In Remembrance

November 14, 2023

On November 12, 2023 at the age of 94, James Osmond (Sonny) Ash, of Callao, VA, transitioned from time into eternity. Sonny was raised in Perrin, VA by his father, James Henry Ash, and his mother, Marie Bristow Ash, both of whom predeceased him. After graduating from Fork Union Military Academy in 1947, he attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University. From 1950-1953, he served his country in the United States Coast Guard. He later graduated from the Echols College of Mortuary Science following in the footsteps of his grandfather in serving the people living in the community during their times of loss. In 1960, he became a co-owner in the Jones-Ash Funeral Home and also owned James O. Ash Memorials, both in Rainswood, VA.

In addition to serving his community through funeral service, Sonny was also active in the Lions Club, was a member of the Achilles Masonic Lodge 281, the Westmoreland Masonic Lodge 212, and the Shriners. Sonny served on the Fork Union Military Academy Board of Trustees for eight years and served for seven years on the Virginia Board of Funeral Directors and Embalmers, including one year as President.

Sonny loved his Lord. He was active in Melrose United Methodist Church, including serving as a trustee for the church’s cemetery. He was also active at Lakewood Park United Methodist Church in Fort Pierce, FL while spending the winter months in Florida. He was deeply touched when the United Methodist Men at Lakewood Park UMC recognized him as a Life Member in 2012.

Sonny also loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Jackson Ash; his children, Pamela C. Ash (Andrew W. Gallagher), James B. Ash, Gen A. Hahn (Kim), Andrew H. Jones (Sue), and Beth Jones Childs. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Matthew Jones (Nicole Drozd), Kyle Jones (Becky), Tollie Appleby (Phillip), Elizabeth Winyall (Davey), and Parker Childs. In addition, he absolutely adored his great grandchildren, Owen, Jackson, Logan, Ashlynn, Brooks, Cathryn, Leah, and Gabe. He was also predeceased by his two sisters, Lavinia Ash Stuart and Lois Marie Ash Carr.

Visitations will be held on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, from 3:00-4:00PM and 6:00-8:00PM at Melrose United Methodist Church, 1317 Lewisetta Rd., Lottsburg, VA 22511, with a Masonic Service being held at 7:00PM. His funeral service will also be held at the church on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Melrose United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 150, Lottsburg, VA, 22511.

Faulkner Funeral Homes and Cremation Services

Tidewater Funeral Directors Association

Former Owner of Jones-Ash Funeral Home and James O. Ash Memorials

October 18, 2023

Arline Holt Small, 95 of Colonial Heights, passed on to a better life at home on October 12, 2023. Born January 3, 1928 in Matoaca, she was the daughter of the late Albert and Naomi Holt and was preceded in death by two sisters, Margaret Holt Partin and Mildred Holt Robertson. She met and married the love of her life, Herbert Small on October 14, 1947 in Matoaca. She worked at Tots and Teens in Downtown Petersburg and later on worked part-time for Carter House in Colonial Heights. But mostly she was a loving wife and a wonderful mother to her two daughters. Arline was the best Mee-maw to her grandchildren, always assuring them they had the most fun at her home by making up scavenger hunts, putting up indoor tents, playing restaurant and games. She was a caring woman who was always busy doing for others by visiting, baking, or making a meal. Arline was a founding member of Colonial Christian Church in Colonial Heights where she sang in the choir, became the choir director for over 16 years, was an Elder and taught children in Sunday School and Bible School. She actually started her musical career when she was 6 yrs. old singing on a Petersburg Radio Station. Over her lifetime, she sang with her beautiful voice not only in the choir at church, but also for many weddings, funerals and civic groups. She is survived by her loving husband of 76 years, Herbert S Small, two daughters, Susan Small Belcher (Earl), Nancy Small Barnes (Kris), three grandchildren, Ashley Watkins McSwain (Thomas), Austin Kris Barnes (Holly), Kelsey Paige Barnes (Kerry), and one great grandchild, Brooklyn Faye McSwain. The family would like to thank Crater Community Hospice and our in-home caregivers for the excellent care that was given during her illness. A funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, October 16, 2023 at the Colonial Christian Church 295 Dunlop Farms Blvd in Colonial Heights, Va with the Rev. Kathryn Hull officiating. Interment will follow in Southlawn Memorial Park S. Prince George, Virginia. The family will receive friends Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory 2033 Boulevard Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Colonial Christian Church. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory

