PRINCETON – Clarence Gardner, 82, of Princeton, died Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at Wythe County Community Hospital in Wytheville, VA. Born April 24, 1927 at Riner, VA, he was the son of the late Clayton Gardner and Pearl Gardner.

Mr. Gardner was a retired coal miner and was a driver for H.C. Lewis Oil Co. in Bluefield, VA. He was a member of the Memorial Church of Christ.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six brothers, Claude Gardner, Jim Gardner, Harlow Gardner, Clinton Gardner, Fred Gardner and Vinston Gardner; and one sister, Edith Garner.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Shirley Severt Gardner of the home; one daughter, Debbie Gardner Ball of Kingsport, TN; two sons, Donnie Gardner and his wife Debbie of Princeton and Howard Gardner of Clarksburg; one sister, Mary Nell Sweeney of Christiansburg, VA; six grandchildren, Keri Gardner Brooks, Kevin Gardner, Brittany Ball, Dorothy Church, J.R. Gardner and Patricia Gail Gardner; and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 13, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Minister Frank Watkins and Ed Wellman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.

Serving as pallbearers will be Lewis Conner, Dallas Hubbard, Everett Severt, Teddy Wolfe, Bo Church and David Stevens.

The family may be reached at the home of Donnie Gardner, 603 Key Street, Princeton.

Friends may call Friday, March 12, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

KEGLEY – William Enoch Bridges, 87, of Kegley, died Monday, March 8, 2010 at his home. Born December 3, 1922 at Princeton, he was the son of the late John Bridges and Catherine Collier Bridges.

Mr. Bridges was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in World War II. He was retired from N&W Railroad and was a member of the Rich Creek Baptist Church at Spanishburg. In his spare time he enjoyed gathering and cracking walnuts.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Maymie L. Blankenship Bridges in 2009; one sister, Mary Bridges; and one brother, John Bridges.

Survivors include three daughters, Patricia Gonderman of Kegley, Dreama Wood and her husband Ricky of Kegley and Lisa Sulit and her husband Arnel of Princeton; two sons, Victor Bridges and his wife Paula of Greenville and Howe Bridges and his wife Sandy of Spanishburg; one sister, Frances Rowland of Oak Ridge, TN; 10 grandchildren, Duane Gonderman and his wife Eileen, Derrick Gonderman and his wife Lucinda, Jared Wood, Chelsea Wood, Stephanie Sulit, Beth Ann Bridges, Kenny Bridges, Billy Bridges and his wife Kristie, Barbara Justice and Brennon Bridges and his wife Jessica; and 10 great-grandchildren, Kyle Gonderman, Chase Gonderman, Enoch Gonderman, Leah Gonderman, Kaylyn Bridges, Lacy Beth Bridges, Braxton Justice, Brittan Justice, Riley Bridges and Gabby Bridges.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 11, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Ralph Calfee officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call Wednesday, March 10, 2010 from 5-7 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Bridges, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.


Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Bridges

PRINCETON – Wardie A. Shrewsbury, 94, of Princeton, died Thursday, March 4, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital. Born June 28, 1915 at Dott, he was the son of the late Samuel Washington Shrewsbury and Birdie Basham Shrewsbury.

Mr. Shrewsbury was a retired coal miner and member of U.M.W.A. He attended Ashworth Baptist Church in Princeton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Carol Graham; and one granddaughter, Angie Graham; three brothers, Hassel Shrewsbury, Roy Shrewsbury and Cledith Shrewsbury; four sisters, Goldie Sonak, Amanda Akers, Elsie Cook and Maudie McKinney.

Survivors include three daughters, Mary Annette Shrader of Lashmeet, Joan Shrewsbury and her husband Trentis of Lashmeet and Beverly Queer and her husband Tom of Knox, IN; four sons, Carlos Shrewsbury and his wife Sandy of Greencastle, IN, Frank Shrewsbury and his wife Mary of Knox, IN, Dan Shrewsbury and his wife Debbie of Liberty, KY and Tom Engle of Manheim, PA; two sisters, Noma Lilly and Iris McGinnis both of Princeton; 16 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 8, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Larry Bailey officiating. Interment will be at the Bowling Cemetery at Spanishburg.

Friends may call Sunday, March 7, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Alma Erna Hill Betker, 85, of Princeton, died Sunday, February 28, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital in Princeton. Born June 20, 1924 at Lundale, she was the daughter of the late Oscar J. Hill, Sr. and Virgie Spurlock Hill.

Mrs. Betker was formerly employed by Amherst Coal Company and Guyan Eagle Coal Company where she was a retail grocery clerk. She also worked for many years in the family business, Betker Grocery, in Princeton. She was a member of Bruce McDonald United Methodist Church in Man and attended the First United Methodist Church in Princeton.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Ruby Hill Kennedy and Lois Hill White; and two brothers, Wilmer Hill and James E. Hill.

Survivors include her husband, Robert L. Betker of Princeton; one daughter, Faith Lee Betker Dickie and husband, Steven Husted Dickie; and three grandchildren, Julianne Hope Dickie, Bethany Joy Dickie and Daniel Steven Dickie; four sisters, JoAnn Hill Hazelett, Imogene Hill Bailey, Jeanette Hill Mullins and Patty Hill German and one brother, Oscar J. Hill, Jr.

A memorial service will be conducted at 6:00 p.m. Monday, March 8, 2010 at First United Methodist Church in Princeton with Rev. Randy Adkins officiating. Friends may call at the church from 5:00 p.m. until the service hour. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 304, Princeton, WV 24740

Arrangements by Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Mary Elizabeth (Della) Akers, 83, of Princeton, died Saturday, February 27, 2010 at her home. Born November 29, 1926 at Crystal, she was the daughter of the late Bennie Fax Hodges and Gracie Beatrice Stump Hodges.

Mrs. Akers was a former employee of Ferrell’s Diner and Town and Country Restaurant in Princeton and Princeton High School. She was of the Baptist faith and loved gardening, walking and quilting.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Jack Akers in 2007; six brothers, Paul Hodges, Jake Hodges, David Hodges, Little Bennie Hodges, Bonnie Hodges and James Peter Hodges; and four sisters, Laula Dunn, Virginia Dunn, Katherine Hodges and Opal Hodges.

Survivors include two daughters, Gracie Elizabeth Neal and her husband Albert and Ruby Ernestine Stump and her husband David all of Princeton; and two sons, Bennie Jackson Akers and his wife Darless of Princeton and William Elden Akers and his wife Pam of Bluefield; two brothers, Ballard Hodges of Kegley and Joseph Hodges and his wife Minnie of Princeton; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and special friend, Delany Grose of Kegley.

Honoring Mary’s request, a graveside service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at the Gardens of the Ten Commandments at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton with the Rev. Larry Dyer officiating. Friends attending the service are asked to meet at the cemetery. There will be no visitation at the funeral home.

Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

BLUEFIELD – Rev. Kermit Keys, 86, of Bluefield, died Friday, February 26, 2010 at Beckley VA Medical Center. Born November 5, 1923 at Lashmeet, he was the son of the late William Osco Keys and Mellie Mae Archer Keys.

