In Remembrance

June 10, 2024

R. David Bradley, age 76, passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024, at the Bristol Hospice House in Bristol, TN.

David was born in Smyth County, Virginia, to the late George and Iva Starling Bradley. He is also preceded in death by his infant brother, Charles J. Bradley; sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Bobby Russell; nephew, Tony Russell, and special brother-in-law, Buddy Blevins.

David was first and foremost a devoted husband, father, PawPaw, son, and brother, putting his love for his family above all else. His legacy of devotion and care extended beyond his immediate family, reaching into his community where he served in many capacities. His life was characterized by his commitment to giving back and fostering the best in others.

David served his country, state, county, and church community in numerous ways, reflecting his unwavering dedication to service. David devoted 27 years to the Army Reserves, demonstrating his patriotism and sense of duty to his country. He devoted 44 years of his life to law enforcement, becoming Sheriff in 1996 and serving with distinction until his retirement in December 2015. His commitment to public safety and community well-being was further exemplified by his role as a founding member of the Adwolfe Fire Department, after previously serving in the Sugar Grove Fire Department.

Among his proudest achievements was the implementation of the "Operation Safety" program for the senior citizens of Smyth County, aimed at enhancing their safety and well-being. Additionally, his devotion to the Children's Van Ministry at Calvary Baptist Church was a testament to his passion for supporting and uplifting the youth in his community.

David’s kindness, generosity, and belief in the inherent goodness of people left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He always sought to see the best in everyone and helped others see the best in themselves.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Wilma Kestner Bradley; his sons: Donald Bradley and wife Valerie of Cameron Park, CA, Timothy Bradley and wife Justine of Marion, VA, and Jamie Bradley and wife Amanda of Marion, VA; his cherished grandchildren: Megan and husband Matt, Nick, Kenedy, Rowan, Jacob, Seth, Jaden, James, Abby, Alayla, Jayla, Ava, Jayce, Abel, Jackson, Pepper, and Rowdy; nephews and niece: Chad, Todd, and Shannon. He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law: Mary Blevins, Chris Griffitts, and Lois Taylor; his adopted son, Tracy Sledd; adopted grandson, Little Man Sledd; numerous other nieces and nephews; and many special friends.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff and Critical Care Team at Bristol Regional Medical Center ICU for their valiant efforts in helping David, and to the nurses at the Bristol Hospice House for their compassion and care.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Calvary Baptist Church, with Pastor Scott Foster and Jamie Bradley officiating. Private Entombment at Rosewood Memorial Gardens will follow. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, from 5:00 pm-8:00 pm at Calvary Baptist Church. Memorial contributions can be made to Calvary Baptist Church Children’s Van Ministry, 956 Matson Drive, Marion, VA 24354. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.bradleysfh.com. Bradley's Funeral Home of Marion is serving the family of R. David Bradley.

Bradley Funeral Home

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association

Father of Tim Bradley

May 20, 2024

Kimberley Dale Saville Beuerle, 63, of Lynchburg, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024. She was the wife of Timothy James Beuerle, Sr. for 41 years.

Born in Lynchburg, she was the daughter of William R. Saville, Sr. and the late Eloise Gills Saville and was also preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Kathy Powell Saville.

Kim was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister. She was very active in her church, Fort Hill United Methodist Church; United Methodist Women and Park View Mission. She retired from Lynchburg City Schools and was teacher of the year 2008-2009. She was a graduate of Lynchburg College, where she received the Evelyn Bickham Outstanding Undergraduate Alumni Award.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Dr. Catherine Beuerle Martin and her husband, William and their son, Cameron; a son, T.J. Beuerle and his wife, Gerri and their children, Easton and Holden; mother and father-in-law, Brenda and Don Beuerle; two brothers, William R. Saville, Jr., John A. Saville and wife, Kim; two brothers-in-laws, Donald Beuerle, Jr. and wife DeNae’, Chris Beuerle and wife Sonya, a niece, Sarah Saville; four nephews, Taylor Saville, Samuel Saville, Joseph Saville and Christopher Beuerle.

Family and friends are welcome to visit from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Friday, May 24, 2024, at Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory to sign the guest book if unable to attend the service on Saturday.

A Celebration of Kim’s life will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Fort Hill United Methodist Church by Rev Marc Brown and Rev. Janet Hawkins. The family will receive relatives and friends following the service at the church. Burial will be private in Fort Hill Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Fort Hill United Methodist Church, 106 Oakridge Blvd., Lynchburg, VA 24502 or American Cancer Society, 4405 Cox Rd., Suite 110, Glen Allen, VA 23060.