Central Funeral Directors Association

Wife of Herbert S. Small

July 24, 2023

Travis A. Smith, 40, of Eagle Rock, finally received his healed body on Thursday, July 20, 2023. Affectionately known by his family as “Jake”, a nickname his Grandma Smith gave him when he was young, was born April 21, 1983 to Dennis Smith and the late Linda Huff Wyatt. In addition to his mom, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, James Essie Brown Smith and Mary Jane “Janie” Elizabeth Deacon Smith, Lawrence Edwin and Bessie Scott Huff, and Billy and Fleta Newcomb. Travis was a 2001 James River Alumni and “retired” from Gala/Maag with 12 years of service “to the day” being the last of the Smith family that was employed there since the doors were open. Family was everything to “Jake” and it meant alot to him to follow in his grandfather’s, father’s, and uncle’s footsteps once he found his way to Gala after working at the cement plant and Groendyk. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, Nascar, spending time with his family and most importantly his son. Left to cherish his wonderful and loving memory are his son and “Bubby”, Logan; wife, Karen; bonus daughter, Kayla; dad, Dennis; sister, Heather and her boyfriend, Kevin; nieces, Tory (Zac) and Zoey (Tayler); great-nephews, Jayce, Easton, and Grayson; numerous aunts and uncles including, Diane and Gary Walker, Don and Alice Smith, Dale and Sandy Smith, Gary and Delma Tingler, Andy and Jane Huff; numerous loving cousins including, Jeff, Tracey, Sonya, Andy, Matthew, Robbie, Troy and Sarah; his in-law family, Ray and Bobbi, Jim and Debi, Kevin and Katie, Aunt Jane, Chris & Kim; special family friends, the Alls family; numerous amazing friends, “Woodchuck’s” Gala/Maag work buddies; and the Buchanan Moose Lodge including the Race Pool Gang. Travis touched many lives, had many dear friends, and will be terribly missed. It was this large family and numerous friendships that gave him the strength to fight cancer as long as he did. Visitation will be held from 12-2pm with Memorial Services at 2pm on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home with Pastor Dave Mucha officiating. Flowers are beautiful and very much appreciated, but it would mean more to send a loving donation to the Cancer Center in Atlanta that gave Travis all the time they could. The family would like to thank each and every one who prayed, sent cards, called, and just kept us in their thoughts. Also, special thanks to Sarah with Good Samaritan Hospice for her loving care during this difficult short time. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com or 540-254-3000

Botetourt Funeral Home

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association

Husband of Karen Connor Smith

June 28, 2023

Glenda Shepherd Yonce, 84 of Hillsville, passed away on Monday, June 26, 2023 at Commonwealth Assisted Living. Glenda was born in Wytheville, Virginia to the late Robert Jess and Gladys Myers Shepherd. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her sister, Alice Blessing.

Survivors include her husband of 64 years, Donald Yonce; sons and daughters-in-law, Greg and Vickie Yonce and Wesley and Cassie Yonce; niece and spouse, Sabrina and Randy Webb; great-nieces and great-nephew, Amanda Webb, Caleb Webb, and Lydia Webb; special first cousin, Garry Branscome; and special neighbors, Ann and Montie Largin.

Glenda was a member of the Hillsville Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and a member of the First Baptist Church. She babysat for over 37 years and leaves behind a legacy of children, too numerous to mention by name, that she cared for. Glenda will also be missed by a host of friends and neighbors.

The family would like to express a special thank you to the wonderful, caring staff at Commonwealth Assisted Living and Mountain Valley Hospice.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel at 11:00 AM with Pastor Ryan Mills officiating. Burial will follow in the Wilkinson Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, June 27th from 6:00 until 8:00 PM and on Wednesday, June 28th from 10:00 until 11:00 AM prior to the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hillsville First Baptist Church or to the Hillsville Volunteer Fire Department. A guestbook is available online by visiting www.vaughanguynnandmcgrady.com. Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel is serving the family.

Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association

Wife of Donald Yonce Former Manager and Funeral Director Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel

June 19, 2023

Susan Downs Herring, 61, passed away unexpectedly, and peacefully, on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. She was a native and lifelong resident of Poquoson; former owner of Claytor Rollins Funeral Home and The Flower Shoppe in Poquoson; and worked at Hunt Dentistry in Poquoson for over 15 years.

