8 • Piedmont Shopper© • APRIL 16th - 22nd, 2015
Obituaries
“For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.” Romans 14:8 JAMES “Pete” GIBBS Sr.
James (Pete) Gibbs Sr. (81), a loving father went to be with the Lord on April 07, 2015 at Moses Cone Hospital after a decline in health for the past 3 years. James was born on September 06, 1933 in Rockingham County. He was the son of Robert Franklin Gibbs and Eliza Ellen Gibbs who predeceased him. James was a retired tobacco farmer, he loved to raise a garden, fish, and spend time with his pet “Stinky.” James was married to Nancy Janney Gibbs who predeceased him on November 01, 1995. He was also predeceased by his sister, Margie Bailey; brother, Ervin Gibbs; and son, James (Sonny) Gibbs Jr. James is survived by a loving nephew whom he could always depend on to be there for him, Roger Bailey and his loving companion and friend, Joanne Aldridge. Left to cherish his memory forever are his loving children: Tommy Gibbs (Teresa), Mike Gibbs (Tracy), Mark Gibbs (Connie), Becky Gibbs Duncan (Doug), Betty Gibbs Cook (Grover), Cathy Gibbs Gammon (Matt), Pat Gibbs Price (Jason Grant), and Sandra Gibbs Meeks; sister, Cahterine Easley. Also, he leaves behind 26 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Funeral service will be conducted on Friday, April 10, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Swicegood Funeral Home with Rev. James Mayes officiating. A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 09, 2015 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Swicegood Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be located at the residence, 1736 Newnam Rd., Pelham, NC. Interment will follow in Highland Burial Park. Swicegood Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Gibbs family.
MARTHA ROBERSON LEWIS
Martha Roberson Lewis, 65, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 10, 2015. She was born in Pittsylvania County on March 24, 1950 to the late George W. Robertson and the late Carrie Hobbs Robertson. Martha was a member of Church of Truth Holiness Church where she was a faithful member. She enjoyed living life to the fullest must most of all she loved her family and especially her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Martha will be greatly missed for her kindness and love toward others. Left to cherish her memory is her beloved husband, Jimmy Lewis of 51 years of the home; her son, Rusty Lewis, Jr., and wife Monica; her sisters, Lisa Bowes and Tracy Oliver; her brothers, Sager Robertson and Robert Robertson; her grandchildren, Amber Kramer, Crystal Lewis and Rusty Lewis, III; her greatgrandchildren, Starleigh, Rayne, Izzy, Brandon and Blair. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 13, 2015 from 6-8 pm in the Barker Funeral Service Chapel and other times at the residence. A funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, April 14, 2015
at 2:00 pm in the Barker Funeral Service Chapel with Rev. Ira Yeatts officiating. Interment will follow the service in Danville Memorial Gardens.
MICHAEL K. WILLIAMS
Michael K. Williams of, Danville, VA, died on Saturday April 11 at Duke University Hospital after a short illness. He was born in Franklin Co., VA, March 14, 1940, the son of James T and Jacqueline Evans Williams but lived in the Danville area all his adult life. In the 1960’s and 70’s he was a radio announcer and newsman. From 1978-88 he taught communications for Henrico County Schools vocational department. He retired in 2002 as owner of Danville Micro Computers. On May 5, 1962 Mike married Norma Kendrick, the daughter of Clarence B. and Tina Powell Kendrick. Mike was a long-time genealogist researcher and published several compilations of genealogical records. He was an honorary life member of the Piedmont-North Carolina Genealogical Society. After retirement he devoted his time to locating and documenting family cemeteries in Pittsylvania County. He also held a amateur radio license KC4AO. He was the great-grandson of two Pittsylvania County Confederate Veterans. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Wayne C. Williams of Colfax, NC. He is survived by his wife, Norma; one son, Bryan T. Williams and a grandson, Caleb M. Williams. A graveside service will be held at Highland Burial Park Tuesday Morning at 11 AM with Reverend Carl Burger officiating. Swicegood Funeral Service is respectfully serving the Williams family.
