Passages: Winter 2020

Ernest Boyd Adams — Facilities Management (1966 -2000) — Aug. 5, 2019

Ernest Boyd Adams was born, Sept. 21, 1937 in Rockcastle County, Ky., and departed this life August 5, 2019 at Baptist Health in Lexington, Ky., being 81 years of age. He was the son of the late Ernest and Martha Mildred (Leger) Adams.

Boyd is survived by his wife Rita (Fields) Adams of Berea; two step-sons, Jerry Little and his wife Wanda of Berea and Luther Little of Berea; one sister, Susan (Adams) Isaacs of McKee and a host of nieces and nephews, and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Boyd was preceded in death by his first wife, Bonnie (Seaborn) Adams; three brothers and one sister, James Adams, Arthur Adams, Leroy Adams and Louise (Adams) Horn.
Boyd was the superintendent of Berea College Utilities for 33 years and was also a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Berea.

Funeral services for Boyd were conducted Friday, Aug. 9, 2019 at Emmanuel Baptist Church with Bro. Joey Kays officiating. Entombment followed in the Berea Cemetery Mausoleum. Visitation was Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church. Pallbearers were Tim Adams, Mark Horn, Larry Phillips, Tommy Bussell, Aaron Adams, and Dennis Grant. Honorary bearers will be Jimmy Adams, Ray Phillips, and Larry Todd.

Dr. Tom Boyd — Professor of Sociology (1977-2006) — Aug. 21, 2019

Dr. Thomas Andrew Boyd was born in Fort Mitchell, Ky., Nov. 24, 1942, and died in Berea, Ky., August 20, 2019. Tom retired from Berea College after teaching for 29 years and serving as chair of the Department of Sociology since 1987. While at Berea College, he was awarded the Seabury Award for Excellence in Teaching and the Elizabeth Perry Miles Service Award. Before beginning to teach in the United States, he served with the Peace Corps in Columbia, South America.

Dr. Boyd studied at Wabash College; The Institute of Social Studies, The Netherlands; and earned his Doctorate at Cambridge University where he was elected Phi Kappa Phi Professor of the Year and Associate Member, Darwin College. He was published extensively.

Tom began teaching at West Virginia Wesleyan College, then taught at Wolfson College; The Hague, Netherlands; and University of Cape Coast, Ghana, West Africa. He was also a visiting Professor of Sociology at Zhongshan University in the People’s Republic of China; a participant with Habitat for Humanity International in Peru; a consultant, Rural Development Planner/Trainer with United Nations Food and Agriculture mission to Zambia; a research assistant with the Institute of Social Studies, The Netherlands and a workshop leader for Economic Development in Puerto Rico.

Dr. Boyd also served at home for many years as a Director of Kentucky River Foothills Community Action Agency; a volunteer firefighter with the City of Berea; a supporter of Habitat for Humanity; co-founder and board member of the Kentucky Returned Peace Corps Volunteers; and a board member of the White House Clinic. After retirement from Berea College, Tom indulged his passion for word working and created many inspired word sculptures.

Tom led a life of travel, service and humility that was particularly enriched by the time he spent in the Peace Corps and teaching at Berea College. Both organizations defined the course of his life and helped him to serve the people that he met with pride, passion and love. Before his passing he remarked that he had lived a great life and had accomplished more than he had ever imagined. He approached his final days with the following thought from Whitman’s Leaves of Grass: “Free and light-hearted I take to the Open Road….”

Mary Labus ’78 — Alumni and College Relations (1979-2019) — Oct. 16, 2019

Mary Labus, age 63, a 40-year employee of Berea College, passed away on Oct. 16, 2019. Mary was born in West Hamlin, W. Va., to the late Michael Peter and Charline Meadows Labus. Mary was a graduate of Berea College Class of 1978. She worked in the Alumni and College Relations office in the Advancement Services department at Berea College as manager of data and analytics. Mary was a bright light on campus and in the Berea Community; she was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all.

Mary is survived by her siblings: Clara (Anthony) Chapman, Eddy Labus, Alice (Geoff) Richardson, Priscilla (John) Wright, Bonnie (Mike) Perry, Lester (Benita) Labus, Eric (Myra) Labus, her special niece Whitney Chapman, and her nieces and nephews: John Michael (Alrena) Labus and their sons: Zeke and Miles, Don (Whitney) Wright, Rachel Wright, Amanda (Tim) Rennix and their son Marshall, Andrea Labus, Ada Labus, Mary Jacquelyn (Lee) Hash and their daughter Evelyn, and Brian Labus.

Doug Layne ’69 — Baseball and JV Basketball coach (1999-2019) — May 28, 2019

Doug Layne age 73, husband of Louise Boggs Layne, died Tuesday May 28, 2019 at Baptist Health in Lexington, Ky. He was retired from the Brevard County Schools in Florida where he served as a teacher and coach, finally as assistant principal at Palm Bay High School. He was also an administrator and coach at several other Brevard County schools.

Doug is survived by his loving wife Louise Boggs Layne, his children Jeff (Tanya) Layne and Nikki (John) Nixon, his sisters: two sister and one brother and five grandchildren: and one great-granddaughter.

Funeral services were conducted June 1, 2019 at Lakes Funeral Home, with Tommy Green officiating. Burial was in the Berea Cemetery. Visitation was conducted Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Lakes Funeral Home.

Jeff Meadors — Multimedia Specialist (2018-2019) — June 7, 2019

Obituary unavailable

Dr. John Wallhausser—Professor of Philosophy and Religion (1975-2002) — July 18, 2019

John Wallhausser, educator, scholar, and artist, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2019 at his home in Berea, Ky. He was born Nov. 10, 1932 in San Pedro Sula, Honduras and emigrated from Germany to the United States in 1937.

Wallhausser earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh in 1954 and completed his Ph.D. at Yale University in 1965. He served as professor of Religion and Philosophy at Upsala College in East Orange, N.J., from 1961 to 1975. Following a one-year appointment as Visiting Lilly Professor at Berea College, John and his family moved to Berea, Ky., in 1976. During his tenure of 26 years at Berea College, John served as Chairperson for the Department of Philosophy and Religion, and as The Henry Mixter Penniman Professor of Philosophy. Through his work at the college, John also developed a close connection with Old Regular Baptist communities in eastern Kentucky. He retired from Berea College in 2002.
John was an avid traveler, gardener, and painter. In his later years, he traveled often to Italy, spending much time at Lake Orta. Many of his paintings focus on landscapes of this area. John delighted in the company of good friends and, above all, he loved his family.
John was preceded in death by his parents Hans and Juliana Wallhausser. He is survived by his wife Mary, brothers William (Patricia) and Frederick, and sons Chris (Lori), David (Cyndy), and Karl (Brenna). John’s grandchildren are Nicholas, Juliana, Hannah and John. Chloe and Carter are his great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in John’s memory to Hospice Care Plus, 208 Kidd Drive, Berea, KY, 40403.

Sandra Williams Wells ’80 — Administrative Assistant of the Technology Dept. (1980-2019) — Sept. 8, 2019

Sandra “Sandy” K. Wells, 61, of Berea, went to be with the Lord this the 8th day of September 2019 at the Compassionate Care Center in Richmond She was born the 22nd day of April 1958 in Hazard, Ky., to the late Reason and Mary Jane Melton Williams. She was a member of Westside Christian Church in Richmond.

Sandy was a 1980 alumni of Berea College and was retired from the Technology department as an administrative assistant. She was a member of Epsilon Pi Tau and Phi Kappa Phi. Sandy enjoyed crocheting, Knitting, stained glass making and fishing, she was also very active in Relay for Life.

Other than her parents she was preceded in death by one brother, Reason Williams, Jr. and one sister, Pamela Ritchie.

Sandy is survived by her soulmate and husband, Kenneth R. Wells, Berea, Ky. She is also survived by her two daughters, Dynae (Lewis, IV) Utz, Richmond, Kentucky, and Jodi (Nicholas) Webb, Berea, Ky.; four grandchildren, Antigone Utz, Lewis Utz V, Pierce Webb, and Kenneth Utz; and three brothers and two sisters, Jimmy (Mary) Williams of Hazard, Ky., Cindy (Kenneth) Baker of Big Stone Gap, Va., Archie (Olivia) Williams of Georgetown, Ky., Linda Lawson of Richmond, Ky., and Bill (Lora) Williams of Columbus, Ohio.

Boyd “Shorty” Van Winkle — Facilities Management (1976-1997) — Aug. 10, 2019

Boyd “Shorty” Van Winkle, age 87, of Berea, passed away Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019 at Baptist Health in Richmond.

Shorty was born in Jackson County, Ky., to the late Cassius Winfred and Elva Eversole Van Winkle. He was a mechanic by trade for Berea College where he retired.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife Darlene Parker Van Winkle; and five siblings, Earl Van Winkle, Orville Van Winkle, Everett Van Winkle, Gilberta Smith, Theda Abrams, and Ruby Rice.
He is survived by four daughters, Patricia (Steven) Collins, Marquita Van Winkle, Wilhelmina (Michael) Bowman, and Ramona Callahan; step children, Jr. Chasteen and Trina Howard; a granddaughter that he raised Kimberly Smith; siblings, Russell Van Winkle, Ruth Thacker, and Doris Cheek; 17 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019 at Lakes Funeral Home with Bro. Doc Fox and Bro. David Flannery officiating. The burial followed in the Berea Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Steven Collins, John Phillips, Wesley Clark, Preston Bowman, Derick Bowman, Isaac McClure, and Noah Isaacs. Honorary bearers will be Art Van Winkle, Russell Van Winkle, Jr. Chasteen, Alonzo Rowlette, Eli Adamson, Myles Watson, Shelby Newcomb, Reagan Bowman, Jayden Bowman, Camden Flannery, Coleson Abney, Kenny Davidson, and Charlie Bowman.

Frances Chambers Paynter ’36— April 23, 2019

Frances Chambers Paynter (Deedee) died at Stanton Nursing Home on April 23, 2019.

Frances was born near Beattyville in Lee County on April 8, 1912. She graduated from Berea College in 1936 and from the University of Kentucky with a Master’s Degree in 1948. She began her teaching career at Glen Eden School in Lee County, serving as a teacher, principal, and basketball coach. She also taught at Trapp Elementary, Pilot View Elementary, Winchester High School, and George Rogers Clark High School in Clark County before retiring in 1972. She loved dancing, gardening, poetry, and is the author of The Chambers Family.

Frances married the late Ernest (Sonny) Paynter in 1940. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe Chambers and Callie Davis Chambers. She is survived by two children: Harry Paynter (late wife Susie Paynter) and Vickie Lewis (Richard Lewis); three grandchildren: Richard (Karyn) Lewis, Jane (Carlos) Kelly, and Ashley (Ben) Runyon; and two great grandchildren: Kathryn and Andrew Lewis.

Winifred Sturgill Skaggs ’41 — May 19, 2019

Winifred Sturgill Skaggs, 96, passed away on May 14, 2019 in Lexington.  She was born October 15, 1922 in Hindman, KY.  Her parents were Troy B. and Dorothy M. Sturgill of Prestonsburg, KY.  A former educator and homemaker, she was married to the late Forest M. Skaggs, DMD for over 51 years.  They lived in Lynch, KY before moving to Lexington.

She is survived by a daughter Judith Ann Wright (F. Ben, DMD, deceased) of Louisville and son Forest M. Skaggs III (Dianne) of Lexington.  She had four grandchildren, Hope Mills (David) of Louisville, Ford Wright of Louisville, Andrew Skaggs of Atlanta, and Blake Skaggs (Christie) of Austin, TX and 1 great-grandson Benjamin Mills.  She was preceded in death by her husband, brothers, William B. Sturgill and Barkley J. Sturgill, and sister Gwendolyn Dingus.

She was a member of the Southern Hills United Methodist Church.  The family wishes to thank the staff of Signature Care at Tanbark for their care and support of our mother.

Elizabeth Watkins Baker ’42 — Aug. 21, 2015

Elizabeth Lee Watkins Baker of Kihei, Maui, Hawaii, died at home under the care of Hospice Maui on August 21, 2015. She was 94 years old.

The second of four children of Casey County educator/local historian Willie M. Watkins and his wife, Edna Lee Murphy Watkins, Libby was born on the Fourth of July in 1921 and raised in Liberty. She earned a teaching degree at Berea College and taught elementary school for a number of years.

Libby met Ben W. Baker at Berea and they married in 1940. Ben’s military service during World War II took them to a number of places, concluding in California where he obtained an MBA at Stanford University and a CPA license. They moved to Oahu and then to Maui, where they built their home on Halama Street and remained for the remainder of their lives.

Maui at that time was the tropical paradise most people envision without the commercialism of what we see today. Libby was civic-minded, being appointed by the first elected governor of Hawaii to the State Library Commission. She worked arduously for the Outdoor Circle, including advocating for a ban on billboards on the island and similar projects.She was active in the League of Republican Women Voters and local politics, supporting candidates and promoting environmental causes.

The Maui lifestyle was idyllic but simple, and Libby helped make it a place that was welcoming to all who visited. This was important for mainland guests of the companies for which her husband Ben worked as Controller of Alexander & Baldwin and Vice President/Finance of Maui Land & Pineapple Company when they were developing the Kapalua resort. Libby and Ben traveled the world extensively until Ben’s death in 2001.

Libby was an avid golfer and lifelong duplicate bridge player. An eclectic reader, creative and artistic, she designed clothing and made sculptures of shells, beach glass and driftwood, which she often gave away. Libby supported local artists and fledgling sculptors. She served as an officer and volunteer for numerous clubs and organizations, from Scouting to the American Red Cross, American Cancer Society and Maui Memorial Hospital.

Most important to Libby was family. She loved life and made the most out of living. A spirited cheerleader for the family and great role model, Libby enriched the lives of those around her.

She is survived by her daughter, Dr. Sherry Baker Dahman, a forensic psychologist (ret.) living in The Villages, Florida, and her son, Ben W. Baker III, Kihei, Maui, whose background includes such diverse professions as special education, executive search, real estate and mortgage banking. Libby remained engaged with her extended family in Kentucky, and is survived by her sister, Sharleen Watkins Power, and brother, Dr. James R. Watkins, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by one sister, Josephine Watkins Foster, of Liberty. At her 90th birthday party, her friends praised her humor and wit. Private services will be held by the family.

Elizabeth Ruth Schumacher Dickerson ’43 — March 3, 2019

Elizabeth Ruth “Betty” Dickerson, age 98 of Dayton, passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2019 at Stonespring of Vandalia. She was born in Columbus Grove, Ohio on September 24, 1920, the daughter of Albert Christian & Sarah Elizabeth (Weida) Schumacher. She retired from Vandalia Butler Schools as the Supervisor of Libraries. She was a member of the Dayton Music Club where she was a past president and was a member of the Delta Omicron Music Fraternity. She is survived by her children John H. (Nina) Dickerson, William A. (Nancy) Dickerson and Elizabeth A. (Richard) Gordon; grandchildren Phil Dickerson, Michael Dickerson, Christina Dickerson, Lizzie Q. Davis, Josef Gordon and Sarah Z. Gordon; great grandchildren Liam Dickerson, Trevor Dickerson, Iris Dickerson, Michael Warren, Olivia Davis, Elsie Davis, Eleanor Davis, Emily Gordon and Maggie Gordon; brother Owen J. (Reva) Schumacher; 6 nephews and a cousin Genevieve Korte. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Joseph W. Dickerson, grandson Joseph Dickerson, brother Mark Schumacher, and sister Janet O’Brien.

Carl Woodrow Newman ’43 — Aug. 27, 2019

Carl W. Newman, age 99 3/4, of Gate City, VA went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 27, 2019, at his residence following  a period of declining health. Carl was born in Roda, Virginia on November 18, 1919, a son of the late ElKanah “EK” and Mattie Mae Kegley Newman.  His family moved to Exeter, Virginia where he grew up.  He graduated from Appalachia High School in 1937.  He was a talented baseball player who was known as “Lefty” and received several offers to play professional ball.

He then attended Berea College in Berea, Ky., where he graduated in 1943 with honors, majoring in math and physics. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and attended Officers Training School at Columbia University, New York.  He was headed to the Pacific on a destroyer named the “Colahan” where he was the Gunnery Officer. At the end of the war, he was present at the signing of the Peace Treaty.  His ship escorted the Japanese ships into Tokyo Bay.  After the war, he attended University of Virginia Law School in Charlottesville and graduated in 1949.  Carl practiced law for over 30 years. He was a member of Gate City United Methodist Church where he taught Sunday school for more than 40 years.  Carl was a former member of the VA State Bar Association and Scott County Bar Association.

Carl was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Blanche Calton Newman; loving son, Woody Calton Newman, and all of his sisters and brothers.

He is survived by his loving daughter and son- in- law, Suzanne and Terry Goins; special niece, Opal Brown; several nieces and nephews; special sister-in-law, Jenny Barton.

Martha Ferguson Elam ’44 — Jan. 19, 2019

Martha Ferguson Elam, age 95, died Saturday, January 19 in Lexington Ky. She was born in 1923 in Morgan County, Ky., and grew up in the community of Grassy Creek.

A woman of deep faith and high energy, Mrs. Elam earned a nursing degree from Berea College and spent 40 years serving as a nurse in Lexington hospitals. She was a very active member of the Immanuel Baptist Church for most of her adult life. She was also a big supporter of the work of Habitat for Humanity and helped in the building of several homes.  She was married to Joe Elam for fifty-five years until his death in 2002.

In addition to her husband and her parents, she was preceded in death by seven siblings, and a granddaughter. She is survived by a daughter, Rosemary Piercey (Gerald), two sons, Dan Elam (Ronda), and Tony Elam (Sherrill).  She also leaves behind four grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

John Dale Milam ’44 — July 22, 2019

John Dale Milam, known as Jack, was born in Topeka, Kan., on Oct. 4, 1922, to Morris Dale Milam and Emily Jean Milam. Jack had one older sister, Jean, and a younger sister and brother, Susie and Mose. He was a boy chorister and acolyte at Grace Cathedral in Topeka, and attended Topeka High School and the University of Kansas in Lawrence; at Lawrence he was also a lay reader at Trinity Episcopal Church. During his college years he joined the U.S. Navy and was trained as an officer at Berea College, Ky., and Columbia University, N.Y., before sailing to the South Pacific as an ensign and then lieutenant J.G. on an LST. He served four years in the Navy during World War II.

When Jack returned from the war, he finished his college education at UCLA, where he met Charlotte Kiffe. Jack and Charlotte were married on May 20, 1949. In the fall of 1950 Jack began teaching English at Downey High School in Downey, Calif., and that same week his first child, Deborah, was born. Four years later, in 1954, he obtained a master’s degree in education from the University of Southern California, and became the father of his second child, Drusilla.

After several years of teaching, Jack moved into administration at the school district office in Downey, first as supervisor of and then as coordinator of secondary instruction. He remained with the Downey Unified School District for the rest of his career. He was a popular administrator, sought-after for speaking at various district events. At the Milam family’s church, St. Mark’s Episcopal in Downey, Jack served as a lay reader, homilist, lay eucharistic minister, and senior warden, among other things. He also spent much time with Charlotte and the girls on vacations, hikes, and other family activities too numerous to name. He was always ready to lend a hand to friends and colleagues.

After Jack’s retirement, in 1991 he and Charlotte moved to Black Butte Ranch, Oregon, where his sister Jean lived. He loved hiking in the forest. Jack and Charlotte also became active at Transfiguration Church in Sisters. They remained at Black Butte until they moved to assisted living in Bend in 2017.

