Summer 2024 – Berea College Magazine (2024)

Rev. Gail Bowman
Director of the Willis D. Weatherford, Jr. Campus Christian Center (2012-2016)
Feb. 18, 2024

Reverend Gail E. Bowman, age 71, of Birmingham, AL passed away on February 18, 2024 from complications of pancreatic cancer.

Gail was born July 10, 1952, in Morgantown, W. Va. She was in Morgantown, W.VA., the second child of Dr. James E. Bowman of Des Moines, Iowa, and Gloria Holland Bowman, both deceased. Gail was an attorney, a wonderful speaker, preacher, and accomplished writer. The family will hold a public memorial service to celebrate her life and her many and varied accomplishments on Sunday March 24, 2024, 2:00PM EDT at East Liberty Presbyterian Church,116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206. The Service will be live streamed on the church Facebook page and YouTube channel and will be recorded.

Gail is survived by her older sister, Linda S. Lane (Coleman), her nephew Cullen James Lane (Melchia) of Miami, FL., her niece, Alicia Erin Lane also of Pittsburgh, her aunt, Shirlee Callender of Minneapolis, MN, her grand nephews, and a host of friends, former students, and colleagues across the country.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to Starfish International, Gail’s organization of choice, whose mission is “to uplift Gambian Girls girls by providing them with a world class education that is focused on service to humanity while at the same time providing international service-learning opportunities for our volunteers.”

Funeral Home Inquiries: 412-241-7998, Church Inquiries: 412-441-3800.info@cathedralofhope.org

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory ofGail Bowman, pleaseclick here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Dr. Roswell David Cox ’66
Professor of Child and Family Studies (1970-2005)
Mar. 10, 2024

Dr. Roswell “Ros” David Cox (79) of Berea, Kentucky, was born April 2, 1944, to Paul and Effie (Akers) Cox in Roswell, New Mexico. Dr. Cox passed away at home on March 10, 2024 after many years of battling chronic illness. Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by grandson David, granddaughter Arowyn, infant sister Melinda Rose, former spouse and friend Fredonna Ritchie, and many beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Teresia, and four children: David (Casie) Cox of Cincinnati, John (Angela Eades) Cox of Berea, Sarah (David) Gray of Richmond, Virginia, and Julia (Rahim) Cox-Mohamed of Calgary, Alberta. He leaves behind siblings: Paul (Colleen) Cox of Princeton, WV, Linda Carnell of Barren Springs, VA, Cindy Webb of Pulaski, VA, Jimmy Cox of Pulaski, VA, Mike (Cassandra) Cox of Alisonia, VA, Danny (Marsha) Cox of Alisonia, VA, and Ellie Dalton of Max Meadows. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Madeline Vowell, Allison Vigil, Brennen Cox, Ian Cox, Eliza Gray, Austin Cox, Megan Colwell, Emily Colwell, and Olivia Colwell. He is further survived by many beloved former students, colleagues, dear friends and family members.

He was raised all over the world, due to his father’s military service, from his birth in New Mexico to Japan, to the Philippines, Alaska, and ultimately spent the majority of his childhood in Pulaski County, Virginia surrounded by a support system of his mother, siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles and cherished grandparents. He enjoyed playing baseball as a young man and spending time outdoors along Big Creek in Alisonia, Virginia. As an adult, he longed to return to Alisonia.

After graduating from high school in 1962, he would go on to be the first in his family to attend college. Upon graduating from Berea College in 1966, he would go on to earn a Master’s Degree from the University of Alabama in 1967 and a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro in 1970. After earning his Ph.D., he returned to Berea to begin his prolific career of teaching the next generations of early childhood educators that would go on to teach in some of the most underserved areas of Appalachia and beyond. His positive impact on the lives of children, through his teaching, is his greatest professional accomplishment and his legacy.

Dr. Cox spent nearly 40 years as a professor of Child and Family Studies at his Alma Mater, Berea College. He dedicated his adult life to the betterment of lives of children, most obvious through his relationships with many dear students over the years who were like family and his large part in the opening of the Boyd and Gaynell Fowler Child Development Lab at Berea College. During his career, he also held responsible positions with Berea Child Care Association and the Kentucky River Foothills Headstart Program. He was a consultant to numerous programs and projects related to young children. While teaching, he was a member of the Southern Association on Children Under Six, the Southern Council on Family Relations and state and national professional organizations.