JOHN WILLIAM BROWN
John William Brown, 73, of 700 Fuller St., Axton, VA, died, Friday, April 10, 2015 at his residence. Born February 8, 1942 in Pittsylvania County, VA, he was the son of the late Joseph and Rowena Hubbard Brown. He was married to Doll Coles Brown, who survives. In addition to his wife of the residence, survivors include two daughters, Johnette Morris (Ron) of Martinsville, VA and Sylvia Mooreman (Reggie) of Dry Fork, VA; three sons, Jeff Brown (Renee) of Martinsville, VA, Lewis Niblett (Tracy) of Roanoke, VA and William Niblett of Oakwood, VA; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two sisters, Viola Berger and Emma Hodnett, both of Chatham, VA; one brother, Walter Brown of Chatham, VA and a host of other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two sisters, Virginia Witcher and Betty Abbott. The family will receive friends at the residence. Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at 1 PM from Bethel Way of the Cross, with Bishop John Campbell, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in
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WILMA OWEN
Mrs. Wilma Owen of 142 Grove Park Circle, Danville, passed away Monday, April 6, 2015 at the age of 98. She was born on November 13, 1916 to the late Lee and Pearl Queen Hoyle. She was married to Monroe T. Owen who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her daughter and three brothers and two sisters. Wilma is survived by her son Duane G. Owen and wife Mary Alice, of Chatham, VA. She is also survived by a close friend and sister in law, Ann Owen and many nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held at Mountain View Cemetery on Friday, April 10, 2015 at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Bruce Wilson officiating. The family will receive friends at Townes Funeral Home on Friday, April 10, 2015 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers make a donation to the Danville Life Saving Crew, 202 Christopher Lane, Danville, VA 24541 or God’s Pit Crew, 2499 North Main Street, Danville, VA 24540.
MARY WYATT DAVIS
Mary Wyatt Davis, of 244 Brookside Ave, went to be with her heavenly Father Thursday April 9, 2015. She was the daughter of the late George Ira Wyatt and Ora Brown Wyatt. She was also preceded in death by her 8 brothers and 2 sisters. Mary is survived by her husband, of 59 years, Coy Noah Davis, a son, Coy Davis Jr. and his wife Caroline, two daughters, Teresa Davis McMann, and Donna Jean Davis, and one grandson, William McMann. Mary worked for Corning Glass Inc. for 28 years until her retirement in 1993. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and child of God. Her faith was strong and she was a devoted member of Community Baptist church until her decline in health in July of 2014. The family will welcome friends and family for visitation at Townes Memorial Chapel on Saturday, April, 11th at 10:00 am, directly followed by service with the Rev. James Albert officiating at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Danville Memorial Gardens. Friends and family are also welcomed at the Brookside residence. Townes Funeral Home, 215 West Main St. is serving the Davis family.
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IRENE VIRGINIA FERRELL LUMPKIN
Irene Virginia Ferrell Lumpkin, 91, of Danville, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2015. She was born in Danville on May 28, 1923 to the late Nellie Davis Johnson and Elmer S. Ferrell. She married Ramah W. Lumpkin, Sr. on September 25, 1943 who predeceased her in October 2012. She spent her life in Danville, starting her career at Thalhimers Department Store where she worked as a model and in the cosmetics department. Later she was co-owner of Lumpkin Furniture with her husband and son until her retirement in 2005. She was a lifetime member of Third Avenue Congregational Christian Church. In addition to her husband she was predeceased by her daughter Barbara Rae Lumpkin, her brother Clarence Ferrell, and her sister Reba Ferrell. Mrs. Lumpkin is survived by her son Ramah W. Lumpkin, Jr. and his wife Kathy of Danville, her sister-in-law Kay Lumpkin Moody, one niece, and three nephews. A graveside funeral service will be held at Highland Burial Park on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at 2 p.m. with Reverend Freddie Vicks officiating. Townes Funeral Home, 215 West Main Street, is serving the Lumpkin family.
