. She loved her family with all her heart and would do anything she could to help someone in need. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, love and unwavering strength in her faith.

She is survived by her two sons, Kevin Brant of Gap Mills, WV and his wife, Chasity, Jason Brant of Greenbrier County, WV and his wife, Jessica, along with granddaughter, Addison, granddaughter, Samantha Brant of Ronceverte, WV with fiance, Steven Morgan and her great grandchildren, Gabriel, Emily and Julia Morgan; step-granddaughters, Alexandra Dame and Shyanna Dame; one brother, Steve Glover of Covington, Virginia, and wife, Brenda. Her special family members, Elissa Scott and Miranda Scott, who will forever hold a special place in their heart.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Julia Glover; her father, Walter “Doodle” Glover; her brother, Larry “Inky” Glover and her sister, Sharon Glover VanBuren.

Charlotte leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and unconditional love.

Though her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in knowing she is at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

May her memory be a blessing to all whose lives she touched.

Graveside service will be held at Rosewood Cemetery in Lewisburg, WV, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 11 a.m.

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

Arrangements entrusted to Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.