Jack and Charlotte celebrated their 70th anniversary on May 20, 2019. They had a marriage that was a model for their children and grandchildren. When their daughters and grandchildren called to talk to Jack, and said, “I love you,” Jack always responded, “I love you more.” Those children and grandchildren say now, “We love you forever.”

Jack leaves behind his wife, Charlotte; two daughters, Debbie Berkley and Dru Winkle; five grandchildren, Peter Berkley, Mary Shadley, John Helton, Becky Clark, and David Helton; and eight great-grandchildren, Kaylin Ryan, Timothy Ryan, Elliot Berkley, Liam Ryan, Maddie Walsh, Alex Berkley, Beatrix Shadley, and Grover Shadley.

Lenore Crouser Walston ’44 — March 10, 2019

Lenore C. Walston, 97, died on March 10, 2019, at Northern Hospital in Mount Airy, N.C., following a brief illness.

Born in Mannington, W. Va., Lenore was the youngest of James Emry and Nora Walsh Crouser’s three children. A graduate of Berea College, Lenore used her gifts of connecting with people to improve the lives of so many through community programs as an Extension Agent in Nash and Bertie Counties; a Sunday School teacher and WMU leader at Sandy Run Baptist Church in Roxobel, where she lived for many years; and as an artist, mother, “Grandmommy,” and friend. She was immensely progressive and driven toward the future, always willing to face any change or challenge head on, and believed herself to be a work in progress, inspiring everyone who knew and loved her. Her infectious wit, her compassion, her creativity, and her tenacity made the world a much better place. Death has no say over a life so fully lived.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Herman H. Crouser; her sister, Doris Jean Crouser Mowery; and her husband, Joseph H. Walston.

She is survived by her daughter, Sara W. Bailey and her husband Rick; her grandson, Oren; and many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Lillian Abney Brynjegard ’45 — Feb. 1, 2018

Obituary Unavailable

Patrick D. Gallaugher ’45 — Feb. 6, 2018

Patrick Donovan (“Pat”) Gallaugher, 91, died on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at home surrounded by his family, after a lengthy illness.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dorothy “Dot” Gallaugher, his parents, Barbara Fitzenreiter Gallaugher and Francis Valerie Gallaugher, his sisters Katherine Gallaugher Dunn and Babette Gallaugher Bradshaw, and his brother Frank Gallaugher.  He is survived by four children, Patrick Gallaugher, Jr. (Paula) of Lake Charles, Kevin Gallaugher of Austin, Texas, Adele Gallaugher Wallace (Brian) of Houston, Texas, Michael Gallaugher (William Sonner) of New Orleans, and two grandchildren, Kate Gallaugher of Los Alamos, New Mexico and Aidan Gallaugher of Baton Rouge.

Pat was born in Lake Charles on April 30, 1926. After graduating from Landry High School in 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy, at age 17. After basic training he was accepted into the “V-12” officer training program and sent to the University of Notre Dame where training courses were conducted. After the Japanese surrender, he was honorably discharged and enrolled in the Architecture Program at Notre Dame, from which he graduated in 1949.

Upon graduating Pat returned to Lake Charles and began a career in architecture that lasted 68 years. He joined the Lake Charles firm of Dunn & Quinn Architects (later Dunn, Quinn, Gallaugher & Quinn), at which he practiced 40 years. During those years Dunn & Quinn designed many significant area buildings and residences, including the Magnolia Life Building, the First Federal Savings and Loan Association building, Memorial Hospital, many grammar and high schools, and buildings at McNeese State University. In 1991, Pat began working for Randy Goodloe and Associates, where he practiced until shortly before his death. Pat loved working for Goodloe and Associates and was deeply appreciative that Randy Goodloe and his firm provided him the opportunity to do what he so loved—to practice architecture—into his 90s. He continued to design important local projects and most recently he and Mr. Goodloe designed the new Health and Human Performance Building and basketball arena currently under construction at McNeese.

Pat married Dorothy (“Dot”) Aberle in 1950 and they celebrated 67 years of marriage shortly before her death in October of 2017. He and Dot enjoyed books, music, traveling, and food, but most particularly evenings sitting in their living room looking out a picture window at an inlet of Contraband Bayou, discussing their day over a Martini. Pat was a wonderful, loving father and grandfather.

Pat not only was a talented architect, but also an accomplished artist. His skill preparing architectural renderings showing how buildings or homes will look when completed evolved into pen and ink drawings and watercolors portraying more general subjects. He loved nature and birdlife and many of his drawings and paintings depict marshes and water birds of Southwest Louisiana. In recent years he was inspired during vacations by the beauty of Canada’s maritime provinces, and painted nautical scenes of Nova Scotia’s Atlantic Coast. His drawings and paintings have been featured in showings at galleries in Lake Charles, Houston, and Williamsburg, Virginia.

Beyond work and family, Pat’s greatest passion was golf.  Although he didn’t begin playing until his 30s (being taught by his friend, the renowned local pro Gray Little), Pat played until age 90. He played skillfully even into his late 80s, and shot four holes-in-one after the age of 75. His love of golf and artistic talent came together when a watercolor he painted after a trip to the Masters was used for the cover of Golf Illustrated magazine’s January 1992 issue.

Pat was a devout Catholic and life-long member of Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish.

The family wishes to express its deep gratitude to Pat’s physicians and caregivers, particularly Doctors Richard Gilmore, Leroy Fredericks, and James Maze, and their staffs, as well as the staffs of Lake Charles Memorial Hospital and St. Patrick’s Hospital, for providing excellent treatment, advice, comfort, and care. The family wishes to thank Pat’s close friend, Dr. Pat Unkel, who provided compassionate and helpful advice during Pat’s final illness, and Father Whitney Miller who provided spiritual comfort in Pat’s final hours.

Frances Zicafoose Kleinman ’45 —April 26, 2019

Frances Marguerite (Zicafoose) Kleinman, 96, passed away peacefully April 26, 2019 in Newport, RI, surrounded by her family and friends. She was the wife of the late Albert M. Kleinman and was predeceased by her beloved son Gary J. Kleinman. She was the daughter of the late Jessie and Blanche (Harvey) Zicafoose. Born in rural Asbury, West Virginia, Frances was a trailblazer: she was the first person to go to college from her town. She attended Berea College in Berea, KY, where she obtained her degree in Philosophy and then went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Smith College, Northampton, MA. Her Social Work profession brought Frances to Hartford, CT where she met and married Albert M. Kleinman, the love of her life. Frances worked for Child & Family Services of Connecticut and later for Hartford Hospital as a medical Social Worker. Frances sang with The Hartford Symphony Chorale and The Westbank Singers and volunteered countless hours at NARAL of Connecticut; she was the President of the College Club of Hartford, a philanthropic organization.Frances loved people; her Social Work profession came naturally. She was a patient listener, compassionate and helpful with suggestions and kind words. Frances was also known for her quick wit and snappy retorts. Her love of music began in her early West Virginia years, singing in the local Southern Baptist Church with her family; her love of classical music and opera came later and filled her entire adult life. Frances was a champion of education and was forever grateful for her college experience, which opened her mind and changed her life forever.She leaves behind a daughter, Jeanne K. Spinosa and husband Michael T. Glier; daughter-in-law Maureen Curran Kleinman; granddaughters Jessica Kleinman and husband Michael Constantine; and Sarah Melville and husband Dan Melville; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and close family friends in Connecticut, New Jersey, West Virginia and Indiana. Her family is extremely grateful to Blenheim-Newport and The Village House for the care they gave Frances in her later years and the love they showered on her.Services will be held in Rhode Island, Connecticut and West Virginia during the summer.

Dr. Robert H. Shipp ’45 — Sept. 8, 2019

Dr. Robert H. Shipp, MD; Col. (Ret.) USAF Medical Corps, died September 8, 2019. He was born in 1926 in Louisville, Ky., the only child of Reuben H. Shipp and Mary Frances Pulliam. Fortunate to be raised in the neighborhood of Crescent Hill, he was a proud product of Emmet Field Elem., Barrett Jr. High and June 1944 class of DuPont Manual High School. He was a member of the National Honor Society and Mitre Club, the state champion in 220 yard dash and the 440 yard relay team on well-rounded 1944 state champion DuPont Manual track team. He was selected as Poet Laureate of Senior Class and as senior counselor at YMCA Camp Piomingo. Before graduation from Manual, he volunteered for the Navy, was tested for V-12, and after graduation was assigned to the US Navy V-12 Officer Training Program at Berea College, July 1, 1944. After one year, he was transferred to the Navy V-12 Program at Central Michigan College in Mt. Pleasant, Mich., for one trimester where he earned a letter as halfback on the very excellent 6-1 football team. He was transferred to Navy ROTC at Univ. of Michigan until Dec. 1945; after the war ended, he requested transfer to Great Lakes Boot Camp, then he was assigned to LSM (Landing Ship, Medium) #390 at Sausalito, Calif. He had helmsman and deck crew duty and was acting Pharmacist Mate. On July 1946, he made the memorable trip through the Panama Canal to Mobile, AL for ship decommissioning and Honorable Discharge at St. Louis, Mo., on Aug. 2, 1946. Via the GI Bill, he immediately enrolled at Georgetown College in Ky., where Brad Jones, long-time Manual track coach was the athletic director, track and golf coach. Robert was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, lettered in track and was a member of KIAC State Champion mile relay team, 1947. As a student newspaper sports writer and college Sports Information Director, he sold enough radio advertising to necessitate the construction of the first radio broadcasting booth for the Georgetown College football stadium. He graduated in June of 1948 with a BA in Psychology and Sociology. Robert was blessed and proud to serve as Certified YMCA adult program/membership director for five years in Louisville and in Knoxville, Tenn. In Knoxville, while working full-time at YMCA, he enrolled in evening pre-med classes at UT while applying to the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. He was admitted July, 1955 and graduated Doctor of Medicine in September 1958. While in medical school he was awarded USPHS and Lederle Fellowships for basic research in pharmacology. The last two years he worked every third night or weekend as extern at Baptist Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. He was a member of Phi Rho Sigma Medical Fraternity and was elected Treasurer of the senior class. He had a rotating internship at Midstate Baptist Hospital in Nashville from October 1958 to September 1959. He administered anesthesia for charity surgical cases and OB deliveries and received excellent training by the hospital’s private anesthesiology group and was employed by the group for a month for internship. He then moved to Shelbyville, Ky., where he administered anesthesia most mornings and practiced family medicine in the afternoons. He performed over 2000 anesthetics during the next decade, without any cardiac arrest, anesthetic deaths or complications. After his internship, he primarily practiced anesthesia, family medicine, and part-time occupational medicine at several locations in Kentucky and Tennessee; then from 1971 he practiced full-time occupational medicine as TVA staff physician in Nashville. He was medical director at Chevrolet Assembly plant in Saint Louis; and staff physician in the Medical Dept. at GE Appliance Park in Louisville. November 1975, he again volunteered to serve his country and was commissioned Lt. Colonel in the Air Force, accompanied by his wife, Farra Mai Summers Shipp, who had been employed as a registered nurse at Baptist Hospital ER and in the Medical Department at GE Appliance Park. During his first two years assignment to Hill AFB Hospital in Ogden, Utah, he graduated from the AF Aerospace Medicine Primary Course as Flight Surgeon, then was appointed Asst. Chief of Hospital Services, and in 1977 was promoted to Colonel. He was then assigned to Minot AFB in N.D., as chief hospital services and flight surgeon. For the next ten years he was commander of USAF Hospitals at George AFB in Victorville, Calif.; Hahn AB in Germany; and a marvelous three year assignment to the USAF Clinic at Aviano AB in Italy. For the next six years he was assigned to Andrews AFB in Washington, D.C., as chief Primary Care Clinic and then the Primary Care Clinic at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center in San Antonio. The medical facilities he commanded or directed were recognized for increased productivity and for many innovative policies, enhanced medical staff training and advancements resulting in high quality patient care: the ultimate goal in the practice of medicine. Early in his AF career he was certified by examinations as Diplomate, American Board of Family Practice, 1976-1982; recertified by exam 1982-1989 and 1989-1996. He was also certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support for 10 years. As Flight Surgeon, he was inducted into the Society of Wild Weasels in December, 1981. The Society is a select organization of flyers trained in electronic “seek and destroy” flying missions against missile and anti-aircraft sites, in specially equipped Wild Weasel (fighter) aircraft, F-4G’s at the time. He logged 335 hours flight time in F-4D/G model jet fighters, Huey helicopters and B-52 jet bombers, as a Flight Surgeon. Robert was awarded AF Small Arms Expert Marksman Ribbon; four AF Longevity Service Award Ribbons; two AF Overseas Long Tour Ribbons; a WWII Victory Medal (Navy); WWII American Campaign Medal (Navy); two AF Outstanding Unit Awards; two AF Meritorious Service Medals, and the prestigious AF Legion of Merit Medal. He retired as Colonel, USAF and from the active practice of medicine in Kerrville, TX, January 1, 1994. He was a member of the TN State Board, American Cancer Society (ACS) from 1972-73; KY State Board, ACS, 1974-75; Chairman of the Public Education Committee, ACS in Jefferson Co., Ky., 1974-75; and was a Life Member of American Academy of Family Practice. He served as President of Optimist Clubs in Shelbyville, Ky., in 1960 and in Kingsport, Tenn., in 1962. He authored the medical articles “The Sensible 9-S Diet”, “How to Reduce Your Patient Load and Increase Your Productivity”, and “Breast Examinations with Pap Smears”. He also wrote, “Glenn Draper: His Music Changed Lives”, 233 pp, published by Providence House Publishers, July 2003; and “Mountain Boys to Admirals: The Berea College Navy V-12 Program in WWII”, 238 pp, published by Berea College Printing Service, May 2007. Soon after retiring from the Air Force, he became a Charter Advisory committee member of the nationally recognized Main Street Program of Kerrville, Texas. He also actively served on the Berea College Navy V-12 Memorial Scholarship Award Fund Executive Committee for many years, serving as Chairperson for four years. As a result of the fundraising among former Berea V-12er’s, Berea College annually awards two senior students, cost-of-education Navy V-12/V-5 scholarships. Dr. Shipp and his wife, Farra Mai Summers Shipp, resided in Kerrville, Texas, from 1991 until returning to Louisville in January 2005. He was a member of Broadway Baptist Church, always enjoying their excellent choir. He became a Tennessee Squire in April, 1962 and a Kentucky Colonel in November 1975. Surviving him are Farra Mai Summers Shipp, his ever-forgiving, loving wife and best friend of over 40 years; daughters Robyn, Marty, Holly, and Greer; son Robert H. Jr.; sister, Pat Shipp Scott (Tom); and five grandchildren.

Dr. Robert L. Edwards ’46 — July 28, 2019

Dr. Robert Lee Edwards, 97, entered into eternal life on Sunday, July 28, 2019. Through service in the military, dedication to scholarship, education and fatherhood he epitomized the very best qualities of America’s Greatest Generation.

He was born in Barnardsville, Buncombe County, N.C., in 1922, the son of Barnard Lee Edwards and Cleopatra Cleveland Bartlett Edwards. After graduating from Barnardsville High School in 1939, he entered Berea College in Berea, Ky., to pursue an agricultural curriculum.

Robert’s college career was interrupted by the United States’ entry into the Second World War. He was called to active duty in early 1943 and underwent training to become a ground crew navigational radar specialist serving B-24 Liberator heavy bombers. He was deployed to Rackheath, Norfolk, UK in the European Theater of Operations and assigned to the 789th Squadron, 467th Bombardment Group (Heavy), 8th Army Air Force. His efforts supported critical air strikes against the Axis war machine in Germany, France and Belgium.

Following his honorable discharge from the US Army Air Force in late 1945, Robert returned to Berea College to complete a Bachelor of Science degree, which was awarded in 1946. There he met Dorothy Elizabeth Baldwin of Fletcher, N.C., to whom he was married on June 3, 1951. During the years between his graduation at Berea and Marriage, he taught Vocational Agriculture for one year in Haywood County, NC and then for five years in his home county of Buncombe (at Leicester, High School). Through the GI Bill, he subsequently enrolled at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C., in 1952 where he received both a Master of Science (1954) and Ph.D. in Animal Science (1958).

Upon completion of his Ph.D., Robert joined the faculty at Clemson University where he taught and conducted research for the next three decades. He participated in a number of professional organizations and in faculty advisory capacities including Block & Bridle, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. He was a fellow in the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), a lifetime member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and served two terms as president of the local chapter. He lectured and presented research results at a number of universities across the US. His rigorous approach to scholarship was equaled only by his witty self-deprecating sense of humor. Dr. Edwards was a mentor to thousands of students and each of the graduate students he advised became an extension of his own family during their time at the University. He was an intense fan of Clemson football. He attended every home game for more than 50 years, seated an arm’s length from the Tigers’ sideline, and ceased attendance only after his declining health made the journey to the stadium impossible.

Following his retirement in 1986, he remained engaged in a number of pursuits. He was active for five decades in the Clemson Lions Club, where he served in several official capacities (including one term as president) and was a faithful member of Clemson United Methodist Church, where he frequently volunteered. His principal hobby in free time was gardening and he tended to two large vegetable garden plots in Clemson, from which, his wife Dorothy cooked, canned, preserved and pickled a variety of crop bounties.

In retirement, he and his wife traveled often – visiting most of the continental US, Canada and Western Europe. In his later years he enjoyed the company of good books, puzzles, good friends and his family – especially his grandson, Andrew.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Dorothy Elizabeth Edwards and his brother James Roy Edwards. He is survived by his son, John Robert Edwards (Virginia Stroud) of Greenville, S.C.; and a grandson, Andrew John Edwards. Other survivors include sisters-in-law, June Settle Edwards, Francis Baldwin Hoots and families of three nieces and two nephews.

Gerald G. Elmore ’46 — July 9, 2018

Gerald Gene “Jerry” Elmore was born in Dallas, Texas, on January 20, 1927, to Elba Winfield Elmore and Mary Serena Blackstone Elmore. He passed peacefully from this earthly life to his heavenly reward at 91 years of age on July 9, 2018, with his loving wife of more than 70 years, his two daughters, and other beloved family members at his side.

Jerry met the love of his life, Steloise Averitt, at Southwest Church of Christ when they were both young children. They reconnected when Jerry returned from serving in the U.S. Navy at the end of WWII. They were married on Nov. 25, 1947, in Los Angeles, Calif. Jerry graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business from George Pepperdine College in 1949, and completed a master’s degree in Religious Education at Pepperdine University in 1975. After completing his active duty service, Jerry proudly served 20 years in the Naval Reserve, reaching the rank of Lt. Commander before his retirement. Jerry and Stel lived in Bakersfield, Calif., for more than 60 years, where they raised their three children and were engaged in many community activities. Jerry served faithfully as an elder of the Central Church of Christ for more than 42 years, where he was a much-loved Bible teacher and mentor to many. Jerry spent most of his professional life working as a stockbroker, retiring from Dean Witter Reynolds. They moved to Abilene in 2004, and were active members of Highland Church of Christ, serving in various ministry roles through the years.

Jerry loved God, his wife, his children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren passionately. He was a devoted husband and a generous, wise and loving father, modeling Godly living for all those around him. He had a sharp wit and a dry sense of humor right to the end of his life. He enjoyed spending time along the California coastline, hiking in the high Sierras, trout fishing and traveling the world with Stel. He took great delight in a good meal shared with family or friends, and often ate his dessert first…especially if it was peanut butter pie or some dark chocolate. He was a man who openly spoke of his love for each of us and expressed his gratitude for his family often. His was a life very well lived and he will be deeply missed until we are together again.

