Taps

Charles H. Beckham ’43

Charles Hard “Chuck” Beckham ’43 of Fulshear, Texas, died Nov. 22, 2021. He was 100.

He matriculated from Lakeland, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

He is survived by his children, Charles Richard Beckham and Susan Beckham Herring; grandchildren, Kristen Beckham Fourie, Eric Beckham, Carrie Beckham, Brooke Kenjura, and Kristine Feagan; and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Clinard Beckham.

Floyd D. Gottwald ’43

Floyd Dewey “Bill” Gottwald Jr. ’43 of Richmond, Virginia, died Jan. 27, 2022. He was 99.

He matriculated from Richmond and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He received a Master of Science degree from the University of Richmond. (Editor’s Note: An extended obituary for Gottwald appears in the In Memory section of this issue.)

John T. Boyd ’48B

Hon. John Thomas Boyd ’48B of Amarillo, Texas, died Nov. 23, 2021. He was 94.

He matriculated from Plainview, Texas, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Juris Doctor degree from Baylor University. He earned a Master of Laws degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Lamb Boyd; children, John Thomas Boyd Jr. (Laura) and Rebecca Boyd Bailey (Wes); grandchildren, Boyd Murphy Bailey, Hillary Anne Boyd, Erin Bailey Simpson (Sam), Megan Boyd Rayburn (Brian), Kate Bailey McCunniff (Bill), and Clarissa Emily Boyd; and great-grandchildren, Juliet, Johnny, and Bridget Simpson, Wesley, Bailey, and Molly Kate McCunniff, and Pax and Macrina Rayburn.

Charles E. Hartman II ’48B

Charles Edward “Ed” Hartman II ’48B of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, died Jan. 15, 2022. He was 95.

He matriculated from Baltimore, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Harvard University.

He is survived by his wife, Deb; children, Debbie Gosselin, Carolyn Sutch, and Ed Hartman III; six grandchildren; and seven greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Catherine Marie.

Simon W. Nelms ’49B

Simon Whitaker “Si” Nelms ’49B of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died Dec.13, 2021. He was 93.

He matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and spent less than one month at VMI.

He is survived by his daughter, Ann Cary Carr (Nevin); son, James Whitaker Nelms (Marissa); grandchildren, Nevin Palmer Carr III (Maddie), James Nelms Carr, Adam Judson Carr (Miranda), Elizabeth Cary Carr (Phillip Owsley), Nicholas James Nelms, Russell Whitaker Nelms, and Margaret Rose Nelms; five great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law, John Young Faulconer and Monroe (Rody) Nash; and sister-in-law, Janet Faulconer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret “Peggy” Faulconer Nelms, and sister, Elsie “Sis” Nelms Nash.

Harry P. Smith Jr. ’49B

Harry Pelham Smith Jr. ’49B, D.D.S., of Cobbs Creek, Virginia, died May 25, 2021. He was 92.

He matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his wife, Sophia B. Smith; children, Caroline S. Parker (Brian) and Harry P. Smith III (Valeria); grandchildren, Jason Parker (Ashley) and Jonathan Parker (Jennifer); six great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Evelyn B. Kadlub.

Ralston L. Brooke ’50B

Ralston Lewis “R.B.” Brooke ’50B of Richmond, Virginia, died Dec. 9. He was 94.

He matriculated from Richmond and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.

He is survived by his son, Robert Lawrence Brooke (Lynn); granddaughters, Anne Ralston Burris Brooke, Elizabeth Brooke Hester (Clay), and Caroline Brooke Englert (Alexander); great-grandson, Charles Lawrence Englert; sister, Catherine Brooke Buckingham; and brother, Francis Doswell Brooke (Judith).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Beverley Bowles Brooke, and brother, Richard Brooke Jr.

Carl L. Galliher Jr. ’50B

Carl Livingston Galliher Jr. ’50B of Bristol, Tennessee, died Oct. 27, 2021. He was 93.

He matriculated from Bristol and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Marian Galliher; daughters, Kay Galliher and Louise McCall; son, Lee Galliher (Betsy); grandchildren, Katie Church (Chris), Chase McCall, Sarah Newton (Chris), Pearce Galliher, and Duane Fernades (Hillary); and great-grandchild, Evelyn Fernades.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Sabelle Powers.

