Passages: Spring 2022

Jonathan Aldrich
English (1970s)
Jan. 6, 2021

Jonathan Aldrich, resident of Cape Elizabeth, died at the age of 84 in the early morning of Jan. 6, 2021, after suffering a stroke. Despite various health troubles in the last decade of his life, to the end he remained a stimulating, generous, and sparkling presence to those who knew him. Jonathan was born in Boston on Jan. 22, 1936, to parents Elizabeth and Bailey Aldrich. His father was a federal judge, and his great-grandfather was the author and poet Thomas Bailey Aldrich. Jonathan grew up in Cambridge, Mass. with his brother David, and spent summers throughout his life in Tenants Harbor, Maine. He was educated at Phillips Exeter Academy, Harvard College, and the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College. At Harvard he won the William Lloyd Garrison Prize for poetry and an Academy of American Poets Award. It was at Bread Loaf that he met his future wife, Nancy, also a poet, as well as many lifelong friends. Jonathan and Nancy were married in 1966 and were together 54 years. Following his education, Jonathan was an English teacher and principal of Argenta Friends School in British Columbia, Canada. He taught English at Elmira College, N.Y.; at Berea College in Kentucky; and for 25 years at the Maine College of Art where he was recognized with a “Best Teacher” award by faculty vote. Many of his students from all stages of his teaching career kept in permanent touch with him and regarded him as a formative influence. Jonathan was an accomplished poet, producing more than a dozen books in the course of a 40-year writing career. His first book of poetry, Croquet Lover at the Dinner Table, was published in 1977 by the Breakthrough Books series of the University of Missouri Press. Further works include Wade’s Wait, a book-length narrative poem published by the Beloit Poetry Journal in 1985, and The Death of Michelangelo, also in 1985. He continued to write extensively after his retirement from teaching and published eight collections of poetry between 2000-2015. His translation of Baudelaire’s Le Voyage became an award-winning collaboration with artist Allison Hildreth and printer David Wolfe. A major retrospective of his work, The Old World in his Arms, is forthcoming from the Wolfson Press at the University of Indiana. Jonathan was active in the Portland arts community, and was a trustee of the Portland Stage Company, where he worked closely with artistic directors. For decades, he and Nancy hosted periodic meetings of poets at their home in Cape Elizabeth. Another long-term and beloved institution was the bridge group with three neighborhood friends, with whom he played regular games for more than 40 years. Above all, he was a proud and loving father who supported his children unconditionally in all of their pursuits, and a deeply devoted and loving husband whose harmonious, respectful, and engaged relationship with his wife Nancy was unmistakable. His performative and sharp-witted nature, far-flung interests, and a genuine curiosity about people of all sorts gave him great insight into personalities, and made him entertaining, sympathetic, and encouraging. While possessing a sometimes impishly eccentric sense of humor, he was at heart a deeply ethical and conscientious person who took great pains to consider the perspectives of the people around him. He was a devoted friend. The family is grateful to Jonathan’s long-time primary physician Dr. Thomas McInerney as well as oncologist Dr. Kurt Ebrahim for their care and good will. Jonathan’s memory is celebrated by many, especially his wife Nancy; daughter Tess, her husband Anthony Alessandrini and their daughter Mina of Brooklyn, N.Y.; son Tom, his wife Carolyn and their daughter Junie of Amsterdam, Netherlands. Interment will be at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, Mass. In lieu of a formal gathering at this time, the family is developing an alternative way for friends to memorialize Jonathan. Arrangements entrusted to Hobbs Funeral Home, South Portland. Online condolences may be expressed at http://www.hobbsfuneralhome.com. Photo by: Mimo Gordon Riley. The organizations Jonathan himself respected could be considered as possible recipients of donations in his memory: Population Connection P.O. Box 97129Washington D.C. 20090 or: The American Friends Service Committee1501 Cherry St. Philadelphia, PA 19102 or: Portland Stage Company25 Forest Ave. Portland ME 04101

Mary Elizabeth Barnes
Keypunch Operator
Field Outreach Development Office
Dec. 4, 2021

Mary Elizabeth Barnes passed away peacefully, with her family at her side, on December 4, 2021. She was born on December 19, 1933, in Columbiana, Ohio, daughter of the late Olive and Chester Delauter. Mary attended the University of California at Davis where she met and married Richard Barnes, who preceded her in death. She worked for the Bank of America before moving to Berea where she worked at Berea College as a keypunch operator and performed field outreach in the Development Office. Mary was a member of First Christian Church and held the position of Clerk there for several years. She was a Kentucky Colonel, loved to play bridge, and enjoyed playing the piano and organ for the church she loved so much. She had many friends that she cared about dearly.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Kathryn Turnbull of Myrtle Beach, SC, Marcia McWilliams (Mike) of Salvisa, KY, granddaughter, Ariel Miller (Tim) of Frankfort, KY, grandson Rich Turnbull (Tamra) of Lawrenceburg, IN, stepbrothers, Jim and Leonard Needham, niece, Sherri Brooks, nephews, Bob and Rick Dougherty, and brother-in-law, Ron Dougherty. She was preceded in death by one sister Nancy Dougherty.

A celebration of life will be 2:00PM December 11, 2021, at First Christian Church in Berea, KY. You may view the service live at www.davisandpowellfuneralhome.com

Memorial contributions are suggested to First Christian Church, General Fund or Building Fund, and Berea College www.berea.edu/give

Linda Lou Grant Fish ’78
Secretary (1967-2009)
Dec. 4, 2021

Linda Fish, age 75, passed away on Saturday December 4, 2021, at Saint joseph Berea Hospital. Linda was born in Covington Kentucky on November 1, 1946, to the late Lonie Mullins and William Grant. She retired from Berea College as a secretary. She was also a member of Calvary Apostolic Church.

Linda is preceded in death by her husband, Arnold Fish. In addition to her husband and parents she is preceded in death by two brothers: David Grant and Billy Grant. Three sisters; Ruth Ann Orme, Janet Honeycut, and Shirley Grant.

She is survived by three brothers: Robert Grant, Roger Grant, and Mark Grant. Four sisters; Della Grant, Reva Eagle, Brenda Schnitzler, and Gail grant

Funeral services will be at Lakes Funeral Home on Thursday, December 9, 2021. Visitation will be from 11:00am-1:00pm. Services will be at 1:00pm with pastor Alan Peevler officiating. Burial will follow at Maret Cemetery.

Dr. Abdul H. Rifai
Professor Political Science (1966-2016)
Oct. 10, 2021

Berea, Kentucky – Abed (“Abdul”) Harim Rifai passed away of natural causes at his home on October 10, 2021. “Ab” was born January 12, 1935, in Baalbek, Lebanon, the son of Rifai al-Rifai and Fahmiyah al Sukkar. He attended the The American University of Beirut (A.B., 1958), Indiana University (M.A., 1960) and The American University (Ph.D., 1966), where he met the love of his life, Lucretia (“Maggie”) Davenport, whom he subsequently married.

They came to Berea in 1966, at the invitation of President Francis Hutchins, who desired Ab to build the political science curriculum in what was at the time the Department of History and Political Science. This he did so well that, by the early 1980s, the Department of Political Science became a separate entity, and remains, by his example, committed to excellence in teaching and scholarship, and to the Great Commitments of Berea College.

He was deeply committed to the Kentucky Political Science Association, serving as its president in 1986, and encouraged it on its way to becoming one of the most active and innovative state associations in the discipline. As part of that effort, he induced the KPSA to encourage undergraduate students to present their research, something almost unheard of at the time. The effort was so successful that, by 1990, the Abdul H. Rifai Award for Best Undergraduate Paper was established. Nothing delighted him more than the fact that more than a dozen of his own students won that award. In 2008, the KPSA designated him as a “Distinguished Political Scientist,” one of only fifteen in the history of the organization.

Ab remained at Berea College for half a century, inspiring, cajoling and comforting countless students and colleagues, with wisdom, wit and elan. Before he retired in 2016, he completed one last revision to his cherished “Lexicon of International Politics” (https://tinyurl.com/yvfswhr4),which he had worked on over the years with many students. He will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by Maggie, and is survived by beloved nieces, great-nieces and a great-nephew, all in Lebanon, and by innumerable friends, students and peers.

Due to COVID restrictions, the funeral will be a private one, and his interment will return him to Maggie in Alabama. A public celebration of Ab’s life will be planned once restrictions are sufficiently lifted.

Published by Lexington Herald-Leader on Oct. 22, 2021.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

William J. Blessing, Fd ’44
April 10, 2021
Obituary Unavailable

Nell Sanning Carrington ’44
Nov. 22, 2020

Nell Carrington September 01, 1926, November 22, 2020, Nell Carrington, age 94, of Leitchfield, KY, passed away Sunday, (November 22, 2020) at Grayson Manor Nursing and Rehab, in Leitchfield. She was born on September 1, 1926, in Louisville, KY, the daughter of the late Frank Ferdinand and Winifred Burns Sanning. She was a housewife and homemaker, who was the first president and life member of the Twin Lakes Regional Medical Hospital Center Auxiliary and was a member of the Leitchfield First United Methodist Church. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Doug and Marcy Carrington, her niece, Linda Smith and a nephew, Whit Sanning and a special friend, Edna Kay Duggins. Other than her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Curtis Carrington, one son, Charles Curtis Carrington Jr. and a brother, Frank Sanning. In Lieu of flowers, donation can be made to the St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital @ 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 Services will be Private. Burial will be in the Mt. Vernon Cemetery. To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Nell Carrington

Wallace B. Hayes, Navy V-12 ’44
Sept. 24, 2021

Wallace Bert Hayes was born on July 12th, 1923, to loving parents Bert & Clara Hayes in Portland, Oregon. He attended Creston School, Franklin High School, Berea College, Purdue University, University of Notre Dame, and graduated from Oregon State University in Mechanical Engineering in 1947. After high school he worked for the Balfour-Guthrie Co., and later was a shipfitter in the Swan Island Shipyards. Following 2 years in the U.S. Navy, he was an engineer in the office of Thomas E. Taylor for 20 years, designing mechanical systems for schools built in the northwest during the 1950s & 1960s. He worked in the office of Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill for a number of years. He enjoyed working at Tektronix, Inc. as a senior design engineer for a dozen years prior to retirement, working in buildings on the Beaverton campus that he had personally designed the heating & air conditioning systems for. ASHRAE Past President in 1957. Mr. Hayes was married to his wife of 73 years, Dorothy Ann Barton Hayes, before her passing in 2019. They shared a love for dancing, travel, and engaging with their family. He is survived by his three children: Norm (and wife Peggy), Gary (and wife Vickie), and Diane (and husband Rick), along with 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He had a philosophy of life that put his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren first he came next. He felt he was reliving his life through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was always interested in meeting new people and making new friends, and always wanted to hear their stories. He was a passionate storyteller who wanted to share the amazing places around the world he had been fortunate to visit firsthand. His love for leaving notes will always be remembered fondly. His service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 30, 2021, at Riverview Abbey.

Melvin Gordon Satlof, Navy V-12 ’44
Sept. 16, 2021

Melvin Gordon Satlof, of Auburndale, MA, formerly of Columbus, GA, born December 12, 1926, died September 16, 2021. Survived by his beloved children Jeffrey Bedrick; Lynne Satlof-Karas and Steven Karas; Risa and Ross Werblin; grandchildren Joel Karas, Jacob and Michelle Karas, and Aaron Karas; Emma Satlof-Bedrick and Yoav Karpenshif; Hannah and Aaron Fisher, Elana Werblin, and Joshua Werblin; great-grandchildren Jordan Karas and Micah Karpenshif; nephews Alan (Rose Anne) Schulman and Lewis (Zena) Schulman; and nieces Celia (Mark) Goldstein, Laura Huvard, and Donna (Gary) Schiff. He is also mourned by loving cousins Regina (Neil) Satlof-Block, Anita (Martin) Lawson, Alice (Lewis) Gold, and Linda (Peter) Bernbaum. Predeceased by his cherished wife Marilyn (Radoms) Satlof and his beloved daughter Claire Satlof. Melvin loved many things—his family, his friends, the State of Israel, his alma mater (Duke University), and more. Melvin also loved his country and community and was an American patriot in the truest sense of the word. He dedicated his personal and professional life to the betterment of others. Melvin enlisted in the US Navy on the day after Pearl Harbor was bombed and left the Navy as a LJG after training in the elite V-12 Navy College Training Program and serving in the South Pacific. When he returned to Columbus, he established the well-respected CPA firm that became Satlof, Hirsch, and Fingerhut. Putting his beliefs into action, Melvin used his expertise to work for Columbus in many ways. He was an organizer and founder of Pine Manor and Oak Manor nursing homes and Doctors’ Hospital, serving on the board of both for many years. He was active in multiple political campaigns, Lions Club, and Kiwanis Club. He also volunteered as a mentor for SCORE to help others succeed. Melvin devoted much of his life to the Columbus Jewish community. He was on the board of both Temple Israel and Shearith Israel Synagogue, and he served for many years as head of the Jewish Welfare Federation (a branch of United Jewish Appeal). He was involved on every level of the Jewish community. He was often called to come to the synagogue to make a prayer quorum, an obligation he proudly accepted. He was also the contact person for travelers who arrived in Columbus and needed help of any sort. Melvin helped find jobs for a number of Jewish immigrants to Columbus and facilitated their integration into the American community. The values that underlay these activities formed the heart of Melvin’s legacy to his children and grandchildren. However, there was one more contribution that Melvin made as a patriot and a follower of the Jewish injunction to pursue justice. Even most family members were not initially aware of what was certainly a controversial action for the time but undeniably a morally correct action. It was also a contribution of which Melvin was exceptionally proud. In the early 1960’s, Ft. Benning was the largest infantry training camp in the world. It was “home” to thousands of our soldiers, both white and black. In the still segregated city of Columbus, there were virtually no integrated recreational sites near the base. Melvin put together a consortium that bought Victory Lanes Bowling Alley (adjacent to base), stipulating that the bowling alley be fully integrated. This quiet but profound action and the others that made up the details of his life all demonstrate the beliefs summarized by the Biblical prophet that Melvin often quoted as his inspiration: “It hath been told thee, O man, what is good, and what the LORD doth require of thee: only to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.” Graveside services at Mishkan Tefilah Memorial Park, 2605 Centre Street, West Roxbury, on Friday, September 17 at 1:30pm. Following the service, memorial observance will be at Lynne and Steven’s home until 5pm, continuing Saturday night 8-9pm, Sunday 2-4pm, and at Risa and Ross’s house 7-9pm on Sunday. If you would like to make contributions in Melvin’s memory, the family asks that you make them to Hadassah, hadassah.org Friends of the Jewish Chapel at the United States Naval Academy, fojcusna.org or Temple Israel of Natick, tiofnatick.org Levine Chapels, Brookline 617-277-8300 www.levinechapel.com

Bertha Bell Seal ’44
Feb. 6, 2017
Obituary Unavailable

Frederick L. Corts, Navy V-12 ’45
April 14, 2017

We are sad to announce that on April 14, 2017, we had to say goodbye to Frederick Louis Corts (Indianapolis, Indiana). You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

Dr. Jeannie H. James ’45
June 12, 2016

Dr. Jeannie H. James, 94, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 12, 2016.

Dr. James was born in Greenville to the late Portice J. James and Essie Virginia Ross James. She was a member of Fountain Inn First Baptist Church. She retired from a professorship at the University of South Carolina (Columbia).

Surviving is a sister, Thora Faye James Wamack and husband Douglas; four nieces, Rhonda Abbott and husband Tommy, Teresa Knight and husband Randy, Kathryn Blackwell, and Tammy Quinn and husband Mike; a nephew, Douglas Wamack. Jr. and wife Lisa; six great nieces; two great-great nephews; and one great-great niece. She was predeceased by five brothers and a sister.

Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Fletcher Funeral Service, officiated by Rev. Condy Richardson. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Donald K. Clark, Acad. ’42, ’46
Sept. 5, 2021

Donald K. Clark, one of the last living founders of the Gasparilla Sidewalk Art Festival, died on Sept. 5, 2021, at the age of 97. The festival website explains as “a businessman with a sense of community and familiarity with the concept of outdoor art shows, Don,” then General Manager of WDAE, “took the outdoor show idea to” other community leaders. They invited well-respected jurors and offered cash prizes in order to attract high quality art then hung them along downtown sidewalks to create a highly popular event. In 1975, he co-chaired the Festival and served on its Board for many years. The son of Arch M. Clark and Harriet B. Clark, Mr. Clark was born in Irvine, KY and grew up in Berea, KY. After one year at Berea College, he enlisted in the US Army Air Corps, serving as a combat gunnery instructor for the remainder of WWII in England. After discharge, he was graduated from University of Kentucky, having been president of Lambda Chi Alpha and President of the Constitutional Party for all fraternity and sorority groups. Most of his career was spent with Rounsaville Radio Stations, including 11 years managing WDAE in Tampa. He was recognized by the Tampa Advertising Group as Ad Man of the Year. He also served as President of the Tampa Merchants Association. The Florida Association of Broadcasters, an organization for all radio and TV stations in the state, elected him President in 1976. Mr. Clark also once owned WEZY AM/FM of Cocoa, Florida. He brokered radio stations for the last 21 years of his career. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Barbara Anne von Thurn Clark. They were married by her father, Rev. Robert von Thurn, in Maysville, KY. He is also survived by his son, James R. Clark of Decatur, GA and daughter, Barbara Boches of Brookline, MA and son-in-law, Edward Boches; and their children, Sarah Huan Boches of Brookline, MA and Pang Boches, of Coeur d’Alene, ID. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to Metropolitan Ministries, 2002 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, FL 33602.

Joan Clark
Spouse of Allan F. Clark, Jr. ’46
May 31, 2019
Obituary Unavailable

Margaret Gadd Fowlkes
Spouse of Robert L. Fowlkes ’47
March 21, 2019

A bright light was dimmed on March 21, 2019; dimmed but not extinguished, because Margaret’s legacy will continue to glow in those she leaves behind.

Margaret Flora (Gadd) Fowlkes was born April 21, 1926, to Edd and Flora Gadd in Charleston, West Virginia. She was raised in the hollow known as “Kanawha Two Mile.” She attended Piney Point School (a one-room schoolhouse) and Stonewall Jackson High School. She worked as a Comptometer Operator for Pacific Greyhound in the 40’s.

Margaret met the love of her life, Robert Lee “Bob” Fowlkes, on the C & O Bridge in Charleston while he was on leave from the Navy. Bob and Margaret married on January 1, 1947. She always joked that they should have married on December 31st so she could have claimed him on her taxes.

They moved to Berea, Kentucky, so Bob could finish college; and then moved on to Tennessee and were blessed with their first child. They moved back to West Virginia where two more children were born; later, they moved to Florida, after Bob took a job with Chemstrand, and three more children were born in Florida. She was happiest when she was with her babies, no matter how many years had passed.

While always a creative writer, Margaret became a published author of four books after the age of 70. She enjoyed promoting her books through the years.