His parents, his sister, Joan Elmore Chase, and his beloved son, Lawrence Averitt Elmore, preceded Jerry in death. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Steloise; daughter Lora Sue Walker and husband, Wayne, daughter Cheryl Elmore Cunningham and husband, Rob; eight grandchildren, Lyndsay Elmore Warren (Dylan), Chase Elmore (Cherith), Daily Elmore, Kelsey Elmore Taitano (Jordan), Justin Walker (Jennifer), Julie Walker McWilliams (Darren), Lauren Cunningham and Grant Cunningham (Laura); and eleven great-grandchildren.

David A Douglass ’47 — May 20, 2017

Obituary Unavailable

Ralph S. Wolfe

 Husband of Gretka Wolfe ’47

Ralph Stoner Wolfe, 97, of Urbana passed away at 8:35 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at Meadowbrook Health Center in Urbana.

Ralph was born on July 18, 1921 in New Windsor, Md., to parents Marshall and Jennie (Weybright) Wolfe. They preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were his siblings; Noami Ardinger and Galen Wolfe.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years Gretka (Young) Wolfe; they were married on Sept. 9, 1950 in Abbeville, S.C.

Also surviving are their children; Daniel (Lynette) Wolfe of Coventry, RI, Jon (Karen) Wolfe of Greentown, Ind., and Suzanne (James) May of Summerfield, Ohio. Four grandchildren and one great grandson also survive him.

Ralph completed his graduate work in 1953 at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and began his scientific career in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Illinois. He taught a course in which students isolated and cultivated microbes from various natural environments. His research interests concerned a special group of microbes that produce methane in environments without oxygen. His graduate students found a simple way to grow these microbes and discovered new enzymes and vitamins that these cells use to produce methane.

In experiments with Carl Woese these methane-forming microbes were discovered by Woese to be the first members of a third division of life, the Archaea.

Ralph was elected to the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and to the Center for Advanced Study at the University. He was awarded the Selman Wachsman Award by the National Academy of Sciences, the Carski Distinguished Teaching Award, the Abbott Lifetime Achievement Award and the Proctor and Gamble Award in Environmental Microbiology by the American Society for Microbiology.

Myrtle Barrett Atchley ’48 — May 18, 2019

Myrtle Barrett Atchley, 96, of Louisville, Ky., passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2019.

She was born on August 5, 1922 in London, Ky., the late William Barrett and Daisy Parker Barrett. She is preceded in death by her husband, Shurl Atchley; son, William Atchley, daughter, Karin Tyler; and her seven siblings.

Myrtle is survived by her loving daughter, Lisa Kirkpatrick (Steve); grandchildren, William Atchley, Joey Atchley and Barbara Dewees; four great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

Joe E. Haven ’48 — Sept. 4, 2019

Joe Haven, 92, of Lebanon, died Wednesday September 4, 2019. Born October 25, 1926 in Ashland, Ky., to Bill and Dora (nee: Bolen) Haven, he was a US Army veteran serving briefly in WWII. A graduate of Berea College and the University of Cincinnati, Joe was a teacher for 32 years, serving in the Lebanon Public School system and Kettering Public School System from which he retired in 1983. A member of the Lebanon Presbyterian Church, Joe was a tutor for many years at the Warren County Adult New Readers organization. Joe loved the arts. He was a director for many school plays and community plays and musicals; as well as volunteering his time in the church office for many years.

Preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 48 years, Marian (nee: Doll) Haven, he is survived by his daughter and son in law, Ann and Scott Thompson of Anderson Township and two grandsons, Jake and Kurt Thompson.

Catherine Cavalier Davidson ’49 — May 21, 2019

Our beloved Mother, Catherine Cavalier Snyder Davidson, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 in Boone, NC.

Catherine was born Nov. 17, 1926, in Sparta, Ill., to the late Frank Cavalier and Geneva Dewitt Cavalier. She was Mother to Margaret Snyder Stumb (C. L. Stumb aka Curly), Blowing Rock, NC.; Mary Snyder (Tommy Fondren), Durham, N.C.; and Charles Michael Snyder, Durham, N.C.; and Grandmother to Aaron, Eric, and Adam Stumb, Michael and David Fondren, and Olivia and Ava Snyder. She was the older sister to seven siblings, including two who preceded her in death (Robert Cavalier, Corryton, Tenn.; and Ronnie Cavalier [Gladys], Sparta, Ill.). Her remaining siblings include Mary Cavalier (John [Jack] Kent), Huntington Beach, Calif.; Richard Cavalier (Doris), Sparta, Ill.; Frank Cavalier (Patricia), Santa Cruz, CA; Jane Magill, Paris, Ky.; Caroline Cavalier (Mike Gilpin), Springfield, Ill. Catherine was wife to Charles M. Snyder (deceased) and Joe Davidson (deceased).

Berea College, Berea, KY, was Catherine’s alma mater and is where she met her husband Charles. She was a proud member and officer of The American Association of University Women for many years. By example, she instilled in her children the desire to seek knowledge, to love nature and to cherish the beauty of this earth.

Catherine was a long time resident of Morganton, N.C., before her move to Charlotte, N.C. She spent several of her last years with her daughter, Mary, in Durham, before her more recent move to Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living in Boone, N.C. During her life she was a member of Saint Charles Borromeo, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Holy Infant. She valued her church and lived as a faithful servant. Her volunteer work gave her great satisfaction, particularly the visitation program for residents at Broughton Hospital. She loved to make the world a more beautiful place. She did this by adding her lovely voice to her church and various community choirs. Her planting and care of flowers exemplified in symbolic expression her love for the people around her. She could be counted on for knowing the common and Latin names of most flowers. Many will remember her raucous laughter ringing out with enthusiasm.

Printess W. England ’49 — March 21, 2019

Printess W. England, 96, of Hayesville passed away Thursday, March 21, 2019 in a Clay County care center. He was born in Yancey County, North Carolina and served in the United States Army. Printess was a World War II veteran, working as a pharmacy technician in the European Theatre. Following the war, he returned to Berea College, where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science. He married Edith Arrowood on December 23, 1949 before moving to Ashe County, North Carolina, where he taught agriculture. He served as mayor of West Jefferson. Printess worked as a county extension agent in Madison County before moving to Clay County in 1964, where he continued to work with the Agricultural Extension office until his retirement. He was a faithful member of Truett Memorial First Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. He was also a member of the Hayesville VFW Post 6812, Lion’s Club, and served on the Town Planning Board and Rural Development Program.

He was the son of the late Gay and Elle Westall England and the husband of the late Edith Arrowood England, who died March 22, 2004. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Artie Keith.

Surviving are a daughter, Nancy Kay Andrews and husband, Rick of Hayesville; three sons, Steven C. England, Maurice W. England, and William G. “Bill” England and wife, Benita, all of Hayesville; a sister, Lillian Davis of Hendersonville, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Brandy Joyner, and Jared and Brett England; five great grandchildren, Will, Amelia, Jackson, Edith, and Alexandria; and several nieces and nephews.

Mabel Pollard Hawkins ’49 — Apr. 1, 2017

Mabel Pollard Hawkins, age 91, of Chase City, Va., passed away on Saturday, April 1, 2017. She was predeceased by her parents, Jesse Witt Pollard and Julia Ethel Pollard, husband, Warren Ross Hawkins, siblings Lewis Pollard, Helen Yearout, Jessie P. Richards, sons-in-law, James Nichols and Chip O’Brien and mother-in-law, Dorothy Warren Hawkins.

Mabel is survived by her children, Suzanne H. Stephens and husband Jack, Denise H. Terry and husband Amos, David R. Hawkins and wife Martha, grandchildren, Angela N. Grant and husband Clay, Kimberly Hawkins and fiancé Derek Bailey, Linda Stephens, Emily Stephens, sister-in-law Jane Hawkins, nieces, Cecilia Richards, Jackie Richards, Julie Meador and husband John, nephew, Ted Richards and wife Kelly and cousin, Margaret Smith.

Mabel was a devoted wife, loving mother and raised three children. She was a long time member of Saint John’s Episcopal Church in Chase City, Va. She taught Sunday school, worked in Altar Guild, Flower Guild, the church office, became a lay reader and was the church treasurer for several years. She served on the Vestry, was a member of the Episcopal Church Women and sang in the choir. She was a member of the Fortnightly Club, The Women’s Club of Chase City, The Cedar Crest Women’s Club, and Mecklenburg Country Club. She worked as Treasurer, the front desk receptionist, exhibit judge and ticket seller for the South Central Fair. She volunteered with the Food Pantry. She volunteered as librarian, prepared lunches at Chase City Academy and was a member of the parent teacher organization. She volunteered at the Mecklenburg County Educational Foundation food booth at the South Central Fair. She enjoyed reading, gardening, knitting and sewing.

Nancy E. Latham ’49 — March 20, 2019

Obituary Unavailable

W. Samuel McNeil Jr. ’49 — May 22, 2019

William S. “Sam” McNeil, Jr. 91, passed away on May 22, 2019 at his home.

McNeil was born in Asheville, North Carolina on Jan. 31, 1928. He graduated from Sand Hill High School and attended Berea College in Berea, Ky., graduating in June 1949 with a degree in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. During his college years, he ran cross country and was captain of the cross country team his senior year. He moved to Lonoke County, Ark., the summer after his college graduation and went to work for Jeff and Merle Fletcher to train to manage their farming operation. The operation consisted of some 40 families and approximately 90 mules at that time. After the death of Mr. Fletcher, McNeil continued to work for Mrs. Merle until 1968, when he purchased the farm equipment and cattle operation from her and began renting her farm land.

McNeil was active in his early years in many community and agricultural activities. He was a 50-year Mason, a long-time member of the Arkansas Farm Bureau, the Agricultural Council of Arkansas, the Lonoke County Equalization Board, and Lonoke County Drainage District No. 5. He also served as a member of the board of directors of the Arkansas Plantation Agriculture Museum in Scott, was a member of both the Arkansas and National Cattlemen’s Association and Ducks Unlimited. He was also a Justice of the Peace for Fletcher Township. He was a long-time member of and served as a deacon of First Presbyterian Church in Lonoke. McNeil and his family were the 1991 Lonoke County and District Farm Family of the Year. He was a conservationist and devout steward of the land. For 70 years, he successfully raised, cultivated, and harvested his crops in southeast Lonoke County. He was fond of saying that the best crop he ever raised was his four children.

He met Sara Ann “Sally” Rogers in 1960, and they were married from 1961 until Sally’s death in January 2006. The couple enjoyed traveling together and with their children.

In addition to his first wife, he was also preceded in death by his parents, William Samuel “Mac” McNeil Sr. and Sarah Crowell McNeil, his sister, Mary Ann McNeil Garren, his second wife, Betty McElrath McNeil, and a stepson, Gordon “Gordy” Tarter Jr. He is survived by his wife, Juanita “Jackie” Taylor Tarter McNeil.

McNeil is also survived by his children, daughter Sara Elizabeth McNeil (John Bentley “Jack” Zibluk), son, Bill McNeil (Myra), son, Roger McNeil (Reagan), and daughter, Mary Ann McNeil Schoeffler (William Hamilton Schoeffler), stepdaughter, Jan Pasley (Mike Pasley), grandchildren, Jackson (Kendall) McNeil, Emma McNeil, Mac McNeil, Morgan McNeil, Will McNeil, Sara Catherine McNeil “Kate” Zibluk, William Witherspoon “Whit” Schoeffler and Samuel McNeil “Sam” Schoeffler and numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Lena Rosselott ’49 — May 19, 2019

Lena Melvin Hardin Rosselott, 92, returned to our Heavenly Father on May 19, 2019 at The Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center in Gillette, Wyo.

Lena was born in her Grandparents farm house on July 24, 1926 to Bennett and Lena Price Hardin in Oil Springs, Ky. Raised during the Great Depression in Cincinnati, Ohio, she was the oldest of five children from humble beginnings. Her siblings include: Virginia (Jerald) Whitley (mother of Tim, Danny, Matt, & John), John (Marian) Hardin (father of Johnny & Keith), Harry (Jayetta) Hardin (father of Jeff & Duane), and Mary Ann (Don) Morgan (mother of David & William). Harry and John preceded their sister in passing.

Lena grew up on the outskirts of Cincinnati, Ohio (Madeira) before graduating High school in 1944 in Wheelersburg, Ohio. Lena put herself through college by means of a Work Study Program and completed her teaching degree from Berea College, Ky., in 1949. She loved teaching 1st grade children. While living in Owensville, Ohio, she met and fell in love with Millard Cyril (MC) Rosselott,  and they were married on June 9^th, 1950. Millard succeeded in pulling her away from her school kids, but she never gave up her love of children and teaching. She had two children of her own. Born from that union were MC Rosselott, II (1951) and Patricia (Patty) Ann Rosselott (1952).

With her growing children off to school, Lena started a second career in finances and investments which led to her working with her husband at the First National Bank in Sardinia, Ohio. She started as a teller and eventually worked every position up to the Vice President of the Board of Directors. Her husband had worked his way to become the President of that bank and Lena’s duties there grew through the years. Upon his death, Lena became the President of the bank in 1971. She eventually became a Regional Board Director of Bank One Corporation (now J.P. Morgan Chase). Being a successful business woman and having always placed a high value on education, Lena also served as a trustee at Chatfield College in St. Martin, Ohio where there is still a scholarship in her name. Upon retirement she focused on family extensively.

When not spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, Lena enjoyed traveling, participating in art classes, walking in nature, watching “Jeopardy” and attending the Methodist Church whenever possible. Lena was a generous woman to all that she met, giving of her time, her talent and her treasure to many causes great and small.

Lena’s son MC married Deborah Kay Fist and together they had six children: M.C. “Boomer”(Jessie) Rosselott, III (father of M.C. IV & June), Jeremy (Devery) Rosselott (father of Kaleb, Jovenai, & Jaxon), Ryan (Amanda) Rosselott (father of Bo & Wyatt), Miranda (Donnie) Distler (mother of Kade, Dawson, & Barrett), Clint (Jill) Rosselott (father of Hayden & Raegan), and Marissa (Michael) McGuire (mother of Summer & Heath). Lena’s daughter Patty married Franklin Emory Bliss and together they had one son, Christopher Bliss. Fourteen great grandchildren and counting from seven grandchildren!

Lena loved spending time with her grandchildren and they enjoyed taking turns staying with her. She took great joy in introducing them to the City of Cincinnati. She was a patron of the arts and a champion of education. She enjoyed sharing plays and musicals, trips to the library, the zoo, the movies and miniature golf with them just to name a few. Countless stories have been read and re-told to amazed, wide-eyed greats and grandchildren, and countless hours of joy given in her lap to those growing minds.

In 1999, Lena followed her children from Ohio to Bozeman, Montana where she lived for a decade before eventually moving to the Primrose Retirement Community in Gillette, Wyoming. There she enjoyed the good friendship of many others within that community and was centrally located to have family scattered around the area easily visit which we did, often.

Lena was a shining star standing far above others. Her love and tender care will be sorely missed by all that got to know and love her. She was a strong, intelligent, independent woman who never had a bad thing to say about anyone. She lived life to the fullest and made you want to be the best version of yourself. All of us are less for her passing. She showed us how to live and love, and in turn she was dearly loved and will be deeply missed. Her family is her legacy and we have some mighty big shoes to fill. May her stories and memories be passed on. Loving family was surrounding her at her last. On her wall hung a favorite plaque: “There are only two lasting bequests you can give to our children, “One is roots and the other is wings.”

Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” John 14:1-2

Maxine Chadwell Smothers ’49 — Feb. 15, 2019

Maxine Chadwell Smothers, beloved daughter, wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. Maxine was a very kind and loving mother, grandmother and friend. She was devoted to her family, deeply religious, and extremely generous.

Maxine was born in Ewing, Virginia but spent most of her childhood in Middlesboro, Kentucky. Influenced by her grandfather, Rev. Albert L. Chadwell, Maxine became a Christian at an early age. Rev. Chadwell was a Baptist Circuit Preacher serving four churches on horseback in the Cumberland Gap area. While residing in Palm Springs, Maxine belonged to Our Savior’s Community Church.

Maxine attended Berea College in Kentucky from 1940 to 1944. At Berea, she finished her last two years of high school and started college. After her children were grown, she continued her education at Golden West and Chapman College earning an AA degree and a RN degree. She worked for 15 years as a Psychiatric RN at Desert Hospital.

Maxine was predeceased by her parents, W. Lon Chadwell and Ola Edith Chadwell, her brother, Eugene Chadwell and her late husband of 53 years, Jack Bruce Smothers.

Survivors include her three children, Rodney E. Smothers (Shalah) of Norman, OK, Cynthia A. Courtney (Keith) of Winter Garden, FL and Melinda S. Briggs (Roger) of Escondido, CA, granddaughters, Katherine A. (Courtney) Scheer, Leigh A. Smothers, Elaine E. (Smothers) Marshall and grandsons William K. Courtney, Jr., and Ches E. Courtney, great-grandchildren, Kylie B. Routson, Cade A. Scheer and Courtney A. Scheer.

Estill Barger ’50 — June 8, 2019

Estill Barger, 90, passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2019.

He was born on July 11, 1928 in Squabble Creek, Ky., to Ance and Alpha Barger. Estill was retired from Tube Turns where he worked as a Tool and Die Maker.

He is preceded in death by his Parents and Brothers, Homer, Elmer, Amel, Chester, Ralph, and Burley Barger.

Estill is survived by his loving Wife of 52 years, Doris Jean Barger, Step-Daughter, Terri Rae Riordan, Step-Son, Phillip Edward (Nancy) Riordan, step-daughter, Laura Denise (Ronnie) Harrell, step-son, Michael Scott (Jane) Riordan, siblings, Charlie Barger and Thelma Barger Cordell, nine grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

Elizabeth Caldwell Frost ’50 — June 6, 2019

Elizabeth (Betty) Frost, age 94, of McDonough, Ga., entered glory on June 6, 2019. Betty was born in Washington, Iowa and joined the Navy for two years prior to entering nursing school. She was very active in her church, her sewing group “Loving Hands” and loved her “Birthday Girls.” She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Frost and four siblings.

She is survived by two children, Jenny and Harold Jenkins of  McDonough and Jim and Leslee Frost of Johns Creek; grandchildren, Doug Jenkins, Beth Grant, Drew Jenkins and Jamie Frost; seven great-grandchildren, Sydney Grant, Sasha Grant, Sawyer Grant, Elina Jenkins, Vivi Jenkins, Josephine Jenkins, Lendy Jenkins and a brother, David Caldwell of Sumter, S.C.

Harriet Lilly Reynolds ’50 — July 9, 2019

Harriet Magdelina Lilly Reynolds, 91, of Bluefield, formerly of Spanishburg, died peacefully, Tuesday, July 10, 2019 at the Maples in Bluefield. Born March 14, 1928 in Spanishburg, she was the daughter of the late James Robert and Mattie Agnes Wikle Lilly. Harriet was a loving daughter, sister and friend.  She retired as a dietician at Ohio Valley Medical Center. Harriet enjoyed crossword puzzles and reading. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Dora Elizabeth Lilly Makszuz. Left to cherish her memory are her brother, James R. “Jimmy” Lilly of Spanishburg and a foster brother, Steve Justice, of Spokane, Wash.