His greatest passion was being a dad to his four children, “Grandpa Ros” to his grandchildren, and husband to Teresia, his wife of many years. He loved cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats, raising a garden, taking care of his land, helping his neighbors, reading Westerns, listening to George Jones, Diet Dr. Pepper, collecting stamps, and spending time with Kippy (his special dog and companion) and cats Theo and Betsy. Ros was a member of West Side Baptist Church. He will be incredibly missed by his family, friends, former colleagues and students.

A visitation will be held at 11am Friday March 15th at West Side Baptist Church. Service, also at West Side, will follow at 12pm March 15th.

Private burial services will be held by the family in Alisonia, Virginia by Big Creek. His final resting place will be the Webb Family Cemetery in Alisonia.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Madison County Animal Shelter or Berea College in his memory.

Margaret Sandifer Reppert
Nurse (1978-2004)
April 6, 2024

Margaret Sandifer Reppert, 88, of Berea died Saturday, April 6, 2024 at Berea Health and Rehab Center. She was a Denmark, South Carolina native born January 19, 1936, daughter of the late Otis P. and Clyde Best Sandifer, Sr., and graduate of Columbia Hospital School of Nursing (Class of 1957). Margaret was employed at Columbia Hospital (Columbia, South Carolina) and Veterans Administration Hospital (Augusta, Georgia) from 1961 – 1964 until she married Curtis Reppert on July 19, 1964 and relocated to Kentucky.

From 1964 to 1978 she was employed at Berea Hospital where she served as floor nurse and emergency room nurse. From 1978 until her retirement in 2004 she was employed at Berea College Health Service where she was recognized for her outstanding care and service to faculty, staff and students. Margaret was an Honorable Kentucky Colonel, member of Berea Lioness Club, Berea United Methodist Church and attended Bethel Park United Methodist Church in Denmark, South Carolina before moving to Berea. She enjoyed participating in the annual Spoonbread Festival and won first place in the Spoonbread Eating Contest in 2002 and second place in 2003. Margaret was known for wishing everyone listed on the Community Birthday Calendar happy birthday on their special day, and as an avid supporter of Madison Southern athletic events and Berea College games.

Left to cherish her memory are her children Sandy Reppert-Lanham, Brian Reppert (Becky); granddaughter Briana Lanham (Tiffaney); brother Francis Sandifer (Hugh Rice); special niece Belinda Reppert; sisters-in-law Wanda Wren, Ruby Hale; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and church family. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 52 years Curtis Reppert; and brother Otis P. Sandifer, Jr.

Funeral Service 11:00 AM, Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Reppert Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Timo Karvonen officiating. Burial will follow in Berea Cemetery. Visitation 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Brian Reppert, Briana Lanham, John Sandifer, Thomas Sandifer, Andy Wren, Lonnie Reppert. Honorary Pallbearers will be family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Berea College, Berea United Methodist Church or Shriner’s Hospital for children.

Leave condolences for the family, share a memory, light a memorial candle or plant a tree in a National Forest in Margaret’s memory at www.reppertfuneralhome.com

Reppert Funeral Home and Cremation Service entrusted with arrangements.

Reppert Funeral Home

Harriet L. Melhaff Acad. ’43, ’47
Dec. 20, 2023

My mother, Harriet Melhaff, maiden last name Hoffman, was a Berea high school and college alumni. She died on December 20, 2023 at the age of 97. My mother was born in Iran where her parents were medical missionaries, and as a teen, she and her older sister were sent to Berea to continue their studies. Mom lived in the boarding school, worked on campus (in the restaurant, in the weaving workshop, as a lifeguard, at summer youth camps), and was involved with the Drama Department acting and directing plays. She continued her Berea education through college when she graduated with a teaching degree in English. After graduation, she got her first teaching job in Washington state where she eventually met and married my father, William Melhaff. They continued to live in Western WA, finally settling in Olympia. Harriet gave birth to 3 children, and was very active in the church, singing, teaching women’s Bible studies, and directing choirs. She also loved to sing, including opera, and performed with 2 Seattle opera companies at one time. She especially loved teaching womens Bible studies, first through Bible Study Fellowship and later through Precepts Ministries. This she did for over 50 years. She and our father also loved boating and spent many summers on their cabin cruiser up in the San Juan Islands. Our father, William, died in June 2022, just short of their 72nd wedding anniversary. Mom was a faithful follower of Christ and passed along that legacy to her children and grandchildren. When Mom died just before Christmas, she had 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Virginia Denham ’48
Jan. 31, 2024