Mr. Keys was an ordained Pentecostal minister since 1948 and served many churches in the area. He was retired from Armour Food Company after 40 years of service as a sales representative. He was a veteran of the US Navy having served in World War II as a second class gunners mate in the South Pacific on the USS Lipan and was a lifetime member of VFW.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Trevor Keys and Keith Keys.

Survivors include his wife, Jean (Shiney) Scott Keys; one daughter, Kay Keys Belcher and her husband Ronald of Winston-Salem, NC; three brothers, Tracy Keys and his wife Ann of Chesterland, OH, Bill Keys of Bluefield and Frank Keys and his wife Shirley of Beckley; one sister, Dollie Lawrence and her husband Ryan of Rock; one granddaughter, Rhonda Sheek and her husband Wess of Clemmons, NC; three great-grandchildren, Scottie, Courtney and Brandie all of Winston-Salem, NC; two great, great-granddaughters, twins Summer and Sammie; close relatives, Nell, Pat, Margaret and Jack; and many nephews, nieces and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Evangelist David Lusk and Pastor David Kirby officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call from Monday, March 1, 2010 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

LASHMEET – Charles David Blackburn, Sr., 62, of Lashmeet, died Sunday, February 21, 2010 at his home. Born November 4, 1947 at Wilmington, DE, he was the son of the late Clarence Blackburn and Betty Lewis Blackburn.

Mr. Blackburn was a truck driver having last worked for Graham Trucking in Princeton where he was known as “Old Yellow.” He was an honorary member of the Brothers of the Wheel.

Survivors include one son, Charles David Blackburn, Jr. of Tazewell, VA; two daughters, Donna Ruston of Lady Lake, FL and Stephanie Witham of Newport News, VA; mother of his children and caregiver, Diana Plaster of Lashmeet; and seven grandchildren.

The body has been cremated. A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 6, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor L.A. Farmer officiating. Friends may call from 1:30 p.m. until the service hour.

Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

BLUEFIELD - Cynthia Berg, 66, of The Maples in Bluefield died Sunday, February 21, 2010. Born June 30, 1943 in Bluefield she was the daughter of the late John Walter Repass and Betty Lanreth Repass.

She worked as a Unit Clerk at Bluefield Regional Medical Center where she retired following many years of dedicated service. She formerly lived in California and Adirondak, New York in the 1970’s. She loved nature and the Native American culture.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Mark Repass.

She is survived by two daughters, Jackie Lynne Hardman and Susan Jean Hardman both of California; one son, Barry Gilbert Hardman of Texas; two grandchildren she love very much, Kyle Grass and Kimberly Grass both of California; one brother, Johnny Repass of Bluefield and her best friend, Mae Pagan of New York.

The body has been cremated. There will be no services at the funeral home. Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Buren Albertis Mills, 86, of 1117 Princeton Avenue, Princeton, died Friday, February 19, 2010 at Bluefield Regional Medical Center. Born November 5, 1923 at Dott, he was the son of the late Wilder Mills and Della Delp Mills.

Mr. Mills was a retired coal miner from Consolidated Coal Company and was a member of U.M.W.A. He loved working in his garden raising vegetables and flowers. In his later days he loved to work with antiques. Now he has his new shoes.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Johnny Ray Mills; two brothers, Conrad and Glenn; three sisters, Erma, Christine and Madeline; one son-in-law, Clyde David Boyles; and a great-grandson, Sean Austin Boyles.

Survivors include his wife, Glenna Maxine Bailey Mills of The Maples in Bluefield; one son, Michael Mills of Princeton; two daughters, Peggy Rode and her husband Ken of Princeton and Charlamayne Boyles of Springton; and six grandchildren, Valorie, Sean, Iris, D.J., Johnathan and Yancey; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Delmar Stillwell officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.

Serving as pallbearers will be Sean Boyles, D.J. Boyles, Yancey Rode, Paul Canterbury, Larry Akers and Richard Tiller. Everett Walker and Johnathan Rode will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Friends may call Wednesday, February 24, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Cordy Foley Lilly, 96, of Princeton, died Thursday, February 11, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital. Born August 11, 1913 at Matoaka, she was the daughter of the late Andy Foley and Alice Sneed Foley.

Mrs. Lilly was a charter member of the Lashmeet Church of God, which originally was Mary’s Branch Church of God in Matoaka. In her younger years she was active in the church serving as a Sunday School teacher, Play Director and a member of the Ladies’ Ministries. She was also a member of the choir. The Princeton Church of God pastors were special to her in her months of illness sharing their ministry and support. She always had a compassionate heart and was eager to help anyone in need. She was educated in Mercer County Schools and earned a Nursing Diploma from the Philadelphia School of Nursing.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Lake Lilly; one son, Ray Kirby Lilly; two daughters, Eva Barker and Norma Hamm; one grandson, David Thompson; five brothers; and three sisters. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

Survivors include two daughters, Carol Louise Roland and her husband Gene and Patricia Smith and her husband Jerry all of Princeton; two grandsons, Phillip Hamm of Shady Spring and Mike Smith and his wife Michele of Bluefield; two granddaughters, Dr. Rhonda Hamm of Lewisburg and Andrea Smith-Fleming and her husband Kevin of Princeton; two granddaughters-in-law, Sherri Thompson of Bluefield and Tracey Hamm of Beckley; six great-grandchildren; one son-in-law, Herbert Hamm; two sisters-in-law, Hazel Foley and Bessie Foley; and special friends and neighbors, Betty DeBoard and Jack Lewis.

A graveside service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton with Pastor Fred Farley officiating. Grandsons and nephews will serve as pallbearers.

The family requests that memorial contributions, if desired, be made to the Bluefield Union Mission, P.O. Box 4056, Bluefield, WV 24701.

Friends may call from 12:00-12:45 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Family and friends attending the service are asked to meet at the funeral home by 12:45 p.m. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

LASHMEET - Johnny L Midkiff, II, 33, of Lashmeet, died February 9, 2010. Born October 3, 1976 at Bluefield, he was the son of Johnny L. Midkiff and Marsha Midkiff of Lashmeet.

He was a graduate Princeton Senior High School and attended Bluefield State College. He was a certified HDAC Technician and was a member of Rich Creek Baptist Church. He was a loving son, father and husband. He loved hunting, fishing and riding his Harley.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorrie Nicole Midkiff; paternal grandfather, John Quincy Midkiff; and maternal grandparents, William Martin Carden and Zelda Marie Carden.

In addition to his parents, left to cherish his memory are his children, Johnny L. Midkiff, III, Martin Q. Midkiff and Kayla M. Midkiff all of the home; one sister, Stephanie Thompson and her husband Marvin of Lashmeet; niece, Manna Ree Thompson; nephew, Jared Thompson and his paternal grandmother Glenda Midkiff of Lashmeet.

Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, February 14, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Revs. Ralph Calfee and Randolph Dishner officiating.