Charles Maurice Wesley ’51 — Aug. 13, 2019

Charles Maurice Wesley was born in Pulaski County on June 5, 1927 the second son of William Thomas and Gertrude Butt Wesley. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 51 years Ruth Kirkpatrick Wesley, brothers Harold Wesley, Vernon Wesley and sister Helen Wesley. He is survived by two sons, Kirk Wesley, Erik (Traci) Wesley; three grandchildren, Emily Stringer, Perry Wesley, Benjamin Wesley; step grandson Josh Dye; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and church family.

Charles earned a B.A. from Berea College and an M.A. from the University of Kentucky and completed studies in Counseling, Community Development and Management. President Harry S. Truman integrated the U.S. Army, and Charles was in the first 16 weeks of that landmark decision joining the 87th Infantry Training Division Company at Fort Riley, Kansas. He served in the Korean War with the 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division and was at the battle of White Horse Mountain when the Communist Chinese and North Korean Communists were stopped on their last push south before the signing of the ceasefire at Panmunjom. For his service, he was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, The Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, and the United Nations Service Medal.

Returning home, he taught one year at Shady Grove, a one room school in Pulaski County, English and History at Pulaski County High School, English at Somerset High School and History at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

In the summers of 1955 and 1956, he was in Paul Green’s Wilderness Road celebrating Berea College’s Centennial. He met his wife at the Christmas Country Dance School and they enjoyed 55 years of dancing in the New Year with their friends. At the 1958 Berea College Homecoming, he was encouraged by his Political Science Professor, Dr. Louis Smith to join the Save the Children Appalachian Program as Area Consultant with an office in Berea. He was appointed Director in 1966. At that time, Save the Children worked with over 500 one-room schools in Eastern Kentucky, Eastern Tennessee and West Virginia with a methodology of Community Development and Learning by Doing. Parents and teachers were given a budget to help them make plans for their children and school. Funds were used to purchase school supplies, wire the school for electricity, drill water wells so children did not need to carry water from springs and have safe drinking water and to purchase stoves with an automatic coal stoker so children and teachers arrived at a warm classroom and to help build playgrounds. A special fund was available for parents who wished to start a hot lunch program. Later, to help with the transition to high school, the Berea office started a Scholarship Program that provided funds for clothes, shoes and books. Five hundred to one thousand were awarded each year. To encourage gardens, potatoes and seeds were provided by way of a fund. Finally, teachers and parents were trained in fundraising to help advocate for their children and their schools.

In the summer of 1967, Charles worked in the Training Department in Connecticut, and with the Community Development Foundation on a training course for the Appalachian Program. The Berea program received training contracts from the Office of Economic Opportunity for Elliott County, East Lake Cumberland, Barren River, Athens and Nashville, Tennessee, a training contract for the State of Georgia for a Young Families Program in all of Georgia’s Appalachian counties. In addition, a training contract with the Cherokees Indian Tribe in North Carolina and with the South West Indians at the University of Arizona, Tucson. Finally, a training contract with West Virginia Head Start, and a Kentucky contract for training VISTA workers at the Lincoln Institute.

Charles also served on a team that did program evaluations in Latin America, Columbia and
Ecuador. After Hurricane Camille, he was assigned to Hattiesburg, Miss., to help with the allocation of funds from non-governmental organizations.

Charles was invited twice to the White House. President Carter invited Charles and Dallas Johnson, Director of the American Indian Program to help with the UNESCO 1979 Internal Year of the Child. Charles helped organize and plan the Appalachian Child Conference held on the Berea College Campus, and attended the American Indian Child Conference held in Phoenix, Arizona. The White House Curator saw an Appalachian Cherry Pattern quilt from Save the Children Program and wanted one for one of the White House’s queen beds. Mrs. Nixon wrote that if a queen size cherry pattern quilt would be donated, she would invite 10 staff members including the two quilters, Bertha Hensley and Dolly Bowling from Owsley County for a tour of the White House and a press conference where the quilt would be shown. Later, there were cookies, coffee and tea in the Library.

The Appalachian Program received an Oprah Winfrey grant that, together with the funds from the estate of Francis Davis and a Memorial Fund for Kip French provided a grant to the Start Up Fund for the Eastern Kentucky Child Coalition, a Day Care Center in White Oak, Tenn., a Day Care Center in Whitley County, a Head Start Center in Lincoln County, W. Va., a Day Care Center in Clay County, an addition for handicapped children at the Sunshine Day Care Center in Harlan County, and a Head Start Center in Letcher County.

After retirement, Charles and Ruth went on 35 Elderhostel Programs and visited Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Canada and South Korea. They enjoyed taking their two sons, and later their grandchildren to plays, musical programs and historical places in Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Charles loved working in the garden with lots of flowers, reading and studying at home some of the Greatest Professors in The Great Courses Program. He is a member of Union Church and an Honorary Life Deacon. He served on the Berea Hospital Board and the Policy Committee of the Christmas Country Dance School. He received the Berea College Service Award, Save the Children Service Award in 1982 and 1995. He is a life member of the American Legion, a Kentucky Colonel, a member of the Berea Arts Council, The Kentucky Historical Society, the American Horticultural Society, the Country Dance and Song Society, KET Fund for Excellence, a Life Member of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association, The Wildcat Society and the Berea College President’s and Second Century Club.

Lois Jolley Atwood ’52 — Nov. 17, 2018

Lois Atwood 1929-2018 Lois passed peacefully on Saturday, November 17, 2018. She had been surrounded by her family and friends. She was born in the mountains of North Carolina, one of nine children. She is survived by her two children, Linda Miller and Ron Atwood, and her daughter in law, Jennie Atwood and her two grandchildren, Charlie and Lainey Atwood.

Estill Cornett ’52

Obituary Unavailable

Donna White Johnson ’52 — June 25, 2019

Donna White Johnson of Tullahoma passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at the age of 89. She was born January 19, 1930 in Hazard, KY to the late James and Loretta Abner White. Donne was the oldest of four children including Charles (deceased), James, and Nola (deceased). in 1952, Donna earned her degree in Nursing from Berea College. Later that same year she married Joe Johnson Jr. They enjoyed 42 years of marriage in Owensboro, KY before Joe’s passing in 1994. Immediate family survivors include son, Charles Joseph Johnson (Jennifer) of Youngston, OH; daughter Susan Johnson Vining (Charles) of Tullahoma, TN; grandsons Morgan and Reid Vining; and granddaughters Hope and Lexie Johnson, and Hannah, Megan, and Laura Vining.Not only was Donna a beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother, she was also a dedicated registered nurse at Owensboro-Daviess County Hospital (ODCH), She worked as a surgical, obstetrics and delivery, and nursery nurse. For ten years she taught obstetrics at the ODCH School of Nursing. She closed out her career in In-Service. Her proudest professional accomplishment was instructing 350 nursing students who later became registered nurses, and training hundreds of other caregivers including aides, orderlies, and clerks. Donna was a devoted Christian and dedicated volunteer to several churches and community organizations. She was an active member of the Central Presbyterian and First Presbyterian Churches in Owensboro, KY, and First United Methodist Church in Tullahoma. She served the Lord as a Stephen Minister, children’s and adult Sunday school teacher, Elder, committee member, adult choir member, and lifelong Bible student. She especially enjoyed studying the Bible and developing cherished friendships over the last 20 years with the FUMC Ladies Wednesday morning Bible study group. Donna also served as a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, KY Kidney Foundation, and Salvation Army.

James Frank Cheney ’52 — Aug. 8, 2019

James (Jim) Frank Cheney, age 89 of New Albany, Ohio died August 08, 2019 peacefully at his home with his daughter by his side. Jim was born in Berlin Germany and, at age nine, went to Shanghai with his family as refugees from the Nazis. Jim, whose last name was Stoerck at the time, was adopted at age 11 by Frank “Unc” Cheney after the death of his mother in China. Jim traveled to and lived in India with the Cheney family before coming to the United States in 1946. Jim attended Berea College, was naturalized in 1952 and proudly served as a Veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He married his beautiful wife Ruth LaDell in 1957 and they spent 51 happy years together. Jim will be forever remembered by his son Steve (Terri) and daughter Linda (Jeff) as well as grandchildren Chadd, April, Katie and great-grandson Julien.

Albert McKinley Craig ’53 — May 28, 2019

Albert M. Craig, Jr., age 89, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2019. He attended Berea College and graduated from the University of Tennessee. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy where he served as a diver. He was retired from the Department of Energy where he worked as a computer systems analyst. Albert enjoyed the Smoky Mountains and spending time there in his chalet. He particularly loved traveling across the country with his wife. Preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Ethel Craig, his brother Jackie Craig, his sister Dorothy Elliott, and his loving wife of 66 years Kathryn Moyers Craig. Survived by his children Albert Craig, III (Karen), Sharon Mills (Ken), Shannon Gilroy (Bob) and Charles Craig (Traci); 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Inez Moss May ’53 — Nov. 9, 2016

Inez Moss May, 89, of Black Mountain passed away Wednesday, November 9, 2016. Mrs. May was born July 14, 1927 in Henderson County near the Pisgah National Forest to the late Rev. W.R. and Mrs. Lala Allen Moss. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by one sister and three brothers. Mrs. May is survived by her husband of 62 years, William “David” May; daughter, Lala Bowman (Jim) of Columbia, SC; brother, R.V. Moss; and grandsons, Ian and Aidan Buckley.

Rev. Fr. Nicholas Nichols ’53 — June 3, 2019

We are sad to announce that on June 3, 2019, at the age of 87, Reverend Father Nicholas Francis Nichols (Palm Harbor, Florida) passed away. He was loved and cherished by many people including: his wife Helen Nichols; his children, Karen Nichols-Gauquier and Raymond Nichols; his granddaughters, Alessandra Gauquier and Samantha Nichols; his sister Stella Bafitis.

Arlene Will Rhodes ’53 — June 24, 2018

Arlene Rhodes, beloved wife of Frank Rhodes, dear mother of Frank Rhodes and his wife Brenda and Tina Franz, cherished grandmother of Whitney Rhodes, Christopher Rhodes, Taylor Rhodes, Jacob Franz and the late Zachery Franz, loving great grandmother of Elliott, Reese, Olivia, Gunner, Daniel, Caleb and Bennett and dear sister of Mildred Everly, Bernice Garba and Katie Radebush.

Josephine Kite Roth ’53 — June 25, 2019

Evelyn Josephine “Jo” Roth, 89, passed away, June 25, 2019, in Stillwater, Oklahoma.
She was born in Lafollette, Tennessee to parents Robert Guy and Zola Florence Kite. She graduated from high school in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and received a bachelor’s degree from Berea College, Kentucky. Jo worked as a Registered Dietitian with the majority of her career performing consulting work for Project Heart and many community nursing homes and small hospitals in Central Oklahoma. Many hours were spent in the kitchen creating and perfecting recipes. Her family was often taste testers for her many delicious desserts. After retirement, Jo enjoyed spending time gardening and helping with her grandchildren including several families of adopted grandchildren. She also continued to cook and could always be counted on to bring a new and different recipe along with her famous pecan pie to holiday gatherings. Jo also loved to travel with her husband to many countries throughout the world as well as with relatives and colleagues. Jo was predeceased in death by her husband, Lawrence O. “Larry” Roth whom she married in 1954; her parents; sisters, Cordia Sweat, Anna Mae Medlin, Rose Kite; brothers, Cecil Kite, Basil Kite, and Kenneth Kite. She is survived by son, Richard Roth; daughter, Karen Sebring; grandchildren, Chad, Badrakh, Harrison and Robert; daughter-in-law Sara Roth, son-in-law Keven McVay; sister, Betty Ziemke, and brother John Kite, along with her loving extended family, dear friends and neighbors. Jo was loved and respected by friends and family; she will be forever and dearly missed.

Jack Ambrose, Husband of Corenna Ambrose ’54

Jack Franklin Ambrose passed away at Bowers Hospice House on June 8, 2019, at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his two grandsons, Todd Smith, and Ty Meckstroth. Jack is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Corenna Ambrose; three daughters, Debbie (Jim) Pauley, Jackie (Rick) Meckstroth and Jamye (Jim) Elkins; a brother, Bobby (Ginger) Ambrose; grandchildren, Kristin (Chris) Heldman, Trey (Cassie) Pauley, Colin Pauley, Rikki Meckstroth, Nikki (Freddie) Wisen, and Josh Holliday and fiance’ Angel Kirk; eight great-grandchildren, Jay, Aaron, Deacon and Luke Pauley, Abby and Kaitlyn Heldman, Alex Blankenship, and Samara Holliday. Jack was born in Berea, KY on February 23, 1931. He was the son of the late Nell and Mark Ambrose. Jack will always be remembered as a food salesman in the Beckley, W. Va., area, spending his later years in food delivery at Little Debbie® snack cakes. Jack enjoyed his time as a volunteer for many years at the Helping Hands Food Pantry. He was also a member of Grace Baptist Church. Jack’s body was donated to the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Lillie Bryan Brewer ’54

Her tombstone reads, “Love is a verb” and the life she lived demonstrated it.
Lillie Dean Bryan Brewer passed peacefully into heaven on March 7, 2019. She had been residing at her home surrounded by those who loved her, and whom she taught to love.
She good-naturedly endured the nickname “Dinky” due to her diminutive size, but her impact on the lives of those around her was anything but small. She was a lifelong learner, attending Berea College and earning a nursing degree from Rex Hospital and an Education Specialist degree from Appalachian State University. She was a devotee of The Great Courses, enjoying them on her iPad for years. She was an Emergency Room registered nurse at Rex Hospital and was credited by many young residents for helping them learn their way around emergency medicine. She worked energetically right up until the day she delivered her son, the “miracle baby” she was not supposed to have been able to have due to her thyroid cancer. Soon after her son was born in 1958, the place where she worked became her treatment center. She survived cancer that time and lived another 60 years. Some people credited her boundless energy with the thyroid medication that she had to take every day for the rest of her life. However, her family knew that her vim and vigor pre-existed her illness. She was a reading and English teacher at Boomer Ferguson Elementary and Woodward Junior High Schools whose students fondly remember her kindness, patience, and ability to increase their reading proficiency in a positive and encouraging environment. For more than 15 years, she was a legal assistant who advocated tirelessly for the rights of Social Security disability and workers’ compensation clients, as well as medical malpractice, product liability and personal injury cases, at her family’s fourth-generation law firm. When her declining health forced her to leave that position, she did so only after diligently and enthusiastically passing along knowledge of the job to her grandson who replaced her. For more than 50 years, she taught children’s Bible classes at Wilkesboro church of Christ. As a lifelong and devoted student of the Bible, she participated in Bible Study Fellowship for several years. She served in both the Wilkesboro Women’s Club and the Delta Kappa Gamma honorary society for women educators for many years, parking cars at MerleFest much longer than her rich age should have allowed. When not parking cars, Lillie could be found in either the Traditional Tent watching Wayne Henderson and the Kruger Brothers, or at the Main Stage listening and dancing to the joyful exuberant music of Scythian (her favorite Irish/Gypsy music band). Mrs. Brewer thought hard work was important, but she thought recreation was just as important. She was the driving force behind what is now known as Cub Creek Park in Wilkesboro, NC. It was important to her that Wilkesboro have a park for everyone to walk, have picnics, play ball and play tennis with their family. She served on the Parks & Recreation Board for 52 years and recently was awarded the key to the Town of Wilkesboro. Once when she presented a program on literacy to the Kiwanis club and read aloud the children’s book, “I’ll Love You Forever,” grown men dissolved in tears. It was a favorite recollection of her husband and one that never failed to make him chuckle. Together, Joe and Lillie Brewer regularly took in people like some folks collect stamps: the more varied the backgrounds, histories, and nationalities, the better. The collection of extended family that they kept in their own home (many for years at a time) included a 102-year-old grandmother, a high school senior, a newly released felon, several young cousins, and two international exchange students including a Colombian who remained for six years. Her table was always set for family, friends and strangers, and if you could not come to her home to share a meal, she would bring it to yours. She and Joe also paid or cancelled innumerable debts of others, paid school tuition for extended family and friends, and gave rent free housing to numerous families. Lillie’s wisdom and good advice were cherished by her family. She was always planning ahead and thinking of the next project. In fact, never wanting to be a burden on her family, she planned and paid for her own funeral in 1994. She took good care of those around her. She was the impetus for building the house next door to hers where her mother, her father, and her father-in-law spent their last years in comfort, surrounded by family members and compassionate caregivers. Her circle of caring spread far and wide, extending even to those she did not know personally. When a 2014 newspaper article announced the felony arrests of five young Asians for stealing twelve ears of corn from a field beside Highway 268 West, Lillie lifted her pen in action. She wrote a passionate letter to the editor of the paper, asking if the young people had been referred to local help agencies, asking if they had been informed of North Carolina’s laws, and recounting a time from her childhood when her own father had allowed others to take food from his garden. It was not unusual for Lillie to call for compassion, forgiveness and charity as opposed to persecution. She was a member of the Friends of the Library board who initiated the annual Chocolate Extravaganza. On February 11, 2015, when her husband passed away in her arms at his law office, a grieving but determined Lillie stayed up all night at her home cooking chocolate creations for the library event the next day. One of her last acts was directing her daughter to create chocolate-covered Bugles for the Extravaganza a few short weeks ago. In truth, no one person will ever know all of the good that she did in her lifetime. Lillie was preceded in homegoing by the love of her life, Joe Oliver Brewer; her parents, T.R. Bryan, Sr., and Nell Plyler Bryan, and her brothers, Dr. T. R. Bryan, Jr. and Jackson Bryan. Cherishing her memory and inspired to try to follow her example are her son, Gregory J. Brewer (Lisa) of North Wilkesboro, NC; daughter, Tonya Brewer Osborne (Joey) of Hickory, NC; grandchildren, Joseph Zachary “Zack” Brewer, David Bryan Brewer, Tanner Paige Clifton, Karsen Elizabeth Osborne and Sadie Olivia Osborne; sisters, Rhoda Jean Billings (Don) of Lewisville, NC, Suzie Wiles (David) of Wilkesboro, NC, and brother, John Q. Bryan (Janet) of Wilmington, NC, as well as a delightful clan of nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. The family wishes to thank Lillie’s skilled, compassionate caregivers: Nena Shepherd, Donna Poole, Emily Poole, Diane Greer, and Polly Nichols.

Alice May Coppic ’54 — Sept. 28, 2019

Alice May Webb Coppic, of Summit Square in Waynesboro, died Saturday, September 28, 2019. She was born May 23, 1933, to Arthur and Gladys Webb in Powhatan, Virginia. Preceding her in death is husband, The Rev. John M. Coppic in 2009. She is survived by daughters, Nancy Coppic Clark (David) of Danville, Dorothy Coppic Goforth (Myron) of Richmond, Texas; son, John Mark Coppic (Erica) of Plano, Texas; grandchildren, Rebecca Clark Johnson (Russell), Marshall Goforth (Sarah), Michael Goforth (Casey), Clara Goforth, Geoff Behal, and Cameron Behal; great-grandchildren, Colin and Ronan Johnson, Jonathan and Preston Goforth; sister, Florine Webb; brother, Wilbur Webb; and many nieces and nephews. Alice was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She attended Berea College and graduated from Western Michigan University. She taught public school in Michigan, Illinois, and Missouri for over 30 years. In addition to teaching school, she was very active in the church. She volunteered for many organizations including Summit Square, where she resided for 15 years. She enjoyed spending time with her family, walking daily with friends, playing bridge, traveling, and cross-stitch.