Sister of John A Saville, owner of Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory, Lynchburg, VA

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association, Southside Funeral Directors Association

Sister of John A. Saville, Owner Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory, Lynchburg, VA

April 16, 2024

Tamara Leigh Whitt Kelly, age 66 of Sanford, passed away on Tuesday (4/9/2024) at her home. She was born on February 7, 1958 in Danville, Va, daughter of Maxine C. Whitt, and the late Claiborne Keister Whitt Jr. She was preceded in death by her father, and her husband David Wayne Kelly. She loved her three dogs, cooking, gardening and being outside. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 3:00pm at Saint Luke's United Methodist Church in Danville, Virginia. Surviving is her mother, Maxine C. Whitt of Danville, VA. Daughter, Kerri Eikost (Chad) of Danville, VA, Hayley Loman (Patrick) of Graham, NC, Kaitlyn Kelly of Chapel Hill, NC and son Joshua Kelly (Amber) of Sanford, NC. Siblings, Cindy Whitt of Raleigh, NC, Linda Adams, Sharon Robertson, Susan Doss, Keister Whitt and Bobby Whitt of Danville, VA; seven grandchildren and one great-grandson. Online condolences can be made at www.smithfuneralhomebroadway.com

Smith Funeral Home

Southside Funeral Directors Association

Sister of Keister Whitt, VFDA Past President, Wrenn-Yeatts Funeral Home

April 16, 2024

Jo Ann Conner Maberry, 93 of Floyd, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family, on Sunday, April 14, 2024. She is preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Carlin G. Maberry; and her parents, Curtis and Ocie Conner.

Jo Ann was a graduate of Check High School Class of 1948 where she was known as “petite, popular, and a speedy ball player” in her senior yearbook. Her love of basketball continued into her 80’s as she thoroughly enjoyed watching Floyd County High School basketball, even traveling to Richmond for state games until she was no longer able. She also loved being outside any chance she got; working in her garden and planting flowers. Traveling was a favorite pastime, especially taking Abbott Bus trips in later years, and she always made sure her daughters got to go on vacation growing up.

She married the love of her life on June 5, 1953 and settled into their first home in Willis. She worked at Maberry Store when it was located in Willis. She worked for Floyd County Public Schools for 25 years, working at Willis Elementary, Floyd Elementary, Floyd County High School, and the Bus Garage and Maintenance Department as secretary until her retirement. In addition to the school, she worked with her family at Maberry Funeral Home, Inc., becoming Owner and President in 2008 following Carlin’s death. She was lovingly referred to as “The General” by her staff, “The Troops.” She’s remembered for always working three jobs; the school system, the funeral home, and raising her two daughters and later keeping her granddaughter after school.

She was co-chair and instrumental in starting the Floyd County Chapter of the American Red Cross with her husband. She was a member of the Floyd Rebekah Lodge for many years. She enjoyed outings with the Blue Ridge Model A Club where she got to show off her cherished 1931 Model A that belonged to her dad and that she learned to drive on. She valued being a dedicated member of Floyd United Methodist Church until she was no longer able to go in-person.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Ann M. and Larry C. Phillips and Mitzi M. and Rodney D. Roberson; granddaughter, Nicole R. Carr (Tyler); great-granddaughter, Natalynn C. Carr; special caregiver, Barbara Gallimore; and special co-workers, Phillip Owens, Frank Keith, Isaiah Cox, Janelle Cox, Todd King, Wayne Lovelace, and Paul Hill.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Timothy Hale officiating. Interment will follow in Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Floyd United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 55, Floyd, VA 24091 or to the animal charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.maberryfuneralhome.com

Maberry Funeral Home

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association

Owner and President of Maberry Funeral Home, Inc.

April 10, 2024

V. Wade Wilkins, age 70 of Montross, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Wade was a hard worker his entire life. He started working at Collins Sanford’s store in Montross, helped his father install the water system at Glebe Harbor, delivered oil with the Peoples Oil Company, and also worked for VDOT in Warsaw.

Wade started working at Sanford-Price Funeral Home in Montross, using his God-given artistic talent to carve and shape monuments. When John W. Welch, II, purchased Sanford-Price in 1985, Wade was hired to not only work in monuments, but served an apprenticeship and studied Funeral Service. Wade cared for local families at Welch Funeral Home and assisted those needing monuments until he retired in 2019.

Ordained as a Pastor in 2002, he served at many churches in Westmoreland, Richmond, Essex, and King & Queen counties, helping anyone in need. He was currently serving as Manager of B.W. White Funeral Home in Aylett, while always filling in at local churches on most Sundays. Wade was a member of Currioman Baptist Church. He absolutely loved being outdoors & hunting. Wade was always helping others with his many talents.

Wade is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gail Taylor Wilkins; children: Brenda Lee Humphrey (James), Gerald Wade Wilkins (Mandy), and Cheryl Lynn Archbold (Nik); grandchildren: Kristin & Nathan Worrell, Mackenzie & Margaret Wilkins, and Sebastian & Kaylee Archbold; great-granddaughter Annistyn Clark; brothers: J. Bryon Wilkins, Chris Wilkins (Pam), and Tommy Wilkins (Stephanie); sister, Rita Balderson (Calvin); and several nieces and nephews.