Margaret belonged to the body of Christ and faithfully worshiped at First Baptist Church, Milton. She was a longtime member of the Martha Sunday School Class, which she loved dearly.

She has been welcomed home by these family members that went before her, her parents, Edd and Flora Gadd; her three brothers, Howard Gadd, Joseph Gadd and James Gadd; and her son, Tad Fowlkes.

Margaret is survived by her husband of 72 years, Robert “Bob” Fowlkes; her children, Niles Fowlkes of Roslindale, Massachusetts, Gregg Fowlkes of Jacksonville, Florida, Linda Fowlkes of Milton, Florida, Alex Fowlkes of Milton, Florida, and Leslie (Greg) Leggett of Milton, Florida; two special daughters-in-law, Linda Fowlkes of Oviedo, Florida, and Donna Fowlkes of Bagdad, Florida. She also leaves behind to cherish her memory, her grandchildren, Nichol Forte of Carrollton, Texas, Tara (Brandon) Buman of Oviedo, Florida, Alessa Fowlkes of Milton, Florida, Alex Fowlkes, Jr. of Evansville, Indiana, Cameron (Cindy) Fowlkes of Kaliua, Hawaii, Leah Jacobs “JC” of Orlando, Florida, Perry Fowlkes of Jacksonville, Florida, Cody (Taylor) Leggett of Chelsea, Alabama, Luke Leggett of Milton, Florida, and Jake Leggett of Milton, Florida; her great-grandchildren, Heather Forte of Pensacola, Florida, Adelae Fowlkes of Milton, Florida, Zachary, Noah and Jackson Fowlkes of Kaliua, Hawaii, Kira Whiteman of Carrollton, Texas, and Elowen Buman of Oviedo, Florida; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom brought her much joy!

Ruth Steinberg Geis ’47
July 16, 2021

Ruth Geis was born December 6, 1925.  She was 95 when she passed away on July 16, 2021.  The official cause of death was cardiac disease. 

Ruth had very fond memories of her years at Berea college.  She was proud that she had gone away to college.  Her parents were poor, first generation immigrants, so Berea’s offer of no tuition made it possible for Ruth to have the kind of college experience she had envisioned for herself. 

A Jewish girl from Newark, N.J. might not have been expected to be happy at Berea given how different it was from her home and people she knew, but Ruth loved Berea.  She made wonderful, lifelong friends there and her Berea education set a course of lifelong learning and teaching. 

Ruth married a year after she graduated from Berea.  She went with her husband Gil to Univ. of Wisc. in Madison where Gil got his PhD and they had their first child, Ellen.  They went from there to Norway for Gil’s Fulbright scholarship and then on to Norman, Okla. for his first professorship.  They had their 2d child, Jeanie, there. 

Ruth’s husband Gil’s 2d teaching position was at California State College (now University), Los Angeles (CSULA), where Ruth got her teaching credential.  She taught high school English in West Covina, California, where she and Gil bought a house.  She later got her master’s degree in English at CSULA.

Ruth and Gil divorced in 1966.  In the early 1970s, Ruth got a job teaching English and speech/debate at San Clemente High School.  She sold her house in West Covina and moved to Laguna Beach where she bought a house within walking distance of the ocean.  She continued teaching until her retirement at age 67. 

After her retirement, Ruth kept busy docenting at the Laguna Beach Art Museum.  Art had been her minor at Berea.  Ruth had many friends in Laguna through her teaching, docenting and activities with Toastmasters.  She also had friends from her years with a tap dancing group that gave performances all around Orange County, California.  Ruth spent her final years in San Diego where daughter Ellen and grandson Dennis and family live.  Ruth is survived by her two children, Ellen Geis and Jeanie Oliver, her four grandchildren, Janet Temko-Blinder, Corina Radovanovich, Dennis Temko, and Violet Oliver, and six great grandchildren, Arthur Blinder, Valerie Blinder, Stella Radovanovich, Zoey Radovanovich, Finn Temko and Jordan Temko.     

Margaret Frye Holmes ’47
Aug. 23, 2021
Obituary Unavailable

Laughlin C. McLean
Spouse of Sammye Sturdivant McLean ’47
May 20, 2020

Laughlin “Yank” Chalmers McLean, Jr. passed away peacefully on May 20, 2020, with Sammye, his wife of 70 years, at his side holding his hand. Yank was born August 2, 1925, in Pratt City, Alabama. He was proud to be a part of the greatest generation, enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps at age 17 so he could serve our country during World War II. Yank entered active duty on November 17, 1944, based at Lavenham, England with the 487th Bombardment Group. Yank served as a navigator for combat missions over Germany and occupied France on the B-17 Flying Fortress “Bonnie Lassie.” Upon returning to the United States at the end of World War II, he attended Georgia Tech and graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Yank worked for U.S. Steel in Fairfield, Alabama for 41 years and retired as Technical Director of Engineering. Yank was preceded in death by his 3 siblings. Yank leaves behind his wife, Sammye Sturdivant McLean; his daughter, Ann McLean-Muse and her husband Dan of Canton, MA; his son, Bob McLean and his wife Julie of Mountain Brook, AL; and his son John McLean and his wife Lyn of Brentwood, TN. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren Yank will be missed by his Hoover neighbors, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He wished to acknowledge a special thanks to Sid and Gayleen McLean who have been so supportive over the years. Lastly, he will be missed by his new friends at Kirkwood by the River where he has lived with Sammye for the past several years. Yank will receive interment at the Alabama National Cemetery honoring his military service to his country. Memorial services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory by either mail: Dyslexia Education Fund, Hindman Settlement School, 56 Education Lane, P.O. Box 844, Hindman, KY 41822 or by website: www.hindman.org/donate

Margery Murphy Zakian ’47
March 3, 2018

MARGERY M ZAKIAN was born on February 8, 1926, and passed away on March 3, 2018, in Cornwall, Pennsylvania and is under the care of Rohland Funeral Home Inc.

Dr. Reedus Back ’48
Nov. 29, 2021

Reedus Back, 99, passed from this life to his heavenly home on Mon, Nov. 29, 2021.

Reedus is survived by his wife of 68 years, Carrie Jane Courtney Back. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, Joseph (Carrie) Back of Culver City, CA, Thomas (Darlene) Back of Richmond, VA, and Timothy (Sandra) Back of Versailles, KY; six grandchildren; one great grandson; and one sister, Joann Walters.

He was a World War II veteran, a graduate of Berea College, and also earned a Doctorate in Education from the University of Kentucky. He had a long and distinguished career in education, teaching in the Madison County and Pendleton County school systems as well as serving as Principal of Pendleton County High School and University Breckinridge High School in Morehead. He later taught and served as Dean of Graduate Programs at Morehead State University

Visitation will be held on Thurs., Dec. 2, 2021, from 11:00 – 1:00 pm and funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 pm with the Rev. Aaron Coyle-Carr officiating at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals in Morehead, KY. Private burial to follow with family only in Lee Cemetery.

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com

Dr. Warren E. Bulman ’48
Jan. 8, 2022

Warren Eugene “Gene” Bulman, age 99 of Upper Arlington, passed away Saturday, January 8, 2022. Gene was born and raised in Woodville, Alabama, son of the late George and Ada (Hodges) Bulman. Also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Verna Bulman, and brother, Arnold Bulman. Gene proudly served his country in WWII as a pilot and instructor with the U.S. Army Air Corp. He received undergraduate degree in Math and Physics from Berea College, master’s in Physics from Purdue University and doctorate in Electrical Engineering at The Ohio State University. Gene was an extremely intelligent man who was a natural leader. He worked at the National Bureau of Standards, Battelle, and was VP at Tecumseh. In 1964, he founded Ohio Semitronics, Inc., where he served as President. He was a member of the Aladdin Shrine, Masons, Rotary, and served on numerous boards throughout his life including Blue Cross of Central Ohio (Chairman 1983-4), Mercy and St. Anthony Hospitals, Marburn Academy and the United Methodist Children’s Home. He was honored with the Benjamin G. Lamme Meritorious Achievement Medal from OSU, Distinguished Graduate from Berea and Distinguished Alumni from Purdue. Gene had a competitive side to him, but above all, Gene was a family man who truly was a national treasure. He enjoyed playing cards, golf, and was a Ham radio operator. He will be greatly missed by his loving children, Linda (John) Iben and Gary (Kathleen) Bulman; grandchildren, Joanna Iben, James Iben, and Jennifer (Joshua) Goodwin; great grandchildren, Jackson, Jace, and Jianna Goodwin; and many other extended family members and dear friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, Attn: Processing Center, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, Georgia 30394 or to Berea College, CPO 2216, Berea, Kentucky 40404 or www.berea.edu/give

Sheridan L. Risley KH ’49
Feb. 13, 2019
Obituary Unavailable

Dr. William H. Roush ’49
Nov. 9, 2021

William (Bill) Harold Roush was born in Alderson, West Virginia, on February 17, 1927, the second of three sons to parents Earl Ray and Mary Lydia (Dameron) Roush. After graduation from Alderson High School, Bill attended Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. In 1951, during his second year of medical school, he married Grace D’Albora, a registered nurse, who he would proudly tell you supported him and their growing family through the remainder of his medical training.

In 1953, Bill graduated from the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn, New York. He went on to complete a residency in internal medicine at the Medical College of Virginia and Ohio State University, followed by a research fellowship in endocrinology at Ohio State. During this time, he also served for two years as a Captain in the Army Medical Corps at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He then joined the staff as an internist and endocrinologist at a clinic in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, until moving his family and joining the staff of the Veterans Administrative Hospital in Temple, Texas, in 1963. In 1969 Bill decided he could better serve his patients as a radiologist, completing a three year residency at Scott and White Hospital. He practiced Radiology at the VA Hospital until his retirement in 1995.

Following the death of his wife, Grace, in 1999, Bill married his longtime friend and associate, Maria Elena Bassel, MD, who practiced internal medicine at the VA hospital for thirty-two years.

Bill was an avid and lifelong sports fan and athlete, playing football in high school. As an adult he enjoyed tennis, weightlifting, swimming, and snow skiing well into his seventies, and was one of the founding members of the Temple Tennis Club. He also loved classical music, woodworking, photography, and discovered ball room dancing with Maria. Without question, Bill found unlimited joy in following the lives of his children and many grandchildren. He loved nothing more than sharing pictures of them with family and friends. Bill was admired by many, but none more than his children and grandchildren for his wit, wisdom, and staunch support of their academic endeavors.

Bill his survived by a daughter Julie Butler of Temple, son Billy Roush (Kay) of Austin, son David Roush (Arlynda) of Troy, son Paul Bassel (Katrina) of Dallas, and son Dabney Bassel (Pam) of Fort Worth. He is also survived by thirteen grandchildren: Rachel Butler of Austin, Will Butler of West Palm Beach, FL, Preston Roush (Emily) of Dallas, William Patrick Roush (Rachael) of Columbia, MO, Phillip Roush of Austin, Emily Roush of Belton, Caroline Roush of Dallas, Brandon Aguilar (Sarah) of Buda, Brooke Epperson (Zachary) of New Braunfels, Emily Bassel of Dallas, Rose Bassel of Dallas, and Katherine Bassel of Seattle, WA. He is also survived by eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Mary Roush, brothers Bob and Tom Roush, and wives Grace Roush and Maria Roush.

A visitation will be held at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home, Saturday, November 13, 2021, from 6 to 8pm. A private, family funeral and burial will take place in Alderson, WV at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Scott and White Cancer Research Fund, or to Alzheimer’s Association at 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

To share a memory or sign Bill’s guestbook, please visit www.scanioharperfuneralhome.com

Charles S. McNeer ’50
July 29, 2018

McNeer, Charles “Charlie” S. Passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 29, 2018 at the age of 92. Beloved husband of the late Ann B. McNeer (nee Bishop) for 67 years. Dear father of Charles W. (Kay), the late Suzanne (Jim), Robert (Pia) and Thomas (Karen) McNeer. Proud grandfather of 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Charles was born in Gilbert West Virginia, the son of Richard and Bertie McNeer. He grew up in Williamson & Charleston WV. After high school, Charlie attended the Merchant Marine Academy (43-46), receiving a degree in Marine Engineering and serving on Troop Transport as an Ensign during the Battle of the North Atlantic in WWII. In 1945, the Navy transferred him to submarine service in the Pacific until 1947. Charlie remained in the Naval Reserve until 1959. Charlie attended Berea College in Kentucky and Northwestern University, where he graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He moved to Milwaukee, accepting a position as a junior engineer for Wisconsin Electric. After 41 years of service, he retired from Wisconsin Energies as CEO/Chairman. Charlie’s guidance of the company centered around; “Conservation, Communication, and Community Development.” Charlie’s commitment to the betterment Business/Community Development led to the development of the Intercity Youth Business Mentoring program administered by the Milwaukee YMCA. Memorial Donations in Charlie’s name to the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee or Cecelia’s Place Senior Living would be appreciated. A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, September 5, 2018, from 2:00 PM until the time of service at 4:00 PM, a reception will follow. Private family committal services will be held.

Aileen Miller
Spouse of James D. Miller Jr. ’50
Dec. 22, 2018

Aileen Moffett Miller departed this world Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, at the age of 88. Her many accomplishments and deep faith are honored by her family, including her husband of 66 years, Jim; son, Stephen; daughter-in-law, Pat and grandsons, Blake and Clarke.

Aileen was born in Harrisonville, Ky. April 7, 1930, as the only child of William (Kaiser Bill) Moffett and Lucille Moffett. She graduated near the top of her class at Lawrenceburg High. While working in the office of Dr. James Gilbert, she met her future husband, Jim, who had returned from World War II to teach veterans programs in Anderson County. During Jim’s career with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, they moved to Stanford, Bardstown, and then Owenton, where they planted roots in 1960 at the last house on North Adams Street.

For 16 years, Aileen taught kindergarten in their Owenton home. During this time, more than 200 students graduated from the “Be Kind Kindergarten.” Years later, Aileen would approach a former student with the greeting, “I know you. You’re one of mine.”

Before Kentucky reformed its judicial system in the late 1970s, she was the Owenton Police Court Judge. Aileen also served for eight years on the Owenton City Council. She played key roles in the local political campaigns of Steve Beshear, Brereton Jones, Harvey Slone, Pat Mulloy and Bill Clinton. Upon seeing Aileen waiting in the rain at the Owen County Courthouse during a campaign stop, Governor Beshear said, “I didn’t know how many would come, but I knew Aileen Miller would be here.”

She was an active member of the Owenton First Baptist Church, as well as being a former President of the Owen County Woman’s Club and a member of the Owenton Homemakers.

Aileen’s family expresses gratitude for the kindness of many friends during her illness, along with the wonderful care provided by professionals at Norton Brownsboro, Frankfort Regional Medical Center, Owenton Center, Valhalla Rehab Center and especially Symphony at Oaklawn. The family requests donations to Owenton First Baptist Church (213 N. Main Street, Owenton, KY 40359) or the Alzheimer’s Foundation (322 Eighth Avenue, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001) instead of flowers.

McDonald & New Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements. Aileen’s family and friends celebrated her life at Owenton First Baptist Church Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018.

Richard Wilbur Parker Jr., Acad. ’46, ’50
Jan. 11, 2022

Richard W. Parker Jr. passed away peacefully on January 11, 2022 at Meritus. He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Jane, his twin sister , and one great-grand daughter. He is survived by his children, David and wife Anne Marie, John and wife Joy, Elizabeth and husband Mark, and Patricia. He also survived by his eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Richard was born with a twin sister, Helen, in Newport News, Virginia on May 6, 1928 to Elizabeth “Betty” Moore and Richard W Parker and grew up in Middlesboro Kentucky. Richard graduated from Berea College Academy and Berea College with a BA in Physics in 1950. He attended Purdue University and graduated with an MS in Aeronautical Engineering, in 1958. At Purdue he was a member of the swim team. He enlisted in the Navy in 1951 and graduated from OCS and was commissioned as an Aviation Officer. While in the Navy he helped develop the first Airborne Early Warning and Control system. He retired from the Navy Reserve as a Lt. Commander in 1974. In his career he was employed by General Dynamics, in Fort Worth, Texas, working on the B-58 project. He worked as a Military Analyst at Research Analysis Corp., in Bethesda, Maryland and as a System Engineer of satellite projects at Autometric Inc., in Arlington, Virginia. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America serving as a Cub Master, Scout Master and held many Commissioner positions. He retired to Tybee Island, Georgia in 1993, finally locating at Penney Farms Retirement Community in Penney Farms, Florida.

There will be a service at Rest Haven Cemetery and Funeral Home on Thursday January 20 with a viewing at 1:00 pm, and service at 2:00 pm. He will then be taken to Penney Farms Florida for a service and burial. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Berea College www.berea.edu/give

Josephine Beck Sanders ’50
Dec. 8, 2020

Josephine Louise Sanders, 93, entered into rest on Tuesday December 8, 2020. She was a member of the former Highview Baptist Church, Valley Station Campus. Josephine retired from Bellsouth. She is survived by her son, Timothy Caschera (Susan); Grandson, Michael Caschera; Great Grandchildren, Devin and Riley Caschera; Sister, Ora Lee Skeen; Cremation was chosen. Advantage Funeral Home – Hardy Chapel is entrusted to handle her arrangements.

Jeanne Purkey Deschamps ’51
Nov. 21, 2021

Jeanne Purkey Deschamps went to be with the Lord on November 21, 2021 at the age of 92. She was born in Asheville, North Carolina on June 24, 1929 to Daniel Oliver Purkey and Lena Penland Purkey. She was the second oldest of 5 daughters. She graduated high school from Warren Wilson in Swannanoa, North Carolina in 1947. There she met the love of her life Alfred Deschamps. They married in 1947 and started their college career together at Berea College in Kentucky. She later transferred to University of Kentucky and graduated in 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. In 1954 they moved to Texas and began raising a family. She was active in her church and taught Sunday School for many years. She loved to travel with family and friends, enjoyed playing piano and was an avid reader. She was a loving wife and a devoted mother. She will be dearly missed.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, her parents and her sisters Marietta Suhart, Joan Watkins and Anita Wiggington. She is survived by her son Rodney Deschamps (Janet), her daughters Lenette Miller (David) and Alfreda Meador (Tommy), 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, her sister Shirley Hendrix, her sister-in-law Chlotilde Guisasola and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church Pearland, 3005 Pearland Parkway, Texas, 77581.

Eula Jean Lindon Meier ’51
June 26, 2021

Eula “Jean” (Lindon) Meier, 93, of Madison, WI, formerly of Apple River, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 26, 2021, at Agrace Hospice Center in Fitchburg, WI.

Jean was born on July 18, 1927 in Wolfe County, Kentucky, the daughter of Morton and Rella (Rice) Lindon. She grew up in Gillmore, KY, graduating from Hazel Green Academy. She continued her education at Berea College, graduating in 1952 with a Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics. While at Berea, she drew great enjoyment from participating in country dancing and various arts from the Appalachian region. Upon graduation, Jean began teaching Home Economics in the Scales Mound, IL school district and then in the Rochelle, IL school district. During this time, she met her future husband Marvin E. Meier. They were married on June 29, 1957 at the United Methodist Church in Rochelle, IL. After their marriage, they moved to Apple River, IL for two years, then to the family farm, where they raised their children and lived throughout the rest of their married life.