Hollis R. Hall ’54 — Aug. 3, 2019

Hollis was born July 4, 1932, the son of Walter and Velva (Carpenter) Hall of Guardian, W. Va. No matter who Hollis met throughout his life, he loved to make people laugh with a good joke. You could not help but smile as he usually laughed at his own jokes.

Hollis graduated with honors from Webster Springs High School in 1950. As a member of the 4-H Club, he went to Washington, D.C. where he talked about the current state of youth in America. While there, he met President Harry S. Truman. He went on to attend Berea College in Berea Kentucky before being drafted into the Korean War. He served his country as a military policeman at Fort Dix, New Jersey. After being honorable discharged from the Army in 1955, he returned to Berea College to study agriculture.

During the summer of 1957, Hollis came to Youngstown to work in the steel mills. He met and married his wife, Ellen (Dercole) Hall on July 19, 1958 and they had three sons: Doug, Jeff and Brad. Hollis worked in the accounting department at Youngstown Sheet & Tube for 30 years and moonlighted as a vacuum cleaner and sewing machine salesman for Electro Hygiene. He worked an additional twenty years as a salesman for Cooksey Culligan Water and retired in 2008.

Hollis was a member of the Brownlee woods United Presbyterian Church for more than 40 years. He enjoyed being a head usher, deacon, elder, congregational president and teaching the men’s Sunday school Bible class over the years. He also enjoyed playing softball with his three sons in the church league. He is survived by his wife Ellen; sons Doug Hall of Youngstown, Jeff Hall of Guardian, W. Va.; brothers Roger of Nokesville, VA, Raleigh of Buckhannon, WV; sisters Carolyn Smith of Dunbar, W. Va., Patricia Cochran of Guardian, W. Va., and Marlene Williamson of Franklin, Tenn. Hollis was preceded in death by his beloved son Brad, his parents and sister Bernice Bates.

Milton Jones ’54

Jo Ann “Joan” Euper Jones, 84, of Tyler passed away on May 16, 2019 at home under hospice care. A memorial service for Joan will be held on Tuesday, May 21, at 1:00 pm in the chapel of Marvin United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Allison Andrews officiating. A reception will follow in the church parlor. Joan was born on June 30, 1934 in Charleston, Arkansas to Leo and Irene Euper. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Wayne and Robert Euper.  She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Dr. H. Milton Jones; her three children, Lisa Jones and Brent Jones of Dallas, and Karen Jones Morrison and her husband, Dr. Steven Morrison; as well as her grandchildren, Collin and Claire Gwin. Joan and her husband married in California in 1961 and moved to Tyler in 1974. Joan was a vibrant, creative, loving wife, mother, and friend. Her many talents included seamstress, interior decorator, artist, and small business owner/manager. She was active in Marvin United Methodist Church, UT Tyler and Baylor Wives’ groups, and volunteered over 20 years at PATH. She was known for her sparkling personality and loving kindness to others, and will be greatly missed.

Jack C. Keeter ’54 — July 31, 2019

Jack Crawford Keeter, 88, of Salisbury, passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2019 after a lengthy and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Born October 18, 1930 in Cramerton N.C., Jack was the son of the late Hedgepath and Flossie Frye Keeter. Jack was also preceded in death by younger brothers Doug, Russell, and Sam Keeter. After graduating from Cramerton High School, Jack went on to earn a B.A. from Berea College, an M.A. from Appalachian State University, and an M.S. from the University of Illinois as well as additional course work at Rutgers, Auburn, and the University of Texas. An Air Force veteran, Jack was stationed in Texas from 1954 to 1958 serving as a medic. From 1960 to 1964 he taught mathematics at Brevard College. He joined the faculty at Catawba College in 1965 where he was a mathematics professor until his retirement in 1995. Jack was a longtime member of First Baptist Church Salisbury, serving as Deacon, American Sign Language interpreter, and choir member. A lifelong pianist and vocalist, he was also a member of several other Salisbury choirs. Jack loved photography, travel, and music, but most of all, he treasured time spent with his family. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 64 years, Mae Corbin Keeter; children Tammy Miller (Mark), Carolyn Burdette (Robert), and Randy Keeter (Sarah); grandchildren Pete Miller (Emily), Ben Miller, Elizabeth Keeter, David Keeter, Will Burdette, Jay Burdette, and Timothy Burdette; and great-granddaughter Brinley Miller; as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Patricia Jean Smathers Konstam ‘54

Patricia Jean Smathers Konstam, age 85, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2019 in San Antonio, TX. Pat was born November 2, 1933, in Ozone, Tenn., to the Rev. Eugene Smathers and Loucile Boydston Smathers. She grew up in rural Big Lick, Tenn., attending a one-room school and winning high-level 4-H Club awards. She graduated from Cumberland County (Tenn.) High School, Berea College and Union Theological Seminary in New York, receiving a Master of Divinity degree in 1959.That summer she met her future husband, Aaron Konstam, at a graduate student meeting she led as a Presbyterian campus pastor at Penn State University. After their marriage in 1961, Pat did freelance writing for religious publications while Aaron worked as a chemist and computer scientist in Haifa, Israel; Dayton, Ohio; and St. Charles, Mo. Their son, David, was born in Dayton in 1966. In 1972 they moved to San Antonio, Texas, where Aaron joined the Trinity University faculty. During the 1970s, Pat worked in the women’s liberation movement as leader and volunteer with local and state National Organization for Women chapters and as an instructor in continuing education courses for women returning to the workforce. In 1980, without formal journalism training Pat transitioned from freelancing to a 21-year career as a business reporter, editor and columnist.At the San Antonio Light from 1980 until its close in 1992, she became the paper’s first business editor as local business coverage expanded. In 1983, she won the National Small Business Media Advocate of the Year Award from the US Small Business Administration. After the Light closed, she was a business writer for the San Antonio Express-News until her retirement in 1999. In retirement Pat was an active volunteer at the Friends of the San Antonio Public Library’s BookCellar used book store. Pat was preceded in death by Aaron, her husband of 53 years; her parents; and infant brother, Charles. Surviving her are son, David of Elgin, Ill.; brother, Mike Smathers and his wife Judy of Big Lick, Tenn.; brother-in-law, Marvin Konstam and his wife Varda of Boston, Mass.; and four nieces and nephews.

Eva Franklin Shrewsberry ’54 — Sept. 5, 2019

Eva Franklin Shrewsberry age 90, of Paducah, KY passed away at 11:35 a.m. Thursday, September 5, 2019 at Stonecreek Nursing & Rehab Center. Eva was a native of North Carolina and attended Berea College where she received a Bachelor’s Degree as a Dietician. She retired from Western Baptist Hospital with over 30 years of service, where she served as Clinical Dietician. Eva was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed bookkeeping, gardening and cooking as hobbies. Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Reynard Conley Shrewsberry; one brother Feltner Franklin of Chucky, TN; three sons, Gary (Carol) Shrewsberry of Cortez, CO, Steve (Diane) Shrewsberry of Paducah, KY and Byron Shrewsberry of Pea Ridge, AR; three grand-daughters, Stacey A. (Kenny) Blankenship, Paducah, KY, Tessa L. (Randy) Whitledge, Murray, KY and Dawn Boatman, Paducah , KY four great-grandchildren, Jacob Blankenship, Justin Blankenship, Kailen Boatman and Jaeden Boatman; several nieces and nephews. Preceding in death were parents, Lafoy Garfield Franklin and Bell Oakley Cutshall Franklin; one sister, Thursie Shelton; two brothers, Leonard Franklin and Ed Franklin.

George L. Ball ’55 — Aug. 12, 2019

Obituary Unavailable

Stanislav Beran ’55 — Dec. 16, 2018

Obituary Unavailable

Joe William Derting ’55 — June 16, 2019

Joe William Derting, age 85, passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2019, at Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee following a long illness. He was born in Hiltons, Virginia (Scott, Co.), a son of W.O. “Bud” Derting and Dollie Grove Derting. In addition to his parents, Joe was predeceased by his son, Robert William Derting; sister-in-law, Edith Morelock Derting; and nephews Alan, Steve, and Jake Derting. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Janet Miller Derting; son, Thomas Miller Derting (Anne Keesee Derting); grandson, William Ryland Derting; granddaughter, Allyson Kate Derting; brothers, John Franklin Derting and Claude Wallace Derting (Helena Roop Derting); nieces, Sandra Woods (Jim), Terry Derting, and Barbara Amaya (Cleo); nephews, Glenn Derting (Karen) and Patrick Little (Tina); several great-nieces and great-nephews ; and niece-in-law, Cathleen Gray. After graduating from Hiltons High School and Berea College in Kentucky, Joe spent from 1955-57 in the 3rd Armored Division of the United States Army stationed in Germany. Upon being honorably discharged, he accepted a job as assistant agricultural Extension Agent for Washington County Virginia in Abingdon. This was the perfect position for Joe, who was raised on a farm and enjoyed nearly all outdoor activities. With the exception of 3 years (2 when he was Extension Agent in Pulaski Co., Va. and the other when he was studying for his Master’s Degree at Virginia Tech), he spent all of his professional life as an Agricultural Extension Agent in Washington Co. until his retirement in 1991. Joe was a quiet, modest man of character who was known for his honesty and dependability. He was one of the first to help a friend, neighbor, or stranger, and one of the last to leave when there was work to be done. Joe enjoyed spending time with his family, and went to Hiltons to help his parents on the farm nearly every weekend of his life in Abingdon. After retirement, he spent more time at the farm, but also had time to try to teach his grandchildren everything he thought a child should know. In 1991 people began urging Joe to run for the Board of Supervisors. At first, he hesitated because he was not a politician; then he accepted because he knew Washington County like the back of his hand, and had a deep love for the county and its people. He served on the Board for 12 years, and as Chairman for 8 of those years. Visitation will be held from 5 until 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2019, at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service in Abingdon, Va. The funeral will begin at 7 p.m. following the visitation, with the Rev. Clarence Dishman officiating. Music will be provided by Mrs. Rose Payne and Mrs. Nadine Culbertson. Military honors will be provided by the Virginia Army National Guard.

Richard E. Griesheimer, Husband of Barbara Griesheimer ’55 — Feb. 21, 2019

Richard Griesheimer, of Colerain Township, passed away on February 21, 2019 at the age of 97. He was born in Ross County, Ohio, to Arthur and Edith (nee McCollister) Griesheimer. Richard then married Barbara Patrick in 1973. At the beginning of their marriage, Richard loved to garden. He served in the U.S. Navy for 3 and a half years during World War II. After leaving the Navy, he worked at Cincinnati Inc. for 40 years until retiring in 1987. During his retirement, Richard loved to read and travel. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife: Barbara Griesheimer; his children: David (Sara) Griesheimer, and Ann (Ron) Hamilton; his grandchildren: Lauren & Julia Griesheimer, Tess Schuster, and Bridget Hamilton. Richard is preceded in death by his son: Thomas Arthur Griesheimer; his parents: Arthur and Edith Griesheimer; and his siblings: James Doyle Grieshemer and Betty Rogers.

Herbert S. Harrison ’55 — Sept. 16, 2018

Herbert Samuel Harrison, 86, died peacefully Sunday, September 16, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born in Washington D.C. on January 30, 1932 to the late Ernest Taylor Harrison and Laura Oller Wentz Harrison and leaves behind his loving wife of 59 years, Sandra Jo Harrison. Other survivors include his Daughter, Janice Harrison Riedl (Michael); Son, Timothy Dane Harrison (Susan); granddaughters, Julia Rose Godfroy (Ryan), Michelle Suzanne Espada (finance Kevin), Kristin Espada Hunt (Tyler); grandsons,Trevor Reed Harrison, Bryce Taylor Harrison and great-grandson, Samuel Alexander Hunt. He was preceded in death by his parents and his only sibling, Florence.
His faith, family, and service to others throughout his life defined him.

Gwendolyn Douty Hepp ’55 — Aug. 16, 2019

Hope, as she has always been known to her family, was born only a few minutes after her twin brother Horace was delivered on June 18, 1932 in Rockbridge County, Virginia, to parents Reuben Franklin Douty and Mary Flotelle Coffey Douty. She grew up on a farm just outside Lexington, Virginia, and attended Mountain View Elementary School and Fairfield High School. The summer she was fourteen, Hope determined that she would hike alone from the home farm to Cornwall, cross country, and then to White’s Gap in the Blue Ridge mountains. It took all day, but she accomplished her goal, in typical Hope style.

She worked her way through college at Radford University in Virginia and then at Berea College in Kentucky, earning herself a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Afterward, while working as a psychiatric aide at The Institute for Living in Hartford, Connecticut, she met her future husband, Robert Francis Hepp, himself a psychiatric aide.

The pair soon married, and in 1959 moved back to Hope’s hometown of Lexington, Virginia, where Bob attended Washington and Lee University and Hope was a caseworker for the Department of Social Services. It was during this time that Hope became known to friends and colleagues as Gwen, a name she used throughout her adult life, though to her family she remained Hope. While living in Lexington, Hope entered the teaching profession on the staff of Mountain View School in Rockbridge. In 1959, she and Bob moved to Alexandria VA, where they raised two sons. Hope taught part-time as a substitute and homebound teacher for Fairfax County Schools for ten years, and then became a teacher full-time for Browne Academy. She was an avid gardener and loved watching the birds that visited her yard.

In 1981, at age 49, Hope went back to school, studying computer programming at Computer Learning Center and graduating with honors. In 1982, she joined Trident Data Systems as a programmer, beginning a software engineering career that would last over two decades. As the companies employing her were acquired by other companies, she and her talents went with them, and she eventually retired in her seventies from General Dynamics.

After Bob’s death in 1996, Hope continued to live at her Alexandria home. In 2013, she moved to the Greenspring Village retirement community in Springfield, Virginia. Always a voracious reader, she continued to consume a book or more per day. She also enjoyed taking walks and singing in the Greenspring Village choir. Gwendolyn Hope died of health complications on August 16, 2019, at Fairfax Hospital in Northern Virginia, at age 87. She is survived by two sons, Robert Franklin Hepp of Buena Vista, Virginia, and John Michael Hepp of Alexandria, Virginia; by brother Horace Dale Douty and his wife Ellen of Lexington, Virginia; by sister Shirley Douty Carpenter Rion of Augusta, Georgia; and by numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two older brothers, Max Weldon Douty and Stafford Winlack Douty, and by her parents.

Millicent Hedges Jackson ’55 — July 15, 2019

Millicent “Millie” Hedges Carpenter Jackson, age 89, of Little Buck Hill Rd. in Newland, NC, died Monday, July 15, 2019, at Spruce Pine Hospital in Spruce Pine, N.C.

Born on May 17, 1930, in Kieffer, W. Va., she was the daughter of the late Lacy Circle Hedges and Edith Frances Dietz Hedges. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her Husband: Ted Carpenter, infant Son: Nelson Carpenter and her second Husband: Willard “Bill” Jackson. Millie was a very active member of the community as a member of Walnut Grove Church where she enjoyed the fellowship of Woman of Worth. Her love of education inspired her commitment to her students, and in post-retirement her continued involvement in the North Carolina Association of Educators. She also enjoyed crafts and spending time with her family, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Left to cherish her memories are her Son: Stanley Carpenter (Beth); Daughter: Darla Sova (Andy); Daughter: Amelia Shoupe (Jim); Grandchildren: Marie Rector (Joey), Josh Shoupe (Whitney), Lath Carpenter, Andy Sova (Lyndsey), Danielle Carvajal (Jorge) and E. Jay Shoupe (Canaan); Great grandchildren: Zeke Shoupe, Hannah Shoupe, Camille Sova and soon to be Bianca Carvajal.

Patricia Parker Brunner ’56 — July 26, 2019

Patricia Parker Brunner died peacefully on July 26, 2019 at her home in Berea, Kentucky, where she was receiving hospice care. Patricia was born to Earl and Mildred Parker on January 10, 1934, and was raised in Brevard, North Carolina.
In 1956, Patricia graduated from Berea College with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. She received her Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary in 1982. She served as a youth director at Berea Baptist Church, and Director of the Baptist Student Union at Berea College. She served on mission trips to East Saint Louis, Missouri; Atlanta, Georgia; Detroit, Michigan; and Hawaii. She served as a missionary overseas in Israel, Brazil, Argentina, and Zimbabwe. She was ordained as a deacon of Berea Baptist Church in 1984 and ordained as a minister in 1993.
Patricia is survived by her husband of 62 years, Warren Brunner; daughters Scharme Price (Gary), Gwen Hensley (Martin) and Kara Brunner; two brothers Keith Parker (Jonlyn) and Carroll Parker (Kae); grandchildren Gerald Price (Liz Koschoreck), Lydia Kitts (Justin), Charlsa Hensley, and Wendy Price; great-grandchildren Weston and Lavinia Kitts; devoted niece Donna Alexander; caretaker Ronny Hoover; and extended family.
Patricia had a talent for drawing out beauty from neglected plants, scraps of cloth, stubborn offspring, and struggling students

Yvonda Tunnell Center ’56 — May 15, 2019

Yvonda Louise Tunnell Center, 83, of Rockcastle County died suddenly at her residence on Wednesday, May 15, 2019. She was a Baileyton, Tennessee native born May 29, 1935, daughter of the late Horace and Bertha Goodson Tunnell. Yvonda was a retired educator having taught in Trimble County, Berea Community and Roundstone Elementary School. She was a Berea College Graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and member of Union Church. Yvonda was an avid quilter, enjoyed all types of needlework, wonderful cook, property owner and farmer. She was known as a “worker bee” for her ability to teach, work on the farm, raise her children, keep house and cook three square meals each day for her family. Survivors include her loving husband of 65 years, Luther Center; 2 sons, Luther Center, Jr., Stephen Center (Rose); 3 brothers, Carroll Tunnell (Faye), Harold Tunnell, Edd Tunnell; 4 grandchildren, Stephen, Jr., Sarah, Michael, Andrew; 4 great grandchildren, Jackson, Jacob, Sullivan, Camille. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by 2 siblings, Helen Tunnell, Donald Tunnell.

Eula Ison Gilliam ’56 — June 17, 2019

Eula E. (Ison) Gilliam, 86, devoted and self-sacrificing wife, mother, sister, and friend, went to join her Lord in Heaven on Monday, June 17th, 2019 at Norton Community Hospital in Norton, Virginia. Eula was born and raised in the Kingdom Come Creek community of Letcher County, Kentucky, the twelfth child in a proud, hard-working Appalachian family of thirteen siblings. A 1951 graduate of Whitesburg High School, she went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Elementary education from Berea College in 1956. Eula was a retired school teacher of seventeen years from the Letcher County, Kentucky and Wise County, Virginia school systems.  She related beautifully to young children and loved teaching first grade. Many members of the Wise, Virginia community still recall her as their favorite teacher because of her patience and kindness. Over the years Eula attended both Beckner’s Chapel and Charity Baptist Church in Wise where she observed and practiced her deep Christian faith. She frequently noted, “The purpose of life is to prepare for eternity.” Her path was one of humility and simplicity.