RAYMOND E. SPICER
Your work on Earth is done. Raymond E. Spicer, 73, departed his earthly home for his heavenly home on Wednesday, April 8, 2015, surrounded by family and friends. He was born on April 15, 1941 in Danville, VA. Raised in Pelham, NC to the late Hollis and Inez Spicer. He leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Christine Gatewood Spicer of the residence; children, Steven Earl Spicer, Sr. and Christy Spicer McCune and husband Richard; grandchildren, Steven Spicer, Jr., Richard McCune, IV, Justin McCune and Tiffany McCune; brother, Curtis Spicer and wife Joan; sisters, Helen Ingram and husband Moulton and Shirley Griffin. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by a son, Rodney Charles Spicer; and brothers, Irvin Spicer and Fred Spicer. Raymond worked for Goodyear for 28 years until his retirement. He was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church and was also an active member of the Redmen. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved to go fishing, and loved gospel and bluegrass music. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Wrenn-Yeatts
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“The House that Service Built” Swicegood Barker Westover Chapel with the Reverend Bob Yeaman officiating. Interment will follow in Danville Memorial Gardens. The family will receive Friday night from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home and at other times will be at the residence, 162 Capri Ct, Danville, VA 24541. The family suggest memorial donations to the Hillcrest Baptist Church Building Fund at 4401 Westover Dr, Danville, VA 24541. Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is respectfully serving the Spicer family.
RAYMOND LEONARD TATE
Raymond Leonard Tate, 84, left his earthly home on the morning of April 8, 2015. He was born August 4, 1930 in Danville, VA to his parents Archie Whitt Tate, Sr. and Emma Ada Mills Tate. He was the 5th child out of 7 born to this union. He was predeceased by his parents, all four brothers, Jack E. Tate, Archie W. Tate Jr., Julian H. Tate, and Eugene C. Tate; and one sister, Nancy T. Walton. He lived all of his life in Danville, served as a U.S. Marine during the Korean Conflict and owned and operated the Dairy Heart on Riverside Drive during the 1970’s and 1980’s. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Geraldine Morris Tate; sons, Steven Tate (Connie), Kenneth Tate, and Darrell Tate; grandchildren, Maleah R. Tate, Emma T. Hawey (Matt), Adam C. Tate, and Kayla M. Tate; great grandchildren, Austin S. Tate, Peytin T. Ragland, Lukis B. Tate and McKenzly McCormick. He is also survived by a sister, Doris T. Abbott; sisterin-law, Betty M. Travis (Herbert); brother-in-law Garland Morris (Sandra); and numerous nieces and nephews that he adored. Raymond had a great sense of humor that was adored by many, who had a strong work ethic and was a businessman. Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, April 13, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at the Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel with his son, Elder Steven Tate officiating. Interment will follow the service in Highland Burial Park. The family will receive friends on Sunday night from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home at other times will be at the residence, 225 Rosemary Lane, Danville, VA 24541. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Tate has requested that donations be made to your favorite charity. Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is respectfully serving the Tate family.
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REBECCA TURNER MILLER
Rebecca Turner Miller, 60, of 3336 Countryside Drive, Ringgold, VA, died on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at her residence after being in declining health for several months. Mrs. Miller was born in Roanoke, VA on May 11, 1954, daughter of Kenneth Ivan Turner and Ruth Lunsford Turner, both of Salem, VA. She lived in the Roanoke area until she moved to Danville in 1983. She worked for Food Lion as a scan analyst for 19 years until her retirement. Mrs. Miller was a active member of the Tabernacle. There she was a member of the choir, she was a Sunday school teacher, Bible school teacher and also taught Awanas. She loved the outdoors, reading and her plants. On January 31, 1981 she married William Charles Miller, who survives of the residence. In addition to her husband and parents she is survived by son, Nathan Kyle Miller (Jennifer) of Wendell, NC; daughter, Corrie Ruth Mooneyham (Isaac) of Ringgold, VA; brother, William Turner (Wanda) of Salem, VA; sister, Robin Turner Walker (Michael) of Many, LA; seven grandchildren, Olivia, Michael, David, Benjamin Mooneyham and Joshua, Hannah, William Miller. She was predeceased by a brother, Kenneth Turner. Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, April 11, 2015, at 11:00 AM at the Tabernacle with the Pastor Lamarr Mooneyham officiating. Interment will follow the service in Floral Hills Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends on Friday from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at the church and at other times will be at the residence. The family suggest memorial donations to The Tabernacle for the Ready Church Ministry, 1978 South Boston Road, Danville, VA. Wrenn-Yeatts North Main Chapel is respectfully serving the Miller family.
Piedmont Shopper© APRIL 16th - 22nd, 2015 • 9 “ROCKET” ROGER ALLEN PURGASON, SR.