Thomas R. Handy ’50B

Retired U.S. Army Reserve Lt. Col. Thomas Reed Handy ’50B of Richmond, Virginia, died Nov. 23, 2021. He was 93.

He matriculated from Richmond and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his children, Elizabeth Handy Forrest (Steven), Thomas Reed Handy Jr. ’79 (Georgia), Sally Garland Handy Schmidt (Gray), and Mary Charles Handy Eckloff, and grandchildren, MacRae Forrest, Sara Forrest, Jessica Holland, Annalee Handy, Sally Rutherfoord Handy, Everett Eckloff, Paige Eckloff, and Mitchell Eckloff.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Clay Handy.

Joseph B. Kohen Jr. ’50B

Joseph Bud Kohen Jr. ’50B, M.D., of Walnut Creek, California, died Oct. 22, 2021. He was 92.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Curry; children, Douglas Kohen and Susan Decker; grandchildren, Kyle Decker, Jamie Decker, Evan Kohen, and Andi Kohen-Flores; great-grandson, Ryder Kohen; and sister, Norma Friedman.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margot Bernstein.

James D. Jones ’50B

James David Jones ’50B, M.D., of Raleigh, North Carolina, died Nov. 9, 2021. He was 92.

He matriculated from Dallas, Texas, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Duke University.

He is survived by his wife, Lucile Best Jones;

children, Lucie Jones Badham (Paxton), David (Jessie), Sallie Jones Grubb (Gordon), Kelly Jones Wilbanks (Peter), Will (Blanche), Maria Jones Anderson (Peyton), and Rob (Melissa); 20 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Pannill Jones ’56 (Claire) and Stinson Jones ’62 (Julie); and sister-in-law, Betsy Best.

Charles W. Dickinson ’51

Charles William “Bill” Dickinson ’51 of Roanoke, Virginia, died Nov. 29, 2021. He was 91.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and spent just over a year at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Mark, John, William, and Anne; step-sons, Rob and Alan; grandchildren, Katie, Anne, James, Ben, Hanna, Richard, Jaime, and Jessica; and greatgrandson, Leo.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley.

Henry H. Berke Jr. ’52

Retired U.S. Army Col. Henry Halvor “Hal” Berke Jr. ’52 of Overland Park, Kansas, died Nov. 4, 2021. He was 90.

He matriculated from Pelham, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Shippensburg University.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; first wife, Irene; children, Jeff Berke (Lisa), Cindy Phillips (Bob), Gary Berke (Trisha), Beth McIntyre (Robert), Kathy Berke, Jeni Munson (Dan), Terry Nixon (Mike), and Jo Ellen Tyrrell; 17 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Austin S. Bridgforth ’52

Austin Seay Bridgforth III ’52 of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, died Jan.14, 2022. He was 91.

He matriculated from Kenbridge, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Ernestine Bridgforth; son-in-law, Steve Laufersweiler; grandchildren, Lindsey Flinn (Patrick), Austin Laufersweiler, and Owen Laufersweiler; and great-grandchildren, John Austin and Aaron Flinn.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Lillian Laufersweiler, and sister, Kitty Sue Hooker.

William E. Vaughn ’53

William Edward “Bill” Vaughn ’53 of Newport News, Virginia, died Nov. 15, 2021. He was 90.

He matriculated from Newport News and spent just over one year at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Vaughn; children, Debra Morrow, Eddie Vaughn ’83 (Renee), Scott Vaughn ’85 (Denise), and Gary Vaughn ’89 (Jennifer); grandchildren, Katie Garnett, James Morrow, Megan Vaughn, Luke Sigmon, Paige Falk, Kristine Falk, Leigh Barton, David Barton, Nolan Vaughn, Eliza Lavery, Natalie Lavery, Kathryn Vaughn, Natalie Vaughn, Will Vaughn, Hallie Lavery, Robert Vaughn, Ashlynn Vaughn, and Zachary Vaughn; great-grandchildren, Graceyn, Thad, and Miller; and brother, Jerry Vaughn (Becky).

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Victoria Leigh Vaughn, and sister, Shirley Byrum.

John R. Wilson ’53

John Richard Wilson ’53 of Leesburg, Virginia, died Jan. 10, 2022. He was 91.

He matriculated from Arlington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Maryland.

He is survived by his wife, Ada; three children; seven grandchildren; and nine greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother and sister.