Eula greatly enjoyed inspirational music, old mountain sayings, poetry, and yard sales. She delighted in sharing memories of her early family life in eastern Kentucky, often quipping, “A good laugh is healthful.” She also enjoyed chronicling the activities of her children, grandchildren, and various community members in her numerous scrapbooks and journals. Her memory was remarkable. Eula was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Silas Whetsel Gilliam of Wise; her parents, Grant and Mary (Stallard) Ison of Oscaloosa, Kentucky; and nine brothers and sisters. Surviving are her three sons, Silas Gregory Gilliam of Wise, Jeffrey Wayne Gilliam of Thomasville, North Carolina and Gary Alan Gilliam and wife Thea McDilda Gilliam of Appomattox, Virginia; three grandchildren, Jessica Gilliam VanEmburgh and husband David, Abigail Gilliam Mangum and husband Greg, and Nathan Grant Gilliam; one great granddaughter, Millie Grace Mangum; one brother, Glennon B. (Thelma) Ison; two sisters, Gracie (Pat) Boggs and Doris (Doug) Day; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Ann Skidmore Turner ’56 — Sept. 5, 2019

Ann Skidmore Turner passed away peacefully on September 5, 2019 at her Louisville home. She was born December 15, 1933 in Richwood, West Virginia. While obtaining her bachelor’s degree at Berea College, she met her husband of 62 years, Sam Turner Jr, who passed away 2 years ago. While raising her children she worked at the Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital, Hazard High School, and directed the Perry County Literacy program. True to her family legacy, Ann was both a gifted teacher and writer, having published poems and short stories. Her years of work with the adult literacy program were performed with the grace and dignity that defined her life. She truly believed in the transformative power of education, and worked to realize that in her community. She loved to sing in choirs, play piano, read, sew, and square dance with Sam. She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Lisa Turner-Schikler, Dr. Ken Schikler of Louisville, her son, Mark Turner of Belize, her grandchildren: Nathan Turner, Joshua Turner, Maren Schikler, and Allegra Schikler, along with a host of family and friends.

James David Zook ’56 — April 19, 2019

James David Zook (David) was born April 25, 1935 to Lester and Elizabeth Zook in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. David spent much of his childhood in Tejupon, Oaxaca, Mexico, where his parents worked as missionaries. In 1956, David graduated with a B.S. in physics from Berea College and married Julia Agnes Barker in August the same year. Shortly after, David entered a doctorate program in physics at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, while Julia taught home economics. David and Julia had their first child, David Scott in 1961 and their second, Suzanne Marie in 1963. Julia and David spent the years raising their children in Burnsville, MN. After receiving his Ph.D., David took a job as a solid-state physical engineer for Honeywell, where he worked as a research physicist from 1963 until his retirement in 1998. David authored or co-authored over 66 publications in technical journals, earned 14 US patents, and was asked to speak across the globe in the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Italy. Julia and David divorced in 1992. David met his second wife, Laurel Larsen at Honeywell and they married July 6, 1998. David and Laurel lived in Golden Valley, MN and spent their retirement traveling, biking, hiking and enjoying their family. Laurel passed away on January 30, 2013 and Julia passed away September 10, 2014. In David’s later years, he moved to Covenant Village retirement community, where he enjoyed making new friends, participating in community activities, and continued reading, learning and enjoying his children and grandchildren. David was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2004. His health slowly degenerated over the last 5 years of his life and he passed away peacefully in his sleep on 04/19/2019. David donated his brain to Parkinson’s research in the hope of advancing treatment and finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

William R. Fish ’57

Obituary Unavailable

Burt Boyer, FD ’58 — Sept. 13, 2019

Charles “Burt” Boyer, 79 of Louisville, passed away on Friday September 13, 2019. Enrolled in the Kentucky School for the Blind at age 11 in 1951, attended the Foundation School at Berea College 1957-58, and graduated from the Virginia School for the Blind in 1959. In 1968 Burt graduated from the Virginia Commonwealth University with degree in Elementary Education with emphasis in special education. In 1968 he taught 6th grade in a Virginia public school program. From 1968-72 he was a teacher and Coach at the Indiana School for the Blind. From 1972-79 he was the supervising Teacher, then Principal at the West Virginia School for the Blind. In 1973 Burt graduated from Ball State University with M.A. in Education. In 1978 Burt received Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) Certification from Eastern Michigan University. He was the superintendent of the South Dakota School for the Visually Handicapped 1979-86. He was the superintendent of the California School for the Blind 1986-94 and was the Executive Director of the Lions Center for the Blind of Oakland 1995-2002. Burt served as the Early Childhood Project Director at the American Printing House for the Blind from 2002-14. Burt’s list of accomplishments include: Star wrestler in high school with a 102-6 record in Kentucky and Virginia, the President of the Council of Schools for the Blind, Chairman (twice) of the California Transcribers and Educators of the Blind and Visually Impaired (CTEBVI), President of the Northern California Association of Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) and Recipient of the William English Leadership Award. Burt was a proud product of both his family and his Eastern Kentucky roots. He was extremely proud of his heritage and he loved the mountains of Eastern Kentucky. Burt was raised by his grandmother, the greatest influence in his life, who ran boarding houses for Intermountain Coal and Lumber Company in Harlan and Leslie Counties. He never forgot Nancy Margaret Browning, his grandmother telling him, “Burton, God will judge you by how you treat people.” He lived by that! Burt had amazingly strong humanistic attributes. He truly never met a stranger. He talked with you and never forgot you — and you didn’t forget him. He loved people and people loved him. Charles Burton Boyer is survived by his sons, Bradley Boyer and William Boyer; his grandsons, Liam Boyer and Caelan Boyer; his 3 sisters, Vaughnette Boyer Koenemann, Laverne Lambdin Money and Margarette Lambdin Pennington; and many nieces and nephews.

Jimmie Lee Brookshire ’58 — April 21, 2019

James L. Brookshire, Sr. 83, of North Bloomfield, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 21, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 2, 1936 in Asheville, N.C., the son of Lloyd and Helen (Miller) Brookshire. Jim graduated in the 1954 class of Sand Hill High School, where he had many friends. He also graduated from Berea College in Kentucky in 1958 and Western Reserve University in Cleveland in 1963. He was recruited to teach in the Cleveland schools and worked as a junior high teacher, counselor, and eventually principal at John Hay High School. He retired from the International Chemical Workers Union in 1997.He enjoyed family camping, scuba-diving, racquetball, pottery, planting trees, and visiting his relatives in North Carolina. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Jeanette L. Brookshire; four children: James Brookshire, Jr. (Debbie), Vicki Ackley (Bruce), Michael Brookshire (Annette), and David Brookshire (Nancy); five grandchildren: James, Joseph, Maria, Katrina, and Brandon.

Harold G. Harberson ’58 — July 3, 2019

Harold Glenn Harberson, 83, passed away Wed., July 3, 2019.

The husband of the late Nora Hammons Harberson, he was born in Hazard on March 23, 1936 to the late Mary Brandenburgh and Harold Clark Harberson. A graduate of Berea College and the University of Minnesota, he worked for the Ky. Dept. of Agriculture on the Governor’s Council on Agriculture and the Ohio University Dept. of Health. A member of the First United Methodist Church where he served as an usher for many years, he was most recently a member of the FUMC and First Christian Church’s television ministries.

Harold is survived by two daughters, Joy Harberson Hoskins (Kelly) of Lawrenceburg and Kathy Harberson of Frankfort; two sons, Glenn Harberson (Lori Hockensmith) of Lexington and David Harberson (Jennifer) of Louisville; two grandchildren, Jessica Hoskins Roberts of Frankfort and Jennifer Hoskins of Nashville; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Janet and brother Albert.

Dr. Jettie Manning McWilliams ’58 — Aug. 17, 2019

Dr. Jettie Manning Crisp McWilliams, aged 91, died August 17, 2019, at Hillcrest Healthcare in Ashland City, TN. Dr. McWilliams was born May 5, 1928, to Susie Culpepper and Fletcher Manning in Autauga county, Alabama. Her beloved husband Robert Alton Crisp, Jr., of Martin, Ky, the father of her four daughters, predeceased her in 1961. In 1968, she married Wiley Everett McWilliams of Lexington, Ky, a beloved stepfather to her daughters, predeceased her in 1972. Dr. McWilliams is survived by her four daughters, Jane Rae Crisp (William Douglas O’Rear), Victoria Ann Crisp (Timothy Yeager), Kathryn Diane Crisp (David Kumatz), Yvonne Nell Crisp Jones (Robert Stephen Jones, Jr.), and by her six grandchildren, Robert Alton Crisp III (Audrey Love), Lauren Grey Yeager, Michael Timothy Yeager, Daniel Crisp Kumatz, Adam Crisp Kumatz, and Robert Stephen Jones, III (Trey). Dr. McWilliams last resided in Ashland City, and before that, in Nashville and Cookeville in Tenn., Flagstaff and Phoenix, Ariz., and Lexington, Ky.

Opal Mullins ’58 — May 27, 2019

Opal T. Mullins, 80, of LaGrange, Kentucky passed away Monday, May 27, 2019.
She was born in Harlan County, Kentucky to the late Otis and Alice Boggs Turner on August 16, 1938. Opal was a an LPN for KSR, Cedar Lake Lodge and retired from KCPC. She graduated from Pine Mountain Settlement School before attending Berea College where she earned her degree in Nursing. Opal was also a huge Elvis fan. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 54 years; Robert Mullins, and siblings; Jewell Miniard and Eldon Turner. Left to cherish the memory of Opal are her sons: Chris Mullins (Melissa) and Todd Mullins (Tammy), 5 grandchildren; Christopher Mullins (Brittany), Hannah Ogara (Dylan), Haley Mullins (Corbin Axtell), Kayla Chelf (Austin), and Lyndsey Mullins, siblings; Clayton Turner (Jean), Coburn Turner (Phyllis), Audrey Turner, and Lonnie Turner (Fran), and many extended family and friends. The family would like to say a special “Thank You” to the staff, nurses, and aides at The Richwood Nursing and Rehab for their wonderful care of Opal these last few years.

Leslie M. Skeens ’58 — March 4, 2019

Rev. Leslie Melville Skeens, age 85, died Monday, March 4, 2019, in Shamrock Nursing and Rehab Center in Dublin. Funeral services will be Wednesday, March 6, 2019, at 2:00 P.M. at Pine Level Free Will Baptist Church in Chester. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Rev. Skeens, was born in Leet, West Virgina. He was the son of the late Rev. Harmon Herbert “H.H.” and Effie Stratton Skeens and was preceded in death by his brothers Rev. Carl Skeens, Rev. Kenneth Skeens and Rev. Stanley Skeens and his sisters Amber Skeens, Opal Atkins, Irma Holstein, Beulah Jarrell and Marett Schultz. He earned a Bachelor’s of Education degree from Berea College in 1958 and a Master’s of Theology degree later in life. He was a former preacher, teacher, coal miner and probation officer; he had also worked in human resources and for the railroad. He spent most of his life in West Virginia and had lived in Delaware and New Mexico before settling down in Georgia in 1989. He was Baptist. Survivors are his wife of 57 years, Barbara Hunt Skeens of Dublin; his children, Melissa (Keith) Jump of Dublin and Tim Skeens of Eastman; sister, Naoma Sitton of Madison, WV; seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Noland C. Stanley ’58 — July 11, 2019

Noland C. Stanley went to his heavenly home on July 11, 2019, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was 83 years young. Noland was born to the late John and Melissa Stanley of Clintwood, VA on April 10, 1936. He attended Berea College where he met and married his lifelong love, the late Inez (Miller) Stanley. Noland’s education continued for many years, ultimately receiving two Masters degrees. Noland’s career was with the USGS as a Surveyor for 36 years. His career required extensive travel allowing him to live in and travel through 48 of the 50 states (of which he had plans for visiting Alaska “49th” the week of his illness). He really enjoyed telling his family and friends of the adventures he experienced during that time and he was very proud to have done that work. After retirement he became very active in his church, Clear Creek Baptist, his involvement with his church kept him very active and on pace with much younger men. Becoming a Deacon in the church was also something he was very proud of. He set out on a daily basis to be the best servant of God that he could be. He was a shining example for the Christian community and will be sorely missed by his family, church family and friends. Noland is survived by a son Eugene (Lydia) Stanley of Mt. Vernon. Grandchildren, Travis (Leah) Stanley of Berea, Kayla Stanley of London, and Nathan Davis of Mt. Vernon, a great granddaughter, Raelynn Brooke Stanley of Berea, a brother Shirley “Lee” Stanley (Gloria) of New Mexico and a host of nieces and nephews. Noland was preceded in death by his parents, John and Melissa Stanley of Dickenson County, VA, his wife Inez Stanley of Berea, KY; and five brothers, Archie Stanley of Ohio, Ferrell Stanley of Flint, MI, JC Stanley of Dickenson County, Va, Benny Stanley of Dickenson County, VA, and Gordon Stanley of Dickenson County, Va.

Henry Porch Stephens ’58 — Sept. 2, 2019

Henry P. Stephens, 82, passed away in Indianapolis, IN on September 2nd, 2019. He was surrounded by his wife, Elizabeth Kelly Stephens, and his 3 children, Henry, Doug, and Ann at the time of his passing. His passionate heart, witty humor and thoughtful insights, along with his commitment to helping those around him, will be missed by all who knew him.

Henry graduated from Williamsburg High School in 1954. He served in the Kentucky National Guard from 1954 to 1962 and received an Honorable Discharge. He had a diverse educational background. He attended Berea College, Cumberland College, and University of Kentucky. He went on to graduate from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Commerce in 1959. After graduation, he went into pharmaceutical sales with Merck, Sharp & Dohme and then into teaching Chemistry and Biology at Williamsburg High School. Throughout his life, he would talk fondly of the students that he taught at the high school and the sports teams he helped coach. Even though Henry would move away from Williamsburg for periods of his life, the City and its people would always remain near and dear to his heart.

From 1968-1970, he served as the Director of the Home Health Services Program for the State Health Department in Frankfort, Kentucky. From 1970 to 1973, he was the Catchment Administrator for Cumberland River Regional Mental Health Center in Corbin, Kentucky. He greatly enjoyed his focus on mental health education, operational delivery of services, and community building of local resources for mental and public health service delivery for the Southeastern Kentucky Region.

In 1973, Henry moved to Columbus Ohio to begin the second phase of his career as the Associate Executive Director for Columbus Area Community Mental Health Center. He would later speak of his career at Columbus Area as some of the most rewarding professional years of his life. During his time at Columbus Area he accomplished many strategic initiatives in the development and advancement of Mental Health Services for the Central Ohio region. He was a determined advocate and leader in helping Columbus Area achieve financial solvency for years to come. Throughout the rest of his life, he would often share stories of how he was able to engage “in the good fight” for creating an organizational legacy of service to the local Columbus community. While at Columbus Area, he obtained his MBA from Capital University.

In 1987, Henry moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana to work alongside his dear friend and former colleague, Dr. Jack Morgenstern. Together, they formed a physician group practice named Psychiatric Management Services. In 1990, they moved the group practice to Indianapolis, IN. Henry would finish his formal career with this practice.

After retirement, Henry devoted his life to spending time with his family, his friends, and pursuing his devotion to the great outdoors. An avid outdoorsman and sportsman, Henry spent many blessed days and nights on adventures with his family and friends appreciating the majesty of God’s natural world. Wildlife and natural habitat preservation were themes that were near and dear to his heart and he could often be found filling his thoughts and days with events related to this. He also enjoyed helping his neighbors and friends in his local Williamsburg and Carmel, IN communities.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles L. Stephens, Mildred Siler Stephens Sheils, and Step-Father Edward Sheils, and his grandson Nathan L. Stephens, and his brother Dr. Charles L. Stephens, II. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Kelly Stephens, sons Henry (DeeAnn) Stephens, Douglas Stephens, and daughter Ann Stephens Vawter (Brad); and his brother Mark S. Stephens. He is survived by his grandchildren Stewart Stephens, Lauren Stephens, Matt Stephens, Justin Stephens, and Raelyn Vawter, and his nieces and nephews.

Betty Lou Buchanan Sundermeier ’58 — Feb. 2, 2019

Betty was born in Hazel Green, Kentucky on December 27, 1935 to R.E. and Stella Buchanan. She went home to Heaven on February 2, 2019 in Fresno, California, but it was the life lived between those dates which was so important.
Betty was filled with this joy that permeated her life and bubbled over to those she knew and loved. She was a Christian, a woman of time tested faith who loved her Lord and lived to honor Him. It was her love for God that was demonstrated in the warmth she conveyed, the “Betty hugs” she freely doled out and the unconditional love she lavished. Betty joined her siblings Roger, George, Bernard and Eula Mae in the winter of 1935 and was cherished by her family. As an adult she spent many summers flying “home” to see the family she loved. Betty attended Hazel Green Academy and was one of thirteen students in the graduating class of 1953. She lived her first 22 years in Kentucky and loved to wear her “It’s hard to be humble when you’re from Kentucky” sweatshirt. She was an avid fan of her University of Kentucky Wildcats basketball team and never tired of Kentucky green beans and corn bread. After graduation from high school Betty attended Berea College, also in Kentucky, where she pursued a degree in teacher education. Upon completion of her training, Betty moved to Michigan where she taught elementary school and, most importantly, met George who would become her husband. The couple was married in Louisiana and moved to Arizona to begin their married life. Daughters Margo, Michele and Melissa were all born in Arizona. Betty delighted in her role as a wife and as a mother. In 1965 the Sundermeier family moved to Fresno, California. Betty loved to reminisce that the day after the family moved into their house, they went to church down the street at Northwest Baptist. Betty and George enjoyed the friendships formed at this church, many spanning 50 years at the time of Betty’s passing.In 1968, Betty resumed her teaching career at Alice Birney Elementary in Fresno. More than just a place of employment, Birney became the place where deep friendships would begin. Betty often commented that God was around the corner before she got there. Her job at Birney was illustrative of this thought. Betty began teaching at Birney when jobs in education abounded, but in 1978 when her husband died, few jobs were available. She knew that God had provided the job and dear, dear friends before her need presented itself and she was thankful. Betty retired in 1997 and was delighted to have more time available to spend with her grandchildren and serve in her church. She was quick to help in the kitchen during Vacation Bible School, to mentor kids in the church’s outreach program, to bring a meal and encouragement to those who might need it. She was always ready to pray for the needs of family, friends and even those she did not personally know. She loved her church and all the people within it. She also appreciated the friendships made at Uncle Harry’s Bagels in Fig Garden Village; her family would joke that Betty had an “office” set up at Uncle Harry’s. She visited there most days and cherished the friends she met there for coffee and to work crossword puzzles. Betty is survived by her daughter Margo Sue and husband Kevin, daughter Michele Sundermeier, daughter Melissa Solomon and husband Jim. Additionally, she is survived by her grandchildren: Lindsey Stull and her husband Drew, Drew Solomon, Lauren Solomon, Matthew, Marin, Micah, and McKenzie Sue. She was preceded in death by her husband George, her parents R.E. and Stella Buchanan and her siblings Roger Buchanan, George Buchanan, Bernard Buchanan and Eula Mae Hutchins. We are beyond thankful to have been a part of Betty’s life and heart; she was a gracious and loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend who encircled us with love and prayer. She left us a legacy of faith in Christ and for which we will always be grateful.