Rocket Roger Allen Purgason Sr., 64, of 221 Fox Hollow Drive died, Thursday, April 9, 2015 at Danville Regional Medical Center. Born in Danville, VA on May 5, 1950, he was a son of the late Norman Kenneth Purgason and Annie Sigmon Purgason, who survives. “Rocket” was the owner operator of Rocket Rogers Old 97 Choppers and was a member of Dan River Church. He served in the US Army. On September 24, 1983, he married Judy Chambers Purgason, who survives of the residence. In addition to his mother, and wife he is survives by a son, Roger Allen Purgason, Jr., and wife, Lauren; a daughter, Samantha Morgan Purgason; a brother, Kenneth Purgason; two grandchildren, Bridget Lynn Purgason, Roger Allen “Tripp” Purgason, III; a father-in-law, Henry Chambers. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2015 at 4:00 PM from the Dan River Church conducted by the Rev. Scott Randlett. Interment will follow in Danville Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 2:00-3:45 PM at the church and at the residence at other times. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be made to the Dan River Church. Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is serving the Purgason family.
WILLIS B. KEATTS
Willis B. Keatts, 73, of the Brosville Community died Friday, April 10, 2015 at Danville Regional Medical Center after a decline in health for the past three months. Mr. Keatts was born in Pittsylvania County, VA on April 20, 1941a son of the late Horace Eugene Keatts and Pearl Barber Keatts. Mr. Keatts worked for Goodyear Tire & Rubber. He was a very active member of Hillcrest Baptist Church for over 52 years where he served as a Deacon, was in charge of maintenance for the church vans and buses, served on the Nominating Committee, the counting Committee and various other positions in his church. Mr. Keatts was an active member of the Brotherhood and had a strong faith in God. He was a member of the Improved Order of Redmen Poquoson Tribe # 124. He was a former volunteer fireman with the Brosville Community Volunteer Fire Department and previously served on the Board of Directors of the Cascade Community Center and helped with activities at the center. On April 20, 1963, he married, Ruth Holley Keatts, who survives. In addition to his wife survivors include two daughters, Lisa K. Moss, and husband, Chris; Dana K. Davis, and husband, Mark; two brothers, Marvin Keatts, Noble Keatts; two sisters, Iris Jones, Frances Hyler; nine grandchildren, Cody Dalton, Ben Dalton, Luke Paschal, Josh Via, Ethan Via, Kristen Moss, Matthew Davis, Sarah Davis, and Grace Davis. He was predeceased by two sisters, Jereline Hyler, Edna Davis; two brothers, Elvin Keatts, Burton Keatts, Sr. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2015 at 2:00 PM from the Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel conducted by the Rev. Bob Yeaman. Interment will follow in Danville
HERBERT EDWARD HOWERTON
Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends on Monday from 6:00-8:00 PM at the funeral home and at the residence of his daughter, Dana Davis, 1807 Blair Loop Rd at other times. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be made to the Scholarship or Building Fund at Hillcrest Baptist Church. Wrenn-Yeatts Westover Chapel is serving the Keatts family.
GORDON NELSON ROBERTS, JR.
Gordon Nelson Roberts, Jr. age 57 of 631 Park Ave., Danville passed away Sunday, April 5, 2015 at Danville Regional Medical Center. He had been in declining health since being the victim of a hit and run accident in November, 2013. Mr. Roberts was born June 3, 1957 in Danville to Gordon & Patricia Roberts, Sr. He was married to Pamela Reid Roberts who survives of the residence. Gordon loved fishing. He had previously attended Schoolfield Baptist Church. In addition to his father and his wife he is survived by a daughter, Ashley Nicole Roberts; a son Justin Tyler Roberts both of Ringgold, VA; two brothers, Lee Roberts and Johnny Roberts both of Danville and two grandchildren. No formal services will be held. Memorial donations may be made to Danville Cancer Association, Inc. 223 Riverview Drive., Suite J, Danville, VA 24541. Norris Funeral Services, Inc. and Crematory, West End Chapel, 511 Church Ave. Danville is serving the Roberts family.