Jean resumed her teaching at Lena-Winslow School District where she retired in 1988. Jean was a leader in the Future Homemaker Association (FHA), served on the Illinois Vocational Home Economics Teacher Association Advisory Council, and was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Retired Teachers Association. Jean was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Warren, IL, where she served as the church librarian for many years. Jean enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening and travel. She also enjoyed hosting multiple international students over the years leading to many enduring friendships.  

Surviving are her children, Ruthann (Ken) Meier Johns of Gainesville, VA, and James (Allison) Meier of Middleton, WI; grandchildren, Jacob Glenn Johns and David James Meier; sisters, Wanda (Gerald) Mayberry of Kingsport, TN, and Carolyn Roten of Beavercreek, OH, as well as many other family and lifelong friends.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, husband Marv, brothers Ralph, Joe and JC Lindon, and her sister Alta Kay (Lindon) Hurt.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday June 30,2021, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Warren, IL.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at the church.

Pastor Michelle Knight will officiate the services.

Burial will be at the Elmwood Cemetery in Warren, IL.

A memorial has been established in her memory.

Helen Knight Finnie ’52
March 2, 2018
Obituary Unavailable

Mary Evelyn Black Green ’52
Aug. 7, 2021

Mary Evelyn (Black) Green, of Clinton went to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at Methodist Medical Center.  She had recently resided at the Alexander Guest House in Oak Ridge.  She was born on January 7, 1930 in Clinton, TN to the late Horace L. and Fronia Reynolds Black.  In addition to her parents, she is also preceded in death by her husband, Horace D. Green; son, Kenneth D. Green; brothers, Bill and Kenneth Black; father and mother-in-law, Mr. & Mrs. Horace D. Green, Sr.

“Aunt Ebbie” as she was known to the family, particularly nieces and nephews, spent her life doing what she loved to do: caring for children in her home and teaching them in various classes and organizations at Bethel Baptist Church.  She also worked in the Clinton Baptist Association office for many years.  She loved her Lord and was always going about His Business.

Evelyn is survived by daughter-in-law, Jane Green; sister and brother-in-law, Edd and Wanda Alley; sisters-in-law, Betty Black and Ruth Black; many much loved nieces, nephews, and cousins. She also had many friends who attended Norris High, although she graduated in 1947, and faithfully attended the annual reunions until 2021.

The family will receive friends 11:00-1:00 pm, Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at Holley Gamble Funeral Home.  Her funeral service will be officiated by Rev. David Seiber and John Alvis will present the music.  Evelyn’s graveside will immediately follow at Norris Memorial Garden.  Pallbearers will be William Green, Barry Black, Bronson Black, Andy Wallace, Tom Alley, & Tom Longmire.  In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to The Gideons International. Holley Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is in charge of all arrangements.  www.holleygamble.com

Glenna Jewell Kuehn ’52
Aug. 1, 2021

Glenna Taulbee Kuehn June 15, 1933 August 01, 2021 Memorial Donation Glenna J. Taulbee Kuehn 88, departed her life on August 1, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. On June 15, 1933 she was born in Breathitt County, Kentucky to the late Perry and Virgie Taulbee and resided in Winchester, Clark County for since 1960 (61 years). She attended Berea College and graduated in 1954 from University of Kentucky with degree in teaching. She loved teaching high school math at Bryan Station High School in Lexington, Kentucky and at Mt Sterling High School before she retired. Preceded in death by parents and 4 brothers, Ural, Palmer, Orrin and Drushal. Survived by LOVING and DEVOTED husband of 49 years, Walter Kuehn two daughters, Judy (Don) Ladd of Clarksville, Tennessee and Nancy (Wendell) Chafin of Nicholasville, Kentucky, four Grandchildren; Courtney Chafin, Caitlin Ladd, Wil Ladd and Kiefer Chafin, three great grandsons; August Chafin, Everett Chafin and Colton Ladd, a sister-in-law, Nancy (AJ) Stacey. A host of nieces, nephews and her constant companion Missy, a Yorkshire Terrier.

Robert Ray Maye ’52
Oct. 22, 2021

Robert “Bob” Maye October 9, 1930 October 22, 2021Robert “Bob” Maye, 91, of Morganton, passed away Friday, Oct. 22, 2021.Born in Burke County, Oct. 9, 1930, he was the son of the late Thomas Maye and Estelle Roper Maye. Bob graduated from Berea College in Kentucky and then attended UNC Chapel Hill and the University of Kentucky at Louisville. Bob worked for Morganton Public Safety and worked in management with Sears. Most recently, he was the owner of Georgia Carpets in Morganton. Bob is survived by his wife, Linda Wright Maye; daughter, Karen Lowdermilk (Roy); stepsons, James Spillman (Leigh) and Michael Pettus; granddaughter, Tonya Lowdermilk; and step grandchildren, Ashleigh, Christopher, and Garrett Spillman. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by sisters, Ruth, Mary, Jewel, Pat, Helen, and Doris, and brothers, Jim and Joe. A private family graveside service will be held at Drexel Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to AMOREM (formerly Burke Hospice), 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or the Morganton Public Library, 204 S King St., Morganton, NC 28655.Sossoman Funeral Homewww.sossomanfh.com

Theadosia Hogan Ribet ’52
July 25, 2021

Theadosia Ribet, 92, passed away on Sunday, July 25, 2021 at Brookshire Nursing Center in Hillsborough. She was born Dec. 4, 1928 in Durham, the daughter of the late Howard Richard Hogan and Hennrietta Adelaide Ribet. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Ribet was predeceased by her husband, Edward Ribet; brothers, Gilbert Hogan, Stewart Hogan; and sister, Evona Hogan.

Theadosia had a long career as an Elementary school teacher within the Durham City School system. She loved her students and went out of her way to help those in need.

She was generous and faithful to many charities and could be counted on when friends or family was in need.

Mrs. Ribet is survived by her sons, Victor Frederick Ribet, Edward James Ribet; daughter, Gloria Jean Ribet Cash; sisters, Marie Louise Hogan, Eva Jane Hogan. She has six grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital: St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Mary Lou Boggs Bean ’53
Oct. 19, 2021

At the age of 92 Mary Lou passed from this life to the next peacefully at home. She was born on a farm in Pennsylvania. When she was three, the family moved back to the farm in Greenbrier Co., WV to be closer to relatives. She was the oldest of four children. Mary Lou graduated as valedictorian from Frankford H.S. in 1946. She studied Accounting at West Virginia Business College until 1948 and from there she went on to receive a BA in Religion from Berea in KY in 1953. She completed her formal education in 1956 with a Master of Arts degree from Scaritt College for Christian Workers in TN. During this time, she also gained work experience at several jobs to help put her sister through college. In September 1957, after meeting at Mt Vernon Place UMC, she was married to Gerald “Jerry” Bean. A few years later they moved from their apartment on Duke St. to a new home in Springfield to begin their family. Eric arrived in 1962 and Janet came along in ’67. Mary Lou created a warm and happy home where everyone felt welcome. She enjoyed traveling and spent time at historic sites, festivals and picnics. Her favorite place to visit was her mother’s home in WV, where family often gathered for holidays and summer vacation. People and relationships were Mary Lou’s calling. Her caring was genuine and sincere. Her gifts, talents, creativity and organizational skills allowed her to keep track of and show people how important they were to her. She was very active in the life of Mt Vernon Place church and had a passion for missions, supporting missionaries and for social concerns. She headed and participated in many committees over the years, and was also involved in United Methodist Women, the prayer chain and bible studies at Springfield UMC. She was an avid writer of cards and letters and has a collection of addresses dating back to the 50’s. She collected postcards and recipes and hoped to assemble a cookbook one day. She was a “night owl” and often stayed up to the wee hours finishing a task. She liked licorice, ice cream and jellybeans. She was often described as “so sweet”, “a special lady” or “so thoughtful”. She lived her life with determination, perseverance, and most of all, with love. We always knew we were loved! Preceded in death by parents; Dwight Latham and Gladys Leon (Graybeal) Boggs, and siblings; Dorothy Lynn Hayes, William Donald Boggs and Sally Sue Martin Survived by: Her loving husband of 64 years Gerald “Jerry” T. Bean, son Eric S. Bean, daughter Janet R. Jewell (Tony), grandson Raymond “Ray” T. Jewell and many nieces and nephews.

Corine Robinson Bell ’53
Oct. 21, 2021

Corine Age 90, passed away October 21, 2021, at the Winfield of Middletown. Corine was born in Hazel Green, KY, to Virgil and Molly Robinson on December 5, 1930.She graduated from Hazel Green Academy in 1949 and Berea College (Berea, KY) in 1953 with a degree in teaching. Corine taught elementary school in Middletown for several years during the 1950’s and 1960’s, including several years at Springhill Elementary School. She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Harry H. Bell, Jr., her daughter Kathryn Lynn Choquette, and her son in law, Michael J. Choquette. Corine was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Molly Robinson, son John V. Bell, brothers Herb, Robert, and Jack Robinson, and sisters Mae Fugate, Callie Hughes and Helen Duffee, as well as several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank all of the Hospice nurses from both Otterbein of Middletown and Hospice of Middletown for their help in caring for Corine. We would also like to thank the nurses and staff of Otterbein of Middletown and Winfield of Middletown for their exceptional care and generosity during this difficult time. Private services were held for the family.

Marjorie Martin Bixler ’53
Jan. 2, 2017

Marjorie Bixler died January 2, 2017.

Survivors: daughters Danae Bixler, Minda Stratton, and Andrea Bixler; son Robert D. Bixler; stepdaughter Deveney Totten; and five grandchildren.

Marjorie Bixler was born and lived in Kentucky until moving to Texas in 2005 after the death of her husband, Ray H. Bixler. She was a teacher, artist, and writer. Several of her short stories appeared in literary journals.

Her ashes will be taken to Kentucky to the same place she scattered those of her husband.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Civil Liberties Union or Planned Parenthood.

Dixie Lee Napier
Spouse of Bill B. Napier ’53
Aug. 11, 2020

It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Dixie Lee Napier (Hazard, Kentucky), who passed away at the age of 83, on August 11, 2020. Family and friends can light a candle as a loving gesture for their loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Dixie Lee Napier to show support.

She was predeceased by her parents, Ward Napier and Oda Jones Napier, and her siblings, Doris Jean Stamper and Donald Dean Napier. She is survived by her husband William B. Napier; and her sons, Bradley Dean Napier (Kimberly) and David Ward Napier (Stacy Lynn).

In Lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the Buckhorn Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 93 Buckhorn, Kentucky 41721.

William E. Parker ’53
Sept. 12, 2021

Mary Virginia Hulburt Parker, 53, of Jonesville, NC, died September 14, 2009. She was a public school teacher for 32 years and was very active in her church and community. She is survived by William Edsel Parker, 56, her husband, one son, and two daughters.

Rose Mary Brockman Bush ’54
Nov. 5, 2021

Rose Mary Bush (née Brockman)  passed away on November 5th, 2021, preceded by her beloved husband, David Irving Bush on July 12th, 2021.   The two of them met in Juneau and spent the largest part of their lives there.  As members of the Juneau community, they loved all it had to offer wildlife, boat trips, and the closeness of its people.  They left Juneau for Kalispell, Montana and toured the country together in various RVs, traveling over one million road miles to visit family and friends in between trips to National Parks and conservation areas where they took pictures and videos, another passion they shared.

David grew up in the hills of San Francisco and California before joining the Air Force after a short time at California Polytechnic State University.  While in college, David led a group “Inquiry” that toured across the country together in Volkswagen vans and would meet up later in life.  David’s love for tinkering and electronics helped him excel in the Air Force, where he became an electronics instructor.  While stationed in Newfoundland, David participated in the tense moments of the Cuban Missile crisis.  After serving honorably, David first became a truck driver due to his love of driving.  However, a different path guided him to the Seattle area, where he worked for Boeing.  During his time there, David helped build several sailboats and learn to sail and began another great adventure, sailing to Hawaii with a small crew.  Shortly thereafter David moved to Juneau where he became employed by the State of Alaska as a computer specialist, providing invaluable support in the State’s budget office as a dedicated public servant where he would eventually become its lead Budget Analyst.  Quiet, reliable, and kind, David touched the lives of many without their ever knowing.

Rose Mary was born to a farming family in Clover Bottom, Kentucky, the youngest of five children.  Raised in humble beginnings in rural Kentucky, Rose Mary attended Berea College where she met her first husband, Kenneth Moss.  The two of them would have three children: Retha (dec. 1983), David, and Laura.  They moved to Alaska, where Kenneth used his Pediatric Medical Doctor degree in the Bureau of Indian Affairs.  They also spent a short time in Haiti, helping eradicate smallpox.  After their divorce, Rose Mary used her photography skills to open two photo development locations, FStop and FStop Two.  Rose Mary turned this love of technology and entrepreneurship into another business, CopyWorks, which is still open today under new ownership.  Even in retirement, Rose Mary continued working, using her eye for design and computer skills to publish printed materials of all kinds.  Rose Mary is remembered fondly for her easy manner and generosity towards others.

Together their complementary personalities grew a bond of dedication to each other and the people and communities they loved.  David and Rose Mary received a community service award for transporting abused women to shelters in Northwest Montana and were known for the endless support of others without expectation of gratitude or compensation.

Rose Mary is survived by her four siblings Katherine, Joe, Sylvia, and Martha; two children David and Laura; grandchildren Coleman, Katy, Kelly, and Jackie; and eight great-grandchildren.  David is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Art and Ann of California, and their two sons.

James Franklin Conley ’54
Nov. 4, 2021

James Franklin Conley, 89, of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2021.

Jim was born on December 28, 1931, in Logan Store Township, Rutherford County, North Carolina, to the late Thaddaeus and Mallie Conley. He met the love of his life, Ellen Marie Reedy, while attending Berea College. Upon graduation, they married and Jim continued his studies in Geology earning a M.S. degree from Ohio State University and a Ph.D. from University of South Carolina. Jim moved the family to Charlottesville in 1964 to take a job as a field mapping geologist with the Virginia Department of Mines and Mineral Resources. He retired from the Department in 1995 as Deputy Chief and spent the ensuing years pursuing and enjoying his many hobbies. Jim has been called a “Renaissance Man” by close friends for the breadth and depth of his many interests. He especially enjoyed doing Concours restorations on his collection of British sports cars, making reproductions of early American Furniture, and teaching a course in Structural Geology at the University of Virginia. Jim was an active member of the Shenandoah Valley British Car Club and the Antique Car Club of America. He and Ellen enjoyed many European trips with fellow British car enthusiasts. Jim was also an active member of the Society of American Period Furniture Makers (SAPFM). He and Ellen attended many conferences at Colonial Williamsburg, SAPFM Mid-year Conferences and local SAPFM Chapter Meetings. He was also invited to demonstrate period construction techniques at his local Chapter and many other Chapters. Jim and Ellen made many lifelong friendships through their love of both classic cars and period furniture.

Jim is survived by his wife, Ellen Conley; sons, Frank Conley and spouse, Kate Nesbitt, of Charlottesville, John Conley of Charlottesville, and David Conley and spouse, LuAnne Conley and grandson, Christopher Conley, of Russell, Kentucky.

The family will receive friends and family at Teague Funeral home from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. on Monday November, 15 2021. A graveside memorial service will be held at Holly Memorial Gardens at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.

Grateful thanks for the heartfelt care and love Jim received from the employees of The Laurels of Charlottesville during his stay.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks to consider making a memorial contribution in Jim’s honor to Berea College, CPO 2216, Berea KY 40404 or online at Berea.edu/give.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.Teaguefuneralhome.com

Dolores Mitchell Grubbs ’54
Sept. 11, 2021

Dolores Mitchell Grubbs passed away on September 11, 2021 in Jacksonville, Florida after a brief illness. Dolores was born in Washington, DC on September 22, 1931. Her biological parents passed away when she was 14. She was adopted by her stepmother, Dorothy Thayer, whom she adored. They lived in Asheville, N.C. After high school, Dolores attended St. Genevieve College and transferred to Berea College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and more importantly met the love of her life, B.A. Grubbs. They were married on their college graduation day June 7,1954 in Danforth Chapel and were together for 67 years.

B.A. and Dolores created a unique partnership of businessman and artist. Following graduation B.A. started his business career. Dolores became his wise listening ear and cheerleader. Their decisions were made as a team. Their love and respect for each other was undeniable. After stints in Illinois, Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Tampa, they arrived in Jacksonville in 1972.

God blessed Dolores with the ability to be a teacher and an artist. She loved to teach anyone anything! Whether entering a juried art show, decorating a client’s house or judging flower arrangements at a flower show her artistic eye came to the forefront.

Dolores unquestionably had a love for life which is a legacy she leaves to her family. She truly saw each day as a gift to enjoy. She treasured her time with girlfriends of the Late Bloomers Garden Club, Colonial Dames, Book Club, The Club, and tennis teams at Timuquana Country Club. She constantly taught us to not take ourselves too seriously and to never stop learning.

She will be forever missed by her husband B.A. Grubbs, daughters Vaughan Lee Griffin (Jim) and Dana Andrews (Robbie), grandchildren Kirby Rengifo (Julio), Chip Griffin, Claire-Mitchell Soriano (Nico) and great grandson Harrison Rengifo.

Details regarding a Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be forthcoming.

Gloria L. Harper
Spouse of Elwood N. Harper ’54
Aug. 3, 2017

Gloria Louise Harper, 86, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma passed away Thursday, August 3, 2017 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. She was born January 20, 1931 in Norman, Oklahoma the daughter of Irving Wiel and Edna Ruth (Holt) Duffield. She was married to Elwood Nicholas Harper in Honolulu, Hawaii. Mrs. Harper was a tax advisor and of the Episcopal faith. She loved gardening and her dogs, Heidie and Ivy and feeding various wildlife that would come to her property daily.

survivors are:

husband: Nicholas Harper of the home

1 daughter: Deborah Somer of Scottsdale, AZ

2 sons and 1 daughter in law: Jeff and Deidre Haas of Sallisaw

and Greg Haas of Midland, TX

3 grandchildren

3 Great grandchildren

several other relatives and friends

She was preceded in death by her parents and 1 daughter: Genea Haas

Emily E. Pugsley
Spouse of James Pugsley ’54
May 17, 2020

Emily E. Pugsley, 85, of Oberlin, died Friday, March 13, 2020.

Arrangements are in the care of Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Elyria.