Jack E. Duckworth ’59 — May 31, 2019

Jack Edward Duckworth, 83, ran to the arms of Jesus, on Friday, May 31, 2019.
Born in Haywood County on March 6, 1936, he was a son of the late Clarence and Mabel Williams Duckworth. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Nancy Jean Silver; a brother, Neil Duckworth; and a sister, Kay Duckworth Corzine. Jack attended Pisgah High School and Berea College where he ran track and still holds the college record for the fastest 440 yard dash on record. Jack was an avid golfer and played at his winter residence in Timber Pines, Spring Hill, Florida. During the summer, he lived in Canton and was a member at Laurel Ridge Country Club. Jack was a college sports fanatic and was a member of Western Carolina University’s Catamount Club. He was also a member of the Lion’s Club, a Kentucky Colonel and an honorary citizen of New Orleans, Louisiana. Jack was one of the most generous men ever known. If you knew him, he had an impact on you! He never met a stranger which is why his 35 year career at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company was extremely successful. His motto for sales was “Make a Sale a Day”. He also made it a point of meeting five new people every day! Jack was inducted in Metropolitan Life’s Hall of Fame in 1993. He was only the 52nd person in MetLife’s 150 year history to achieve this honor. In Jack’s later years, he made sure you remembered him by handing out candy to all the ladies he came in contact with! He is survived by three children, Donna Diven (Jim), Larry Duckworth (Diane) and David Duckworth (Valorie); seven grandchildren, Jason, Samantha, Jack, Mitchell, Jimmy, Julia and Carson; sister-in-law, Sue Duckworth; and a brother-in-law, Bruce Corzine. Jack was blessed to know his only great-granddaughter, Nova Jaymes. He often said, “He was blessed to love two women in his life”. The last three years of his life were spent with one of the most loving, compassionate and witty ladies our family has ever met, Jean McCarthy. The family is very thankful for her and she will forever be part of our family!

Ralph E. Gochenour ’59 — Aug. 8, 2019

Ralph “Mike” Gochenour, 84, of Maurertown, passed away Thursday, August 8, 2019 suddenly on his farm along The Shenandoah River near Maurertown, VA.
Ralph was born January 2, 1935 in Maurertown, Va. He was the son of the late John Wilbur and Jessie Beatley Gochenour. Ralph “Mike” was a graduate of Woodstock High School, Class of 1953 and often told tales of riding his horse to school. He attended Berea College in Berea, Ky., where he lived in Guest House, was known as the champions of intramural sports and worked as a bellhop at Boone Tavern to help fund his education. Prior to graduating, Ralph returned to Shenandoah County due to his father’s poor health and ran the family’s massive farm on the north end of Woodstock. He began his 26-year career with the United States Department of Interior in 1969 as a part-time back country ranger on Skyline Drive and eventually retired from there as the supervisor of Mathews Arm Campground. During these years with The Shenandoah National Park, he continued his beef cattle farm operation and operated Native Woods Lumber Mill, providing firewood, custom lumber, and more for many local crafters, builders and furniture makers. His hobbies included milling native hardwoods, fishing, making fine crafts, picking walnut kernels and searching for Native American artifacts on his ancestral land with his grandson. He was especially proud of having sawn the timber to build his family home on Sawmill Lane. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Bryant Gochenour; and two brothers, Harold and William Gochenour.Ralph is survived by three sons, Larry Michael Gochenour (Cena Hubbell) of Toms Brook, Va., Gary Lee Gochenour (Tracie) of Manassas, Va., and Matthew Paul Gochenour of Maurertown, Va.; a daughter, Kelly Gochenour Phillips (Blake) of Woodstock, Va.; two grandchildren, Hunter Phillips of Maurertown, Va., and Meredith Phillips of Woodstock, VA; companion, Betty Jean Clifton, of Stephens City, VA; a brother, John W. Gochenour of Woodstock, VA; two sisters, Judy Shirkey (Henry) of Edinburg, Va., and Linda Wilkins (Mike) of Woodstock, VA; two sisters-in-law, Jill Gochenour of Woodstock, Va., and Dixie R. Gochenour of Jerome, VA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joann Hill Goodrick ’59 — April 23, 2019

Joann Hill Goodrick, 82, of Hillsboro Beach, Florida, died peacefully on April 23, 2019, after receiving care for her dementia at the Boca Raton ManorCare nursing home since 2017.
Joann was the precious wife of David Daniel Goodrick for 47 years and the beloved mother of CJ and Douglas Andrew Wilson from her first marriage to Howard Wilson. Joann and David married on May 29, 1971 in Lexington, Kentucky.
Joann was born on January 17, 1937 in Rutherfordton, the first-born child of the late James and Thelma Cole Hill. She graduated from Rutherfordton Central High School in 1955. She attended Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, and received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky in 1970. She received her Master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin Madison in 1976.
Joann was a gifted nature photographer whose work was exhibited in a Rutherfordton gallery. Her professional experience was broad: school social worker, director of a probation diversion project, research associate, college counselor, conference coordinator, and editor. Trained as a therapist, Joann especially enjoyed working with young women and couples. In Washington, DC, she managed David’s mental health system consulting practice, where together they provided technical assistance throughout the United States and in Japan, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the Netherlands. She and David volunteered at Habitat for Humanity headquarters in Americus, Georgia for 15 months before retiring to Florida in 2001. Joann was vibrant, brilliant, compassionate, courageous, and always giving. Admired for her quick wit, indomitable and joyful spirit, and common sense, she was a gentle soul. While she was deeply loved and will be forever missed, her loving and accepting spirit will live on with her family and friends. Her siblings and their spouses are her brother James Hill, Jr. and wife Joyce of Rutherfordton, brother Fred Hill and wife Wanda of Hendersonville, sister Helen Hill Jacobs and husband Ralph (deceased) of Rutherfordton, and sister Joyce Carlton(deceased) and husband Ted of Rutherfordton. She was an adoring aunt to Linda Ayers, Angela Faulkner, Corie Weaver, Jeffrey Carlton, and Steve Carlton. Joann is survived by her husband David, son CJ and his wife Misono and daughter Faith who live in New York City, and son Douglas who resides in Pompano Beach, Florida, and whose daughter Jennifer Rose Pelter, the mother of Shea Michael Hamman, Destiny Freedom Rose Wilson, and Jayden Jay Clemens, lives in Arizona.

Joe Levi Swafford, FD ’59 — June 19, 2019

Joe Levi Swafford, age 78, husband of Shirley (Cobb) Swafford of London, Ky., passed away Wednesday, June 19, 2019 at Jean Waddle Care Center in Somerset, Kentucky. He was the father of Kyle Swafford and wife Deanna of London, Ky.; the brother of Jeannie Rice and husband Carl Ray, and Joan Brown and husband Ray all of Manchester, Ky. He was also blessed with two grandchildren, Austin Clay Swafford and Macee Jo Swafford. He was a Member of Horse Creek Baptist Church of Manchester, Ky., where he was a Sunday School Teacher and served as a Deacon. He was preceded in death by his son, Craig Swafford; and by his parents, Walter and Hazel (Wilson) Swafford. Graveside services and burial for Joe Levi Swafford was conducted Saturday, June 22, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at Cumberland Memorial Gardens with Pastor Dustin Sims officiating. In lieu of flowers the family request memorial contributions be made to the Jean Waddle Care Center, 305 Langdon Street, Somerset, KY 42503.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joe Levi Swafford please visit the Sympathy Store at London Funeral Home.

Evelyn Ritchie Wilkins ’59 — July 26, 2019

It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Evelyn Wilkins (Harrisonburg, Virginia), who passed away at the age of 81, on July 26, 2019.

She was predeceased by: her parents, Virgil Dow Ritchie and Charlotte Fitzwater Ritchie McDowell; her daughters, Lisa Wilkins and Lynne Wilkins George; her sister Viola R. Sager; her brother-in-law Preston L. Sager; her step-mother Evelyn Kinsinger Ritchie. She is survived by : her husband Thane; her step-daughter Robin W. Goble (Micheal J. Goble); her grandchildren, Adam R. Goble (Kathy), Elizabeth M. Goble, Shawn K. George and Nicole L. George; her great grandchildren, Mason George and Aedan Goble.

In lieu of flowers and food, the family asked for contributions to the Viola Ritchie Sager Scholarship Fund, presented annually by the Rockingham Educational Foundation, Inc to a Broadway High School senior.

Thomas W. Galloway ’60 — Aug. 28, 2019

Thomas William “Bill” Galloway, age 82, of Rosman, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 28, 2019. He was the son of the late E.R. and Bobbie Galloway. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles Elam, Scott, Jovhenell, Hilda, and Roscoe. Bill was a native of Transylvania County and attended Berea College in KY. He also served in the Air-Force. He was a long-time Postmaster of Rosman, NC. He began his commission in the postal service under President Eisenhower and retired under President Clinton. He was a faithful member and long-time deacon of Zion Baptist Church. For many years, Bill owned and operated Bill’s Bookkeeping and Tax Service. Bill is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 62 years, Marvita Galloway, one sister, Madrie McRainey, children, Billy and wife Vickie Galloway, Sherry and husband James Fendley, Heidi Galloway, Candace and husband Alton Newman, grandchildren, Michael and wife Monica King, Ashley and husband Derek Starkey, Megan and husband Alan Arthur, Jacob and Olivia Gainsborg, Colton and Brayden Newman, 6 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He led a life of service to his community and family and leaves a legacy of love and kindness.

Benny Floyd Jones ’60 — Aug. 30, 2019

Ben Jones, age 80, died at his home on Friday, August 30, 2019, where he was surrounded by family. Born in Knoxville and raised in Coalfield, Tennessee, Ben was the son of Clarence and Rheba Louise Jones. After graduating from Coalfield High School, he attended Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, and Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville, Tennessee. He served in the US Army, 1958-1961, with honorable discharge in 1961, then served with the Army National Guard Reserves until honorable discharge in 1965. He married Mary Faye Wilson on October 2, 1959, in Oliver Springs, Tennessee, where they lived with a growing family until 1965, when they moved to Chattanooga. He continued his college studies while working full time at Combustion Engineering and raising four children with Mary. He ultimately graduated with a BS degree in industrial engineering from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 1970. Ben’s engineering career spanned five decades and four continents, working primarily in heavy construction project management for firms that included Combustion Engineering, Boiler Tube Company of America, Götaverken Energy Systems, Ahlstrom Machinery, J.A. Jones Construction, Kvaerner Power, Lockwood Greene, and Shaw Group, in addition to a prolific consulting business. Ben and Mary moved to Charlotte in 1986. They were very active members of Christ Lutheran Church Providence. Ben’s hobbies included woodworking, cooking, and gardening, which he often used in support of his most important passion, which was service to the church, the community, and the needs of those less fortunate. He built furniture for the church, taught handyman skills to middle school students, and provided transportation for children and the elderly to attend church functions. He was a fixture in the Christ Lutheran Church “Growing to Give” ministry, which is a garden club that provides vegetables to various food pantries in the area. He often cooked meals for large church and neighborhood gatherings. His wife, Mary, preceded him in death on May 29, 2011, after having been married nearly 52 years. Four children survive: Sonja Jones Stemple and husband, Harry, who live in Valley Bend, West Virginia; Kevin Wilson Jones of Gainesville, Georgia; Shannon Todd Jones and fiancée, Holly Dial, of Charlotte, North Carolina; and Sherrena Jones Aycoth and husband, Shane, of Woodstock, Georgia. Surviving are three granddaughters, Sara Nicole Marquis, age 37, Erin Olivia Aycoth, age 15, and Ashley Nicole Jones, age 31; as well as three grandsons, Jeremy Benjamin Jones, age 21, Bennett Cole Aycoth, age 17, and William Edward Jones, age 30. Also surviving are two sisters, Sherrena Jones Forester of Springfield, Virginia, who was preceded in death by husband, Donald Wayne Forester in September 2011; and Jennilyn Jones Lester of Oak Ridge, Tennessee. In Tennessee, three sisters-in-law survive; Alma Wilson Wright, whose husband, Willard, is deceased, Rita Wilson Barger and husband William, and Sheila Wilson Church, whose husband, HP, is deceased. Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins live in Tennessee, Virginia, and Ohio. The family would like to express deep appreciation to the church leadership, particularly Pastor Scott Suskovic and Music Minister Mark Glaeser, and to the church members who have reached out so graciously during Ben’s illness and continue to do so since his death. The family also extends gratitude to his dedicated neighbors and to his many friends and former colleagues who have offered support.

Donald D. Morrison, Husband of Trudy Lynn Morrison ’60

Obituary Unavailable

James Ernest Roark ’60 — Aug. 10, 2019

James Earnest “Jim” Roark, age 81, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday evening, August 10, 2019 at his home. Mr. Roark was preceded in death by his parents, Tolman and Anna Lee Baker Roark. He is survived by his wife, Betty Roark; children, Craig Roark and his wife Stephanie, Scott Roark and his wife Nancy, and Traci Madden and her husband Steve; grandchildren, Ryan Roark and his wife Madeline, Abbey Leonard and her husband David, Morgan Burnett and her husband Chris, Ashton Bailey, Mollie Bailey, Zachary Roark, and Sydney Hicks; great grandchildren, Ryleigh Leonard and Aurora. Mr. Roark was born in Clay County, Kentucky and attended Berea College in Berea, Kentucky and Eastern Kentucky in Richmond, Kentucky. Following college, he served in and was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force. He was also the long-time plant manager of Parthenon Metal in Lavergne. Mr. Roark served his community by his active involvement as a member of the Rotary Club and he loved being a part of “The Duffers Golf Club” and traveling around middle Tennessee enjoying the many area golf courses. In the last few years, he and Betty joined and began attending First United Methodist Church with other family. Family will serve as pallbearers.

Annette Meeks Baber ’61 — Aug. 30, 2019

Annette Meeks Baber, 80, of Hendersonville, N.C., passed away Friday, August 30, 2019. She was born in Buncombe County, N.C.
Annette attended Berea College in Kentucky and graduated from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, N.C. She moved to Hendersonville, N.C., where she taught music at Hendersonville and Flat Rock Junior High Schools. She owned and operated Annette’s Clothing Store and Post Mastectomy Supplies in Hendersonville. She was the daughter of the late Raymond Meeks and Eula Gregory Meeks of Swannanoa, NC and was also preceded in death by a sister, Mabel Mull of Drexel, N.C. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. No kinder or gentler soul roamed the earth, she never spoke ill of anyone and always tried to help those less fortunate. She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Larry Baber; a daughter, Carol Ann Baber Surrette and her husband Scott of Hendersonville; a son, Ed Baber and his wife Joanne of Hendersonville; three grandchildren, Heather and Andrew Baber and Allison Surrett all of Hendersonville and a sister, Ruth Bringman of Mt. Dora, Fla.

Gilberto Hinojosa ’61 — Feb. 2, 2019

Gilberto was born in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico. He attended Stuart Robinson Settlement School in Blackey, Kentucky while living in Hazard, Kentucky with Jack and Ann Caudell. He continued his education at Berea college and graduated with a degree in French. When any of the Spanish and French teachers were unable to teach, he was their substitute teacher and most beloved by them. He was in the Spanish, French, and Cosmopolitan Clubs and toured with the Berea College Country Dancers to South America and New York City. He taught French at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff, Missouri where he met his wife, Ann Tudor (sister to Mary Tudor Pennycuff class of 1963). He moved to Ft. Worth, Texas where he taught French at Tarrant County College until his retirement. He was preceded in death by his wife Ann and daughter Amelia Ann Bryant. He is survived by two grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and some number of sisters, cousins, nieces and nephews. Gilberto returned to his home in Victoria, Mexico shortly before his death and was buried in the family cemetery.

Donald R. Burton, Husband of Anna Burton ’62 — Jan. 29, 2019

Donald Ray Burton, 83, of Columbia died Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at the Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, KY.  Born in Adair County he was the son of the late Lawrence and Irene Streeval Burton.  Mr. Burton was a retired Dairy Farmer in Adair County and attended the Bearwallow United Methodist Church. Survivors include his wife Anna Davidson Burton of Columbia; two daughters Suzanne Burton of Nashville, TN and Janet Burton of Richmond, KY; two grandsons Sebastian and Diego Pelletier both of Richmond, KY; two sisters Leoda Stephens of Indianapolis, IN and Charlotte Scott of Paducah, KY; a uncle Zina H. Burton of Columbia and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his twin sister Dorlis Stone and three other siblings Pauline Harding, Lawrence Burton, Jr. and Norman Burton.

Joe M. Correll ’62 — Sept. 23, 2019

Joe Milton Correll, age 79, of Monticello, Ky. passed away on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 in Somerset, Ky. He was born in Monticello, Ky. to the late Otis and Rose Stephens Correll on October 24, 1939. After enjoying a happy childhood with family and graduating as valedictorian of his high school class, he obtained his Bachelor’s degree at Berea College. He later graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Master’s degree in mathematics. He married Delores Jones Correll on June 18, 1960. He retired in 2000 after working as an engineer for 34 years for the DuPont Company. He was preceded in death by his brother-Ralph. He is survived by his wife-Delores Jones Correll; children-Douglas Correll (Lindsay) and Leigh Correll Welch; grandchildren-Victoria Correll and Archer Welch; sister-Pauline Correll Roush (Jack); brothers-Bruce (Ruby), Robert (Jeanne), Glenn (Betty), Dale (Velma), and Richard; sister-in-law-Janice Correll, numerous nephews and nieces, and very special dog, Bruno. He and Deloris enjoyed traveling and spent four years living in Germany because of his job. He enjoyed wintering in Las Vegas with Delores, singing in his younger years, Rook games with family and golfing with family and friends. He accepted Jesus as his savior as a child. He attended Elk Spring Valley Baptist Church as his health allowed.

Charles K. Hollan ’62 — June 28, 2019

Charles Kay Hollan, 79, husband of Lynda Gayle Hobbs Hollan, passed away June 28, 2019 at Magnolia Springs in Lexington, Ky. He was born April 8, 1940 in Ashland, Ky. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Natalie McWhorter (Patrick) of Mathews, Ala., and Christy Miller of Louisville, Ky.; six grandchildren, Dyer, Carter, Colson, Madeline, Hollan and Elizabeth; one great grandchild, Charlie.

J. Robert Kitchen ’62

Obituary Unavailable

Jesse L. Lester ’62 — March 16, 2019

Jesse Lee Lester, 78, of Anderson, passed away on March 16, 2019, at St. Vincent Anderson Hospital. Jesse was born March 29, 1940, in Baileysville, W. Va., and resided most of his life in Anderson. Jesse graduated in 1962 from Berea College, Berea, Ky.

Jesse retired in 1997 as an engineer for General Motors following 34 years of service.

He was a member of Meadowbrook Baptist Church where he was very active. He was a volunteer for the Anderson Cancer Center for 14 years.  Jesse is survived by his loving spouse of 54 years, Alfreda Lester; daughter, Donna Kay (Greg) Totten; grandchildren, Michael Totten, Joshua Totten and Thomas Knapp; brother-in-law, Randy Lester; son-law, Dennis Knapp.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Phyllis Lester; daughter, Lisa Knapp; and brother-in-law, Cecil Lester.

Virginia McCracken Orner ’62 — Feb. 22, 2019

Obituary Unavailable

Ruth Hygema Wilson ’63 — June 19, 2019

Ruth Hygema Wilson, April 24, 1919 to June 19, 2019, was born in Wakarusa, Indiana, the third of five children of Elmer and Emma Nettrouer Hygema. In 1938, she graduated from Batavia High School in Cincinnati, then went south for college at Eastern State Teacher’s College where she met and married Jess D. Wilson. After a break to raise children, she resumed her education at Berea College, graduating in 1963, and later, receiving an M.A, at University of Kentucky in 1970. She was a dedicated educator and completed her career as a reading specialist for the Jackson County Schools where each school under her supervision showed improvement in scores. Ruth also believed in good health practices, exercise, and Vitamin C. In 1981, she and Jess retired to a Clay County farm, Possum Trot, which became, with the help and labor of many friends, a loved camp and retreat representing the best of local history and culture. After 73 years of marriage, Jess proceeded her in death. As the great-grandchild of Dutch immigrants, Ruth, at 96, fulfilled a life-long dream of traveling to the Netherlands to explore and meet relatives. She leaves three daughters, E. Gail Chandler, T. Sammie Wakefield, and Rebecca Joy Wilson, two sons-in-law, Curtis Chandler and Richard Wakefield, three granddaughters, (Tom) Tana Allen, (Kristin) Tara Chandler and Esther Wakefield, and two great- grandsons, Bryce and Logan, a great-granddaughter, Ava, and a wealth of friends, nieces and nephews, and not to be forgotten, those children of her spirit who know who they are.