Susan loved her home on the creek, and her Florida home on the river; sunsets on her deck; riding in her flamingo golf cart; being on the water in the boat; Mustang rides; and especially, hanging out with her friends.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Wiley and Peachie Downs, and special friend Beth Forrest Roberts. She is survived by Rick; brothers/sisters-in-law, Sam & Bonnie Herring and Jim & Mary Lindberg; many nieces and nephews; BFF Pat Thomas; and her furbaby, Winnie.

A service will be held Thursday, June 22, 6:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Susan’s life, all at the Poquoson Yacht Club, 417 Messick Road. Lots to eat and drink. Please come in casual/beachy attire, and you are welcome to say a few words/tell a Susan story, at her service. Remember, Susan loved pink!!

Burial will be private at Weston Cemetery, Poquoson.

Susan asked to thank Dr. Friend, Dr. Hawkins, and PA Chong Joyner, for all their care and support. She was cancer free!

Claytor Rollins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences to claytorrollins.com.

Claytor Rollins Funeral Home

Tidewater Funeral Directors Association

Former Owner of Claytor Rollins Funeral Home

June 16, 2023

Beverly Anne Tyree Angell, 61, of 215 Camping Springs Road, Lynch Station died Friday, June 16, 2023 at her home with her family by her side. She was the loving wife of her high school sweetheart, Christopher Alan Angell for thirty-nine years.

She was born May 19, 1962 in Clifton Forge, a daughter of the late Charles Meredith Tyree, Jr. and Peggy Vest Tyree. She was a member of Lane Memorial United Methodist Church. Beverly loved her family and was most proud of being a “Mimi”.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her mother-in-law, Betty Swoope Angell of Covington; two daughters, Brooke Angell Finch and her husband, Trey of Altavista and Kacey Angell Foxx and her husband, Shane of Vinton; a son, Christopher Cory Angell and his wife, Natalie of Lynch Station; a sister, Debbie Williams of Covington; two brothers, Dwain Tyree and his wife, Janie of Covington and Rob Tyree and his wife, Mary of Covington; eight very special grandchildren, Austen Finch, Hayden Angell, Avery Finch, Kolbie Angell, Elijah Foxx, Luca Foxx, Audrey Finch and Tate Angell; and a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 18, 2023 at Finch & Finch Chapel, Altavista by the Rev. Brady Willis with interment to follow at 2085 Marysville Road, Altavista.

The family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m., Saturday at Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service, Altavista and other times at the residence.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making memorials to the Claire Parker Foundation, P.O. Box 523, Altavista, VA 24517.

Please visit the online tribute at www.finchandfinchfuneralservice.com to share a memory or send a condolence to the family.

Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service

Southside Funeral Directors Association

Mother-in-law of Trey Finch

May 23, 2023

Virginia Lynn Bland Duncan, 76, of Christiansburg, Va. passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on Sunday, May 21, 2023. She was born in Radford, Virginia on February 22, 1947, to the late James Edward Bland, Sr., and Doris McGhee Bland. She was also preceded in death by her brother Harry Lee Bland. Lynn dreamed of following in her mother's footsteps to become an RN. She accomplished this and served many families during their time of need. She is survived by her husband, Jackson B. Duncan; daughter and son-in-law, Marie and Mike Rorrer; son and daughter-in-law, Eddie and Suzanne Woolwine; grandchildren, Ashley Apjok and husband Scott, Kelsey Woolwine, McKinley Rorrer, Ryan Woolwine and wife Nicole; great-grandchildren, Maggie Apjok and Lucas Apjok; step daughter, Kim Wade and husband Steve; step-grandchildren, Jackson Wade and Shannon Wade; sisters, Kaye Bland and Delma Griffith; brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy and Sandy Bland; sister-in-law, Mary Bland; numerous nieces and nephews; Jenny her beloved companion who was always by her side. A special thank you to her caregivers Lena Lytton and Alicia Leonard. Our family was comforted in knowing that Lynn was being cared for and loved on a daily basis. Thank you to all the nurses and staff at Intrepid USA Hospice Radford during this time. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 11:00 am in the McCoy Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Sebert Rorrer officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Cemetery Christiansburg, Va. The family will receive friends 5 to 7 pm Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at McCoy Funeral Home, 150 Country Club Drive SW, Blacksburg. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Intrepid USA Hospice Radford, 101 West Main Street, Radford, Va. 24141.