Mildred P. Hartzog
Spouse of Everette Filmore Hartzog ’55
Aug. 12, 2017

Mildred Sophia Patterson Hartzog, 87, passed away Saturday August 12, 2017. She was born March 19, 1930 in Robinsonville, NC to the late J. K. and Vola Ghormley Patterson. Mrs. Hartzog was a faithful member of Yadkinville United Methodist Church for 53 years. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by three brothers.  Surviving are her devoted husband Everette Filmore Hartzog; her children Phillip Hartzog, and partner, Katya Roytburd;  Amy Hartzog, Lisa Hartzog;  and one granddaughter Zoe Jane Stephanie Hannah. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 AM Saturday at Yadkinville United Methodist Church.  Her Memorial Service will follow the visitation 11:00 AM Saturday in the church by Rev. Chris Hughes and Rev. Gary Patterson.  A private graveside service will follow later in Ashe County.  The family requests in lieu of flowers, that memorials may be made to either Yadkinville United Methodist Church Mission Fund, PO Box 25, Yadkinville, NC  27055 or to SECU Hospice Care Center of Yadkin, 243 North Lee Avenue, Yadkinville, NC  27055.  Online condolences may be made to www.gentryfuneralservice.com.  Gentry Family Funeral Service of Yadkinville is serving the Hartzog Family.

Clara Halterman Reho ’55
Jan. 16, 2020

Clara (Halterman) Reho 88 Passed away at Genesis Hospital on January 16, 2020.

She was a member of the Bethany United Methodist Church of Corning and a retired Teacher from the Corning and Miller School Systems.

She is survived by her nephews, Rod (Debby) Parsons of Dalton, GA, Tom (Marsha) Maxwell of New Lexington, great nieces and nephews, Julie Maxwell, Lyndi Maxwell, Jodi (Al) Tallant, Jenny (Jake) Seely, Ashley Parsons, Whitney Parsons and Joseph Tallent. A sister in law, Millie Parsons of Corning.

Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Reho (April 27, 2015. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 11:00 am until time of services at 1:00 pm. at the Chute-Wiley Funeral Home, 118 S Jackson St., New Lexington. Burial will follow in Community Gardens Cemetery, New Lexington, www.chutewiley.com.

Dorothy Coffey Wierwille ’55
Jan. 1, 2022

Dorothy Coffey Wierwille of Anderson Township passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, January 1, 2022. She was 87. She was born in Closplint, Kentucky on December 20, 1934 to the late Herbert and Grace Couk. She grew up in Jonesville, VA and graduated high school at the age of 16. She enrolled at Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia before transferring to Berea College in Berea, Kentucky where she earned a degree in Chemistry at age 20, and later received a Master’s Degree in Sociology from Eastern Kentucky University. Dorothy spent more than 30 years working at Berea College retiring as the Assistant to the President. She held the distinction of being the first graduate hired by the college. Throughout her life she enjoyed playing golf and tennis, she was a keen competitor in duplicate bridge and achieved a Life Master ranking. She had a great love of the music of the 1930’s

and 40’s as well as the classical composers. She was an avid ballroom and swing dancer and often traveled throughout the Midwest to participate in big band dance competitions. In her spare time, she took a lively interest in current events and government affairs and enjoyed reading on a wide variety of subjects. Dorothy is survived by her son Kenneth D. Coffey and his

wife Casey: sister Margaret (Peggy) Crowder and her husband Bill Crowder: grandson Kenneth D. Coffey II. Preceding her in death were late husbands Dr. George Wierwille and Kenneth B. Coffey; and brother Harold Couk. At her death, Dorothy bequeathed her body to the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. At this time no arrangements have been scheduled. An

announcement of a Celebration of Life will be forthcoming when arrangements are complete.

Jean Sargent Brown ’56
Aug. 22, 2021

Jean Budd Sargent was born on February 16, 1934, in Welch, WV. Her parents were David William Sargent and Mary Budd Peers Sargent. During Jean’s youth, her handicapped sister, Mary David Sargent, required much attention from Jean. She graduated from Welch High School as president of the Student Body. She attended Berea College for three years, graduated with a BA from Roosevelt University and taught junior high students for one year in Blue Island, IL. She later received an MSW from the State University of New York at Albany which led to twelve years of Social Work in the NY State Dept. of Mental Health and about five years elsewhere.

She married Rev. Dr. Roland J. Brown in 1955 and they became parents of two sons, Gregory K. Brown, PhD, and Rev. David Reed-Brown, MDiv. She supported Roland for 42 years as a pastor in ten American Baptist Churches, in Wyoming, Illinois, Rhode Island, New York and Pennsylvania. Her family lived mostly in parsonages.

In retirement the couple has lived in Lantana, FL. They became active members of the United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches in West Palm Beach. They were lifetime “campers” and occasional leaders in the Camps Farthest Out (several days of developing relations with God). Jean entered her heavenly home on August 22, 2021.

She is survived by her husband, two sons and four grandchildren in Delaware and Connecticut. Donations in Jean’s honor may be made to United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches, 900 Brandywine Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33409

A visitation for Jean will be held Thursday, August 26, 2021 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at United Methodist Church of the Palm Beaches, 900 Brandywine Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33409 with funeral services following at 1pm. A committal service will occur Thursday, August 26, 2021 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Lake Worth Memory Gardens, 3041 Kirk Road, Lake Worth, FL 33461.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dorsey-smithmemorygardens.com for the Brown family.

Elizabeth Ann Hampton Peters ’56
Sept. 28, 2021

Elizabeth Ann Hampton Peters went to her eternal rest on Sept. 28, 2021. She was born on Sept. 27, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Ida V. Jones and Grinsfield Taylor Hampton. Ann graduated from Cullowhee HS, Cullowhee, NC, as the valedictorian of the Class of 1952. She attended Berea College, Berea, KY, and, following graduation from the Berea College Hospital School of Nursing in 1956 became an RN. She was a member of the first BSN class at Wright State University, graduating in 1975 and received a MS in Nursing from The Ohio State University in 1978. Ann was a proud member of Sigma Theta Tau, international nursing honor society, aiding in chartering of Zeta Phi chapter at WSU where she participated in various chapter activities. Her oral history of the early days of WSU School of Nursing is included in its archives.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband, James Marvin Peters; her parents; her three brothers: McLean, Gray and Conley Hampton, her two sisters Phyllis Blendowski and Jean Connell, and her daughter-in-law Traci Schenberg Peters. Ann is survived by her beloved children: Douglas Taylor Peters and Sara Elizabeth Deem (Mark) of Centerville, OH; treasured grand-daughter Shanna Peters (Robert) Bragg, numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members.

Nursing colleagues and friends from activities with the Presbytery of the Miami Valley were a large part of her life. She served on numerous committees of the Presbytery of the Miami Valley and was a delegate to the 218th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) in 2008. She was an elder at Honey Creek Presbyterian Church, New Carlisle where she served in many capacities including choir, women’s activities, and education programs.

Ann’s career as a nurse was filled with a variety of experiences during the 50 years of active practice in caring for others. She was a staff nurse, clinic supervisor, mental health counselor, hospice nurse, and church parish nurse. Ann was an educator of nurses, serving on faculty at WSU and at Community Hospital School of Nursing, Springfield, OH. She served for 9 yrs. on the Clark County Mental Health Board and 12 yrs. on the New Carlisle Board of Health. She was also involved in many New Carlisle community activities through the years. Ann also authored two genealogy books about her North Carolina Family.

To further knowledge for others, Ann donated her body to the Boonshoft Anatomical Gifts Program of the Medical School at Wright State U. Her remains will be interred at the Rockafield Cemetery on WSU campus, near Jim’s resting site.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, October 16 at 11 a.m. at the Honey Creek Presbyterian Church, New Carlisle, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to the E. Ann Peters Nursing Scholarship, c/o Wright State

University Foundation, Dayton, OH 45435, which Ann established to help educate the next generation of nurses.

Robert D. Hatmaker, Fd ’52, ’57
Jan. 31, 2019

Robert D. Hatmaker, age 84 of Price Hill, died on his birthday, January 31st, 2019. He was the son of the late John Franklin and Flossie Marlowe Hatmaker and dear brother of Nora P. Campbell and the late Anna R. Wade and Charles F. Hatmaker.

Mr. Hatmaker was the choral music teacher at Aiken Senior High School for many years. He never married and he never had any children. Music was his life and his great gift to all of us.

I believe he came to Aiken when it first opened in 1962 and taught there until his retirement. He was the best teacher I ever had! He was a real taskmaster and perfectionist. We all took great pride in our music because of him and it paid off in a big way. He took our various musical groups to state solo contests every year and we always walked away winners, many times first place.

He often spoke of his parents and siblings sitting on the big front porch in Kentucky where he was born, his father playing guitar and all of them harmonizing. His father was a union organizer and Bob was very proud of that fact, bragging that his father had spent many nights hiding under bridges and protesting for the miners.

He attended Berea College in Kentucky and was a musical prodigy, recruited at the age of fifteen. He was a gifted pianist and had a beautiful first tenor voice, singing opera and all styles of music. He was always impeccably dressed with a Windsor knot in his tie and a shine on his shoes. His hair was always perfectly coiffed, his nails clean and trimmed and a twinkle in his eye.

He always looked for the good in people and expected the best from his students. It was not enough to be a good singer; you had to be a good person and a responsible citizen to be part of his team. And there are thousands of his students who still live that way because of him and are passing that on to their children.

Dean T. Jones ’57
Sept. 9, 2021

Dean Tandy Jones, 86, passed away September 9, 2021. Dean was born on May 14, 1935 in Kimball, West Virginia, to Marion Tandy and Oneta Jones. Dean was the second of their four children. After completing high school in Kimball, Dean attended Berea College in Berea, Kentucky where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 1957. At Berea College Dean competed on their track team. Dean served in the Kentucky National Guard from 1957 to 1961. Upon graduation from college, Dean secured a job in Ashland, Kentucky at Allied Chemical. It was in Ashland that he met his future wife, Betty Jo Patrick. They married on December 22, 1962. Together they raised children in locations that Dean transferred to for work, including Kentucky, New Jersey and Michigan. After retirement, Dean enjoyed reading, competing with the contestants on Jeopardy, mornings listening to WJR and host Frank Beckman, and following his Michigan Wolverine football team. Above all, his time spent with family, especially grandchildren, was his greatest joy.

Mr. Jones is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty Jo; children, Douglas “Dug” (Elizabeth) Jones, Lori Jones, Gregory (Tao Chen) Jones, Jeffery (Amy) Jones, Bradley (Cindy) Jones, and Leslie (Tom) Pitlanish; grandchildren, Kendal (Justin) Krol, Landon Jones, Lily Guthrie, Ava Guthrie, Jacob Lane, Aivrie Jones, Alivia Jones, Nolan Jones, Cullen Jones, Thomas “T.J.” Pitlanish, Raegan Pitlanish, Caelan Pitlanish, and Cameron Pitlanish; brother, David Jones; sister, Beth (Bob) Walker. In addition to his parents, Dean was pre-deceased by his sister, Patricia “Pat” Jones.

Private visitation, funeral, and entombment will be attended by family only.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Dean may be made to: Wounded Warrior Project 4899 Belfort Road Suite 300, Jacksonville, Florida 32256 (www.woundedwarriorproject.org).

Shirley Willard Leach ’57
Nov. 15, 2019
Obituary Unavailable

Betty Simpkins Moss ’57
Sept. 23, 2021

Mrs. Betty Alice Simpkins Moss, age 84, of Maysville, KY, died peacefully, surrounded by her family on Thursday, September 23, 2021 at her residence. She was born on March 22, 1937 to the late Theodore and Thelma Harvey Simpkins of Raleigh County, WV. Betty dedicated her life to her family, nursing and to her church. Her most important position was that of Mother to her five children. Betty married Dr. Kelly G. Moss on January 25, 1958 in Berea, KY and they enjoyed 63 years of marriage. She graduated from Berea College with a degree in nursing and subsequently became a Certified Red Cross nurse. Over the span of her career, she dedicated her life to serving others while working in a variety of medical facilities including Vanderbilt University Hospital, King’s Daughters Hospital, University of Kentucky Hospital and Hayswood Hospital, Maysville, KY. Notable achievements included the setup of the Extended Care Unit at Hayswood Hospital and the Pediatric Unit at University of Kentucky Hospital. A dedicated Christian, Betty was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. She was active in the Maysville Young Women’s Club, was an avid Bridge player, loved crafts and painting, and was an accomplished seamstress. Betty had a heart for helping others and was known for welcoming many folks into her home when they were in need. She was a positive influence in many peoples’ lives. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Kelly Gene Moss of Maysville, KY; three daughters, Julia (Mike) Rhodes of Memphis, TN, Leigh (Rob) Brewer of Maysville, KY, and Cheryl (Mark) Hansen of Vanceburg, KY; two sons, Steve (Michelle) Moss of Maysville, KY, and Michael (Kay) Moss of Maysville, KY; grandchildren, Matthew (Quinlan) Rhodes, Kyle Brewer, David (Elizabeth) Brewer, Micah Hansen, Ian (Catherine) Hansen, Elizabeth (Jonathon Deatly) Moss, Robert Moss, Kaycee Moss, and Isaac Moss; great-grandchildren, John Kelly Rhodes, Sammy Rhodes, Ashley Brewer, Hailee Brewer, and Sofia Hansen; her sisters, Laura Plumley of Gainesville, FL, Carol Hampton of Shady Springs, WV, Sue (David) Berry of Maysville, KY, and Mary Lynn (Joe) Rodriguez of Ft. Walton Beach, FL; and brother, Ted (Darlene) Simpkins of Pickens, SC. A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at Brell Son Funeral Home, 620 East Second Street, Maysville, KY. Visitation will be from 4:30 p.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Hope or the charity of one’s choice.

Martha Noss Whitis ’57
Oct. 25, 2021

Martha Whitis, age 88 of Altoona, Wisconsin, died on October 25, 2021 with her husband of 68 years by her side.

Martha was born on June 27, 1933 to George and Marie Noss while they were serving as missionaries in Karuizawa, Japan. She graduated from Berea College in Kentucky, where she met and married Peter Whitis on May 30,1953. She attended nursing school, and then dedicated her energy to rearing her 4 sons and taking care of her family.

Martha was passionate about art and music. Thirty years after her first college graduation, she fulfilled a long-standing ambition by obtaining a second college degree in art history and music from Clarke College in Dubuque, Iowa. She was an accomplished painter as well as a talented musician. As President of the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra League, she made a permanent impact on the community when she spearheaded fundraising to revitalize the symphony orchestra in Dubuque. Her remarkable creativity and artistic and musical ability lives on in her talented grandchildren.

Martha is survived by her spouse Peter; her children Gregory (Karen), Luke, Matthew (Anne), and Benjamin (Lori); her brother Charles Noss (Anne); as well as 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Martha is preceded in death by her parents, George and Marie Noss, and her siblings Dorothea and Margaret.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Special Olympics (SpecialOlympics.org) or the National Museum of the American Indian (AmericanIndian.si.edu); these causes were close to Martha’s heart.

We would like to thank the excellent staff at The Classic at Hillcrest Greens for their warm, compassionate care of Martha and their ongoing support of the family. We also extend sincere thanks to Dr. Anthony Kidess, Dr. David Schifeling and the staff at Sacred Heart Hospital, and a very special thanks to Kris, Martha’s hospice nurse, for her loving support and care.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Classic at Hillcrest Greens on November 20, 2021. Friends who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 are invited to attend a visitation with family from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, and a service at 2:00 pm. For the safety of our family, friends, and community, we will be following the recommendations of the CDC and the Eau Claire County Health Department. Masks will be required and social distancing is encouraged.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.

Cora Dale Wilds Bowman ’58
Oct. 1, 2021

Cora Dale Bowman, 85, died peacefully in her sleep at home on Friday, Oct. 1, 2021.

Born July 16, 1936, in Madison County, North Carolina to Miller Wilds and Cora Lee (Fender) Wilds. She attended Mars Hill High School and graduated from Berea College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Subsequently, she attended Indiana University and obtained a Master of Science degree in Guidance and Counseling. On July 27, 1963, she married Robert (Bob) Eugene Bowman in Madison County, Kentucky.

Dale worked at Ball State University for 32 years until retiring as dean of students in 1992. Dale was an active member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Muncie, Indiana for over 30 years and served in various leadership roles. At the time of her death, Dale was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School, Asheville.

Survivors include Brett E. Bowman, son, of Saint Paul, Minnesota; Kay Griffin, sister, of Marshall, North Carolina; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School. Interment will be at Emmanuel in a private service at a later date. Relatives and friends are welcome at a reception immediately following the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Memory Care, 100 Far Horizons Lane, Asheville, NC 28803; Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School, 51 Wilburn Place, Asheville, NC 28806; or to another charity of the donor’s choice.

Dale was a devoted and loving wife, mother, sister, and friend. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

To sign Dale’s guestbook online, please go to “Memorials” at www.andersrice.com.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Published in The Herald-Press on Oct. 4, 2021.

Delores McMahan McCravy ’58
Sept. 21, 2018

Delores (McMahan) McCravy of Bedford passed away surrounded by her loving family on Sept. 21, 2018. She was the beloved wife of the late George McCravy Jr.

Loving mother of Sheila E. McCravy Ghazarian and her husband Michael of Waltham, George “Wes” McCravy and his wife Ruth of Scituate, and Michael A. McCravy and his partner Denise M. Korch of Chelmsford. Pre-deceased by her baby daughter, Laura.

Loving grandmother of Alanna Carroll and her husband Patrick, Alyssa Smith and her husband Kenneth, Danielle McCravy, and George and Eva Ghazarian. Loving great-grandmother of Laila Smith. She was the sister of LaRue Gueber, Marjory Houston, Josephine Fry, Brenda Goodson, Janice McMahan, Anita Williams, Harold McMahan, Philip McMahan, and the late Aaron McMahan and Earl Newt McMahan. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

She will be most remembered for her love of Quilting.

Creed Messer
Spouse of Virginia Cook Messer ’58
May 8, 2021

Mr. Creed Messer age 83 of Louisville, Ky departed this life on Saturday, May 8, 2021 in the University of Louisville. He was born on May 12, 1937 in Knox County the son of Ellis Messer and Nancy (Hammons) Messer. On August 7, 1960 he united in marriage with Virginia Cook and to this union two children were born.

      Mr. Messer was a member of the Brookview Baptist Church where he also served as deacon. After leaving Knox County in search of work, he settled in Louisville working for Gamble Bros. which was later called International Paper and worked there for forty-two years while raising his family.

      He is preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Nancy Messer, three brothers, Crit, Bob and Tip Messer and three sisters,  Mittie Alice Messer, Joycelene Farris and Linda Mills.

      Left behind to mourn his passing, his wife of sixty-one years, Virginia Messer of Louisville, his daughter, Rhonda and husband Mark of Louisville and his son, David Messer and wife Cheryl of Rockhold, four grandchildren, Deuce Towe and wife Crystal of Lexington, Kelly Byrd, Jennifer Byrd and Michael Lucas all of Louisville, three brothers, Larry Messer and wife Marsha of Walker Park Rd, Floyd Messer and wife Jewel of Girdler and Alvin Messer and wife Lois of Girdler, one sister, Ona Mae Taylor of Cannon, brothers and sisters in law, John Farris of Cannon, Clifford Mills of Cannon, Patty Johnson of Indiana, Mary Smith of Bowling Green and Ronnie Cook of Russell Springs.  He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

      Funeral services for Mr. Messer will be conducted in the Cobb-Hampton Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. David Hendrickson and Rev. Sylvester Dunn officiating. Pallbearers will be, William Messer, Mark Lucas, Chris Gray, Willard Mills, Michael Lucas, Jim Mills and Ronnie Mills. He will be laid to rest in the Callebs Creek Cemetery at Hinkle. Cobb-Hampton Funeral Home will be in charge of all arrangements.