A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Friends and family attending the service are asked to meet at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home by 1:45 p.m.

Friends may call Sunday, February 14, 2010 from 2:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Midkiff, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Midkiff

PRINCETON - “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give to me on that day.” 2 Tim. 4:7-8

Rena D. Mills Roberts, 68, formerly of Princeton, was called home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at Carrington Place in Wytheville, VA following a long illness. Born February 7, 1941 at Rock, she was the daughter of the late Tharwell Mills and Clelia Ross Mills.

Rena was retired from Yale Norton Company in Monroe, NC. She attended The Millennium World Outreach Church in Wytheville, VA.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Larry G. Roberts; four brothers, Okley Mills, Drexel Mills, Clinton Mills and Alva Mills; and one granddaughter, Kimberlee Nicole Roberts.

Survivors include two daughters, Teresa D. Martin and her husband Robert and Sherry L. Brower and her husband Tony; one son, Timothy Dock Roberts and his wife Cindy; five grandchildren, Britten Martin Moyers and her husband Ron, Montana Martin, Dakota McGinn, Maghan Roberts and Larry Addleton Dock Roberts; three great grandchildren, Dylan, Blake and Paige Moyers; four sisters, Ima Jo Mills Williams, Alma Faye Mills Elliott, Anna G. Mills Farley and her husband Tiny and Jackie Mills Harvey and her husband Herbert; three brothers, Burnell Mills and his wife Geneva, Mason Mills and his wife Carrie and Bobby Mills and his wife Dean. Rena had many nieces and nephews and extended family members who will miss her dearly, also a very special lifelong friend and confidant, Eunice Burkett Mills.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, February 4, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Norman B. Mills officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park in Princeton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eunice Mills, Executrix, P.O. Box 185, Little Birch, WV 26629 (304-765-2528) to assist with expenses.

Friends may call Thursday, February 4, 2010 from 12:30 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Roberts, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Roberts

KANNAPOLIS, NC – The Crook and Shrewsbury families regretfully announce the passing of their beloved family member, Andria Amanda Crook. Andria’s ten year fight against brain cancer came to a peaceful end late Wednesday morning. Her pleasant demeanor and positive attitude during her long ordeal stand as testament to the strength of her character. The love and care she provided to her family and friends is rare and precious. Her smile and her laugh will be missed. The pain of her absence cannot easily, if ever, be overcome. Born May 21, 1979 in Beckley, she was the daughter of Wayne and Janice Parson Shrewsbury of Garwood.

Mrs. Crook was a homemaker and enjoyed school activities with her children.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Hope and Madeline Shrewsbury; and her maternal grandparents, Andy Parson and Lillian Mitchem.

Survivors include her husband, Jimmy Crook; two children, Zack and Lydia of the home; two sisters, Loretta Shrewsbury and her husband Randy of Roanoke, VA and Cindy Bailey and her husband Jeff of Culloden; three brothers, Wayne Shrewsbury of Garwood, Aaron Shrewsbury of Charlottesville, VA and Nick Shrewsbury of Roanoke, VA; one niece, Megan Bailey of Culloden; two nephews, Eric Shrewsbury of Tallahassee, FL and Ryan Bailey of Culloden. The family is grateful to everyone for their sympathy during this sad time. We take comfort in the knowledge that Andria is safe in the arms of the Lord, free from pain and surrounded by love.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 30, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Revs. Roger Lusk and David White officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Friends may call Friday, January 29, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Cornell Braxton “Sonny” Pugh, Jr., 73, of Princeton, died Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital. Born June 12, 1936 at Charleston, he was the son of the late Cornell Braxton Pugh, Sr. and Rose Pugh.

Mr. Pugh served in the U.S. Air Force. He was a former mechanic for Bondurant Oldsmobile in Princeton for many years and owned an Exxon service station in Princeton. He was also a police officer for the Princeton Police Department.

Survivors include a son, Randy Pugh and his wife Angel of Jacksonville, FL; and two grandchildren, Zander and Zoey.

The body has been cremated. There will no services at the funeral home. Arrangements by Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

LASHMEET – George Andrew Waddell, 90, of Reese Harmon Ridge Road, Lashmeet, passed away Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at his home. Born October 9, 1919 at Hiawatha, he was the son of the late Marion Waddell and Rebecca Short Waddell.

Mr. Waddell was a coal miner for 40 years at several mines last working at Itmann Coal Company. He was a member of Rock Assembly of God for 55 years and had many friends. He was also the last surviving member of his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, Arthur Waddell, Clayton Waddell, Albert Waddell and Arnold Waddell; and two sisters, Flora Farley and Ellen Farley; and his step-mother, Lulu Waddell.

Survivors include his wife of over 70 years, Margaret McBride Waddell of the home; two sons, Jack Waddell and his wife June of Bradenton, FL and Jimmy Waddell and his wife Patricia of Ravenel, SC; one daughter, Rebecca Driver and her husband Phillip of Zebulon, NC; three grandsons; four granddaughters; seven great-grandsons; five great-granddaughters; and two great, great-granddaughters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 28, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Vivian Sloan officiating. Entombment will follow at the Roselawn Memorial Gardens Mausoleum in Princeton. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Compassus, 1033 Stafford Dr., Princeton, WV 24740.

Friends may call Wednesday, January 27, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

LASHMEET – Lula I. Shrewsbury, 86, of Lashmeet, died Saturday, January 23, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital. Born June 12, 1923 in Mercer County, she was the daughter of the late Bart Thompson and Arta Walker Thompson.

Mrs. Shrewsbury was of the Primitive Baptist faith. She was retired from Maidenform in Princeton after 23 years of service. She loved visiting with her friends, cooking and working word puzzles. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lotie E. Shrewsbury in 1985; four sisters, Lena Brown, Annalee Smith, Eva Young and Lava Shrewsbury; and five brothers, Fielder Thompson, Morris Thompson, Raynard Thompson, Edwin Thompson and Arl Thompson.

Survivors include one daughter, Gail Davis of Princeton and her fiancé Larry Dillon; one son, Larry Shrewsbury and his wife Renee of Beeson; four grandchildren, Donna Clinebell and her fiancé Earnie Akers, Steve Davis and his fiancé Angela Cook, Gary Davis and his wife Beverly and Kathy Adkins and her husband Timothy; eight great-grandchildren; two special nephews, Phil Thompson of Princeton and Gary Young of Radford, VA; and a special niece, Esther Thompson of Davin.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Monday, January 25, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Larry Cecil officiating. Interment will follow at the Shrewsbury Cemetery at Beeson.

Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Hurt, Steve Davis, Derek Williams, Earnie Akers, Larry Dillon and Arvin Cecil. Gary Young and Phil Thompson will serve as honorary pallbearers.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to Hospice Compassus, 1037 Stafford Dr., Princeton, WV 24740.

Friends may call Sunday, January 24, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Shrewsbury, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.


Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Shrewsbury

ATHENS – Robert F. Pennington (Jr. Bridges), 86, of Athens died peacefully on Friday, January 22, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital. Born November 29, 1923 in Bluefield he was the son of the late James W. Bridges and Nora Thompson Lucas.