McCoy Funeral Home

Blue Ridge Funeral Directors Association

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

May 10, 2023

Joyce Hogg Bristow age 86 of Gloucester Point, died peacefully at her home on Monday, May 8, 2023. She was the daughter of the late James Roland and Stella Rowe Hogg of Wicomico, a licensed funeral director and Vice President of Hogg Funeral Home. Joyce enjoyed multiple careers, in interior design and she was the founder of Fabrics Unique which later became the Guild Hall of Williamsburg and she remained CEO until her retirement. She was nominated “The Mayor” of Stage Coach after establishing the Pig Pen Design and enjoyed many weekends socializing. She is survived by her husband David V. Bristow, 2 daughters Vicki Lynn Bristow, and Stella Deanne Bristow, and granddaughters Tyler Kitchens and Bree Kitchens-Neuberger (David). The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, from 6:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Hogg Funeral Home. A graveside service officiated by the Reverend John Edwin Hogg will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 11, 2023, in Rosewell Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Flowers are welcomed and should friend’s desire memorial contributions may be made to Riverside Walter Reed Hospice, 7358 Main Street, Gloucester, VA 23061, or an Animal Rescue of your choice. We wish to acknowledge the splendid care of Dr. Peter Zullo and Riverside Walter Reed Hospice. Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home.

Hogg Funeral Home

Tidewater Funeral Directors Association

Wife of David Bristow, Owner of Hogg Funeral Home

April 28, 2023

William H. Mountcastle, 59, of Woodbridge, VA died April 13, 2023 at Annandale Healthcare Center. "Wild Bill" as he was affectionately known, was born to B. Earle Mountcastle and Patricia Yeatman Bing February 19, 1964 in Washington, DC. He is also survived by his daughter, Crystal Mountcastle; and his sister, Lynne Mountcastle.

Born in Washington D.C., he was raised in Woodbridge, where he spent most of his life. He received an Associate’s Degree in Funeral Services from Miami-Dade College; as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Business from Virginia Commonwealth University. He was licensed as Funeral Director in the Commonwealth of Virginia and Florida.

During his younger years, he had a passion for racing motorcycles and was mechanically inclined. Bill was an avid outdoorsman; his hobbies included traveling, boating, and skiing. If you knew him, you know he was very skeptical of any official news outlet.

Memorial Contributions can be made to a charity of your choice.

Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home & Crematory

Northern Funeral Directors Association

Son of Earl Mountcastle, VFDA Past President

April 25, 2023

Honaker, VA- Burke Hess, age 90, went to be with the Lord, Monday April 24, 2023. Burke was born March 14, 1933, in Russell County, VA to the late Beverly Hess and the late Josie Owens Hess. He was retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad with thirty-four years of service and was the former pastor of Gent’s Chapel Freewill Baptist Church for fifteen years. Burke was a veteran of the United States Army having served in Korea.

Besides his parents he is also preceded in death by his wife of sixty-nine years, Virginia Frances Hess; sons, Willard Dean Hess and Michael Foster Hess; daughter-in-law, Sharon Fields Hess; sisters, Ethel Mae Lister, Mary Frances Taylor, Tella Sue Dasher, and Bertha Lee Taylor.

Burke is survived by his daughter, Deanna “Pheebe” Rowe and husband, Chris; son, Sammy Hess; sisters, Ruba Slate, Gladys Pearl May and husband, Bill, and Ruth Hale; brothers, Curtis Hess, Earl Gene Hess, and Charlie Hess; grandchildren, Sam Hess and wife, Vickie, Jason Rowe and wife, Brianna, and Justin Rowe and wife, Amanda; Amanda McGlothlin and husband, Brian, Adam Hess and wife, Jessica, Aaron Hess and wife, Brittney, Alania Sykes and husband, Daniel; great-grandchild, Macie Wallace and husband, Connor and expected great-grandson, Carson Rowe, several other great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Charlotte Hensley and husband, Bill; daughter-in-law, Cathy Hess; several nieces and nephews also survive.

Special thank you to nieces Audrey Key and Debbie Dangerfield.

The funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 pm Wednesday April 26, 2023, in the Ketron Memorial Gardens Mausoleum with the Rev. Bill Hensley officiating. The family will receive friends from 1-2 pm prior to the funeral service. Honorary pallbearers will be grandsons.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project.

Expressions of sympathy may be made on Combs-Hess Funeral Service Facebook page and our website at www.chfunerals.com. Combs-Hess Funeral Service, 291 Highway 71 Fincastle Road, Lebanon, VA 24266, (276)889-4444 is serving the Hess family.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Garland Burke Hess, please visit our flower store.

Combs-Hess Funeral Service

Southwest Funeral Directors Association

Grandfather of Sam Hess, VFDA Board Member