HILDA EARLINE SNEAD
On Easter Sunday at sunrise, April 5, 2015, surrounded by her husband and family, Hilda Earline Snead went home to join her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in heaven. She had been in declining health for nine months fighting cancer. She was born November 22, 1936 in Danville, Va. a daughter to the late Mose Harris and Annie Vicks Harris. Mrs. Snead was first married to Jimmy Reynolds, who preceded her in death. She married Dallas Snead in 1973 and they shared 41 wonderful years together. Mrs. Snead was employed by Kroger as a meat wrapper for over thirty years. Mrs. Snead loved animals, enjoyed camping, was a former member of Tuscarora Country Club and Ringgold Golf Club. She also enjoyed watching her brother Runt Harris of Richmond, Va. race in NASCAR’s modified and late model divisions for
over 30 years. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, and was baptized at Community Baptist in Yanceyville, N.C. She was later a member of Sheldon Baptist Church. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Snead is survived by her children: Jimmy Guy Reynolds (Terri), Tammy Myers (George), and Jerry Reynolds (Vickie); her sisters: Viola Smith, Frances Reynolds, and Marie Goble (Billy); her brother Marvin Harris (Joyce); seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. In addition, she was preceded in death by three brothers: Odell Harris, Lonnie Harris, and Gaither “Runt” Harris. The family will receive friends from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at Norris Funeral Services, Mt. Hermon Chapel and at other times at the residence, 532 Parker Road, Danville, Va. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at Norris Funeral Services, Mt. Hermon Chapel with Rev. Hubert Inman officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests that memorial donations be made to the Danville Cancer Association, 223 Riverview Drive, Suite J, Danville, Va. 24541. Norris Funeral Services, Inc. and Crematory, Mt. Hermon Chapel, 3995 Franklin Tpke., Danville is serving the Snead family.
TERESA “REACIE” DIANE ADKINS
Teresa “Reacie” Diane Adkins, age 51, died April 6, 2015 at her residence. She was born October 2, 1963 to Joyce Smith Adkins, who survives, and the late Winifred “Jimmy” James Adkins. She worked at the Ballou Park Food Lion until 2011 when she was diagnosed with cancer. She was a woman of great faith and hope in God. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her son, Christopher Patrick Adkins; one brother, Timothy David Adkins (Sandy); her two sisters, Tracy Adkins Harville and Kathy Presley Baker; four nieces Samantha Harville, Lily Adkins, Savannah Adkins, and Robyn Presley; three nephews, Matthew Brandon Riddle, Stephen Anthony Presley, and Joseph Dwayne Presley; two aunts, Miracle Hope Hopkins (Steve) and Crystal Smith Rothwell (Jason); two uncles, Thomas Joel “Head” Smith and Michael Horace “Smitty” Smith; and two cousins, Kristy Diane Talbard and Shana Renee Talbard Johnathan Mack Oliver, Morgan Wilson, and Zackary Adkins; one great-
niece, Abriel Purnell; and one great-nephew, Draven Riddle. In addition to her father, she was predeceased by her godmother, Martha “Margaret” Watson; maternal grandparents, Horace and Frances Smith; and paternal grandparents, Moses and Beaulah Adkins. A memorial service will be held on 2PM on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at Norris Funeral Services, Inc. West End chapel with Rev. Daryl Joyce officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Danville Cancer Association, 223 Riverview Dr, Danville, VA 24541. Norris Funeral Services, Inc. and Crematory, West End Chapel, 511 Church Ave. Danville is serving the family.
MINNIE MARIE PICKUREL
Minnie Marie Pickurel, 80, of Shannon Hills, Ridgeway, VA, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, April 7, 2015 following an extended illness. She was a loving wife and mother. She was devoted to caring for her family, especially her grandchildren. Marie enjoyed working with her many flowers, crocheting and spending summer vacations at Myrtle Beach. Mrs. Pickurel was born June 2, 1934, in Spencer, VA to the late James L. Biggs and the late Virgie Hubbard Biggs. She was preceded in death by one brother, Tommy Biggs of Spencer, VA and three sisters, Francis Ann Biggs and Evelyn Biggs, both of Spencer, VA and Edith Edwards of Eden, NC. She is survived by her husband of sixty years Charles, “Doug” Pickurel, two sons, Jimmy Pickurel and wife Karen of Ramseur, NC; Philip Pickurel and wife Tammy of Bassett, VA; one daughter,Vickie Maddox and husband, Dave of Martinsville, VA. Also surviving are one brother, Marvin Biggs of Spencer, VA, and two sisters, Lucille Wilson of Ridgeway, VA and Clemmie Sebastian of Greensboro, NC. In addition, she is survived by three grandchildren, two step grandchildren, four greatgrandchildren, three step great-grandchildren and two step great-great-grandchildren. Our family would like to give special thanks to her tireless caregivers, Patricia Bowman, Faye Ingram and Jackie Claytor. The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2015 at Norris Funeral Services Martinsville Chapel with Reverend Dan Schelling and David Naff
officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April, 9, 2015, at the funeral home and other times at the home. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery, Ridgeway, VA. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 308 Craighead Street, Danville, VA 24541. Norris Funeral Services Inc. and Crematory Martinsville, VA is serving the Pickurel family.