Mr. Pennington served in the United States Air Force in the 306th Bomb Group in the Air Corp in London, England from March 13, 1944 through November 16, 1945. He was a Pfc and was honorably discharged. He retired from the West Virginia Department of Highways in 1988 and liked to work on lawn mowers and old cars.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Margaret Juanita Houston Pennington in 2006; one brother, Charles Edward Pennington; two deceased grandchildren, Melissa K. Pennington and Craig Robert Pennington.

Survivors include 10 children, Brenda Pennington and her longtime companion, Jeff Jefferson of Roanoke, VA, Metty Cowan and her husband, Bob of Cheesy Creek, Glen (Bo) Pennington of Boones Mill, VA, Sandy McGuire of Princeton, Shelby Vaught and her husband, Delmas of Athens, Douglas Pennington of Bluefield, Rosy Bailey of Island Creek, Dennis Pennington of Calhoun, GA, Roger Pennington of the home and Margaret Ann Rogers of Princeton; 27 grandchildren and many great grandchildren; cousin and lifelong friend, William Enoch Bridges of Kegley; healthcare providers, Dr. Gene Duremedes and the staff of 2 West and ICU at Princeton Community Hospital.

Honoring Mr. Pennington’s wishes there will be no services. Private entombment will be on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens Mausoleum in Princeton. Sons and grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Arrangements by Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

LASHMEET – Patricia M. “Pat” Ashby, 68, of 600 Mt. Olive Road, Lashmeet, died Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital in Princeton. Born July 12, 1941 at Rochester, NY, she was the daughter of the late Chester Brone and Ethel May Spencer Brone.

Mrs. Ashby was retired from a juvenile corrections center where she was a child caretaker. She attended Lashmeet Freewill Baptist Church. She loved to play Rook and watch professional hockey.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Chester Brone, Jr.

Survivors include her husband of 51 years, Wallace Ashby of the home; one daughter, Lora Spader and her husband Terry of Myrtle Beach, SC; one granddaughter, Breanne Ashby; one nephew and five nieces.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 25, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Randolph Dishner officiating. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell.

Serving as pallbearers will be Rusty Weatherly, Derick Weatherly, Jared Weatherly, Eric Thompson, Berlon Roberts, Terry Spader and men of the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

Friends may call Monday, January 25, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Ashby, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Ashby

JACKSONVILLE, NC – Patricia Danielle Martin, 21, of Jacksonville, NC, died Tuesday, January 19, 2010 in Jacksonville, NC. Born July 26, 1988 at Jacksonville, FL, she was the daughter of Patricia Thomas Phipps of Mooresville, NC.

Mrs. Martin attended Harris Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Jacksonville, NC. She was a 2006 graduate of South Iredell High School in Troutman, NC. She was an employee of Community Innovations in Jacksonville, NC where she was a life skills coach for disabled adults. In her spare time she enjoyed ice skating, fishing and being with her friends. She was very excited about attending James Sprunt Community College in the nursing program near her home.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Jesse and Mary Thomas; an uncle, Jesse “Jay” Thomas; her maternal great-grandparents, Willard and Mabel Walters and Raymond and Kathleen Thomas; and great-granny McCoy.

In addition to her mother, survivors include her husband of 3 years, Sgt. James David Martin, II; special dad, Ricky Lambert of Princeton; step-daughter, Alexis Martin of the home; three sisters, Jennifer Proffitt and her husband Sgt. Thomas Proffitt of Havelock, NC; Jessica Degraff of Mooresville, NC and Leeanna Degraff of Grosebeck, TX; special nieces and nephews, Brianna Vincent, Leo “Lelo” Brown, Saphire Degraff, Cory Blanton, Hunter Blanton and Braedon Bostic; in-law, Troy and Hope Martin of Dallas, NC and Wendy Green of Campabello, SC and Grandma Janet and Katie; special friends, her black brother, Darren Collins, Gena Haywood, Matthew Curran and Damian Koski; and her special pets, Boo Boos, Pixel and Mica.

Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. James Coburn officiating. Interment will follow at the Thomas Cemetery, Rt. 1, Matoaka.

Serving as pallbearers will be Tim Williams, Lcpl. Damian Koski, Cpl. Matthew Curran, Lcpl. Darren Collins, Ricky Meadows and Chris Yurchick.

Friends may call Friday, January 22, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Martin, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Martin

ROCK – Keith Archer Keys, 89, of Rock, died Tuesday, January 19, 2010 on the Wright Mountain. Born March 29, 1920 at Kegley, he was the first son of the late William “Osco” Keys, Sr. and Mellie Mae Archer Keys.

Mr. Keys moved his young family to Cleveland, Ohio in 1943 to work as a millwright welder at Chase Brass and Copper. His 40 years of service there was interrupted for service in the United States Army from 1944 to 1946. While in Cleveland, Mr. Keys graduated from the Baptist Bible Institute. He was a member of the Willo Hill Baptist Church where he was a deacon and Sunday School teacher in Willoughby, Ohio. He also served as pastor at Mentor Way Villa Nursing Home in Mentor, Ohio for 30 years. He and his wife returned home to Rock in 1999. Mr. Keys attended Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church on Wright Mountain in Rock and Community Baptist Church of Lashmeet. He presently was involved with the Matoaka United Methodist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Ann “Margaret” Wright Keys in 2004; one brother, Trevor Keys; and two sisters-in-law, Syble Keys and Anna Keys.

Survivors include two sons, Gordon Keys and his wife Cheryl and Ronald Keys and his wife Sharon; three grandsons, Gordon Keys and his wife Tara, Michael Keys and his fiancé Susan Scherbaurer and Ron Keys, Jr.; one granddaughter, Renee Laitinen and her husband Rich; seven great-grandchildren, Nicole, Kyle, Britney, Hailee, Joshua, Kera and Tonya; several great, great-grandchildren; four brothers, Kermit Keys and his wife Jean, Tracy Keys and his wife Ann, William Osco, Jr. (Saz) and Frank Keys and his wife Shirley; one sister, Dollie Mae Lawrence and her husband Ryan; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Revs. David White and David Damewood officiating. Interment will follow at Wesley Chapel Cemetery, Wright Mountain, Rock. Family and friends will serve as pallbeaerers.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Child Evangelist, 5000 38th Ave., North, St. Petersburg, FL 33710.

Friends may call Monday, January 25, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Keys, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Keys

MATOAKA – Louis E. Pugalee, 83, of Matoaka, died Monday, January 18, 2010 at his home. Born March 11, 1926 at Lamar, he was the son of the late Frank Pugalee and Anna O’Dell Pugalee.