John L. Fischer ’54

John Lawrence Fischer ’54 of Littleton, Colorado, died Dec. 19, 2021. He was 90.

He matriculated from Yonkers, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

He is survived by his daughter, Marie J. Schneider (Mike); sons, John L. Fischer Jr. (Carolyn) and Douglas P. Fischer (Lisa); grandchildren, Scott P. Schneider, Jonathan R. Schneider, Lucas P. Fischer, Collin D. Fischer, Angelina H. Fischer, and Jack R. Fischer; and greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys.

Milton J. Novak Jr. ’54

Milton Joseph “Milt” Novak Jr. ’54 of Milltown, New Jersey, died Nov. 25, 2021. He was 89.

He matriculated from South River, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Schork Novak; children, Debbie Novak and Sherri Monticchio (Rich); son-in-law, Mark Maynard; and grandchildren, Douglas West, Kyle West, Jeffrey West, David Monticchio, Michael Monticchio, William Brown, Kristopher Brown, and Rebekka Brown.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cindy Lou Maynard; son, Douglas Novak; and granddaughter, Janae West.

Morton Bregman ’55

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Morton Bregman ’55 of San Antonio, Texas, died Dec. 8, 2018. He was 86.

He matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

John H. Castles ’55

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John Hastings Castles ’55 of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, died March 31, 2018. He was 84.

He matriculated from Carlisle and spent just over a year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland and a Master of Business Administration degree from Shippensburg University.

He is survived by his sons, David Castles and Michael Castles (Susan); grandchildren, Allyson Castles Karnavas (Joseph) and Andrew Castles (Callie); and brother, Lee Castles (Isabel).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jimmy Ann Cooper Castles.

William R. Davidson ’55

William Robert “Bill” Davidson ’55 of Lynchburg, Virginia, died Nov. 18, 2021. He was 87.

He matriculated from Jonesville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Pattie Crockett Davidson; children, Dorline Elizabeth DavidsonHarvey (Douglas) and Robert Lee Davidson (Gail); and granddaughter, Rachael Marie Harvey.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Benjamin F. Davidson Jr. and Richard “Dick” Davidson.

Edgar C. Fletcher ’57

Edgar Cromwell Fletcher ’57 of Morrisville, Pennsylvania, died Nov. 15, 2021. He was 86.

He matriculated from San Mateo, California, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn, and daughter, Rae.

Paul D. Troxler ’58

Drewry Troxler ’58 of Savannah, Georgia, died Dec. 23, 2021. He was 85.

He matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his daughters, Chambliss T. Stevens (Mark) and Mallory T. Lehn (Jesse); granddaughters, Meredith S. Hester (Jonathan) and Mary Lehn; grandsons, Turner Stevens and John Drewry Lehn; great-grandson, Greyson C. Hester; brother, Robert C. Troxler ’63; and sister, Anne T. Hoover.

He was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn, and father, U.S. Army Col. Paul D. Troxler, Class of 1926, who died Dec. 16, 1990.

James P. Castaldo ’59

James Pacifico “Jim” Castaldo ’59 of Chesapeake, Virginia, died Jan. 31, 2022. He was 84.

He matriculated from Elmwood Park, Illinois, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI.

George J. O’Neill ’59

George Joseph O’Neill ’59, Ph.D., of Kingsport, Tennessee, died Dec. 11, 2021. He was 82.

He matriculated from Wilmington, Delaware, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Delaware and taught chemistry at VMI in the early 1960s.

He is survived by his wife, Marie L. O’Neill; sons, Mark O’Neill ’83 (Paula), Eric, Sean (Helen), and Patrick (Gwyn); grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Dr. Skyler Reed), Thomas, and Jessica; and brother, John O’Neill.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Eugenia, Elizabeth, Helen, and Mary Jane.

William J. Pickering ’59

William John Pickering ’59 of San Diego, California, died Nov. 26, 2021. He was 84.

He matriculated from St. Clairsville, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI.

He is survived by his children, Bettina Pickering, William Pickering II, Ann Vetruba, Ellis Pickering, and Gitte LaBlue.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margrit Pickering.

John C. Reed ’59

John Chilton Reed ’59 of Fishersville, Virginia, died Jan. 17, 2022. He was 83.

He matriculated from Pensacola, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the College of William & Mary.