Johnny Franklin ’59
Sept. 26, 2021

Johnny Franklin, 84, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, September 26, 2021. Johnny was a member of Westport Road Baptist Church. He graduated from Berea College in 1959, retired from Continental Grain after 33 years and then became an agricultural consultant. He was a 50 year Master Mason at Cambridge Illinois Lodge, a member of Gideon International Louisville North East Camp, and a member of the Louisville Ag Club. He volunteered for the American Red Cross, Louisville Area Chapter. Johnny loved traveling, cooking pork chops, horse racing, golf, baseball–especially the Saint Louis Cardinals-and he never met a stranger, and treated all with respect. Johnny was born on December 18, 1936 in Alexander, North Carolina to Hubert and Laurty Franklin. He is preceded in death by parents; brothers, David Franklin, Nelson Franklin, Joe Franklin, Claude Franklin, Max Franklin, Herb Franklin; and sister, Etta Bea Buckner; and a host of many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Johnny is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Joyce Franklin; daughters, Angela Orris(James), Jennifer Adrio; son, John D Franklin (Kelli); grandchildren, Chelsea Waggoner (Dan), Brayden Adrio, Alisa Orris, Cole Adrio, Chase Williams, Jackson Franklin, Mason Franklin; great-grandchild, Madison Waggoner, and sister, Louella Crawford (Leonard). A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held at a later date. The family requests that contributions in Johnny’s memory be made to Westport Road Baptist Church, Gideons International, Berea College, or the American Red Cross.

Dr. Harold Denton VanHook ’59
Nov. 14, 2019

Dr. Harold Denton VanHook, age 84, of Brodhead, KY, passed away Thursday, November 14, 2019 at his residence.

Harold was born on September 28, 1935 in Ocala, KY, to the late Joe D. and Lura Berthena (Ping) VanHook. He married Carol Ann Riddle on July 26, 1958; they enjoyed 61 years together and from that union came two children: Martha VanHook Hall, and Harold Mark VanHook. He attended Poplar Grove Baptist Church and Brodhead Baptist Church, was a career educator both in the classroom and as an administrator. He served as Dean of Instruction at Southwest Virginia Community College and Somerset Community College, was Virginia District Governor of Rotary International, and was an active member of the Kentucky Retired Teachers Association.

Those left to celebrate his life are his wife: Carol Ann VanHook; his daughter: Martha (Gary) Hall; his son: Harold Mark (Sherry) VanHook; his grandchildren: Sarah Beth Hall, Joseph Ryan VanHook, Logan Gaston VanHook; and his siblings: James Clyde VanHook, and Lois Ricketts.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers: Don VanHook, Carter VanHook, Barry VanHook, and two infant siblings.

Services for Dr. Harold D. VanHook will be at the Marvin E. Owens Home for Funerals in Brodhead, KY. Visitation will be Monday, November 18, 2019 from 6-9pm. Funeral services will be Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at 11:00 am with Bros. Luther Allen and Rick Reynolds officiating. Burial will follow at the Piney Grove Cemetery. Casket bearers are Jim VanHook, Perry VanHook, Gary VanHook, , Richard Cheatham, Mitch Crabtree, and Nathan Zornes.

Condolences to the family may be made at: www.marvineowensfuneralhome.com

Marie Carter Washburn ’60
Oct. 31, 2021

Marie Carter Washburn of Peachtree City, GA passed away peacefully on October 31, 2021. Born in Hiltons, Va. on June 27, 1939 to John and Laura (O’Neal) Carter, she and her beloved brother, Neal, were raised by Harrison “Harry” (Grandaddy) and Lucinda (Granny) McNutt after her mother’s death; followed immediately by her father’s deployment to World War II with the U.S. Navy.

Marie was a loyal, loving mother, aunt, friend and, especially, “Somemommy” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She instilled in her family a love for the mountains of her youth, reading, and a curiosity about a wide-range of subjects, upon which they typically formed strong and often immovable opinions! A graduate of Berea College in Kentucky with a B.A., Marie then attended the University of Tennessee where she earned her M.A. in Counseling and later received her Ed.S. degree from the University of West Georgia.

Marie’s natural leadership style flourished under the mentorship of Mr. Bobby Martin, and in 1973 she became principal of Cliftondale Elementary School in Cliftondale, GA. In 1984, she became principal of Seaborn Lee Elementary School in College Park, GA.

As a single mom in the 1970s, Marie faced many societal and financial challenges and obstacles. As an example, she wasn’t able to obtain a credit card in her name but she persevered and broke through barriers. She inspired many with her determination and fierce work ethic. She was proudest of the fact that all of her children earned college degrees and are successful in their respective fields.

She retired in 1996 to begin her next chapter serving as a volunteer with many local organizations until the pandemic began. Marie served faithfully as a volunteer with Meals on Wheels, Piedmont Fayette Hospital Auxiliary, Peachtree City Library Board, Fayette County Library Board, Flint River Regional Library Board, a student mentor at Peachtree City Elementary School, South Fulton Retired Teacher’s Association, and the annual Alzheimer’s Walk.

Marie enjoyed spending time with her family, her many lifelong friends, a very special Book Club, playing bridge, reading, and her Bunco group.

Marie is survived by son B. Scott and Sandy Washburn of Melbourne Beach, FL, daughter Kristi and Steve Rapson of Sharpsburg, GA, and son Dr. Thomas and Shanon Washburn of Milton, GA. Grandchildren include Shelley (David) Walton, Brent (Kiley) Washburn, Shane Washburn, Stephanie Rapson, Andrew (Cortnee) Rapson, Sarah Beth Rapson, Wes Washburn and Carter Washburn, and nine great-grandchildren. She also is survived by her niece Robin Carter, nephews Brian (Cheryl) McClellan, Kirby (Florenda) Carter, Jimmy (Suzi) Carroll, their children and grandchildren, her dear friend Fleda Little, and extended family members.

She was predeceased by her parents, siblings W. Neal Carter, Janet Carroll, David Carter, and former husband Thomas L. Washburn, III.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Nov. 3 at Dogwood Church in Tyrone, GA. The family will receive visitors between 10-11 a.m. followed by the service at 11 a.m. with Dr. Keith Moore officiating.

Banner G. Childress
Spouse of Shirley F. Swift ’61
Jan. 12, 2021

Banner Gene Childress, 74, of Kingsport, passed away Tuesday, January 12, 2020, at Bristol Select Hospital after a long illness.

He was born in Elizabethton, was a former resident of Bristol and had lived in Kingsport most of his life.

Banner enjoyed gardening and camping.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Elizabeth Fox Childress; three sisters and two brothers.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Shirley Swift; daughter, Tammie Helton; son, Bobby Childress; grandchildren, T. J. Burrows, Kamron Burrows, Keelia Hill, Breanne Childress and Madison Childress; great grandson, Deacon Burrows; sisters, Billie Littrell, Barbara Camel, Boots Ramsey and Beatrice Bagwell; brother, Bradley Johnny Childress; several nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service will be held 11:00 am Friday, January 15, 2021, at Oak Hill Memorial Park in the Garden of Meditation. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery at 10:50 am. Due to COVID-19 please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Broad Street United Methodist Church, 100 E. Church Circle, Kingsport, TN 37660.

The care of Banner Gene Childress and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral and Cremation Services.

Phillip I. Earl
Spouse of Jean Moore Earl ’61
Jan. 8, 2019

Noted Nevada Historian and Author Phillip Irving Earl died on 01/08/19 at Renown Medical Center. Phillip was born on February 13th, 1937, in Cedar City, Utah. His father (Irving Bradshaw Earl) had served with the Civilian Conservation Corps, and was working for the Works Progress Administration as part of building Boulder Dam at the time of his birth. His mother (Dorothy Anderson) drove to Cedar City all by herself to give birth.

Although born in Cedar City, Utah, Phillip grew up in Boulder City, Nevada, and considered Nevada to be his home state. He joined the U.S. Army in 1957, serving as a communications operator in Europe. He always told stories about his adventures in France and throughout Europe as a young man.

Phillip graduated from the University of Nevada-Reno in 1964, and finished his Master’s Degree in History in 1975. Phillip was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. He taught Nevada history classes at Truckee Meadows Community College.

Phillip wrote the “This Was Nevada” weekly column for newspapers throughout the state from 1975 until 1996. These historical columns detailed life and happenings throughout early Nevada and the West, providing insights into the colorful history of the state he loved. These columns were published in a two-volume series titled “This Was Nevada”. Phillip was instrumental in the development and placement of the Nevada-shaped historical markers that are commonly seen throughout Nevada, writing the text for many of the markers.

Phillip worked for 26 years as the Curator of History at the Nevada Historical Society in Reno. His dedication to Nevada’s history led to an emphasis on historical preservation and research on the history of the state. Phillip’s focus on increasing the archives and research materials has assisted countless students and researchers in their work with Nevada history. His areas of research in Nevada history included women’s suffrage, the role of women in World War I, boxing, early transportation, law enforcement, and the many colorful characters that he discovered during his research.

Phillip was involved with many groups and organizations over the years. He was involved in the establishment and publication of “Nevada In The West” magazine. Phillip wrote many articles for Nevada Magazine, the Nevada Historical Society Quarterly, the Humboldt Historian, the Northeastern Nevada Historical Society Quarterly, the Central Nevada Historical Society, and for the National Outlaw and Lawman Association (NOLA). He was an active member of the Lincoln Highway Association, and he presented several papers at their annual meetings. Phillip participated in the creation of documentaries about the western United States, to include the building of Boulder Dam where his father had worked and of early law enforcement in Nevada and the West.

Phillip lectured extensively at the Gold Hill Hotel, providing presentations about the history of Nevada to many audiences. He completed numerous projects for the National Register of Historical Places, and conducted historical environmental assessments in preserving Nevada’s historical buildings and locations. Phillip found it very important to support history in rural areas of Nevada. He especially enjoyed presenting programs in rural counties, and was always ready to respond to requests from them. Phillip was a Clamper in good standing for many years, and always spoke of his friendships with persons in this organization.

For over 40 years, Phillip and his wife Jean worked to preserve images carved by Basque sheepherders on aspen trees as they herded sheep on the summer ranges in the High Sierra meadows. They developed a technique of wrapping muslin cloth around the carvings on the trees, and used black rubbing wax to lift the exact image onto the material, thus creating pieces of art. This work culminated in publishing an art book titled “Basque Aspen Art of the Sierra Nevada”.

Phillip is survived by his wife of 53 years Jean (Moore), his daughter Kira and son Kevin (Debbie), his grandchildren Ethan and Marissa, his three sisters Diana Jansen (Dennis), Helen Glines, Myrna Marsden, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Nevada Historical Society will be hosting a memorial to honor Phillip on Saturday, January 26th, from 1:30 to 3:00 PM. The public is welcome. Phillip’s love of the history of Nevada remained strong throughout his life. Right to the end, he continued to work on his projects at the Historical Society and to expand understandings of the history of Nevada. As Phillip noted, a historian’s work is never done because history never ends.

Rev. Howard Newton Gothard ’61
Nov. 11, 2021

Howard Newton Gothard, 81, died at his home in Greeneville. Howard was born in Gate City, VA and graduated from Gate City High School. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Berea College in Kentucky. It was at Berea his life was impacted by the school motto, “God has made one blood all peoples of the Earth”; He earned a MDiv degree from Candler at Emory University in Atlanta. Howard served in ministry from Chattanooga to southwest Virginia. Survivors include his wife, Delores; son, Adam Gothard; daughter and son-in-law, Spring Hope and Sam Slagle of Chapin, SC; three grandchildren, Eva Kathleen of Aiken, SC, Tirzah Adora and Jonathan Andrew of Chapin, SC; his “Uncle Roy Newton”; of Kingsport; sister-in-law and husband, Darlene Reeves Kline and Steve of Dandridge; and several nieces and cousins. Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Leaustine and Kathleen Newton Gothard; grandparents, Sam and Myrtle Newton; brother, Lee, Jr.; uncles and aunt; mother-in-law and father-in-law; and most recently, his grandson, Isaac Asher Slagle and neighborhood friends Jim and Bill. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 12:30-2:30 pm at Doughty-Stevens Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow with Pastor Joey Tillery officiating. A eulogy will be presented by Adam Gothard. The body has been cremated. Pawpaw’s ashes will be interred at a later date near his grandson in Chapin United Methodist Cemetery in South Carolina. Memorials can be made to: I Can for Isaac; 1120 White Rock Road, Chapin, SC 29036. Special thanks to Sara Beth and Angie of Ballad Hospice and to Dr. Philip Thwing.

Doris Hardin Bey ’62
Aug. 22, 2021

Doris Jane (Hardin) Bey passed away, peacefully, at age 84, on Aug 22, 2021 in Overland Park, KS, with her husband at her side.   She was born November 7, 1936, in Bostic, North Carolina to Joseph and Ruth Hardin. Doris graduated first in her class from Sunshine (NC) High School. She attended Berea College for a year and later graduated from North Carolina Baptist Nursing School. 

She met Calvin Bey in Berea, KY and got married June 18,1960. They lived in many states, before retiring in Arkansas and then Kansas.   Her favorite state was whichever one she was living in at the moment. “Bloom Where You Are Planted” was her life-long motto. 

Doris worked as an RN at many locations and in many capacities, but by far her favorite place was the new-born nursery. She loved, prayed, and cared for each of them — especially the “premies” and those who struggled for life.

Doris never tired of helping others —from baking  cookies, volunteering for the Red Cross, teaching Sunday school, singing in church choirs, with Calvin leading youth groups, doing hurricane clean-up,  and mission work in Haiti.

Her smile and positive attitude were at the core of who she was. She was quiet but her radiance invited people in. As one niece said, “she filled a hole in my heart, that I didn’t even know existed.” Doris explained it this way, “I do it because I know God loves me, and I have a happy heart.”

Doris delighted in being a mother, and adored her two daughters, DeLynn and Diane, and they adored her. Her mothering wings covered friends, nieces, and nephews.   She took great joy in her grandson Matthew and her great granddaughter Naomi Rose.      

Doris is survived by her husband Calvin Bey (Overland Park, KS), and daughters DeLynn Hixson (Bentonville, AR),  and Diane and her husband Harold Peters (Juneau, AK); plus, her grandson Matthew Peters and Joanna (wife), and her great granddaughter (Naomi Peters) in Petersburg, AK.

Doris is at peace now, home in Heaven.  She is shining with love, reunited with  her aunts, uncles, cousins and all her family who went on ahead. We know she is hugging her nephew Damon Allen, playing with his dog Nike, and for sure, she is smiling.

Hilda Brigmon Mull ’62
Sept. 13, 2021

Hilda Janet (Brigmon) Mull, 82, of 250 Ellington Street Spindale, NC passed away on Monday, September 13, 2021 following an extended illness.

Hilda was born on September 17, 1938 at home in Weaverville, NC. She was the only daughter and oldest of four children of the late William Grant Brigmon, Sr and Flossie Alberta (Sprinkle) Brigmon. She was preceded in death by her brothers William Grant, Jr (wife Joyce) and Carl Eugene Brigmon (wife Dale). She is survived by her youngest brother Timothy Delane Brigmon (wife Beth) of Spindale, NC. Hilda was married to PGA golf professional Leroy Mull who preceded her in death in April 2016. Hilda and Leroy had one daughter, Janet (Mull) Hughes (husband George) of Rutherfordton, NC. Left to cherish her fond memory are twin granddaughters Madalyn and Mackenzie Hughes, the apple of her eye.

Hilda was employed by the Rutherford County School System for thirty years serving as a dedicated educator of elementary students. Prior to her teaching career she worked for the Department of Social Services as a social worker and for the NC Cooperative Extension Service as a home demonstration agent and as a 4-H agent.

Throughout her life, Hilda placed a high value on education. This is evident in that she earned the distinction of being Valedictorian of North Buncombe High School, class of 1957. Continuing her education she enrolled in Berea College in Berea, Kentucky. She went on to obtain a BS degree in Home Economics in 1962, being the first in her family to do so.

Hilda was blessed with a multitude of talents including gardening, sewing, quilting, cooking, and decorating. She also had a compassionate heart for others. As a selfless caregiver, her family and friends alike reaped the benefits of her generosity and subtle, often unnoticed skill.

A heartfelt “thank you” is extended to each of her kind caregivers and friends. A memorial service to honor Hilda’s life will be arranged at a future date. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.

Bruce Garfield Singleton ’62
Oct. 10, 2021

Enka-Candler – Bruce Garfield Singleton, 81, passed away peacefully at his home on a beautiful Sunday evening, October 10, 2021 surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Bruce was born on June 8, 1940 and raised in the beautiful Henson Cove area of Haywood County, North Carolina by his mother, the late Nina Lee Singleton. Bruce loved growing up on the farm with cows, chickens, dogs and a bountiful vegetable garden. A 1962 graduate of Berea College in Kentucky, Bruce not only captured a business degree but also met the love of his life, Adell, capturing her heart as he introduced her to pizza for the first time. They would spend the next 58 years together creating a beautiful family with three daughters and eventually two sweet grandsons who would snuggle up to him at every possible chance. Later in life, after an early retirement from the Social Security Administration, he spent his days roaming the hills in search of the perfect root or apple tree in which to forage. Bruce never met a stranger, captivating family and friends with stories while sharing his love of history, love for family and zest for life. He was always there to listen, giving advice to many with his incredible down to earth, “plain vanilla” simple life mentality. Before Bruce was lifted to heaven, he spoke of getting the gang back together for a fishing adventure, held hands with his loving daughters and wife, told his grandsons he loved them and insisted he wanted to be on the ground. Being indoors, in bed on such a beautiful day was unheard of so Bruce left on his journey where he will meet up with Grandpa ‘Lil’ Charlie and other loved ones telling stories and walking effortlessly once again.

He is survived by his wife, Adell Branscum Singleton; three daughters, Dianne Singleton Gettinger (Guy) of Canton, Leah Singleton of Asheville, and Donna Singleton Barnhart (Chris) of Arden; and two grandsons, Cooper James and Chase Bruce Barnhart.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 16, 2021 in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the Reverend Doug Henson officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Community Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday evening, October 15, 2021 at Wells Funeral Home.

Reception/Luncheon will commence after burial at Henson Farms 177 Wilson Branch Rd Canton, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Pisgah High School Athletic Association, #1 Black Bear Drive, Canton, NC 28716.