THELMA LOUISE PETERS BANTON
Thelma Louise Peters Banton, 88, of Amherst passed away, Friday, April 10, 2015 at Fairmont Crossing, Amherst. She was born in Amherst County, April 22, 1926 to the late George Cabble Peters, Sr. and Lucy Wood Peters. She was preceded in death by one brother, George Cabble Peters, Jr.; one sister, Jane Peters Meadows; one half-sister, Clara Garrison and one granddaughter; Sherry Lynne Banton. Mrs. Banton was employed with Amherst Pharmacy for over 27 years and was a member of St. James United Methodist Church, Riverville. In addition to adoring her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she loved gardening, reading, and especially puzzles. She is survived by her three sons: Roger Banton (Margaret) of Richmond, John Banton (Wendy) of Appomattox and George Banton, Sr. (Debbie) of Gladstone; two daughters: Mary B. Casey of Gladstone and Lucy B. Worley (Gene) of Amherst, ten grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by a very special friend, Elsie Mays of Amherst. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, April 13, 2015 at Driskill Funeral Chapel, Amherst, with Rev. Butch Wood officiating. Interment will follow in the Peters Family Cemetery, Riverville. After the interment, their will be a reception at St. James United Methodist Church, Riverville. The family will also receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM, Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to St. James United Methodist Church, c/o Tamara Peters, 635 Allens Creek Road, Gladstone, VA 24553. Driskill Funeral Chapel of Amherst is in charge of arrangements. www.DriskillFuneral.com
Herbert Edward Howerton, age 84, formerly of 16576 Martinsville Highway, Axton, Va. 24054 passed away Friday, April 10, 2015 while a resident of Blue Ridge Rehabilitation Center, Martinsville, Va. Mr. Howerton was born June 23, 1930 in Danville to the late Louise Rich Howerton and the late Melvin Howerton. He was married to Margaret Lawless Howerton, who survives, of the residence. He proudly served in the US Army in Korea, and was self employed as an automobile salesman and was especially known as the owner and operator of the H&M RV Park for over 25 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by five daughters, Susie Pruitt and Mary Lou of Dry Fork, Va.; Kaye Blanchet of Axton, Va.; Terri Lynn Helms of Reidsville, NC; and Cindy Hodge and husband Franklin of Martinsville, Va. He is also survived by three sisters, Mildred Emerson of Colonial Heights, Va. and Stella Emerson and Vivian Hall, both of Danville, two brothers, James and Charles Howerton, both of Danville. Surviving grandchildren include Tony Blanchet, Cody Hodge, Madonna Phelps and Makayla Brown, and great-grandchildren include Christopher Blanchet and Makenzie Phelps. Mr. Howerton was predeceased by his parents, as well as a sister, Minnie Easley and two brothers, Aubrey and Glenn Howerton. Funeral Services will be held 12:00 p.m., Monday April 13, 2015 at Norris Funeral Services, West End Chapel, 511 Church Ave. Danville, VA 24541, with the Rev. J. B. Baldridge officiating. Interment will follow at Danville Memorial Gardens, Danville. American Legion Dan River Post 1097 will perform military rights at the interment. The family will receive friends at the Norris Funeral Services, West End Chapel from 10:30 – 11:30 am, preceding the funeral service and other times at the residence, 16576 Martinsville Highway, Axton, Va. 24054 Norris Funeral Services, Inc. and Crematory, West End Chapel, 511 Church Ave. Danville is serving the Howerton family.