He is survived by his wife, Anne; children, Graham Chilton “Jack,” Mary Mason “Molly” Carroll (Sean), and Mason Chilton Reed (Jacqueline); former wife, Jean Freeman Reed; grandchildren, Elizabeth Mason “Ellie” Carroll, Preston John Carroll, Marion Penelope “Poppy” Reed, and Mason Chilton Reed Jr.; and brother, Dr. James C. Reed ’59 (Elizabeth).

Howard B. Sprinkle ’59

Howard Blaine “H.B.” Sprinkle ’59 of Roseland, Virginia, died Jan. 9, 2022. He was 84.

He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Florida.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy Rettig Sprinkle; son, Christopher Bernier; daughter, Amy Tolbert (Mike); grandchildren, Megan Hughes (Devin), Ethan Bernier, Abby Tolbert, Katie Tolbert, and Macy Tolbert; great-granddaughter, Skylar Hughes; and brother, James Sprinkle (Sheila).

He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Skip” Sprinkle (Lyn).

Henry C. Moning ’60

Henry Clarke “Buck” Moning ’60 of Hagerstown, Maryland, died Dec. 6, 2021. He was 84.

He matriculated from Hagerstown and spent just over a month at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Pat Zentz Moning; daughter, Lisa Fischer (Charlie); sons, Todd Moning (Ren) and Brad Moning (Maria); stepdaughter, Kim Woltman (Shawn); step-son, Daniel Thorpe (Kristy Pepple); grandchildren, Charles Fischer III, Ryan Fischer, Rachel Moning, and Natalie Moning; step-grandchildren, Dylan Pepple and Kullin Thorpe; and greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Gary A. Moning and Vernon G. Moning.

George G. Payne ’61

George Garland Payne ’61 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died Dec. 28, 2021. He was 83.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and spent just over a year at VMI.

He is survived by his children, Mark (Debbie), George (Anne), Ashley (Tim), and Aimee (Jay); grandchildren, Caitlin (Kyle), Jamie (Chris), Hunter (Courtney), Haley, Matthew, and Hugo; and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Scotty, and brother, David.

George D. Huger ’62

George Derbyshire “Derby” Huger ’62 of Fort Myers, Florida, and Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, died Nov. 26, 2021. He was 81.

He matriculated from Lexington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Huger; children, George D. Huger Jr. (Sue Ann), Fred Huger (Christie), Anne Remington (Kevin), and Art Huger (Bridget); step-children, Douglas Irvan (Rosa), Jon Irvan (Maria), and Lynn Irvan; 15 grandchildren, including Cadet Anderson M. Huger ’22; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Scott Shipp Huger Jr. ’53, who died Nov. 22, 1954, and Benjamin Huger II ’56, who died June 19, 2019; father, Scott Shipp Huger, Class of 1922, who died Jan. 16, 1972; and great-grandfather, Scott Shipp, Class of 1859, who died Dec. 4, 1917.

Thomas N. Layne III ’62

Thomas Norwood Layne III ’62, Ph.D., of Killen, Alabama, died Nov. 4, 2021. He was 81.

He matriculated from Farmville, Virginia, and spent three years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Lynchburg College, a Master of Science degree from James Madison University, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Vanderbilt University.

He is survived by his daughters, Dr. Virginia Katherine D’Antonio (Mark) and Sarah Elizabeth Layne (Sammy Medrano), and granddaughters, Olivia Hana Lee and Yessy Medrano.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Layne Morton.

John W. McWane ’62

John Whitman McWane ’62, Ph.D., of South Hamilton, Massachusetts, died Dec. 22, 2021. He was 81.

He matriculated from Milan, Ohio, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. He earned a Master of Science degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

He is survived by his wife, Jane S. McWane; children, Katie McWane Diecker (Aaron), Sarah McWane (Kurt), and David McWane (Brie); grandchildren, Zachary, Amelia, Parker, Charlie, Finnley, and Ollie; and brother, retired U.S. Army Reserve Col. Pearson “Pete” D. McWane ’59.

James D. Taylor ’63

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. James Daniel Taylor ’63 of Jacksonville, Florida, died Jan. 11, 2022. He was 80.

He matriculated from Silver Spring, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI.

William G. Williamson III ’63

William Garnett “Mickey” Williamson III ’63 of Valdosta, Georgia, died Jan. 17, 2022. He was 82.