The care of Mr. Singleton has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Canton and an online memorial register is available at “Obituaries” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com

Barbara Campbell Wall ’62
Nov. 8, 2021

Barb Wall (Barbara Leigh Campbell Wall) passed away in her own home on Monday, November 8, 2021. A well-known, beloved educator and piano teacher, she spread the gift of music wherever she went. Walking on the Kinni pathway, at coffee with friends, on oversea travels or adventures with her daughters, Barb never missed a beat.  Born in Greenville County, South Carolina on June 29, 1937, Barb was the only daughter in a family with four brothers. She graduated high school in 1955. She earned degrees from Lees McRae College – Class of 1959 (Banner Elk, NC); Berea College – Class of 1962 (Berea, KY); and a masters from Scarritt College – Class of 1963 (Nashville, TN).  She brought her Southern charisma to Wisconsin via an invitation from the United Methodist Church and also taught music in the Roberts school district before getting married and starting a family. As Christian Education Director at the church, she also led countless colorful and lively performances of Bible stories with the Children’s Choir.  She directed countless choral concerts, Children’s Choir and all-grade school concerts at the local public schools for decades. She was the first music teacher at Rocky Branch Elementary School – a post she held until she retired in 2003. Barb was a Nationally Certified Teacher of Music with MTNA and taught private piano lessons well into her eighties, inspired by her childhood piano teacher, Mrs. Clara Heath. Barb was a proud member of the St. Croix Valley Piano Teacher’s Association, earning the 400-point Teacher Award of Excellence and 2019 Member of the Year.  Barb was an incredible word smith and could slay any crossword puzzle in the daily newspaper. An avid reader, she was in multiple book groups and kept the library staff busy with her weekly list of requests. She had many a whirl wind adventures that took her from missions in Mexico, to the beach of Southern France to riding Segways in Philadelphia. More recently you could find her making an annual trek to North Carolina to spend Thanksgiving with her daughters.  Barb loved to laugh and her spirit was effervescent. She led a life modeled after Christ investing in and loving people. She was a beloved mother, friend, teacher, mentor, honorary grandma, pen pal and woman of faith. Her love of life and feisty determination will be fiercely missed.  Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Clinton and Falbia Campbell; brothers Clifton Joe Campbell, Charles William (Billy) Campbell and Jack Leroy (Jackie) Campbell; former in-laws, Raymond and Marguerite Wall, and her long-time companion Ray Anderson.  Barb is survived by her two daughters, Janet Wall and JoEllen Wall; former husband, Richard Wall; brother Jerry Campbell; sisters-in-law, Jeanne (Wall) Lee, Marilyn Wall, Barbara (Sizemore) Campbell, Elaine Campbell; many nieces and nephews; and generations of people filled with music in their hearts.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.  A memorial service was held Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 12:00 noon at Spirit of Grace Church in River Falls. Visitation was also Saturday from 10:00-12:00 noon at the church. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

James L. Carringer ’63
Nov. 25, 2021

James L. “Jim” Carringer, 81, of Brasstown, passed away peacefully Thursday, Nov. 25, 2021, at his residence surrounded by immediate family.

Jim was a man of character and integrity, and he loved God, family and friends.

He was a native and resident of Brasstown for most of his life and a 1958 graduate of Murphy High School. Jim attended Berea College for the next 4½ years, where he played baseball and won Most Valuable Player as a pitcher in 1961.

Jim served in the United States Coast Guard for a total of six years before moving to Atlanta, Ga., where he met his wife, Janice, of 55 years.

Jim moved back to Murphy, the place he loved, on Jan. 1, 1969, opening the new office for Carolina Farm Credit in Murphy. He retired after 20 years. He then worked for Wachovia Bank as a branch manager for nine years. Jim also worked for Moore Insurance for several years.

He was a member of the Rotary Club, Lions Club and Gideons International. He was a board member of the Ferebee Foundation and past board member of the Cherokee County Soil and Water Conservation. Jim was also a member of Cherokee County Extension Advisory Council.

Jim was a devoted member of Little Brasstown Baptist Church for more than 70 years. He had served as a deacon since 1977. He was also a member of the North Carolina Baptist Men’s Disaster Relief Team.

Jim was an avid Murphy Bulldog fan and enjoyed raising livestock and working on the farm.

He was the son of the late Luther and Bertha Jane Hogan Carringer. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Crystal Carringer Davis and spouse Jamie Davis; and a son, Scott Carringer.

Surviving are his loving wife, Janice Maddox Carringer; a daughter, Kimberly Carringer Lewis and husband Michael of Brasstown; three grandsons whom he and his wife raised, Gavin, Elijah and Luke Davis, and five other grandchildren, Haylee Carringer, Hagen Carringer and Chelsea, Kiera, Jared and Samuel Lewis; two brothers, Billy Carringer and wife Doris and Hugh Carringer and wife Joann, all of Brasstown; and many nieces, nephews and big sister to the Davis boys, Adria Jones.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, in Little Brasstown Baptist Church with the Rev. Aud Brown officiating. The interment will be in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Kent and Will Carringer, Jeff and Grant Taylor, Ray Gutierrez and Webb Bostic. Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Cook, Wayne Wells, Don Carringer, Weaver Carringer, Benny Pipes, John Chastain, Ed Roach, David Anderson, Sammy Ledford, Ronnie Clayton and Luke Logan.

The family will receive friends from 12:30-2:45 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 28, at Little Brasstown Baptist Church prior to the services.

The family requests memorials be made in memory of James L. “Jim” Carringer to the N.C. Baptist Children’s Home, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361 or bchfamily.org.

Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy, is in charge of all arrangements.

An online guest register is available at www.iviefuneralhome.com.

William C. Mathes ’63
Nov. 6, 2017

William Collier Mathes, 79, husband of Willa Faye Selvage Mathes, passed away Monday, November 6, 2017 at his home.

Born March 29, 1938 in Middlesboro, Kentucky to the late Robert Andrew & Laura May Elizabeth Grove Mathes, he was U.S. Army veteran, a retired high school science teacher, having taught at Nicholas County High School and Millersburg Military Institute, former Comptroller for Cowden Manufacturing Company and member of the Carlisle Christian Church. Bill thoroughly enjoyed farming and fishing, but his greatest passion was coaching basketball & football and spending time with young people.

Additional survivors include 3 daughters: Whitney Mathes, of Carlisle, Heather Mathes (Ronnie Fincher) and Erin Mathes, both of Paris; 1 son, William Collier (Alanna) Mathes, II, of Paris; 1 brother, Wilson Mathes, of Carlisle; 6 grandchildren: Tristan (Keagan) Mathes, Mariah (Brittany) Harris, Torrin Harris, Ian Mathes (Megan), Parker Mathes and Peyton Mathes; and 3 great-grandchildren: Levi, Londyn & Edith.

Also preceding him in death was a brother, Charles Buford Mathes. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Brigadier General Ronald Pierce Woodson ’63
Sept. 22, 2021

Brigadier General Ronald Pierce Woodson, age 82, of Somerset, KY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital.

Ron was born in Bronston, KY on what is now known as Woodson Bend Resort, on January 2, 1939 to the late John David and Grace Abbott Woodson. He was a graduate of Eubank High School and Berea College. Upon graduation from Berea, Ron began a lifetime of public service and joined the United States Army. He left the Army as a Captain to care for ailing parents and joined the Kentucky Army National Guard and worked for the Government of Accountability Office. It was during this time that Ron met the love of his life and married Mary Ann Turpen on July 19, 1969.

Ron continued his service and was elected to what was the first of 5 terms as Property Valuation Administrator. During his time as PVA he continued to rise in rank in the Guard, founded GRAM Software and continued to operate and maintain his proprietary software up until 4 weeks before his passing. In 1993, he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. Before his retirement from the Guard in 1994, he completed what is known as the U.S. Army’s most physically demanding school and at the age of 52, become one of the oldest recipients to earn the Air Assault Badge.

Ron was a member of Campground Baptist Church, a member of the Officer Candidates School Hall of Fame along with many other organizations that are too numerous to mention. In his spare time, he enjoyed golf, woodworking, reading anything he can get his hands on and military history, but what he enjoyed most was his family and friends. He was smart, unassuming, generous and thoughtful. In true spirit of the man, he was, his only concern at the end was that of his family, telling them to go to work or go home and get some rest.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann Woodson, sons Alan Woodson of Somerset and John Woodson (Jaime Ridner) of Somerset, KY. Two siblings, Hila (George) Williams of Scranton, PA and Creston (Pat) Woodson of Cypress, TX, scores of nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters in law, Peggy (Jack) Lockwood, Gladys Bryant, Jesse (Ruth) Turpen, Larry (Phyllis) Turpen, Othel (Tracey) Turpen, his KY National Guard family, his golf family of Eagles Nest Country Club, his golf family of Palmira Golf Club in Bonita Springs, FL and a lifetime of cherished friendships.

Preceding Ron in death are his parents, John David and Grace Woodson, his sisters Virginia Harman, Carol (Ed) Lawall and Joyce (Kenneth) Broughton, brothers Howard (Della) Woodson, J.D.(Myrtle) Woodson, Joe Woodson, Curt Woodson and Eddie (Pauline) Woodson. His father and mother in law, Othel “Pete” and Thelma Garner Turpen. Brothers and sister in law Ervin (June) Turpen, Curtis (Anna) Turpen, Murrell (Sally) Turpen, Dorsie (Dan) Hodapp, Eugene (Nancy Ann) Turpen and Glenn (Allene) Turpen.

Visitation for General Woodson will be held at Lake Cumberland Funeral Home on Sunday, September 26, beginning at 4pm for the family and 5pm for public.

His memorial service will be held Monday, September 27 at 11am with interment at Mill Springs National Cemetery, Major General Donald Storm officiating with eulogy from a special niece, Debbie Broughton Morrison.

The family would like to thank the staff at the ER at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital and the outstanding staff of Hospice of Lake Cumberland. The family encourages that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to Hospice of Lake Cumberland, 100 Parkway Dr, Somerset, KY 42503 Lake Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements for General Ronald Woodson.

Gerald J. Bergen
Spouse of Joyce Thompson Bergen ’64
Dec. 19, 2019

Gerard “Jerry” James Bergen

Savannah, GA

Gerard “Jerry” James Bergen, 77, died Thursday, December 19, 2019 at the Spanish Oaks Hospice in Savannah following a brave battle with Alzheimer’s. He was surrounded by his loving family. He leaves his wife of 50 years, Joyce (Thompson) Bergen and three sons and their families: Christopher Bergen and his wife, Amanda, of Charlotte, NC; Joseph Bergen and his wife, Casey, currently of Shanghai, China; Patrick Bergen and his wife, Christie, of Savannah, GA; as well as six loving grandchildren: Alexander, Catherine, Marissa, Zachary, Ellie, and Brooklyn. Several cousins also survive him.

Mr. Bergen was born in “the South”: South Brooklyn. He was raised in Waterbury, Connecticut, the only child of George and Margaret (Duffy) Bergen. Through his work he had the opportunity to live all over the world. One final request was to be left at the local airport with a tag indicating his next assignment. After graduating from Sacred Heart High School in 1960, he attended Fairfield University, graduating in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree in Economics. He earned his Master of Arts in Economics from University of Connecticut in 1966. He met his wife, Joyce Thompson, in 1966 while stationed with US Army at Ft. Benjamin Harris Indianapolis for finance training. Mr. Bergen served his country honorably in the US Army Finance Corps during the Vietnam War including a tour of duty in Vietnam. Among his many military accomplishments, Mr. Bergen earned the rank of First Lieutenant and a first place performance award from the US Army Infantry School. Following an honorable discharge, Jerry and Joyce were married on June 14, 1969 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Indianapolis. After serving with the Army, Mr. Bergen had the opportunity to work for General Food Corporation White Plains, NY in 1969. As General Foods evolved over the decades, the Bergen family had the opportunity to live in Brazil, Germany, France, Mexico, and Costa Rica before Mr. Bergen’s retirement in 2002. One of Mr. Bergen’s true loves was retirement. After decades of travel, the Bergen family resided on Hilton Head Island in Palmetto Dunes where Jerry was a local favorite for sporting European swimwear. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, December 28, 2019 at 2PM at Skidaway Methodist Church in Savannah. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made into your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter.

Beverly Lear Falin ’64
Oct. 7, 2021

Beverly Faye (Lear) Falin, 79, of Mocksville, NC departed this world on October 7, 2021, from her home in Davie County. Beverly was born on April 5, 1942, in Berea, KY. She was the daughter of the late Everett C. Lear and Anna Marie (Reed) Lear. In addition to her parents, Beverly was preceded in death by her sister Mary Ann Wilson. In life, Beverly graduated from Berea High School with the class of 1960 and Berea College with the class of 1964. Later, Beverly became a teacher for the Livingston Kentucky School System where she worked for four years. She married the love of her life, Carl Edward Falin and remained together for 54 years. Beverly was of the Baptist faith and was a member of Fork Baptist Church. Beverly leaves behind to cherish her memory, her loving husband of 54 years, Carl Falin of Mocksville, and one son, Shawn Falin (Kellee) of Clemmons, NC. A visitation for Beverly will be held on Monday, October 11, 2021, at Fork Baptist Church from 2:00 pm 3:00 pm. A funeral service will take place following visitation at 3:00 pm, also located at Fork Baptist Church. Officiating the service will be Pastor Robert Grentt. Beverly will be laid to rest in Fork Baptist Church Cemetery. Davie Funeral Service of Mocksville are honored to serve the family.

Robert E. Long
Spouse of Myra Nanney Long ’64
Obituary Unavailable

Pat Yates ’64
Obituary Unavailable

Diana Lea Hays ’65
Nov. 3, 2021

Diana Lea Hays, 73, of Berea died at her residence Wednesday, November 3, 2021, with loved ones by her side. She was a Jackson County native born August 12, 1948, daughter of the late R. D. Hays Sr. and the late Roberta Lea Moran. She was a Grant Writer for Federation of Appalachian Housing Enterprises (FAHE) and a resident of Berea most of her life. Diana studied at Berea College, and later received an M. A. in Appalachian Women’s Studies from Goddard Cambridge in Plainfield, Vermont. Diana was a member of local reading, writing and gardening clubs. Her interests also included genealogy and landscaping. Survivors include her brother, R.D. Hays Jr. (Jane); beloved nephews and nieces, Jordan Hays, April Wind Hays, India Hays, Olivia Hays; as well as a host of cousins, relatives and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother Dwight Hays. In accordance with Diana’s wishes, she was cremated and a Memorial service will be held at a later date. Leave condolences for the family, share a memory, light a memorial candle or plant a tree in Diana’s memory at www.reppertfuneralhome.com Reppert Funeral Home and Cremation Service entrusted with arrangements.

Joyce A. Richardson
Spouse of Cyrus B. Richardson Jr. ’65
Dec. 5, 2021

Joyce Ann Richardson, 78, of Batavia Township, passed away on December 5, 2021. She was born on June 5, 1943, in Grayson, Kentucky, to the late Willis Rogers and the late Ollie (nee Duncan) Rogers.

She was the loving and beloved wife of Cy Richardson Jr., for 56 years, who survives. She is also survived by her loving children, C. B. Richardson III, and Martha Ollijean Richardson (Sam Mende); adored grandchildren, Sarah Joyce Mende, and Cy Mende; siblings, Wilma Jean Barker, Bettie DeMaegt, Bonnie Rogers, Roscoe Rogers, and Teressa Dale Rogers.

Joyce had accomplished many achievements during her life. She served as the principal of Milford South Elementary for over 20 years, Monroe Township Trustee for over 20 years, president of Clermont County Community Services for over 25 years, and president of Ohio Association of Elementary School Administrators. Joyce was a woman of God and was a member of Amelia Church of the Nazarene for over 50 years. She was extremely family-oriented and loved to travel anywhere. She was an enthusiastic, loving, and joyful person.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 8, 2021, at Amelia Church of the Nazarene, 1295 Ohio Pike, Amelia, Ohio 45102, from 1 PM until 3 PM. A funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, at the church, at 3 PM.

Betty Thompson Ducharme ’66
Jan. 15, 2019

The matriarch of the Ducharme family,  Betty Jane Ducharme, 74, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, Jan. 15.  Betty was the loving wife for over 37 years. of Dennis Ducharme and devoted mother of Machelle Williams, husband Paul and Angela Teater, husband Barry.  She was a native of Attilla, Ky born June 7, 1944, to the late Frederick and Freda Underwood Thompson, who had a family of 5 children.  She was a fun loving woman who loved camping, boating, and traveling.  Her creative nature created beautiful quilts and many embroidered items for her family.  She was an active member of the Beaumont Presbyterian Church where she was a member of the Prayer Shawl Group.  She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Brittany Kelly, husband Ryan, Gabrielle Helm, Blake Williams, Trey Teater, Jarod Teater, and Jaden Teater, great grandchildren Faith and Jaylah Wilson and Milah Gary.  Her sisters Linda Skaggs, Diane Wethington, husband Jack, Marlena Hunt, husband Gary, and Sue Bryant, husband Gregg will treasure their childhood memories.  There will also be many memories of the good times with Betty for her numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and special friends.  A Remembrance Service will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, Jan. 19, at Beaumont Presbyterian Church, 1070 Lane Allen Road, Lexington, KY where the family will also greet friends on Friday Jan. 18,  beginning at 4:00 PM and ending at 8:00 PM.  She will be laid to rest in Hillcrest Memorial Park following the Service.  Honoring her as pallbearers will be Barry and Trey Teater, Paul Williams, Steve Auvenshine, Tom Barclay, and Lewis Catron.  Donations may be made in her memory to  the Beaumont Presbyterian Church or to the Church Prayer Shawl Group.  “We grieve because we love, we love because they lived; it is their life that brings us joy”.  Hager & Cundiff Funeral Home is honored to care for the Ducharme family.