Wade was preceded in death by his parents Vernon and Geraldine Wilkins, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Welch Funeral Home

Central Funeral Directors Association

Retired Funeral Director, Welch Funeral Home

April 1, 2024

Patricia Ann Jolly Perkins, 82, of Petersburg, VA, passed away on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. She was the daughter of the late Early Edward Jolly and Emma Florence Puckett Jolly; and was also preceded in death by her four sisters; and two brothers. Mrs. Perkins was a longtime member of Saint Mark's United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir and served in many other capacities. She was also a member of the Petersburg Garden Club. Mrs. Perkins worked as a Radiology Technician, as well as physician's office assistant for many years. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Spencer V. Perkins, Jr.; sons, Spencer V. Perkins III and his wife, Nina Perkins, and their two children, Elli and Will, and Mark E. Perkins and his wife, Christy Perkins, and their son, Jeremy; as well as many nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Saint Mark's United Methodist Church. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, at the church. The family is being served by the Petersburg Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Saint Mark's United Methodist Church, Petersburg, VA.

J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home

Central Funeral Directors Association

Wife of Spencer V. Perkins, Jr., Retired Funeral Director

March 29, 2024

John "Dick" Richard Bartenslager, 90, passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Brightview at Baldwin Park in Staunton.

He was born on November 27, 1933, in York County, PA to the late Dr. Arthur "Doc" Valentine Bartenslager and Mrs. Delilah Orr Bartenslager.

Dick had a rich and fulfilling life, marked by diverse career experiences that ultimately led him to find his true passion in the funeral industry.

A man of many talents, Dick pursued various occupations throughout his lifetime. From working at Smith's Transfer in Verona, at the Staunton and Augusta Correctional Facilities, to tending to the family farm, Bellemonte in Churchville where he raised his family, Dick’s work ethic and dedication shone through. However, it was his role as a licensed funeral director and embalmer that truly resonated with him. He extended his expertise as a trade embalmer for numerous funeral homes across the region and he retired from Jones Funeral Home in Winchester after eight years of service and then relocated back to Staunton. Once there, it was not long before he began a second career at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton, which began in February 1996. His employment spanned an impressive twenty-three years during which he continued to establish himself as a consummate professional known for his compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to serving others.

Dick's educational background includes graduating from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1961 – a milestone that laid the foundation for his successful career in the funeral industry. Beyond his professional endeavors, he honorably served in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman during the Korean War, showcasing his commitment to both his country and those in need.

Outside of work and service, Dick immersed himself in various interests and activities that brought him joy. A member of York Lodge No. 266 F&AM in Pennsylvania and attended Waynesboro's Lee Lodge No. 209 A.F. & A.M., Dick embodied kindness and grace in all interactions. He had a profound love for gardening, food, and traveling—an enthusiasm he shared with his beloved wife, Helen and his best friend, Bob Corbin. The inseparable pair cherished their time together and made countless memories filled with love and laughter. Dick was also an active member of Saint Paul's Church in Staunton where his faith guided him throughout life.

He is survived by his children, Lisa Lynn Bartenslager, Arthur Conway Bartenslager and his wife, Ruth, Brock Orr Bartenslager and his wife, Melissa, and John Talmon Bartenslager and his wife, Kelly; his sisters, Ann Hanger, Linda Henry, and Pamela Michael; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife, Helen Virginia Arthur Bartenslager, who passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024, as well as his grandson, Jeb Tanner Rippey Bartenslager; and his sister, Margaret "Tunie" Joan Bartenslager Robinson.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton. A funeral service will directly follow at 3:30 PM with the Reverend Ryan Oswald officiating. Interment will be private with military and Masonic honors at Green Hill Cemetery in Churchville.

Serving as active pallbearers will be Dick's sons and grandsons.

It is suggested that those desiring may make memorial contributions to the American Heart Association (PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692) and Legacy Hospice (14 Old Oaks Drive Ste. 101 Fishersville, VA 22939).

Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Center

Shenandoah Funeral Directors Association

Retired Funeral Director, Henry Funeral Home

March 23, 2024

Luther Gilbert Woolwine, age 78, of Christiansburg, went to his eternal home on March 20, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Christiansburg, Va., on April 1, 1945, to the late Rev. Charlie Noah Woolwine and Kathleen Vest Woolwine. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald Ray Woolwine, David Michael Woolwine, and Joseph Leroy Woolwine; sister-in-law, Patricia Wells Woolwine; and brother-in-law, Paul Edward Hollandsworth. Luther was employed by the Radford Army Ammunition Plant (Arsenal) for 38 years. Luther worked tirelessly for his fellow employees to improve working conditions. Those who worked with him showed their respect by allowing Luther to represent them. He served as a union steward on the shop floor in the late 1960's and early 70's. In the mid 70's Luther decided to take on additional leadership responsibilities. For 12 consecutive 2 year terms, Luther was elected by his fellow workers as a Committeeman (6 terms), Vice President (3 terms), and eventually served 3 terms as their president. Luther retired from the Arsenal in 2004 but was still active in helping fellow retirees and former Arsenal workers with the benefits to which they worked and was entitled until the onset of his illness. Luther is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Blondene Hollandsworth Woolwine. Luther is also survived by his daughter, Marie Rorrer (Mike); son Eddie Woolwine (Suzanne); grandchildren, Ashley Apjok (Scott), Kelsey Woolwine, McKinley Rorrer, Ryan Woolwine (Nicole); great-grandchildren, Maggie and Lucas Apjok; sisters-in-law, Shirley Woolwine, Bonnie Woolwine, Maxine Woolwine, Bonnie Smith (Lewis), Sandra Altizer (Fred), and Linda Hollandsworth; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Funeral Services will be conducted, on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at the McCoy Funeral Home Chapel with the Pastor Shake Smith and Rev. Sebert Rorrer officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Cemetery. The family will receive friends at McCoy Funeral Home, on Sunday, March 24, 2024, from 6-8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank Dr. Mock and the BRCC Staff, Dawn Fouse, and Good Samaritan Hospice for their care and compassion.

McCoy Funeral Home

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association

Father-in-law of Michael Rorrer, VFDA Past President

March 22, 2024

Alena Mae "Sue" Comer, 92, of Shenandoah, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Skyview Springs Nursing and Rehab in Luray, where she had been a patient since October 31, 2023.

Sue was born on October 26, 1931, in Stanley and was a daughter of the late William M. and Lula Butler Turner. However, she was raised by her uncle and aunt, Bernard C. and Sally Butler Dovel of Shenandoah.

She retired as a supervisor from Rockingham Sleepwear near Elkton with 25 years of service. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Shenandoah.

On May 29, 1949, Sue married Edwin W. Comer, who passed away on February 10, 2003.

She is survived by her son, Gary D. Comer of Stanley and his wife, Patsy Lucas Comer, who served as her caregiver and was her "best buddy."

Gary and Patsy will receive friends from 6-7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 18, at the Bradley Funeral Home, 187 East Main St., Luray.

A private graveside service will be held at the Mount Lebanon Christian Church Cemetery, Comertown Road near Shenandoah.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be made to the Page County Animal Shelter.

Condolences may be sent to Gary and Patsy Comer, P.O. Box 277, Stanley, VA 22851.

Gary and Patsy wish to thank the staff at Blue Ridge Hospice and Skyview Springs Nursing and Rehab for the excellent care given to mom during her illness. Special thanks is extended to "The Boys" at the Bradley Funeral Home and the staff at Kyger Funeral Home.

Bradley Funeral Home

Shenandoah Funeral Directors Association

Mother of Gary Comer, Employee of Bradley Funeral Home

March 20, 2024

Helen Virginia (Arthur) Bartenslager, 87, wife of John Richard Bartenslager, passed away Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Berkshire Health and Rehabilitation Center in Vinton.

Helen was born on May 26, 1937 in Lyndhurst to the late David and Anna Arthur.

She drove a school bus for Augusta County for thirteen years. After her school bus days, she changed her profession and went to work for the Virginia Department of Corrections.

Helen was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Being a housewife was what made her happiest which gave her time to spend with her family that she loved dearly. She and her husband spent a lot of time on many adventures which included being a part of what her children and grandchildren were doing. Spending time with her family is what made her happiest.

In addition to her husband of sixty-three years, she is survived by her children, Lisa Bartenslager, Arthur Bartenslager and his wife, Ruth, Brock Bartenslager and his wife, Melissa, and John Talmon Bartenslager and his wife, Kelly; her sisters, Francis Winegar and Nancy Stinespring; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Betty Ann Duncan and Ellen Towler (her twin), and her beloved grandson, Jeb Bartenslager.
A funeral service will be conducted at the Henry Funeral Home chapel at 3:00 PM on Friday, March 22, 2024 with the Reverend Ryan Oswald officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 2:00 PM.

Interment will be private at Green Hill Cemetery in Churchville.

Friends may stop by the home of Lisa Bartenslager at other times.

Serving as pallbearers will be her grandsons, Zach, Tucker, Erik, Isaiah, and Clay, and two special friends, Abbott Graham and Charlie Rimel.

Memorials donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Center

Shenandoah Funeral Directors Association

Wife of John Richard "Dick" Bartenslager, Longtime VFDA Member and https://www.henryfuneralhome.net/Retired Funeral Director/Embalmer