He matriculated from Westfield, New Jersey, and spent one year at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Spry Williamson; son, William G. Williamson IV (Christina); daughter, Ashley Mock (C.J.); and grandchildren, Addison and Annabelle.

He was preceded in death by his father, William G. Williamson Jr., Class of 1935, who died March 5, 1988.

Robert G. Simpkins Jr. ’64

Robert Gardner Simpkins Jr. ’64 of Bedford, Virginia, died Nov. 28, 2021. He was 79.

He matriculated from Bedford and spent three years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his daughters, Sydney S. Schatz, Courtney S. Garner (Dennis), and Hunter Simpkins (Patrick); grandchildren, Olivia Garner and Eric Garner; and sisters, Barbara S. Falcone (Ralph) and Lynn S. Bailey (Gregg).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Letha “Lea” Fuqua Simpkins.

Marty R. Stango ’64

Marty Robert Stango ’64 of Jacksonville, Florida, died Nov. 7, 2021. He was 79.

He matriculated from Lewes, Delaware, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Maryland.

John S. Thornton Jr. ’64

John Stuart Thornton Jr. ’64 of Manakin Sabot, Virginia, died Nov. 22, 2021. He was 79.

He matriculated from Culpeper, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Ronnie Richardson Thornton; sons, John Stuart Thornton III (Sarah) and David Allen Thornton (Macon); and grandchildren, Hayes Thornton and Ozzy Thornton.

William J. Wilburn III ’65

William Joseph “Billy” Wilburn III ’65 of Parksley, Virginia, died Jan. 4, 2022. He was 78.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.

He is survived by his son, Reid Thompson Wilburn.

Joseph R. Birindelli Jr. ’66

Joseph Ray Birindelli Jr. ’66 of Fairhope, Alabama, died Jan. 26, 2022. He was 78.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Birindelli; daughters, Kelley Scott and Amy McElroy (Ray); sons, Jay Birindelli III (Shaun), Blake Birindelli (Paula), and Walter Scott; eight grandchildren; two great-grandsons; brother, Ben Birindelli (Nancy); and sister, Beverly Knott (John).

Horace E. Harrington Jr. ’66

Horace Eugene “Gene” Harrington Jr. ’66 of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, died Jan. 17, 2022. He was 77.

He matriculated from Portsmouth, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Garris Harrington; daughters, Karen L. Harrington and Katherine LaPila (Wesley LaPila); and grandsons, Micah Daniel LaPila and Andrew Ryker LaPila.

Leslie M. Rutledge Jr. ’66

Leslie Marable “Les” Rutledge Jr. ’66 of Smithfield, Virginia, died Dec. 4, 2021. He was 77.

He matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Peggy Lynn Bondurant Rutledge; daughter, Carey Alison Rutledge; son, Austin Whitt Rutledge (Nicole); grandsons, Wyatt James Rutledge and Paxton Wood Rutledge; brothers, David Whitt Rutledge (Dorothy) and Steven Emmett Rutledge (Katrinka); and brother-in-law, Walton Gibson Bondurant Jr. (Nancy).

Taras J. Galysh ’67

Taras Joseph Galysh ’67 of East Berlin, Pennsylvania, died Nov. 5, 2021. He was 75.

He matriculated from Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and spent five years at VMI.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the State University of New York and a Master of Business Administration degree from Florida International University.

He is survived by his wife, Stephanie; brother, Ivan Galysh (Oksana); and sister-in-law, Tina.

He was preceded in death by his brother, retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Roman Galysh ’64, who died July 23, 2021.

Michael L. Sanford ’67

Michael Larry “Mike” Sanford ’67 of West Union, South Carolina, died Jan. 6, 2022. He was 76.

He matriculated from Falls Church, Virginia, and spent two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering from Georgia Tech and a Master of Business Administration degree from Clemson University.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen Adkins Sanford; daughters, Suzanne Sanford Phillips (Tony) and Meredith Sanford Barnes (Steven); grandsons, Cooper Phillips, Collin Phillips, and Rhett Barnes; and brothers, Dan Sanford (Melissa), David Sanford, Bruce Sanford (Gabrielle), and Joe Sanford.

Isaac R. Quay II ’70

Isaac Russell “Russ” Quay II ’70 of Cookeville, Tennessee, died Nov. 30, 2021. He was 75.