Mr. Pugalee was a retired coal miner last working at Turkey Gap and was a member of the U.M.W.A. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during World War and was a P.O.W. He was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Jackie D. Pugalee; an infant daughter, Connie Pugalee; two sisters, Zelvy Jenkins and Margaret Milam; a son-in-law, Ernie Howerton; and a daughter-in-law, Linda Pugalee.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Ruth O’Dell Pugalee; four sons, Louis “Ricky” Pugalee and his wife Brenda of Garwood, Jerry Pugalee and his wife Cheral of Mt. Olive, David Pugalee of Charlotte, NC and Chucky Eugene Pugalee of Reese Harmon Ridge; three daughters, Nancy Howerton of Matoaka, Patricia Harmon and her husband Guy of Charlotte, NC and Darlene Hillmen and her husband Curtis of Dothan, AL; two sisters, Peggy Howerton of Lamar and Victory Adams of Princeton; one brother, Dan Pugalee of Troy, OH; 15 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 22, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Robert Milam officiating. Interment will follow at the O’Dell Cemetery at Matoaka.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ricky Dean Pugalee, Jerry Pugalee Jr., Jason Pugalee, Lucas Pugalee, Willie Pugalee, Randy Howerton and B.J. Howerton.

Friends may call Thursday, January 21, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

SPANISHBURG – Julia L. Lenart Popp, 91, of Spanishburg, died Monday, January 18, 2010 at a private care home in Princeton. Born December 18, 1918 at Gary, she was the daughter of the late Jim Lenart and Mary Gary Lenart.

Mrs. Popp spent her childhood in Coalwood and attended school at Gary. On September 18, 1939 she was united in marriage to Julius Popp. They resided at Bottom Creek until 1947 when they moved to Spanishburg. Julia will be fondly remembered for her love of her family, their farm and gardening. She was a member of the Spanishburg United Methodist Church where she was a member of the United Methodist Women's Club.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Julius Popp; one sister, Grace Webb; three brothers, George Lenart, Jimmy Lenart and Steve Lenart; and a granddaughter, Mary Sours.

Survivors include two sons, Julius Popp and his wife Pat of Hughesville, MD and Steve J. Popp and his wife Judy of Belle; two daughters, Katherine Popp of Spanishburg and Charlotte Pyle of Albion, IA; two brothers, Joe Lenart of Princeton and Victor Lenart of Arizona; four grandchildren, Steve, Darlene, Angie and Kevin; and seven great-grandchildren, Megan, Erika, Isabella, Samantha, Kevin Jr., Deanna and Casey.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Casper Dalton officiating. Interment will follow at the Bowling Cemetery at Spanishburg. Members of the church and neighbors will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.

Friends may call Wednesday, January 20, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

REYNOLDSBURG, OH – Lois Ann Hill, 76, of Reynoldsburg, OH, formerly of Lashmeet, died Friday, January 15, 2010. Born November 25, 1933 at Lamar, she was the daughter of the late Lawrence Combs and Delois Godfrey Combs.

Mrs. Hill was a homemaker and was of the Methodist faith. She was a military wife for 21 years. She was a 1951 graduate of Matoaka High School and liked to make latch hook rugs.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Timothy D. Combs and Calvin G. Combs; and one sister, Norma Lee Jessie.

Survivors include her husband of 59 years, Alvin Hill; one son, Alvin D. Hill of Myrtle Beach, SC; one daughter, Darlene Mccreary of Canal Winchester, OH; two grandchildren, James Mccreary and Jesse Mccreary; and two brothers, Lawrence E. "Larry" Combs, Jr. and his wife Barbara of Lashmeet and Reginald R. Combs and his wife Arlene of Irmo, SC.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Randolph Dishner officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.

Friends may call Wednesday, January 20, 2010 from 1:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Hill, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Hill

LASHMEET – Michael Dewayne Lusk, 44, of Lashmeet, died Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at his home. Born September 11, 1965 at Bluefield, he was the son of Danny Lee Lusk and Shirley Spicer Lusk of Lashmeet.

Mr. Lusk was of the Pentecostal faith. He was formerly a carpet installer for Dan Shrewsbury in Beckley and a former employee of Pool’s Carpet in Princeton. He was an invoice for Ammar, Inc. warehouse in Bluefied, Virginia for nine years. He was an outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Leonard and Eula Lusk and his maternal grandparents, Henry and Myrtle Spicer.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife of 13 years, Melissa Gates Lusk; three sons, Timmy Michael Lusk of Lashmeet, Matthew Neal Lusk of Beeson and Michael Dewayne Lusk, Jr. of the home; one brother, Edward Lee Lusk of Hickory, NC; father-in-law and mother-in-law, William and Elsie Gates of Pennsylvania; four brothers-in-law and five sisters-in-law all of Pennsylvania; an aunt, Ellen Lamm; a cousin, Mark Mitchem; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 16, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor L.A. Farmer officiating. Interment will follow at the Odle Cemetery at Conner Mountain.

Serving as pallbearers will be Timmy Lusk, Matthew Lusk, Vaughan Brown, Alfred Beggs, Duane Bailey and Greg Howerton.

Friends may call Friday, January 15, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Charlotte Mae Pigg Underwood, 77, of 11 Mimosa MHP, Princeton, passed away Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at her home following a 3 year illness. Born February 29, 1932 in Beckley, she was the daughter of the late Lonnie Pigg and Carlie Phlegar Pigg.

Mrs. Underwood attended the House of Prayer in Montcalm and was a Nursing Assistant at Princeton Community Hospital for 14 years.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Verman M. Underwood; and a brother, Lonzo Underwood.

Survivors include four sons and one daughter whom she loved dearly, Michael E. Underwood of the home; Jerry W. Underwood and girlfriend Carol Boggs of Princeton, Lonnie J. Underwood and wife Cathleen of Rocky Gap, VA, Beverley V. Underwood and wife, Marlene of Princeton and Brenda Persianni of Greenville, NC; two sisters, Ruth Jones and her husband Rev. James Jones of Montcalm and Jean Hawks of Elliston, VA; 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grand children.

Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Albert Jerrell officiating. Interment will be at the Underwood Family Cemetery in Princeton at a later date.

Friends may call Thursday, January 14, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Jackie D. Compton, 61, of Woodland Lane, Princeton, died Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at Princeton Community Hospital in Princeton. Born January 26, 1948 at Squire, he was the son of the late Leonard Compton and Helen Hess Compton.

Mr. Compton was a retired truck driver for Boxley Concrete Co. in Princeton. His hobbies included old cars, motorcycles and boxing, but especially spending time with his grandchildren. He was of the protestant faith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Judy Taylor and Dorothy Elaine Compton.

Survivors include his former wife, Brenda Compton Sigmon of Princeton; one daughter, Melondy Compton Blankenship of Princeton; three grandchildren, Jacquelyn Compton, Samuel Garrett Compton and Baylee Blankenship all of Princeton; one great-granddaughter, Jadalynn (J.J.) Brown of Princeton; two brothers, Jerry Compton and his wife Sandra of Mocksville, NC and Johnny Compton and his wife Rita of Bluewell; one sister, Cyndi Shrewsbury and her husband Glen of Mocksville, NC; several nieces and nephews whom he adored; and special friends, Steve Haynes, Drema Swecker, Bobby Dobbins and Jack Garten and his wife Virginia all of Princeton.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Friday, January 8, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Larry Dyer officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call Friday, January 8, 2010 from 12:30 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON – Gregory Scott Graham, 44, of Pisgah Road, Princeton, died Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at his home from natural causes. Born May 19, 1965 at Princeton, he was the son of the late Willis Graham and Betty Jane McKinny Graham.