Alma Burr ’64 — Sept. 23, 2018

Alma E. Haynes Burr, 99 ¾ yrs. old, of Corliss, WV, passed September 23, 2018, at Bowers Hospice House, after a short illness.

Retired teacher with most of her career at Nuttall High and Middle Schools, a graduate of Berea College (KY) and WVU (Masters Degree).

Alma is survived by her children Carol Burr Woods of Gauley Bridge, Tony Burr of Rockledge, FL, and Jeff Burr of Corliss, as well as five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Archie H. Runyon ’64 — June 5, 2019

Arch H. Runyon, 77, of Pinsonfork, KY, went to be with the Lord on June 5, 2019, at St. Joseph Hospital, Lexington, Ky. Arch was born at Pinsonfork on March 24, 1942 to the late John Thomas and Irene (Dotson) Runyon. He was a graduate of Belfry High School and received a B.S. degree in history, with a minor in music, from Berea College in 1964.

Following college graduating, he married and went to work for Armco Steel in Ashland, Ky. and then served as a teacher at Isaban Elementary in Mingo County, W. Va., and Runyon Elementary in Pike County, Ky., where he was an interim music instructor. Arch began his career in the coal industry in the early 1970s at Eastern Coal Corp., Stone, Ky., as director of Human Resources. After several years he accepted a similar position with Rawl Sales and Processing Co, at Rawl, W. Va. While there, he became Vice President of Administration and later, held the same title with Sidney Coal Corp. at Sidney, Ky. Both companies where subsidiaries of A.T Massey Coal Corp. based in Richmond, Va. Arch was well-liked and respected because he truly enjoyed helping people who were willing to work hard by offering them jobs that would enable them to support their families and fulfill their dreams. Following over 30 years of service to the coal industry, he retired from Sidney Coal in 2008.

Arch was reared in church an accepted Christ as a youth at Pinsonfork Church of God, where his parents were active members. He loved the Lord and was especially valued as a person of prayer. At the time of his death, he was a longtime member of the Regional Church of God at Delbarton, WV, where he had been active as a church elder, choir member, International Seminary instructor and Chairman of the Board of Zion Ministries International.

Arch dearly loved his family who looked to him for his love, steady wisdom, and fervent prayers. They will always remember him as a loving father, husband, “Pa”, brother, and nephew. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 54 years, Jacqueline Ellis Runyon; daughter, Elizabeth Bevins of Pinsonfork, Ky.; son, Christopher (Angela) Runyon of Georgetown, Ky.; two granddaughters, Christy (Jonathan) Estep Browning of Pinsonfork, Ky., and Sarah (Luke) Thacker of Lawrenceburg, Ky.; four grandsons, Jacob (Chasity) Adair of Pinsonfork, Ky., Joseph (Julie Coleman) Adair of Turkey Creek, Ky., Seth Runyon of Orlando, Fla., and Rodney Matthew Estep of Inez, Ky.; great-grandchildren, Melissa Lynn Estep and Matthew Cleveland Estep of Pinsonfork, Ky., Addyson Grace Adair of Turkey Creek, Ky. and step-grandsons, James Browning of Wisconsin and Brayden Jones of Turkey Creek, Ky.

He is also survived by his three sisters, Janice Williamson, Dr. Kathleen Runyon, and Kimberly Hisle and husband, Rick, all of Pinsonfork, Ky.; aunt, Helen McAllister of Ashland, Ky.; great aunts, Irene Ferguson Jarrell and Jewell Ferguson.

Fredrick William Teter ’64 — July 11, 2019

Fredrick “Bill” William Teter, 78, of Cumberland, MD, and Canaan Valley, W. Va., went to be with our Lord on Thursday, July 11, 2019.

Bill was the son of the late Elsie and Olyn Teter. He is survived by his wife of 55 years: Anita Miracle Teter; and his sons and their wives: Frank and Rose Teter; and William and Sarah Teter.  Bill’s greatest joy was sharing his love of fishing with his grandchildren: Aleena Rock, Aralynn Teter, and Alex Teter.

Bill had many accolades in high school and graduated from Berea College with a degree in Agriculture. He worked for the Carnation Milk Company and was a successful dairy farmer.  An avid outdoorsman his entire life, Bill won many bass fishing tournaments and became a fishing guide on Deep Creek Lake in McHenry, Md.

Robert Lee Cox ’65 — May 2, 2019

Mr. Robert Lee “Bud” Cox, age 75, of Mt.Vernon went to heaven on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at the Compassionate Care Center in Richmond. He was born on December 28, 1943 in Berea, Ky., the son of the late William “Bill” and Berniece Cox. He was a licensed funeral director & embalmer and owner and operator of Cox Funeral Home. He served as a deacon & Sunday School teacher at both Northside & First Baptist Churches. He also served as past president of the Ky. Funeral Directors Association and served on the board of the Ky. Funeral Directors Burial Assn. for many years. He served as a Mt.Vernon Volunteer Fireman for 35 years and as a National Weather Service Observer for 42 years. He also served as Rockcastle County deputy coroner for many years. Bud enjoyed restoring antique cars, and was a private airplane pilot.

Survivors are: his wife of 55 years; Mrs. Shirley Sowder Cox of Mt.Vernon. Two sons; Lewis Cox and (Sherry) of Mt.Vernon and Jon Cox of Austin, Texas; a twin brother; Jerry J. Cox and (Vicki) of Brodhead; two granddaughters; Allyson Crawford and (Robert) of Richmond, Ky. and Sheradyn Cox of Mt.Vernon and one great-granddaughter, Layla Scotlyn Crawford.  Many nieces & nephews, and dear friends also survive. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother; Billy Steve Cox.

James Ronald Moyers ’66 — July 2, 2019

Ron passed away quietly Tuesday evening, surrounded by his wife and pastor as well as his amazing New Beacon Hospice caregivers and irreplaceable nurses and caregivers at Columbiana Rehab in Columbiana, Ala.

Ron was born in Middlesboro, Ky., and graduated from Berea College.  He then went on to Vanderbilt University where he worked on  his PhD and taught Portuguese at MTSU.  He worked for Allstate Insurance and had a fascination and love for antiques that led him to the world of Estate Sales in and around Nashville, Tenn.

His greatest accomplishment and his favorite stories come through his family, though.  He lived his life with laughter and he had a way of making everyone around him comfortable.  He was easy to talk to and loved regaling everyone he met with his stories.  He will be greatly missed, but we are so very grateful for his absolute peace now through his love and faith in Jesus Christ.

He leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Bettie Ann Moyers (Chelsea, Ala.); his daughter, Jennifer Dawn Jahraus (Chelsea, Ala.); his precious grandchildren Tyler Ethan Jahraus (16), Hannah Cecilly Jahraus (12), and Emma Ann Jahraus (9)(Chelsea, Ala.); his son-in-law Christopher Dean Jahraus; his brother and sister-in law Luther and Ann Moyers (Middlesboro, Ky.); his Brother and sister-in law David and Martha Baldwin (Nashville, Tenn.); his nieces Claire Baldwin and Kendall Baldwin (Nashville, Tenn.); his neice Luanne Hembriee and family; his niece Leslie Onkst and family;  his niece Lisa Moyers; his nephew Cranston Sharp and family; and his best friend from high school Jimmy Montgomery.

Thank you for the legacy of love, of faith, of laughter, of hope, and of perseverance, Poppa.  We will carry you in our hearts forever.

Carolyn Moore Parker ’66 — May 15, 2019

Carol Moore Parker, 74, passed away Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at the CarePartners Solace Center.

A native of Asheville, Carol was a daughter of the late Harold and Mary Curtis Moore.

Carol was a graduate of Owen High School, and Berea College in Kentucky, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She then earned a master’s degree at the University of South Carolina. Carol formerly taught at Georgia State University, Berea College, Western Carolina University, and at AB-Tech. She returned to patient care in 1983. She worked for St. Joseph/Mission Hospitals, and was instrumental in the beginning of the Wound Care Center.

She was a charter member of Eta Psi, National Honor Society of Nursing, recipient of the Excellence in Nursing award presented by WNC chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, an international Nursing honor society, Med-Surgical Nurse of the year, chairman of The NC Joint Practice Committee, member of the NCNA task force revision of the Nurse Practice Act, founding board member of Mountain Area Hospice, recipient of the Whitlock-Lees award from the American Cancer Society, Nurse of the Year, 1992 St Joseph’s for her work in Enterostomal Therapy, member of the Great 100 Nurses in North Carolina, and former leader of The Candlelighters for parents who have children with cancer. She was also a member of New Hope Presbyterian Church and had been given an Honorary Life Membership in Presbyterian Women.

Surviving are her husband, Tom Parker; daughter, Renee Parker Skiles (Tom) of Denver, N.C.; grandchildren, Amanda, Lauren, and Tommy; sister, Margaret M. Rusher (Ed); brother, Robert Moore (Sue); and a number of nieces and nephews.

Gerald Floyd Holmes ’67 — April 4, 2016

Mr. Gerald F. Holmes, age 71, of Bristol, Tenn., formerly of Abingdon, Va. passed on Monday, April 4, 2016, at Bristol Regional Medical Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gale and Minnie Stallard Holmes; brothers, Herbert “Gene” Holmes, and Earl “Cecil” Holmes; a sister, Geneva Campbell; and nephews, Steven McCracken, and Timothy Campbell. He is survived by his sister, Nellie (Bob) Moretz of Bristol, Va.; and several nieces and nephews.

Veva Jean Campbell ’68 — April 28, 2019

Veva Jean Campbell, 72, wife of Jerry W. Campbell for 50 years, passed Sunday, April 28, 2019. Veva was born 31 May 1946 in Greeley Colo., then raised in Keavy, Ky., by her parents Carrie (Fields) and Robert Calder. She was the eldest of 7 children. Veva and Jerry were married on 7 June 1968 in Keavy, Ky. They celebrated their 50th anniversary last year.

Veva is mother to Nicole Grubbs (Campbell) and Natalie Campbell, and grandmother to Lilly and Dylan Campbell and Connor Grubbs. Veva obtained a teaching degree from Berea College, a Masters from UK, and special needs teaching certification from EKU. Veva taught elementary school at Booker T. Washington (1969-76) and later at Bryan Station Middle School.

David A. Sizemore, Jr. ’68 — March 17, 2019

David Alden Sizemore Jr, 72 of Hemet, California passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2019, at Hemet Valley M edical Center in Hemet, California. He was born on Friday, January 3, 1947 in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, where he learned the game of golf as a caddie at the famous Greenbrier Hotel. David then attended Berea College in Kentucky, the first in his family to attend college, where he met the love of his life, Carolyn Hart. When Carolyn returned from 2 years as a missionary and nurse in the Gaza Strip from 1967 to 1969, the two were married on December 27, 1969. He transferred to and graduated from the University of West Virginia, where he also obtained his joint M.D./Ph.D, with honors in 1972. David then started a lifetime of service by volunteering for a year in 1972 on the hospital ship S.S. Hope off the coast of Brazil, then went on to perform his residency through Harvard University’s Medical School. He moved his family into the San Jacinto Valley 37 years ago and practiced medicine at Hemet Valley Medical Center and Menifee Valley Medical Center as a respected surgeon. David loved God and studying the Bible and was very active with the Hemet Valley Baptist Church (now Hope In The Valley Baptist Church) which started meeting in his backyard and baptizing in the family spa. He also took his family to the Gaza Strip in 1987 to volunteer his time and surgical specialties for a month at the same hospital in which Carolyn had worked from 1967 to 1969 so that the other missionary surgeon could have time to return to the U.S. to visit his family. For years he loved teaching nursing students at Mt. San Jacinto College and was significant in the program’s success. David enjoyed music and listening to his children play instruments and sing. He was thoughtful, kind and had a great sense of humor which he often displayed while playing his favorite card and strategy games. He was always interested in learning something new and sharing those discoveries through teaching. Although David is mourned by his family, they know that they will see him again in Heaven. He is survived by his wife Carolyn; daughter Tanya Sizemore Hehir (Jeffrey), sons Scott Sizemore ( Carissa ) and Darin Sizemore; brothers Gene Sizemore ( Shirley ) and Gerald Sizemore (Phyllis) (brother Randolph Wayne Sizemore, Jr. preceded him in death); and four grandchildren, Justin, Marissa, Kaia and Zoe.

Linda Gayhart Bateman ’69

Obituary Unavailable

Charles H. Dickerson ’69

Obituary Unavailable

Edd A. Fenner ’69

Obituary Unavailable

Roxell E. Karr ’69 — Sept. 18, 2018

Roxell Elmon Karr, age 74, of New Albany, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2018, at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville.

He was born in Corbin and was a retired computer programmer having retired from Humana. A US Army veteran of Vietnam, Roxell enjoyed playing chess, reading, and music.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmon Karr and Myrtle Eaton Karr and by a nephew, Bryan Karr.

Roxell is survived by his wife, Joy Dizney Karr; son, Roxell Karr; daughter, Lena Karr; brother, Rondal Karr; and by his beloved cats, Molly and Ginger.

Doug Layne ’69 — May 28, 2019

Doug Layne, age 73, husband of Louise Boggs Layne, died Tuesday, May 28, 2019, in Baptist Health in Lexington, Ky. Doug was born in Chattaroy, West Virginia, to the late Bernard and Monie Easterling Layne. Doug was also preceded in death by a brother, Paul Layne. He was retired from the Brevard County Schools in Florida where he served as a teacher and coach, finally as Assistant Principal at Palm Bay High School. He was also an administrator and coach at several other Brevard County schools. Prior to that, he was the manager at his family’s grocery store, B&B Grocery in Berea, Ky., for 17 years. When he graduated from Berea College, he was the JV Basketball coach and later coached the baseball team. The joy of his life was his wife, Louise, and his family. He was a very humble man, never to boast. But Doug was an incredible athlete and coach. He was a 3-time all-state basketball player in West Virginia and held the 3-year scoring record at Berea College. He is in the Chattaroy High School, Williamson High School and Berea College Halls of Fame. He was a Kentucky State Championship racquetball player. He loved playing golf with his friends and family. He will always be known as the most meticulous groundskeeper ever. As coach, he took great pride mentoring all his students and players, and many of them stayed in contact with him throughout their lives and expressed their appreciation often. Doug loved the Lord. His faith sustained him. It was the fabric of his entire life. His wish was that we would not mourn for him, but rejoice in his homecoming with the Lord. Doug is survived by his loving wife, Louise Boggs Layne, his children, Jeff (Tanya) Layne and Nikki (John) Nixon, his sisters, Mildred South and Kaye Layne, and his brother, Bud (Gloria) Layne, his brothers-in-law, Francis (Jennie) Boggs and Benny (Glenda) Boggs, and grandchildren, Alex and Laura Layne, Brittany Todd, Clay Layne and Abigail Layne, and great-granddaughter, Carolina Layne.

Paul Gordon M. Otieno ’69

Obituary Unavailable

William Delbert VanPelt ’69 — July 18, 2018

William Delbert “Bill” Van Pelt, age 71, loving husband and father of three children, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 18, 2018, at his home in Port Charlotte.

Bill was born in December of 1946, to the late Herbert and Elizabeth Van Pelt, in Martinsville, Ohio, where he grew up in the Methodist faith. After many years farming, Bill went to work with Airborne Express, retiring after 25 years, as an Area Manager. Bill and his loving wife of 38 years, Linda, moved from Wilmington, OH, to Port Charlotte in 2008. Florida’s warm sunny climate and abundant waters suited his love of boating, fishing, and the many outdoor activities he enjoyed with his family, especially his kids. He loved having a good time, and always had a smile.

With great sadness he leaves behind his beloved wife, Linda; daughters, Andrea (Chad Karr) of New Port Richey, Fla., and Cristal Osborne (William Moore) of Independence, Ky.; a son, Christopher Osborne (Alexis Caplinger) of Blue Ash, Ohio; grandsons, Zachary Osborne of Ohio, Kaleb and Samuel Karr of Fla.; one granddaughter, Charissa Harris of Ky.; two sisters, Sue Chase (Andrew) of Tenn., and Kay Martin (Larry) of Ohio; many beloved nieces and nephews; and a host of coworkers and life-long friends. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph Van Pelt.

Mary Labus ’78 — Oct. 16, 2019

Mary Labus, age 63, a 40-year employee of Berea College, passed away on Oct. 16, 2019. Mary was born in West Hamlin, W. Va., to the late Michael Peter and Charline Meadows Labus. Mary was a graduate of Berea College Class of 1978. She worked in the Alumni and College Relations office in the Advancement Services department at Berea College as manager of data and analytics. Mary was a bright light on campus and in the Berea Community; she was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all.

Mary is survived by her siblings: Clara (Anthony) Chapman, Eddy Labus, Alice (Geoff) Richardson, Priscilla (John) Wright, Bonnie (Mike) Perry, Lester (Benita) Labus, Eric (Myra) Labus, her special niece Whitney Chapman, and her nieces and nephews: John Michael (Alrena) Labus and their sons: Zeke and Miles, Don (Whitney) Wright, Rachel Wright, Amanda (Tim) Rennix and their son Marshall, Andrea Labus, Ada Labus, Mary Jacquelyn (Lee) Hash and their daughter Evelyn, and Brian Labus.

Judith Gail Wells ’78 — May 1, 2019

Judith “Judy” Gail Hacker Wells was born September 19, 1958 in Stinnett, Kentucky to the union of John and Peggy Taylor Hacker.  Judy was the only daughter of three children.  She was a 1974 graduate of Leslie County High School. After high school, Judy furthered her education at Berea College where she graduated in 1978 with two degrees, Art & P.E. Judy was united in marriage to Logan Wells on September 25, 1983 in Stinnett, Ky.  Judy had a very distinguished career as an educator.  She began teaching in the Leslie County School system as a Latin Teacher after the retirement of the late James Hightower. She taught at Beechfork Elementary, Hayes Lewis Elementary and  W.B. Muncy Elementary.  Judy then began her career at the Leslie County High School.  She obtained her certification in special education from Union College and filled the teaching position for special education. She later obtained her master’s degree from Cumberland College.  Judy later filled the position of Art teacher. This position she held until her retirement in 2012. Judy was known for her talent, hard work, and dedication to the art department. Judy was an inspiring artist, always encouraging others to be the best they could be.   Judy’s education was very important to her and the success she had in education, having obtained 258 college hours.  Aside from her love of art, Judy enjoyed riding motorcycles with her husband, Logan, home projects, collecting antiques and caring for her pets. Judy passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 01, 2019 at the Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Ky.  She was 60 years old.

In addition to her beloved husband, Logan, Judy was preceded in death by one infant daughter.

Judy leaves behind, two beloved sons, John Logan Wells of Stinnett, Ky., and Andrew “Andy” Wells of London, Ky., her loving and devoted parents, John and Peggy Taylor Hacker of Stinnett, Ky., two brothers, Joseph Hacker of Stinnett, Ky., and John Glenn Hacker of Bear Branch, Ky.  Along with four cherished grandchildren, Emma Sue Mattingly, Mason Xachary Wells, Jessa Rae Wells, and David Logan Wells.  A host of other family and friends also survive.