He matriculated from Lewistown, Pennsylvania, and spent just over one year at VMI. He graduated from Tennessee Technological University.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Stitt Quay; children, Lisa Templin (Dan), Heather DiPietro (William), and Russ Quay (Tanda); grandchildren, Patrick DiPietro, Riley DiPietro, Skyler Hickey, Rivers Quay, Blaise Quay, and Lexie Lesko; brother, David Quay (Karen); and sister, Margaret Graff (John).

He was preceded in death by his brother, Sanford Quay.

Timothy P. Brady ’71

Timothy Patrick Brady ’71 of Allison Park, Pennsylvania, died March 2, 2021. He was 71.

He matriculated from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and spent less than one year at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Straub Brady; children, Tim Brady Jr. (Rosemarie), Christine Brady Gumpert (John), and Patrick Brady (Stacey); grandchildren, Francesca and Marisa Brady, Cameron and Adelaide Gumpert, and Graham and Palmer Brady; and siblings, Mary

Lee Stalkamp, Fred C. Brady Jr., Heidi Brady, and Kathleen Blaydes.

Bruce C. Harvey ’71

Bruce Claiborne Harvey ’71 of Scottsville, Virginia, died Dec. 13, 2021. He was 72.

He matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and spent just over two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry from Lynchburg College.

He is survived by his sons, Oliver Harvey and Jon Harvey, and grandsons, Jameson and Maddox Harvey.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Ann Harvey-Cross.

Steven F. Kern ’71

Steven Francis Kern ’71 of Greenville, South Carolina, died Jan. 10, 2022. He was 72.

He matriculated from Staunton, Virginia, and spent one year at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Jonnie Brooks Easley Kern; daughter, Virginia “Ginger” Lockamy (Eric); grandchildren, Grace, Lydia, and Samuel Lockamy; brother, Ben Kern; and sister, Karen Conner.

John M. Paton ’71

John Melvin Paton ’71 of Alexandria, Virginia, died Dec. 7, 2021. He was 72.

He matriculated from Alexandria and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI.

Alan S. Fojt ’72

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Alan Steven Fojt ’72 of Locust Grove, Virginia, died Dec. 1, 2021. He was 72.

He matriculated from Alliance, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Webster University and attended the U.S. Army General and Staff Command College.

Douglas K. Baumgardner ’73

Douglas Kirkwood “Doug” Baumgardner ’73 of Washington, Virginia, died Nov. 30, 2021. He was 70.

He matriculated from Washington. He was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia Law School.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret DeJarnette Baumgardner; children, Caroline B. Walker, Alex M. Baumgardner, Spencer D. Baumgardner (Molly), and Julia B. Chung (Alan); grandchildren, Brooke Woodward, Marion “Mimi” H. Walker, Thomas G. Walker III, Ursula K. Baumgardner, Henry “Hank” L. Chung, and William S. Chung; mother, Ruth K. Baumgardner; brother, John M. Baumgardner; and sister, Ann H. Baumgardner.

William L. Faistenhammer ’74

Retired U.S. Army Col. William Ludwig “Bill” Faistenhammer ’74 of Waynesboro, Virginia, died Nov. 2, 2021. He was 69.

He matriculated from Germany and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Lesley University. He attended the Army War College and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. He previously taught in the Army ROTC department at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Faistenhammer; son, William A. Faistenhammer; stepdaughter, Mattie Gilday; grandchildren, Cora Faistenhammer and Kaleigh Gilday; father, retired U.S. Army Col. Ludwig Faistenhammer; and sisters, Joie Shue and Mari Akers.

Jon L. Sastri ’75

Jon Louis Sastri ’75 of Round Hill, Virginia, died Jan. 21, 2022. He was 68.

He matriculated from Annandale, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the State University of New York.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; daughters, Andrea Wacker (Bryan H. Wacker Jr. ’03), Audrey Matthews (Brandon), and Rachel Davidson (Thomas); six granddaughters; and two grandsons.

Robby W. Burke Jr. ’78

Rev. Robby Wray Burke Jr. ’78 of Harrisonburg, Virginia, died Dec. 30, 2021. He was 65.