Mr. Graham was a 1983 graduate of Princeton High School and was a member of the Peaceful Valley Church in Princeton. He was a computer technical engineer. He loved fishing, hunting and spending time with his beloved pet, Max. He had a passion for music and had a recording studio in his home and made several CD’s for his friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Sherry Graham; and one brother, Bill Graham.

Survivors include his wife of 5 years, Margie Barlow Graham of Princeton; step-children, Eddie Adams and Pam of Lashmeet, Karen Bailey and Chris of Flat Top, Martin Burton of Princeton, Barbara Farley and Brian of Lashmeet, James Burton of Fayetteville, NC and Angela Farley of Princeton; two sisters, Sonya Graham-Jennings and Richard of Alpine, AZ and Pam Graham of Princeton and friend Charles Ghaul of Wirtz, VA; eight step-grandchildren, and two nieces, Tami Neely and Chuck of Beavercreek, OR and Cindy Bujak and son Ian of Tucson, AZ.

A memorial service will be conducted at 5:00 p.m. Saturday, January 9, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastors Delmar Stilwell and Jim Simmons officiating. The body has been cremated.

Friends may call Saturday, January 9, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Graham, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Graham

LASHMEET – Howard Bailey, 75, of Lashmeet, was called home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, January 3, 2010 at his home following a long illness. Born November 26, 1934 at Buchanan County, VA, he was the son of the late Andrew “Crow” Bailey and Elizabeth Blankenship Bailey.

Mr. Bailey was a retired miner and was the owner and operator of Little B Coal Company.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers, Kenny Bailey, Wade Bailey, Elliot Bailey, Lawyer Bailey and twin brother, Henry Bailey; and three sisters, Margaret Bailey, Elsie Bailey and Dallas Bailey.

Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Ruth Bailey of the home; four daughters, Shelia Cline and her husband David of Mohawk, Sheena Karber and her husband George of Texas, Donna Bailey of Oakvale and Dolly Bailey of Bluefield; two sons, Donald Bailey of Panther and Shawn Bailey and his wife Stephanie of Princeton; two sisters, Jean Levitt and her husband Chuck of Illinois and Nancy Haymond and her husband George of South Carolina; one brother, Doug Bailey and his wife Rose of Mohawk; 19 grandchildren, Peyton Turner, April Vance, Heather, Josh and Caleb Cline, Mike, Zach and Mercedes Anderson, Dylan Childress, Ashley, Allyson and Austin Steele, Jonathan, Lauren and Allison Baldwin and Isaac, Jacob, Charlie and Caylin Bailey; one great-grandchild, Baylei Vance; a special niece, Teresa Justice; one God Child, Hannah Grace Justice; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, January 7, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Elders Denny Mullins and Lonnie Mullins officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Princeton.

Friends may call Wednesday, January 6, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Bailey, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Bailey

LASHMEET – David B. Dishner, Sr., 67, of Lashmeet, died Saturday, January 2, 2010 at his home. Born March 30, 1942 at Lashmeet, he was the son of the late Jeff Dishner and Gladys Davis Dishner.

Mr. Dishner was a lifetime member of the Lashmeet Community Freewill Baptist Church where he served as trustee, deacon, Sunday School teacher and operated the sound system. He was a song leader and sang in the Dishner Quartet. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 4 years and was stationed in Greenland and Aiken, SC. He worked for Eastman Kodak in Rochester, NY, Princeton Community Hospital for 8 years and later worked for Norfolk-Southern Railroad for 16 years. He was also an independent electrical contractor.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Jack Dishner.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Patricia Feeley Dishner; two sons, David Bennie Dishner, Jr. and his wife Robin of Virginia Beach, VA and Jeff Dishner of Princeton; one daughter, Charla Perkins and her husband Larry of Lashmeet; nine grandchildren, Megan, Tanner, Hannah, Jordan, Kaitlyn, Austin, Kimberly, Dakota and Kendra; three brothers, A.R. “Jill” Dishner and his wife Norma of Lashmeet, Robert “Bob” Dishner of Marshalltown, IA and Lynn Dishner and his wife Loma of Princeton; four sisters, Peggy Dishner and Shelby Dishner both of Lashmeet and Phyllis Thomason and her husband Sonny and Debbie Thorne and her husband Steve all of Princeton; and one sister-in-law, Maude Dishner of Charleston.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Allen White and Arnold Akers officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton where military honors will be conducted by the WV Honor Guard.

Serving as pallbearers will be Anthony Dishner, Mark Bartfai, Kevin Lynch, Steve Thorne, Justin White and Allen Scott.

Friends may call Wednesday, January 6, 2010 from noon until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Dishner, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Dishner

BLUEFIELD – Allen R. “Jimmy” Canter, 68, of Bluefield, died Friday, January 1, 2010 at his home. Born April 6, 1941 at Bristol, VA, he was the son of the late Stella Mae Carter.

Mr. Canter was a member of the Boissevain House of Prayer in Boissevain, Virginia. He was a master piano tuner and loved the Lord. He had lived in Sidell, Illinois where he was a pastor of a church. He was raised by his aunt, the late Ellen C. Nash.

Survivors include one son, Allen Ray Canter, Jr. of Tennessee; one daughter, Mary Ellen Gobbers of Tennessee; two grandchildren; one brother, Jeffrey Robinson of Arizona; one sister, Connie Knipp and her husband Steve of Virginia Beach, VA; a foster sister, Sandy Eller of Bristol, TN; several nieces and nephews; and his caregiver and first cousin, Gladys M. “Pat” Feathers and her husband Earl of Bluefield.

Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 p.m. Monday, January 4, 2010 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Charlie Marrs and Rev. Larry Dyer officiating.

A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at the East Hill Cemetery at Bristol, TN. Family and friends attending the service are asked to meet at the cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Compassus, 1033 Stafford Dr., Princeton, WV 24740.

Friends may call Monday, January 4, 2010 from 2:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

BLUEFIELD- Mary A. Winfrey, 59, of Bluefield died Sunday, December 27, 2009 at her home. Born February 27, 1950 at Anawalt she was the daughter of the late Charles B. Hall and Mary E. Elswick.

She was of the Methodist faith. She was a homemaker, devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by one daughter Jessica Amanda Winfrey Nowlin in 2007; two sisters, Charlotte Bryer and Donna McCroskey.

Survivors include her husband, Ronnie Winfrey of Bluefield; one son, Ronnie Winfrey, Jr. and Lynne Fallis of Des Moines, IA; one sister, Kay King of Wytheville, VA; one brother, Roger Hall and wife Rachel of Marion, NC; two grandsons, Robert Joshua Nowlin of Kimball and Jadon Morris of Bluefield and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Dr. Allen Hammond officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 700 5th Avenue, Floor 4, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or the American Diabetes Association, 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311

Friends may call Wednesday, December 30 from 10:30 a.m. until the service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

LEWISVILLE, TX - Wanda June Sigmon, 84, formerly of 716 Straley Avenue, Princeton, passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2009 in Lewisville, TX. Born March 26, 1925 at Beckley, she was a daughter of the late William French and Thursabell French.