Virginia Louisa Denham (Kearns), age 96, wife of Charles Richard Denham, passed away peacefully with her daughter Diane by her side on January 31, 2024. Virginia is survived by her three children, John (Cindy), David (Peggy), and Diane (Randy) as well as 10 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and her brother, Ed (Ruth).Born August 5, 1927, in Lynch, Kentucky, she was the eldest of Ed and Katherine Kearns three children (Ed and Dorothy). She is proceeded in death by both her parents, her sister Dorothy, and her beloved husband, Charles. Virginia spent her childhood growing up in Harlan Kentucky where she developed a strong work ethic and a love of reading and learning that lasted throughout her life. This led to Virginia graduating from High School earlier than her peers, at the age of 16, with the distinction of serving as Valedictorian. Virginia enjoyed spending her high school summers working alongside her brother, Ed Kearns at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Upon her graduation from Berea College, Virginia began her career as an educator in Cloverport Kentucky, where she met and married the love of her life, Charles. Shortly after she and Charles wed, they moved to Lexington where she worked as Nutritionist for the University of Kentucky Athletic Department. She delighted in recounting that the legendary football coach, Bear Bryant, insisted hot beef broth be served to his players at half-time, and she saw that it was. Charles and Virginia were blessed to celebrate 64 years of marriage before his passing in 2014.Virginia was a dedicated wife, mother, educator, and friend, always putting the welfare of others before herself. She followed happily as Charles’s career led them to relocate the family many times throughout the years and she always saw to it that her husband and her children were well settled in their new surroundings. However, she never lost sight of her Kentucky roots and the couple always looked forward to returning to their home state, which they did in 1976, when they settled in Lexington Kentucky. Viginia and Charles shared a passion for square dancing that led them, often with a young family in tow, to conventions throughout the United States, where they formed many lifelong friendships and for which Virginia lovingly created elaborate matching outfits for them both. She enjoyed challenging herself with crossword puzzles, and playing Bridge with her friends and was seldom seen without a novel by her side, her favorite of which she would admit with a sly smile, were romance novels. Virginia was a tried-and-true Kentucky Wildcats fan who never missed an opportunity to cheer on her team, and she did just that only days before her passing. Virginia spent countless hours cooking and sewing for her family and friends throughout the years and her children and grandchildren will forever remember the love she expressed through the creations that came from her kitchen and sewing room. Her children will remember fondly, her Chicken-n-Dumplings, Italian Wedding Cake, and annual Fruit Cakes. Her family takes great comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her beloved dance partner, Charles. They wish to thank all those who continued to visit and pray for Virginia during the years she spent as a resident at Wesley Village in Wilmore Kentucky and the tremendous caregivers there who have dedicated their lives to caring for the residents. They truly are angels. A memorial service will be held for Virginia on Sunday, February 4, 2024 at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home located at 3421 Harrodsburg Rd. in Lexington. The family will receive visitors from 12:30 2:00 PM, with the funeral service immediately following. Virginia will be laid to rest alongside her beloved Charles in a private graveside service at Camp Nelson National Cemetery on Monday, February 5th. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to SHUMC Patricia Herren Circle, in Virginia’s memory.

Jessie Crutchfield ’49
Jan. 22, 2024

Jessie H. Crutchfield, age 95, of LaFollette passed away Monday, January 22, 2024. She was a graduate of Berea School of Nursing as a R.N. and a member of St. Clare’s Episcopal Church. Preceded in death by Husband: Dr. James D. Crutchfield, MD, Son: James Bradley Crutchfield and several brothers and sisters.

Survived by:

Daughter: Jane C. Napier

Grandchildren: Matthew Napier, Katie Crutchfield, James E. Crutchfield

Great-Grandchildren: Dennis Samuel Crutchfield, Luke Bowlin, Bella Crutchfield, James Bradley Tindell and Abel Bolton

Brother: Robert (Bobby) Higginbotham

Daughter-in-Law: Tricia Crutchfield

Family will receive friends 12-2 PM Sunday, January 28th at Cross-Smith Funeral Home with funeral service to follow at 2 PM in Cross-Smith Chapel, William and Marita Pratt officiating. Interment to follow at Jacksboro Cemetery.

Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral Home

Condolences may be given online at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com

Betty B. Freeman ’49
Feb. 4, 2023

Betty B. Freeman, 95, of Allison Park, PA, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2023. She was born on January 31, 1928, in Weaverville, NC, daughter of the late Benjamin Burgin and Ora (Brock) Burgin.

She is reunited with her husband, Ethan Freeman who preceded her in death, as well as her parents, sister, Virginia Hurst, and daughter-in-law, Tshering Freeman.