He matriculated from Savannah, Georgia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree in American history from James Madison University and a Master of Divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Myers Burke; daughters, Erin Rae Burke Eye (Josh) and Leanne Elizabeth Burke; grandchildren, Ethan Burke, Liam Anderson, Brett Eye, Shelby Eye, and Maddox Eye; mother, Martha Jane Hutcheson Burke; sister, Holly Burke Anderson (Steve); and sister-in-law, Sabrina Burke.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Burke.

Anthony E. Hamilton ’79

Anthony Eugene “Tony” Hamilton ’79 of Florissant, Missouri, died Jan. 26, 2022. He was 64. He matriculated from Staunton, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Cassandra; sons, Tory (Tina), Martin, Stephen (Bryanna), and Joel; daughter, Hope; mother, Catherine G. Hamilton; brothers, Carlton and Maurice (Sandra); and sister-in-law, Joanne Hamilton.

He was preceded in death by his father, Alphonso Hamilton.

Victor M. Gonzalez ’87

Victor Marcos Gonzalez ’87 of Jennings, Louisiana, died Dec 17, 2021. He was 56.

He matriculated from Metairie, Louisiana, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Stefanie M. Russo; mother, Bettye P. Gonzalez; brother, Frank Gonzalez (Martha); and sisters, Teresa Rongey (Scott), Angela Gonzalez, and Gabriela Powell.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Francisco M. Gonzalez ’53, who died Nov. 26, 2002.

Ronald W. Nelson Jr. ’89

Ronald Wesley “Ron” Nelson Jr. ’89 of Glasgow, Virginia, died Dec. 20, 2021. He was 54.

He matriculated from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and spent over two years at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Nelson; children, Anneke McCabe (Kevin), Katrina Nelson (Matthew Lessard), Liesel Nelson, Pieter Nelson, and Markus Nelson; grandchildren, Magdalena McCabe, Conor McCabe, and Roison McCabe; parents, Ron and Kay Nelson; sister, Christine Adkins; parents-in-law, Victor and Johanna Culver; and brother-in-law, George Culver.

Jeffery E. Paul ’90

Jeffery Erwin “Jeff” Paul ’90 of Waxhaw, North Carolina, died Dec. 31, 2021. He was 53.

He matriculated from Perrysburg, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his sons, Brandon, Connor, and Harrison.

Joseph P. Brennan ’08

Bridge, New Jersey, died Dec. 8, 2021. He was 36.

He matriculated from Hillsborough, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Devon Santoro Brennan; daughters, Mercy and Dahlia; parents, Hugh and Erlinda Brennan; sister, Sarah Brennan; and brother, Andrew Brennan (Nora).

VMI Family

Virginia B. Chaplin

Virginia “LaVone” Byers Chaplin of Buena Vista, Virginia, died Dec. 10, 2021. She was 82.

She worked in Preston Library for over 30 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Amy Lynette Chaplin, and brother, Clyde Edward Byers Sr.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Melvin Lee Chaplin, and brothers, Lemuel Sherwood Byers Sr. and Maurice Loran Byers Sr.

Steven W. Guerrier

Steven Warren Guerrier of West Augusta, Virginia, died Dec. 13, 2021. He was 66.

He previously taught at VMI and earned Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Michigan.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Bentkowski) Guerrier; brother, Scott Guerrier; son-inlaw, Evan Norris; sisters-in-law, Tami (Prignitz) Guerrier and Ann Marie Karsama (Chris); and brother-in-law, Thomas Bentkowski.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jacqueline Guerrier.

Robert G. Habern

Robert Glenn Habern of Latty, Ohio, died Dec. 19, 2021. He was 67.

He was a former U.S. Army ROTC instructor at VMI.

He is survived by his partner, Kathy Habern; children, Robert S. Habern, Jennifer Meyer (Scott), Kerry Ruble (Nick), and Rebecca Stahl (Logan); grandchildren, Ezra, Venna, Brooks, Aylah, Bronson, and Ledger; five sisters; and one brother.

He was preceded in death by his son, Shawn G. Habern.

Donald D. Horward

Donald D. Horward of Tallahassee, Florida, died Oct. 31, 2021. He was 88.

He previously taught at VMI. He earned a bachelor's degree from Waynesburg College, Master of Arts degree from Ohio University, and Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Minnesota.

He is survived by his wife, Annabel Lee Vanscyoc Horward.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, William J. Horward and Frank J. Horward Jr., and sister, Barbara Templeton.