1. Is the book of 1 Timothy in the Old or New Testament or neither? 2. What did the Lord cast down among the Israelites who complained about their wilderness misfortunes? Fire, Hail, Stones, Winds 3. From Romans 3, who have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God? Jews, Gentiles, Heathens, All 4. What idol fell and broke after the Ark of the Covenant was placed nearby? Edrei, Dagon, Molech, Golden calf 5. Who built an altar and called it “Jehovahnissi”? Isaiah, Baal, Moses, Malachi 6. What was the name of John the Baptist’s mother? Elisabeth, Miriam, Sarah, Ruth ANSWERS: 1) New; 2) Fire; 3) All; 4) Dagon; 5) Moses; 6) Elisabeth Wilson Casey’s “Bedlam on the West Virginia Rails,” a firsthand true account of America’s last moving train robber, is available from HistoryPress.net. (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc.
10 • Piedmont Shopper© • APRIL 16th - 22nd, 2015
Obituaries
“For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.” Romans 14:8 DONNA HUTCHENS ARRINGTON
Donna Hutchens Arrington, 53, of 923 Hughes Brown Rd., Stuart, VA went to be with Jesus, Friday, April 10, 2015 at Forsythe Medical Center, WinstonSalem, NC. Donna was the daughter of Marie Ziglar Hutchens and the late John Franklin Hutchens and was the wife of Blake Arrington who survives. Donna was a member of Nettle Ridge United Methodist Church and was a pharmacist. In addition to her mother of Stuart, and husband of the residence, Donna is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Gregory T. Hutchens and wife Karen Hutchens of Stuart, VA; brother-in-law, Michael Arrington and mother-inlaw Lena Arrington both of South Hill, VA; nephew and nieces, Martin Hutchens of Charleston, SC and Victoria Hutchens and Adrienne “Ag” Hutchens both of Stuart, VA. The funeral will be conducted from Norris Funeral Services and Crematory Stuart Chapel, Monday, April 13, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Mark Clayton officiating. Interment will be in Pleasant Grove Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home, Monday from 12:00 noon until 2:00 prior to the funeral and at other times will be at the home of her mother, Marie Hutchens, 1235 Hughes Brown Rd., Stuart, VA. The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Nettle Ridge United Methodist Church, 2290 Mt. View Loop, Stuart, VA 24171 or to your local SPCA.
ROBERT LEE BRYANT, SR.
Robert Lee Bryant Sr- Age 72, passed away Wednesday, April the 8th at the Woodlands Nursing Home in Fayetteville, NC. He was born October 19th, 1942 in Danville, VA to the late William O. Bryant and the late Mary Lumpkins Bryant Tucker. He served his country in the U.S. Army, and was a truck driver for many years with several different companies. He is survived by his wife-Mariea Bryant, SonRobert Lee Bryant JR (RJ), Daughter Sarahann Bryant of Elizabethtown, NC, Daughter-Donna Ginn of Lexington, NC, 3 grandchildren of NC, a brother-Floyd T. Bryant of Danville, VA. He was predeceased by a sister-Suzanna Gurley. A memorial service will be held at a later date for his family.
“Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 Dr. Bo Wagner is pastor of the Cornerstone Baptist Church of Mooresboro, NC, and the author of several books. His books are available at www.wordofhismouth.com
How to write your own
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last will and testament Few people, young or old, look forward to writing a will. A will is not an easy subject to broach, but it is important to have documents in place to ease the burden for family members. When a person dies without a will, his or her assets might not go where he or she intended. In some instances, assets might go to the government. For parents who die before their children are grown, a will can also serve as a legal document indicating a plan for custody of the kids. Although it is often preferable to consult with a local estate-planning attorney who understands the language and legalities surrounding a will, it is also possible to write a will yourself. There are forms that can be purchased from office-supply stores, or a will can be prepared online by answering questions and then generating a form to print. The will also can be typed or handwritten. Handwritten wills are called holographic wills and may not be recognized unless written during an emergency situation, such as a fatal illness. Laws regarding wills vary based on where you live. Therefore, learn the legalities before preparing a will so you will have a document that holds up in a court of law and can be executed to your desires. Here is some of the basic information that may be included in your will. * Include your name, address, date of birth, and social security numbers if they will better help identify you should there be confusion. * State that you are of sound mind when writing this will and of contractual capacity. * Write a statement indicating that this will revokes all other wills that may have been executed before. * List the names and addresses of all of your children. If the children are minors, at this point you can also specify your wishes with regards to their guardianship. List the names and addresses of the people whom you wish to have custody of your children. * Appoint an executor or executrix to carry out the affairs of your estate and instructions specified in the will. This person typically must be over the age of 18. Select someone whom you trust to honor your wishes. * Indicate how you want the executor to handle your financial affairs, including paying taxes, funeral costs, final expenses, etc. At this point you also may want to spell out where you would like to be buried and any specific requests with regard to the funeral, viewing, and any other funeral-related details. * Indicate the executor has permission to sell your home and personal belongings that are not included in personal gifts to be distributed. * List any gifts you would like to be distributed to certain people. This may be a doll collection to a daughter, coins to a son, china to an aunt, etc. * Specify the percentages of your assets to be distributed should the listed beneficiaries survive you. Maybe you want to divide your estate evenly between two children. If so, allocate 50 percent to one and 50 percent to the other. You may have more specific breakdowns. Should these people not survive you, you can establish an alternate or list nothing, in which case the assets will be put back into the general pot. * Include a residuary clause that states how to distribute any remaining assets. * State whether you want the executor to be reimbursed for any expenses that result from executing the will. * Indicate that you would like the executor to post bond as a form of insurance so that the executor can’t run off with the money for himself. * Name an alternative executor should the first pass away before executing the will or if he or she is unable to serve upon your death. * Sign the will in front of two or three witnesses (check what is required where you live) and a notary public. The witnesses cannot be anyone named in the will. This article is intended as general information about what is typically covered in a standard will. It should not be taken as legal advice. Prior to implementing any of these tips, consult with an attorney certified in estate planning.
“The Sculptor’s Best Hammer” A few years ago my family and I went through the hardest trial we had ever thus far known. There were days the stress were so overwhelming that I did not know if we would make it. We repeatedly cried out to God the most oft asked question of a child of God: why? There were tears, broken hearts, and fears for the future. During that time God, for reasons I will not go into here, used the trial to motivate me to write more. I had already published one book, but the severe trial became a tool in his hand to convince me of the wisdom and even necessity to really dedicate a great deal of time and effort on the product of the pen. One thing he seemed to drive me to do is what you, the reader, are now looking at: a weekly faith column. It would be often lighthearted and humorous, sometimes poignant, usually selfdeprecating, but always with a Scriptural admonition and a spiritual goal in mind. After months of effort, a local paper picked up the column, and then another, and another. The column now runs in eleven (and sometimes twelve) papers in five states. Which brings me to this: just a few hours ago I received a phone call. A man who
ministers in prisons told my father-in-law that a man behind prison bars read one of my recent columns, and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. We went through a trial so severe that at times I felt I could not even speak. The feeling of not being able to speak moved my hands to write. The writing has produced more than a dozen books, hundreds of newspaper columns, and partially because of one of those columns a precious soul has been redeemed! It never would have happened without the agonizing pounding of the Master Sculptor’s hammer. You see, quite often the best hammer God has at his disposal for molding a servant or furthering the gospel is the hammer of trials and hardships. It was when violent persecution fell on the church at Jerusalem that Acts 8:4 says “Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” Later, Paul, the very man who started that persecution got saved, and God sent him into the service of the Lord. God told Ananias concerning Paul “I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.” Fanny Crosby was blinded in childhood by a doctor’s careless mistake. She spent the rest of her days in darkness, yet it was that
very trial and trauma that God used to mold her into the greatest hymn writer of all time. Corrie Ten Boom suffered incredible loss in the concentration camps of World War II. Out of that trial came the book The Hiding Place, perhaps one of the greatest books on forgiveness ever written. The spiritual blocks of rock that we are come unshapen, unwieldy, bulky, and very much indistinguishable from all of the other spiritual blocks of rock around us. Those that submit themselves to God for service cannot expect to remain in the shape they are. What they can expect is for the Master Sculptor at some point to pull out his best hammer, that of trials and hardships, and begin to ruthlessly beat away everything that does not resemble exactly what he has in mind for a finished product.
The process is not pleasant. The product surely is.