Mrs. Sigmon was a retired junior high science teacher from the Mercer County School System. She was a former member of First Baptist Church in Princeton where she was greatly involved in the missionary circles and in teaching adult Sunday School. Wanda was a current member of Temple Baptist Church, Pastor Richard Wallace, Sr., in Lewisville, Texas.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Sigmon; two sisters, Frances Hunter and Glida French; and a brother William French.

Survivors include one son Jerry Sigmon and his wife Anita of Bethlehem, NC; one daughter, Debbie Williams and her husband Ed of Lewisville TX, siblings Charles and Nora French of Gainesville, VA, Morris and Vivian French of Daytona, FL, Russell and Ethel Ellerson of Richmond, VA, Jimmy and Mary Lipscomb of Indian Trail, NC, Audrey Mayes of Lutz, FL and Walter French of New Orleans, LA. Additionally Wanda is survived by two grandsons Jeffery and Beverly Sigmon of Arlington, VA and Rob and Jennifer Sigmon of The Netherlands EU along with three great grandchildren Ashley, Erin and Ryan.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Dr. David Dockery officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call Wednesday, December 30, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

ALEXANDRIA, AL – Robert Lee “Bob” Ayers, 53, of Alexandria, AL, passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2009 at NE Alabama Regional Medical Center. Born April 2, 1956 at Beckley, he was the son of the late Robert M. Ayers and Daisy M. Brooks Ayers.

Mr. Ayers attended schools in Princeton and was a veteran of the United States Army and a truck driver. For those who knew him best, Bob will be remembered most for his loyalty as a “BAMA” fan.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Virginia Reed.

Survivors include his wife, Gail Ayers; two daughters, April Ayers and Sarah Ayers; a stepdaughter, Jonna (Jackie) Cheatwood; four grandchildren; one great grandchild; two brothers, Mason Ayers and his wife Barbara and Merle Ayers and wife Susie; four sisters, Faye Lester and her husband Doug, Brenda Woodward, Grace Glass and her husband Tim and Joetta Davis and her husband Ted; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 28, 2009 at Anniston Memorial Funeral Home in Anniston, Alabama with the Rev. Mike Owens officiating. A private burial will be held following the service at the Anniston Memorial Gardens.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ted Davis, Rob Davis, Lamar Maddox, Terry Pentecost, Daniel Putnam and Jonathan Smith.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Robert Ayers to the burial fund at AOD Federal Credit Union, 216 Greenbrier Dear Rd., Anniston, AL, 36207-6610.

Friends may call Monday, December 28, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. until service hour at the Anniston Memorial Funeral Home in Anniston, AL.

Information submitted by Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

MATOAKA – Laura Beatrice “Bee” Cook, 99, of Matoaka, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 21, 2009 at Campbell Care Home. Born June 12, 1910 in Rogers, VA, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Martin and Emma Correll Martin.

Mrs. Cook was a member of the First Christian Church in Matoaka. She was a cook at Matoaka School for 14 years. She lived in Matoaka all her life and was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ottie Ingram Cook; one grandson, Kerby Dean Conner; one brother, Arnold Martin; six sisters, Clarice Coleman, Rachel Paisley, Imogene Rickey, Virginia Fuller and Edith Flinchum and Trudy Hale; and one son-in-law, Marvin Brooks.

Survivors include one daughter, Simone Brooks of Princeton; one grandson, Tim Conner and his wife Kathy of Princeton; three great-grandchildren, Lesa Schmoyer and her husband Don of Columbus, OH, Richard Conner of Girand, IL and Garette Conner and his wife Melissa of Princeton; two great, great-grandchildren, Caden Schmoyer and Chris Schmoyer; and a granddaughter-in-law, Doris Conner of Princeton.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 24, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Charles Allen officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.

Memorial contributions may be made to Appalachian Teen Challenge, P.O. Box 980, Athens, WV 24712.

Friends may call Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

MATOAKA – William R. (Junior) Browning, 74, of Matoaka, died Sunday, December 20, 2009 at his home. Born December 3, 1935 at Piedmont, he was the son of the late William R. Browning, Sr. and Dorothy M. Tate Browning.

Mr. Browning was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and was a retired coal miner with 40 years of service. He could play any kind of musical instrument and performed on Hee Haw in the 1960’s. He also played on a recording with the Davis Sisters. He was a member of the Church of Lord Jesus in Matoaka.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Shirley Cecil Browning in 2008; one son, William Gregory Browning; one sister, Diana Browning; and two brothers, Curtis Browning and Lloyd Browning.

Survivors include one daughter, Cindy Browning of Matoaka; two sons, Gratton Browning and his fiancé Melanie Foley and Victor Browning all of Matoaka; three sisters, Trudy Cornish and her husband Don of Florida, Ellen Reese and her husband Dick of Princeton and Ann Dudley and her husband Robert of North Carolina; four brothers, Darrell Browning and his wife Faye of Ohio, Paul Browning and his wife Carolyn of Princeton, Walter Browning and his wife Anita of Princeton and Fred Browning and his wife Edna of Lashmeet; eight grandchildren, Greg, Jason, Kendra, Jacklyn, Brandon, Joey, Savannah and Jada; four great-grandchildren, Maddy, Nicholas, Lexi and Maddy; and four others he thought of as his own, Ronnie Hart, Carolyn Billings, Stephanie Graham and Mandy Browning.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Marvin McKinney officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton.

Serving as pallbearers will be Dewayne Phillips, Allen Meadows, Johnny Hart, Mark Dye, Jason Mack and Paul Bilotta.

Friends may call Tuesday, December 22, 2009 from 2-4 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Browning, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Browning

BLUEFIELD – Danny Kent Akers, 52, of Bluefield, formerly of Matoaka, died Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at Bluefield Regional Medical Center. Born July 25, 1957 at Bluefield, he was the son of Kent Akers of Princeton and the late Izetta Faye Underwood Akers.

Mr. Akers attended Rich Creek Baptist Church in Spanishburg. He was an employee of the WV Dept. of Highways for more than 30 years. He was a member of the Pinoak Hunting Club. He was an outdoorsman and loved hunting, fishing and gardening. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his grandsons.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by one sister, Connie Nicholson.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Short Vannoy Akers; two daughters, Melissa Smith and her life partner Kimberly Smith of Glenwood and Christi Manley and her husband Karey of Princeton; one step-daughter, Vanessa Hodge and her husband Ronnie of Bluefield, VA; one step-son, Barry Muzzleman of Richlands, VA; one sister, Debbie Lusk and her husband Tim of Bluefield; two grandsons, Jordan Smith and Conner Manley; two step-grandsons, Owen Hodge and Blake Hodge; another grandson expected in May; four brothers-in-law, Lowell Nicholson of Princeton, Jerry Short and his wife Sue of Saltville, VA, Jack Short and his wife Brenda of Swords Creek, VA and John Short and his wife Gaynell of Tazewell, VA; one sister-in-law, Janet Boyd and her husband Jim of Swords Creek, VA; and two nephews, Brian Lusk and his wife Danielle of Christiansburg, VA and Christopher Lusk of Bluefield.

Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, December 20, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Ralph Calfee officiating. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 21 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Friends attending the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home by 1:30 p.m.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jordan Smith, Karey Manley, Brian Lusk, Christopher Lusk, Larry Akers and Barry Akers.

Friends may call Sunday, December 20, 2009 from 2 p.m. until the service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mr. Akers, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mr. Akers

PRINCETON – Henderson Arthur Neely, 88, of Beckley Road, Princeton, died Sunday, December 13, 2009 at Princeton Community Hospital in Princeton. Born May 14, 1921 at Lerona, he was the son of the late Lewis Neely and Josie Farley Neely.

Mr. Neely was a 50 year member of the Advent Christian Church in Princeton. He was a retired coal miner and was a member of the U.M.W.A. In his spare time he enjoyed carpentry and woodworking.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Jackie Carl Neely; two daughters, Janet Carol Tilley and Cheryl Cunningham; two brothers, Roy Neely and Leonard Neely; and three sisters, Thelma Snider, Eula Williams and Mamie Farley.

Survivors include his wife of 72 years, Kathleen Keaton Neely; two sons, Terry Neely and his wife Donna of Rock and Lendall Neely and his wife Bonnie of Mt. Airy, NC; one sister, Charlotte White of New Jersey; 11 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Arnold Repass officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Grandsons and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call Tuesday, December 15, 2009 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

KEGLEY – Walter H. Thornton, 85, of Kegley, died Friday, December 11, 2009 at his home. Born August 18, 1924 at Lamar, he was the son of the late Edward H. Thornton and Nettie Lue Robertson Thornton.

Mr. Thornton was a veteran of World War II having served in the United States Army Company B 249th Engineer Combat Battalion. He was the recipient of the World War II Victory Medal, American Theater Service Medal, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal and the Jubilee of Liberty Medal. He was also a retired coal miner.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Jennifer Meadows; two sisters, Frances Sisk and Lockie Parks; and three brothers, Lonzo Thornton, Junior Thornton and Donald Thornton.

Survivors include his wife, Frances Sawyers Thornton of Kegley; two daughters, Frances (Kathryn) Gibney and her husband Ed of Orangeburg, SC and Deborah Thornton of Kegley; two grandchildren, Angela Meadows of Rocky Mount, NC and Eddie Gibney of Orangeburg, SC; one brother, Gene Thornton of Kegley; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 14, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Roy Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park in Princeton. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call Monday, December 14, 2009 from noon until service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.bailey-kirk.com.

PRINCETON- A chapter closed, a page turned, a life well lived, a rest well earned as Lorene Cole Basham, 92, of Princeton passed away Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at her home. Born June 16, 1917 at Spanishburg she was the daughter of the late Robert Lee Cole and Rebecca Delia Blankenship Cole.

Mrs. Basham graduated from Spanishburg High School and lived her entire life in Spanishburg until she and her husband, Emmett relocated to Princeton. She retired from the Mercer County Board of Education as a secretary at the Mercer County Technical Education Center. She was a member of the Spanishburg United Methodist Church for over 50 years, being active in many phases of the church. She taught the Junior High Sunday School Class, served as Sunday School Superintendent and was the financial secretary of the church. For many years she was treasurer of the Adult Sunday School Class and treasurer of the Spanishburg United Methodist Women group, as well as serving on other committees of the church.

Mrs. Basham was the last remaining member of her immediate family. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Emmett Basham in 2005; three brothers, Cline Cole, Leslie Cole and Earl Cole and infant sister, Patty Mae Cole.

Mrs. Basham loved and was loved by several nieces and nephews, as well as cousins and friends whose happiness and well-being was of great importance to her and whose visits and concern meant much to her. Among those who were much in attendance and care giving were Kenneth and Kaye Smith, Craig, Stacy and Abby Smith, Bryan, Kristi, Chase and Kaitlyn Taylor, Chuck Cole, Joyce Meadows, Tammy Mitchell, Brenda Karnes, Bobby and Mary Lee Wright, Earl Basham, Jr. and Bobbi and Pete Lilly and special caregiver, Shannon Dunn.

One of Mrs. Basham’s favorite poems was “Afterglow.” She wanted the memory of her to be a happy one with an afterglow of smiles when her life was done. She left an echo whispering softly down the ways of happy times, laughing times and bright and sunny days. She wanted the tears of those who grieve to be dried by the sun of happy memories.

Funeral services will be conducted at 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with Pastor Casper Dalton officiating. Interment will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 10 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Friends may call Wednesday, December 9 from 6 p.m. until the service hour at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. Friends attending the graveside service are asked to meet at the funeral home by 10:45 a.m. Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Spanishburg United Methodist Church,
P. O. Box 98, Spanishburg, WV 25922. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Basham or to send the family online condolences please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.


Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Basham

PRINCETON – Betty L. Rose, 76, of N. Wickham Avenue, Princeton, died Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at Maples Health Care in Bluefield. Born June 30, 1933 at Pulaski, VA, she was the daughter of the late Arthur L. Cox and Diana Quesenberry Cox.

Mrs. Rose was a homemaker and a member of the Princeton Church of God. She lived in Mentor, Ohio from 1955 until 1993 when she moved to Princeton.

She was preceded in death by her son, Ricky Rose; a granddaughter, Jessica Rose; and two brothers, Raymond Quesenberry and Opie Cox.

Survivors include her husband of 58 years, Stewart Rose; two sons, Randy Rose and his wife Pat of Madison, OH and Arthur Rose and his wife Stephanie of Painesville, OH; two daughters, Beverly Lynch and her friend Todd Seese of Mentor, OH and Debbie Mullins and her husband Gary of Painesville, OH; three sisters, Louise Jenkins of Portsmouth, VA, Layuna Jones of Eastlake, OH and Ora Jean Lance of Medina, OH; two brothers, J.D. Cox of Bluewell and Clyde Cox of Pineville; 10 grandchildren, April, Amanda, Amber, Halle, Katie, Chelsea, Dennis, Lauren, Heather, Crystal; 9 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 4, 2009 at the Rowland H. Bailey Funeral Chapel of the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton with the Rev. Stella Falvo, Dr. Ray Hurt, and sister Beverly Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton. Friends and family will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Amedisys Hospice, Rt. 2, Box 180, Bluefield, WV 24701.

Friends may call Thursday, December 3, 2009 from 6-8 p.m. at the Bailey-Kirk Funeral Home in Princeton. To view a video tribute to Mrs. Rose, or send the family online condolences, please visit www.bailey-kirk.com.

Click here to view a video memorial tribute to Mrs. Rose