Beula Adkins Fraley ’66
Sept. 23, 2021

Beula D. Fraley February 26, 1942, September 23, 2021, Paris, Kentucky Beula Dean Adkins Fraley, age 79, wife of DeCorsey “Dee” Fraley, departed this life on Thu, Sep 23, 2021, at Bourbon Heights when God needed a children’s librarian, and he got the very best. Beula was born in Swannanoa, NC on Feb 26, 1942, the daughter of the late Rex and Pearl Allen Adkins, attended Warren Wilson College, and was a graduate of Berea College where she was honored as the May Queen and presided over the historic May Day festivities. She retired from the Paris-Bourbon County Library where she worked as the Children’s Librarian and was a leader in the summer reading program. Through this program she brought stories to life in young minds and created countless avid readers. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School and served as the church librarian for many years. She helped found the Hill House Pre-school in 1984. She was a dedicated member of the Dulcimer Dames and brought smiles to many faces as she made her folk toy “the dancin’ man” come to life with the music. Over the past six years Alzheimer’s whittled away at the things that made Beula who she was, but it never took away her love for children or her devoted husband Dee. Her kind, genuine demeanor, southern charm and grace and her evening dinners and Sunday suppers will always be missed. Besides her parents she was preceded in death by a stepson, John D. Fraley, a brother, Harry Adkins, and a sister, Bea Wells. In addition to her husband Dee, she is survived by a son, Mark Diamond; grandchildren, Tucker Diamond, Eliza Pearl Diamond; stepsons, Bryan (Peden) Fraley, Clint Fraley, Steve Fraley, David Fraley; a stepdaughter, Sheila (Scott) Hayes; and six step grandchildren. The memorial service for Beula Dean Adkins will be at 2pm on Oct 2, 2021, at First Baptist Church, with Rev. Don Reed and Mark Adler officiating. Inurnment will follow in Paris Cemetery with honorary bearers being Mark Diamond, Jerry and Bonnie Brady, Kenney Roseberry, Dorothy Osborne, Anne Rogers, Carol Merringer, Susan Eades, and Helen Link. Visitation will begin at 1pm until time for the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Paris-Bourbon County Library Summer Reading Program. www.hintonturner.com

Thomas R. Freck
Spouse of Ellen Leonard Freck ’67
July 27, 2021

ASHEVILLE– Thomas Randolph (Randy) Freck, born in Greenville, South Carolina passed away Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at the age of 78 after many years of declining health. Upon leaving Greenville, the Freck’s became lifelong residents of Asheville. Mr. Freck was preceded in death by his sisters, Betty Sams and Marlene Graham; brothers, Max M. Freck and Richard Thane Freck; and his first wife, Clara Matura. Randy is survived by his wife of 31 years, Ellen Leonard Freck; his son, Thomas “Rusty” Randolph Freck, Jr. (Yvonne Ludlum Cobourn); his daughter, Christina Hughes; and a brother/sister-in-law, David and Jan Freck. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, six great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews and a childhood friend, Alton Day, who recalls the many pranks instigated by the two of them. A graduate of Lee Edwards High School (Asheville High) class of 1961, he went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force before returning home to work in the family business, Freck Radio and TV. Randy took over the business from 1972 until 1982 when he became a security officer and firearms trainer for Pinkerton Security with Rosman Research in Brevard. He retired in 2007 from the Grove Park Inn after 23 years as an Electronic Technician. Randy wore his Duke hat while cheering on his Blue Devil basketball team. After his retirement, he continued to enjoy his hobby as a Ham Radio operator, a skill he learned from his dad, tinkering with electronics and completing honey do lists. He loved to repair his friends and neighbors’ small electronics such as TV’s and radios. He was a past President of the High Country Estate Homeowners Association. He could be counted on to help his neighbors by loaning his equipment and expertise in electronics. He was a member of the Asheville Jaycees, active in the Blackmer Masonic Lodge #170 A.F.& A.M., and a 30 year member of Jubilee Community Church. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 2, 2021, at Green Hills Cemetery, 25 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Jubilee Community Church, 46 Wall Street, Asheville, NC 28801. For those who desire, condolences may be offered to the family through the website at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Randolph Freck please visit our Tribute Store.

Thomas E. Morgan
Spouse of Jewell Miller Morgan ’67
Sept. 14, 2019

Hilton – September 14, 2019, after 75 years of loving family, fishing, hunting, beagles and bluegrass music. He is remembered with love by his wife, Jewell; children, Todd (Donna) & Timothy (Kelly) Morgan, Tracy Morgan, Mark (Diane) & Matthew (Heidi) Aberi; brother, Michael (Gayle) Morgan; sisters, Sue (George) Campbell & Judy (Ed) Measday; grandchildren, Kacy & Morgan Handzel, Hayden Morgan, Jackie & Kate Aberi; & beloved dog, Lola. Also survived by several nieces & nephews: and former wife, Lyn Herring Morgan.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, October 5th, 10 AM – 1 PM at the THOMAS E. BURGER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 735 East Avenue, Hilton, where Tom’s Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Tom to the Craig Goodrich Hamlin Dog Shelter, 80 Railroad Avenue, Hamlin, NY 14464 or U of R Hospice, 2180 Empire Boulevard, Webster, NY 14580 or a charity of your choice.

Edward Daves de Rosset ’67
Oct. 29, 2021

Edward D. de Rosset, of Dayton, TN, passed away on Friday, October 29, 2021, at the Life Care Center of Rhea County, TN. He was 77.

Ed was born in Plainfield, NJ, in 1944, the son of late Edward M. and Joyce Hirschy de Rosset. 

Ed grew up in Trujillo, Peru, where his parents served as missionaries. He later moved to western Pennsylvania where he attended public schools and graduated from Evans City High School in 1962. Following high school, he entered Berea College, Berea, KY, where he majored in English and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1966. He then went to work in the student life office at the college, and later earned a master’s degree in college administration at Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond. 

Ed worked for a time as a photographer’s assistant in Butler County, PA, before accepting a position as dean of students at National Business College, Roanoke, Va. In the mid-1980s he moved to Barbourville, KY, where he was dean of students at Union College before becoming assistant to the president, and then later became president of the college. He retired in 2011. Ed attended First Baptist Church in Dayton, TN. 

In 2004 Ed married Lou Ann Hopper in Barbourville. She passed away in 2018. They had one daughter, Chloe Rose de Rosset, born in 2005, and she survives. In addition to his daughter, he is survived by a brother, Fred de Rosset, and sister-in-law Carol, of Berea, KY; a sister, Rosalie de Rosset, of Chicago, IL; a sister, Karin Traylor, and brother-in-law Jack, of Dayton, TN; and a niece, Rachel de Rosset, of Baltimore, MD. 

A memorial service is planned for Ed in Barbourville, KY, in the month of December 2021. 

Please share your memories and photos of Ed on his online guest register at www.vanderwallfh.com. 

The family is being cared for by the Vanderwall Funeral Home in Dayton, TN. 

Memorial gifts may be made to a scholarship fund established for Chloe de Rosset at Union College, 310 College St., Barbourville, KY, 40906, or to the scholarship fund at Bryan College, 721 Bryan Drive, Dayton, TN, 37321. 

Edward L. Sotzing ’67
Obituary Unavailable

David L. Arney
Spouse of Anita Payne Arney ’68
Oct. 29, 2020

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of David Arney of Salem, Indiana, who passed away on October 29, 2020, at the age of 74, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Walter Arney and Eva Thomas Arney; his siblings, James Arney, Bill Arney, Gladys Mae Taylor, Wanda Baker, Bonnie Brown, Rosemary Peters and Norma Price; his niece Rhonda Baker; and his nephew Michael Brown.

He is survived by his wife Anita Payne; his children, Jonathan Arney (Christina) of Salem and Elizabeth Bundy (Ryan) of Salem; his grandchildren, Andrew Arney, Anna Arney, Alex Arney, Eva Bundy and Ogie Bundy; his sister Peggy Stevens of Pinellas Park, FL; and his siblings-in-law, Shirley Arney of Mason, Cindy Arney of Mason and Bill Price of Columbus, OH. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations can be made to Salem First Baptist Church Building Fund or The Washington County Community Foundation.

Wayne V. Francis ’68
Obituary Unavailable

Leo D. Meddings ’68
Oct. 14, 2021

Leo Daniel Meddings, loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed suddenly from our hands into the Lord’s arms on Thursday, October 14, 2021, at the age of 76 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was born in Missouri Branch, West Virginia on October 4, 1945, to Leonard and Louise (Marcum) Meddings. He was the older protective brother to two sisters, Bessie and Mary Lee. He grew up in Dunlow, West Virginia, and graduated Valedictorian from Crum High School in 1964. He was awarded a scholarship to Berea College in Kentucky where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. In 1968, he married his high school sweetheart, Betty June Sutherland, whom he had known since elementary school. He taught high school before they moved to Michigan, where they raised their family and his career focused on project management and computer programming for automotive companies. Throughout his life, Leo had a laser focus on providing for and protecting his family and prioritizing his children’s education to ensure they had better opportunities than he had. He did everything he could to help them do well in school and could always be counted on for attending school events. He was so pleased that his son, Jeremy Meddings, graduated Valedictorian, obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Lawrence Technological University, and his Master of Business Administration from Oakland University. He was also proud that his daughter, Dr. Jennifer Meddings, also graduated Valedictorian, obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Biophysics, her Master of Science degree in Health and Healthcare Research, and her Medical Doctorate from the University of Michigan. It also made him incredibly happy that his 3 grandchildren (Jacob Daniel Meddings, Benjamin Paul Meddings, and Madison Grace Meddings) work hard and do very well in school. Leo was a very strong man with simple and practical tastes. When asked what he wanted for gifts, he always said “Nothing, I have everything I need already”. Although he was pleased with gift cards from hardware stores, he usually kept them to use when someone needed his help. He loved making popcorn on the stovetop at bedtime which his grandchildren loved and making chocolate peanut butter candy and buttermilk biscuits especially for his wife and daughter. He loved spending time outdoors with his son, including teaching him to hunt and fish. He loved spending time with and listening to each of his grandchildren. He also shared his lifelong love of gardening with his daughter, with whom he enjoyed friendly garden competitions. He always raised tomatoes, summer squash, and fruit trees, and enjoyed teasing his wife about raiding his garden before he could pick it himself. He was also naturally curious. He truly loved reading, traveled the world and time through his books, carried his book or Kindle everywhere usually a Western or detective story in recent years, and was very impressed with his local library. He enjoyed studying genealogy and listening to Appalachian music. He also loved dogs throughout his life and will be truly missed by his 2 grand dogs, Henry and “my boy George”, who always greeted him enthusiastically and sat for hours on his shoulder or lap while he read. He dedicated his entire life to making sure everyone around him was taken care of, and he would always come at a moment’s notice to help we could “always count on Dad!” There wasn’t a problem for which he wouldn’t have a tool to fix or practical experience to share. He was happiest spending time with his family, usually focused on a meal at home together, sharing funny stories, and often finding something to repair before heading home with the tools he always kept in his car. We were truly blessed by his love, his laugh, his selfless devotion, and his pearls of wisdom that we will never forget we were never too old to learn from him as he guided us through life. Although we will miss him terribly, he will always be loved and with us in our hearts, and we look forward to joining him with his beloved grand dog, Teddy, in Heaven. Leo is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Betty; his son, Jeremy; daughter-in-law, Alissa; his daughter, Jennifer; his 3 grandchildren, Jacob, Ben, and Madison; and his sister, Bessie. He was always very grateful to Dr. Cyril Grum and the Pulmonary and Critical Care Team at the University of Michigan for helping him survive Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome several years ago, as it provided him the privilege of meeting and enjoying time with his grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 21, from 5:00-9:00 p.m. at Nie Funeral Home, Liberty Chapel, 3767 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor Michigan. Funeral service will be held on Friday, October 22, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Bible Church, 1300 South Maple Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan, on Friday. Burial will take place immediately following church services at Arborcrest Memorial Park Cemetery, 2521 Glazier Way, Ann Arbor, Michigan. The family kindly requests that guests wear masks while attending all gatherings. Please sign the Tribute Wall and share a memory of Leo.

John Joseph Watson ’68
Jan. 8, 2022

John Joseph Watson

June 21, 1946 – January 8, 2022

Palm Desert, California – Dr. John Joseph Watson, Jr. passed away on January 8, 2022, at the age of 75 near his home in Palm Desert, California. A prominent San Francisco psychologist from 2004 until his retirement in 2019, John’s work within the gay men’s community brought him immense joy and satisfaction. Born in Dallas, Texas, he grew up in Georgia, attended Berea College and the University of Kentucky, and spent many years in Lexington, Kentucky. After living in Salt Lake City, Cincinnati, and Phoenix, he finally made his way to his adopted home state of California and lived in Walnut Creek for over twenty years. Sitting on his balcony with his partner and husband of twenty-four years, Jerry Miller, with a glass of buttery Chardonnay or a mimosa in hand, watching the sun move across Mt. Diablo, was one of the quiet pleasures of his life.

John was an accomplished pianist and avid home cook. He enjoyed experiencing new adventures and traveling in Northern California, the Pacific Northwest, Utah, and Vancouver, BC, his favorite city. He loved sharing the Napa and Sonoma wine country with his family and friends. John was an inspiration to his twin daughters, Adrienne and Alison, and they always will remember his kind and generous spirit, his passion for good food and wine, the way he created a beautiful home, his love of nature and animals, and the intentional way he taught them to joyfully live in the present.

John will be incredibly missed by those who loved him. He is survived by his husband Jerry Miller of Palm Desert, California; daughters Alison Morgan (JC) of Cold Spring, Kentucky, and Adrienne Henize (Keith) of Cincinnati, Ohio; grandchildren Emily, Abby, Brandon, Luke, and Tyler; brother Ken Watson (Abretha) of Pineview, Georgia; nephews Jason (Angie) and Patrick (Marissa); great nephews and nieces Nathan, Emily, Noah, and Norah; mother-in-law June Miller; siblings-in-law Jenny, Jeff (Denise), Jay (Debbie), and Jill Miller; family members Kit and Jerry Roberts, Ann Wadsworth, and Betsy and Jerry Mandell; many dear friends; and his beloved tuxedo cat Boris. John is preceded in death by his parents John Joseph, Sr. and Catherine Watson, and his father-in-law John Miller.

A celebration of life is being planned for June 2022, near what would have been John’s 76th birthday.

Dr. Bobby W. Burchette ’69
Oct. 9, 2021

Dr. Bobby W. Burchette, educator, passed away on October 9, 2021, at the age of 75, in Lexington, Kentucky.  His last years were spent as a devoted husband caring for his wife of 52 years who had suffered a debilitating stroke. His sudden battle with cancer was quick and relentless. 

Growing up in the small town of Damascus, Virginia, Bobby was a friend to all and began his life-long role of supporting and encouraging others.  He was at the top of his class and well-liked by his teachers and fellow students. He was the high school drum major and French horn player, Business Manager of the yearbook, and member of the Future Teachers, Library and Drama Clubs. 

Bobby met the love of his life, Christine Howard Burchette when she was working in the library at Berea College in the summer of 1968.  They married by the end of the year on Christine’s birthday, December 31, 1968, and built their lives together. In Bobby’s words, “She had the brains, I had the ambition, and we made a good team.”  They had one daughter, Kellie, who was the light of his life and of whom he was so proud.  In 1982, the whole family helped Bobby with his doctoral dissertation. Chris did much of the typing and Kellie helped mail surveys.  His grandson, Gavin, was a wonderful addition to the family and also cherished.

Bobby was an English major at Berea College, earned his Master’s degree in Counseling and PhD in Education from East Tennessee State University.  Bobby’s career began as a teacher. Next, he was a Financial Aid Administrator at Emory & Henry College, then a high school guidance counselor at Virginia High School, and later a college professor at Lindsey Wilson College, Transylvania University and, finally, Georgetown College as Professor of Graduate Education and Interim Dean.  Bobby was a counselor, a mentor, and a sponsor for countless minority and/or disadvantaged students, always striving to have a positive impact on their lives and careers.   He was the 2004 recipient of the Kentucky Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (KACTE) Distinguished Service Award Winner. 

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents Edward Wayne Burchette and Mabel Lee Clark Burchette and is survived by his wife Christine, daughter Kellie Ann Burchette Goldstein, son-in-law David Bruce Goldstein, and precious grandson Gavin Spencer Goldstein. He will be honored in a virtual ceremony TBD.  His ashes will be scattered privately by his immediate family along Indian Fort Trail, a special place for Bobby and Chris.  He will always live in the hearts and minds of his family and friends who loved him, the many colleagues with whom he worked, and the countless students he mentored and taught.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Berea College in memory of Dr. Bobby W. Burchette and me as the recipient notified (kellieagoldstein@gmail.com) at: www.berea.edu/give

Brenna Wilson
Spouse of William Wilson ’70
March 1, 2019

Brenna Gail Wilson was born on December 21, 1949, in Laurel County, Kentucky, the daughter of the late Charles Huston and Jessie Johnson. She was united in marriage to William Stephen Wilson of London. She is also survived by two children, Daniel Wilson and Benjamin Wilson both of London; three siblings, Bernice Huston of Statesville, North Carolina; Paul Huston of London and Euli Saylor of Sharonville, Ohio. Brenna was a retired schoolteacher with the Laurel County Board of Education and a member of West London Baptist Church. Brenna Gail Wilson departed this life on Friday, March 1, 2019, being 69 years, 2 months and 11 days of age. The family suggests memorial donations be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (28 West 44th Street, Suite 609 New York, NY 10036). There are no services scheduled at this time.

J. Michael Orr
Spouse of Linda Pratt Orr ’71
May 21, 2017
Obituary Unavailable

Pamela Cline Montgomery ’72
Nov. 7, 2019

Pamela Montgomery, 69, of Shelbyville, died Thursday, November 7, 2019, in Louisville. She was a native of West Virginia and had been a registered nurse. For the first part of her career, she had worked in obstetrics for the Norton Hospital in downtown Louisville. In recent years, she worked for the North Central Health Department based in Shelbyville. She was a member of the Shelbyville First Baptist Church. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and cooking—but mostly, she loved being a grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ross “Jake” “Cline and Pearl Mae Cline, and her daughter, Heather Renee Montgomery Mackey. She is survived by her husband, Dwain Montgomery of Shelbyville; her grandchildren, Lauren Elise Mackey and Jacob William Mackey, both of Simpsonville; her sister, Carmella Fran Robinson of Fredericksburg, VA; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Sunday, November 10, 2019, at the Shelbyville First Baptist Church with Dr. Maurice Hollingsworth officiating. Visitation will be 2:00-6:00 p.m. Saturday, November 9, 2019, at the Shannon Funeral Home.  Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 11, 2019, at the Grove Hill Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Gideons International or the Shelbyville First Baptist Church/Complete the Journey.

Christine Howard Burchette ’73
Nov. 7, 2021

Lexington, Kentucky – Christine Howard Burchette, retired elementary school teacher, passed away on November 7, 2021, at the age of 71, in Lexington, Kentucky. Chris grew up in Harlan, Kentucky, earned a Bachelor’s degree in English at Berea College, and a Master’s Degree in Education from Union College. She was a private person and one of her oldest friends said, “Chris has always been so calm and quite but underneath that she has reserves of steel” and a niece said, “she had the best laugh, the sweetest voice, she was the kindest human with the sweetest spirit.” Chris enjoyed a happy and relaxing ten years of retirement from teaching and was an avid reader and walker. She and her husband Bobby always enjoyed their lunches out together. Chris was preceded in death by her parents Kelly and Tannie Howard, brother James Howard and her beloved husband Dr. Bobby Wayne Burchette. She is survived by her daughter Kellie Ann Burchette Goldstein, son-in-law David Bruce Goldstein, and grandson Gavin Spencer Goldstein and also five sisters, Jean Barrier, and husband Jack; Joyce Hardy; Annette Mangino, and husband Paul; Debbie Dozier, and husband Phillip; and Peggy Haywood, and husband Allen; three brothers, Don Howard, and wife Linda; Fred Howard, and wife Rhonda; Michael Howard, and wife Pat and sister-in-law Susan. Married and inseparable for 52 years, Chris and Bobby will be honored together in a Celebration of Life Reception from 11:30am-1:30pm on December 31, 2021, at Malone’s Prime Events & Receptions 3373 Tates Creek Road, Lexington, KY and live streamed. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Berea College in memory of Christine Burchette at: www.berea.edu/give

Anna Umber Mapp ’76
June 20, 2021

Anna Joyce Mapp, 66, passed away on Sunday, June 20, 2021. She was born in Williamsburg, Kentucky, on December 13, 1954, to the late Hobert and Etta Melvina Upton Umber.

She was the Supervisor for Record Checks for the Kentucky State Police and was a member of Elm Street Baptist Church of Williamsburg, Kentucky. As a small child, she was gifted piano player and played for the Church.

She graduated from Williamsburg City High School and Berea College. She believed in God and was a professed Christian. Anna prayed and loved being a mother to her children. 

She is survived by her daughter, Yolonda Mapp, Frankfort; her sons, Derrek (Dixie) Mapp, Harrodsburg, Darek Mapp, Frankfort, and Nathan Mapp, Frankfort; her sisters, Emily Beatrice (Robert) Greenlee, OH, and Nellie E. (Jim) Williams, OH; her brother, Richard A. (Lauren) Umber, OH; her grandchildren, Lavon Dre’ Bowen, Kaeshawn Bowen, Lucian, Amaya, Derrek Jr., Savannah, Jackson, Jasmine, Cornelius, and James David; as well as her great-grandchildren, Kingston and Kyrionna. 

Celebration of Anna’s Life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 3, 2021, at Clark Legacy Center, Versailles Road. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday, July 3, 2021, at Clark Legacy Center, Versailles Road. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ClarkLegacyCenter.com.

Velinda Salyers ’76
Sept. 30, 2021

Velinda Salyers was a joyful, inquisitive, and loving person. Born in Floyd County, Kentucky as the youngest of 7 kids, she always rose to the occasion, starting with the responsibility as a teenager of spending nights caring for her terminally ill father. After graduating from Maytown High School, she attended Alice Lloyd College and then Berea College. She then joined her oldest brother Glen in Texas, first working in a jewelry store where she developed a discerning eye for things that sparkled. Ambitious, she took classes at night while working full time and earned a computer science degree at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, part of her decades-long technology career at St Luke’s Health in Houston, Texas. She loved quilts and other fine crafts, live music and searching for the perfect piece of vintage jewelry. She also adored and followed the careers of her niece and two nephews. With her sister Reba, she loved to travel the world together-visiting Spain, France, Colombia and many other far-flung places. Velinda passionately supported pet rescue, and she adored her two rescue cats. She was preceded in death by her siblings Reba, Brenda, Glen & Bruce, and is survived by her brothers Colby & Keith. There will be a service to honor her wonderful life at Hall Funeral Home in Martin, KY on Monday, October 25, 2021, at 1 PM.

Linda Lou Grant Fish ’78
Dec. 4, 2021

Linda Fish, age 75, passed away on Saturday December 4, 2021, at Saint joseph Berea Hospital. Linda was born in Covington Kentucky on November 1, 1946, to the late Lonie Mullins and William Grant. She retired from Berea College as a secretary. She was also a member of Calvary Apostolic Church.

Linda is preceded in death by her husband, Arnold Fish. In addition to her husband and parents she is preceded in death by two brothers: David Grant and Billy Grant. Three sisters; Ruth Ann Orme, Janet Honeycut, and Shirley Grant.

She is survived by three brothers: Robert Grant, Roger Grant, and Mark Grant. Four sisters; Della Grant, Reva Eagle, Brenda Schnitzler, and Gail grant

Funeral services will be at Lakes Funeral Home on Thursday, December 9, 2021. Visitation will be from 11:00am-1:00pm. Services will be at 1:00pm with pastor Alan Peevler officiating. Burial will follow at Maret Cemetery.

J. Wyatt Sasser
Spouse of Nancy Taylor Sasser ’78
Feb. 21, 2019

James Wyatt Sasser Thursday, February 21, 2019, James Wyatt Sasser, of Newport, VA, died February 21, 2019, at Lewis Gale Hospital, Salem. He was born in North Carolina on May 4, 1950, to the late Lewis Elwood and Frances Whitley Sasser. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Nancy Taylor Sasser; three brothers, L.E. & “Pete”; Sasser and wife, Susan, Don Sasser, Frank Sasser and significant other, Sherri, all of North Carolina. Wyatt is also survived by brothers-in-law, Richard Taylor and wife, Paula, Craig Taylor, mother-in-law, Mary Foster Taylor. He has many wonderful cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends to remember him. Wyatt and Nancy enjoyed motorcycle trips, camping, and fishing. He was one of the Grill Masters for church events in the Newport community. Before his retirement in 2015, he was a dedicated employee of Virginia Tech, as the Director of Housekeeping for 28 years. He was faithful member of Newport-Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church. He loved God, his wife, his family and friends. His laugh was just one of his great attributes. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Visitation with the family will be Sunday, February 24, 2019, from 2-4 p.m., at Newport-Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, with a Celebration of Life service to follow.

Kenny Joe McMullen ’79
Dec. 13, 2021

Kenny was the second of four children. Kenny Joe attended Calloway Elementary School and G.W. Carver High School, graduating in 1974. Kenny Joe matriculated and earned a liberal arts degree from Berea College in Berea, KY, in 1979. Following his college graduation, Kenny returned to Birmingham and began working in the food and beverage industry, most notably at Highlands Bar and Grill, fostering his love of food and service to others. Always an avid adventurer and traveler, Kenny Joe relocated from Birmingham to Seattle in the early 1990s where he continued service in the food and beverage industry, as well as the local community. Kenny founded his own food creations catering and floral arrangement company, initially known as Food and Flowers, eventually becoming Kenny Joe’s Event Services. His community-centered entrepreneurial endeavors allowed him to do what he loved best, creating cultural cuisine and floral arrangements for all occasions.

Kenny was a faithful member of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Seattle, WA, for over thirty years, where he was involved in the Brotherhood Chorus and the Floral Ministry. As a respected advocate for Seattle’s African American community, Kenny Joe worked and volunteered in various capacities and initiatives, thriving as an organizer and activist. Kenny was a founding member of Brother to Brother, a group which provided culturally competent support to gay African American men during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, a field in which he worked for more than 25 years. Kenny served as the Supervisor for the Minority AIDS Initiative Grant. Kenny was also the coordinator and facilitator of POCAAN’s (People of Color Against AIDS Network) CDC-funded program “For Every Man,” and Project HANDLE, a project at Neighborhood House, a 100+ year old social services facility working with people in the community most vulnerable to the spread of infectious diseases and, in collaboration with Navos, providing substance abuse and mental health services. Kenny Joe was also a passionate advocate for kidney health in the Black community, serving on the planning committee for the Kidney Health Fair for African American Families from 2002-2009. Prior to his return to Birmingham, Kenny worked to deliver meals for the South East Seattle Senior’s Center. He was also working with Seattle’s Public Health Department, and the nonprofit Sisters in Common, supporting their Covid-19 relief efforts by delivering masks and personal protective equipment to those in need, in particular Black-owned businesses and Black-led organizations.

Kenny Joe is survived by his mother, Mary McMullen, his older brother, Lamar McMullen (Anna), his sisters, Annie Glispie, Wenona Renae Pearcy (Brian Scott) and Vicki Terrell Maye (John), as well as his nieces, Chandra Janel McMullen, Lauren Nicole Pearcy and Savannah Ashley Maye, and nephews, Jason Lamar McMullen and Thomas Joseph Pearcy. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph McMullen,

Memorial services will be held at Rideout Gardendale Chapel in Birmingham, AL on January 8th, 2022, at 2 pm.

If you have a Kenny Joe story, please share them at the following website: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/gardendale-al/kenny-mcmullen-10492019

Kenny Joe will be remembered by those who knew him to always have a smile on his face and a laugh in his heart. He could step off a plane, train, or bus anywhere in the world, and within minutes…he would have several new friends, a place to get a hot meal, and a place to lay his head for the night if required. We will miss his gregarious laughter, infectious happy attitude, and love for life. Until we are reunited with him in His Grace, “Ciao for now!”

Sharron Davis Anderson ’85
Dec. 24, 2021

Sharron Anderson age 65, born in Cullman, Alabama to the late Cosmer Davis and June Johnson, passed away on Dec. 24, 2021, at Rockcastle Regional Hospital in Mt Vernon, KY. Sharron was a retired tele-communicator for the Berea Police Department, she loved painting canvas and bringing smiles to people’s faces. She was a loving wife, mother, and NaNa. Sharron was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Vicki Davis her special aunt Ninaveh (Willard) Calvert and several aunt

We are sad to announce that on December 24, 2021, at the age of 65, Sharron Anderson (Berea, Kentucky), born in Cullman, Alabama passed away. Family and friends are welcome to send flowers or leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

She was predeceased by her sister Vicki Davis; and her aunt Ninaveh Calvert (Willard). She is survived by her husband Ronnie Anderson; her son Jonathan Anderson (Alesha); her grandson Slade Anderson; her step-son Scotty Anderson (Christy); her step-grandchildren, Rachel, Christopher and Kaitlyn Anderson; her half-siblings, Amanda Powell and Brent Davis; and her aunts, Cathy, Helen and Betty Davis.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 28th, 2021, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Lakes Funeral Home (203 N Dogwood Dr, Berea, KY 40403). A funeral service was held on Wednesday, December 29th, 2021, at 1:00 PM at the same location. A burial was held on Wednesday, December 29th, 2021, at 2:30 PM at the Madison County Memorial Gardens (210 Rice Ln W, Richmond, KY 40475).

Dr. James Rickey Van Winkle ’91
Dec. 15, 2018

Dr. James Rickey Van Winkle departed this life suddenly December 15, 2018, in Berea, Kentucky from a pulmonary embolism.  He was born January 21, 1958, in Richmond, Kentucky to Luther James and Louise Ballinger Van Winkle.

He is survived by his wife, Rose Rex-Van Winkle; one son, James Ryan Van Winkle of Nokomis, Florida; one daughter, Leah Brittany Van Winkle of Berea; his mother, Louise Van Winkle; one sister, Brenda Holman of Berea; nephews, Brandon (Anita) Holman of Berea and Brad (Julie) Holman of Beattyville; mother-in-law, Mildred Lane, three brothers-in-law; one sister-in-law of Maryland; and one sister-in-law in Georgia; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. He will be missed by his two faithful dapple, miniature dachshunds, Nellie and Molly.

He was preceded in death by his father Luther James Van Winkle and brother-in-law Dale Holman.

Rick was a Doctor of Chiropractic since 1990. He attended Berea College and Cleveland Chiropractic College in Kansas City, Kansas. He was a pro tennis player who still played frequently and enjoyed outdoor sports with his kids. He loved playing golf, camping and kayaking. He was also an Honorable Kentucky Colonel.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday at Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home with Bro. Larry Day officiating the service.

Flowers welcomed or donations can be made to the Humane Society of Madison County located at 128 Big Hill Avenue, Richmond, KY or Madison County Animal Shelter located at 1386 Richmond Road Berea KY 40403

James Dillon ’98
Nov. 23, 2021

James Paul “Jamie” Dillon went swiftly into the arms of his Savior Tuesday, November 23, 2021, in Wayne, WV. At the age of 45, Jamie left us while in the midst of serving others. Something he did so often. Jamie was born, May 24, 1976, in Huntington, WV, the beloved son of Jeryl “Paul” and Colleen “Faye” Dillon. He was proud to have grown up in Radnor, WV, with a multitude of cousins, who were more like siblings to him even into adulthood. He was the baby brother of Kelly Eden Dillon and had a love for family like few others. Jamie was the high school sweetheart and forever love of Carey Lynn Trautwein Dillon, whom he always said he married “as soon as it was legal.” They couldn’t wait any longer to begin their life together. Their marriage of twenty-one years was packed with love and memories that most could only dream of. Jamie was a 1994 graduate of Wayne High School and received a scholarship for Berea College where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Family Studies in 1998. He said his time at Berea was life changing due to the friendships he established there, that have carried on even after his death, as those friends have surrounded his family to provide comfort. It was at Berea, where Jamie said the Lord began to deal with his heart, and he totally surrendered his life and began working in ministry. He loved to sing for the Lord and accepted the call to preach soon after. Jamie sang constantly and preached countless sermons, but he had a gift for ministering to hearts as he counselled friends and family over the years. He knew pursuing a career in counseling would allow him to bless others with that gift. He graduated from Marshall University in 2006 with a Master’s Degree in Counseling. After working in Child Protective Services for several years, he became a school counselor at Wayne High School where he worked for fifteen years and had recently become a Mental Health Counselor for Wayne County Schools. He was honored to serve as President of WV School Counselors Association. Jamie impacted the lives of many students, as well as youth group members as he served as a teacher and youth pastor at Lick Creek Church and Wayne Church of God over the last twenty-three years. He was a pillar of faith for everyone who knew him and was always eager to share Jesus Christ with those around him during good times as well as bad. Of all the achievements he has earned in life, there was nothing he was more proud of than the life he provided for his wife and children. His “baby girl,” Aubrey Jalynn Dillon and his “buddy,” Isaiah “Trent” Dillon were the light of his life. He proved his love for them daily and instilled in them values, his sense of humor and competitive nature, but most of all, his love for Jesus. Jamie was a man of convictions and led his family well. He always had a way of making things better and could fix almost anything. He had such wisdom in every circumstance. He taught his family how to love the unlovable and poured countless values and principles into them in ways that will never be forgotten. He was their teacher, coach, disc golf partner, spiritual advisor, financial planner, secret keeper, protector and very best friend. The love that he poured into his wife and children will be enough to carry them through until they are reunited again in Heaven. Jamie often reminded us “His mercies are new every morning.” This will continue to provide comfort to those who loved him. Additional survivors include his in-laws, Sam and Diana Trautwein, Vickey Trautwein Boyd, Kimmy Mathews (TJ), JoJo Mathews, Lauren (Darcy) Daniels and Gunner (Halie) Daniels, Crystal Corley (Three), Sally (Taylor) Marshall; nieces and nephews, Kyle (Cassie) Crum, Savanaha (Sam) Lemmon, Cheyenne, Kennedy, Brooklynn Masco, JoJo Mathews, Tyler (Hannah) Ramey, Braylee Ramey, Claire Corley, Hannah Corley, Cole Daniels, Kylie Crum, Jensen Crum and Maisyn Crum. A celebration of his life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, November 27, 2021, at Harmony Freewill Baptist Church. Friends may gather from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the church. A private graveside service will be held for the immediate family at Community Memorial Gardens at a later date. Morris Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Nicholas C. A. Vaughn ’98
Obituary Unavailable

Bert Glendon Lunsford ’01
Oct. 11, 2021

Bert G. Lunsford, 84, of Berea died Monday, October 11, 2021. He was a life-long resident of Madison County born February 2, 1937, son of the late Bert and Hazel Jones Lunsford, U. S. Air Force Veteran, former employee of Square D Corporation, farmer and property owner. Bert was a graduate of Miracle Valley Bible Institute and Berea College receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Religion.  He enjoyed reading, current events, news items, farming and was an amateur horticulturist.   Survivors include his loving wife Georgia Van Winkle Lunsford; children David Lunsford, Stephen Lunsford (Angela), Roberta Stephenson (Dennis), Pamela Harding; grandchildren Timothy (Bethany), Kayla, Lindsay; step-grandchildren Kyle, Kelby; great-grandchildren Olivia, Ilse Jo, Takoda, Paisley; step-great-grandchildren Tyson, Roman, Rhett, Charlotte, Landry; sister Joyce Dooley; niece Jenny; nephews Robert, Mark; as well as numerous relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son Eugene Lunsford, sister Eleanor Lunsford.  Graveside Service 2:00 PM Thursday, October 14, 2021, at Richmond Cemetery with Bro. John McCord officiating. Pallbearers will include Kyle Smyth, Kelby Browning, Harry Mills, Tim Harding, Timothy Harding, Roy Wilson. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to your favorite religious organization or your favorite charity.  Reppert Funeral Home and Cremation Service entrusted with arrangements. Leave condolences for the family, share a memory, light a memorial candle or plant a tree in Bert’s memory at www.reppertfuneralhome.com

Matthew Ralph Frederick ’10
Dec. 25, 2021

Matthew Frederick, 33 of Berea, entered hospice and end of life care in December. He fought a long battle with a brain tumor. After midnight on Christmas morning, he passed peacefully in his sleep held in the arms of his husband.

He was a vibrant and creative spirit. He was passionate about art, poetry, food, and fighting for justice in Kentucky. Known for a great turn of phrase, and a hearty laugh. He was a dedicated caregiver. Those who knew “Fred,” as he liked to be called, attest to his deep kindness.

As Fred completes his journey over the rainbow, his husband plans to memorialize his life. A memorial will support all those who loved Fred to hold our grief alongside one another. Fred was widely and deeply loved by many. His generous spirit and piercing intellect are hard to forget.

Some have said that Fred was an ancient soul in a modern body. He loved languages and was a rigorous student of history. He was a dreamer. He was active in many organizing campaigns: for economic justice, for housing and healthcare, and LGBTQ liberation. His organizing insisted on the transformative powers of love, beauty, education and art.

Fred was preceded in passing by his mother, Linda, after her own battle with cancer. He is survived by his husband, Michael, who “Freddie” affectionately called “Mikie.”

Anastasia McGeorge Saunders ’10
Oct. 12, 2021

Anastasia Kristen Noel McGeorge Saunders of Morristown, Tennessee formerly of Pineville, Kentucky gained her angel wings on Tuesday, October 12, 2021. She was born on March 1, 1988, to Linda Whitehead McGeorge and William Michael McGeorge of Middlesboro, Kentucky. She was the University of Tennessee Extension Agent in Sneedville, Tennessee.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Linda and Michael McGeorge; her grandfathers, John Whitehead and Bill McGeorge; and uncle, Jerry Whitehead.

Left to cherish her memory are the following members of her family, her husband, David Saunders; her aunt and uncle who raised her as their own, Faye and Kenny Lambert; her “brothers”, George Lambert and wife, Donna, and John Lambert and wife, Kimber; her “nephews and niece”, Dalton, Isaac, Nathan, Dax and Cammie Lambert; her grandmothers, Della Whitehead and Georgette McGeorge; and her cousins, Jacob and Dakota Whitehead. She is also survived by a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be at 8:00 PM on Friday, October 15, 2021, at the Arnett & Steele Funeral Home with Rev. Jeremy Sanders and Rev. Ron Howard presiding. Music will be provided by Mickey Wilder. Graveside services will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday at the Meadow Branch Cemetery in Mill Creek. Pallbearers will be George Lambert, John Lambert, Dalton Lambert, Isaac Lambert, Nathan Lambert, and John Toth.

The family will receive friends Friday from 6:00 PM until the funeral hour at the Arnett & Steele Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Pineville, which is honored to serve the Saunders Family. Light a candle of remembrance and sign the guest register at www.arnettsteele.com.

 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Anastasia Kristen Noel McGeorge Saunders, please visit our Tribute Store.