Betty was survived by her four loving children, Michael (Sofia) Freeman, Robert (Sarah) Freeman, Patrick (Gillian) Freeman, and Janet Elias (Sean Kelly); brother-in-law, Jerry (Judy) Freeman; nine grandchildren, William, Christine, Janine, Pamela, Josephine, Ivy, Shane, Brianna and Tyler; eight great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

Betty was a devoted and nurturing mother to her four children and absolutely adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to spending time with her family, Betty was an avid stamp collector, building quite the collection. Her warm-hearted nature and fond memories will be cherished and missed by all.

A Funeral Service for Betty will be held at Eloise B. Kyper Funeral Home, 2702 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw, PA, on Friday, February 10, 2023, at 10:00 a.m in the funeral home chapel with Ken Haselrig of Dovecote Missions, officiating.

Condolences are welcomed and encouraged.

Virginia Wood ’49
Aug. 13, 2019

Virginia Jo Wood, age 92, of Jacksboro passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2019. Member of Jacksboro United Methodist Church. Jo was a certified teacher, but willingly gave her life to being a dedicated mom and doctors wife. After she and Burgin lovingly adopted three children, she still managed to find time to be a pilot and became a member of The Ninety-Nines; a club for woman pilots. She and Burgin shared in this love for flying, their children and their farm life.

Preceded in death by husband, Burgin H. Wood, M.D.; parents, Patton Henry & Flossie Reece Crutchfield; brother, James D. Crutchfield, M.D., Gene Crutchfield, Richard Crutchfield; sister, Phyllis Edmondson

Survivors

Daughter & son-in-law: Stacey Wood-Heatherly & Michael Heatherly

Sons: Scott S. Wood

Stephen E. Wood & wife Ann Wood

Grandchildren: Brandon S. Wood, Stefanie Wood Sabia & husband Chris

Sarah B. Massengill & husband Robert

John S. Heatherly & wife Cheryl

Meagan Heatherly and Joshua Heatherly

Great-grandchildren: Taylor Massengill, Macy Massengill, Mac Henry Massengill,

Jonathon Carroll, Kinsley Carroll, Nolen Sabia, Adelyn Sabia,

Natalia Wood, Arabella Heatherly

Brothers: Burgin Crutchfield & wife Jeanne

Gary Crutchfield & wife Cindy

Sisters-in-laws: Jane Bartley Westbrook & husband Michael

Wilma Jonston, Jessie Crutchfield and Carolyn Crutchfield

Numerous nieces and nephews

Family will receive friends 5 PM to 7 PM Friday at Jacksboro United Methodist Church with Memorial Service to follow at 7 PM

Rev. Perry Duncan officiating

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be given to LaFollette Medical Foundation, PO Box 128, Jacksboro, TN 37757 or Jacksboro United Methodist Church, PO Box 83, Jacksboro, TN 37757

A private Interment will be held in Jacksboro Cemetery

Condolences may be given online at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com

Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral

Betty Parker ’50
Feb. 13, 2024

Betty J. Parker, 94, died peacefully at Wharton Nursing Home in Pleasant Hill, on February 13, 2024. She was born June 3, 1929, in Decatur, AL, the daughter of Persinger and Jane Meadows Parker. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Franklin Parker who died two months prior to Betty’s passing. She is survived by her special friend, Peggy Happy also of Pleasant Hill. Betty studied at Berea College, where she met her future husband, Franklin Parker. Sharing the same last name in those days of seating students alphabetically hastened their friendship and eventual marriage on June 12, 1950. She and Franklin attended graduate school at Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, Nashville. Betty taught English and History at Ferrum College, Ferrun, VA; Walkil Central School, Walkil, NY and at Belmont University, Nashville. She and Franklin, who shared many interests, worked together as a professional research and writing team. Betty was coauthor with Franklin of several books… and with him crossed the Atlantic Ocean eighteen times. Together they traveled to study, do research, lecture, or attend Educational Conferences in England, the Soviet Union, Germany, Israel, southern Africa and China. In retirement Betty and Franklin Parker moved to Uplands Village, Pleasant Hill, a place chosen by many of their former Berea College teachers and classmates. One of their favorite Uplands activities was presenting significant book reviews together given as dialogues, most of which were later published online. She will be remembered by friends and family at a celebration of her life at a later date.

Effie Strong ’50
Jan. 20, 2024

Effie Taylor Strong, 96, passed away at her home in Rockport, Texas, on January 20, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband Will R. (Bill) Strong; beloved son, Don Taylor Strong; three sisters and two brothers. She is survived by nieces and nephews, her brother-in-law, her special and devoted friend of many years, Sherry Buhr, and her friend and primary caregiver Mia Easton.

Originally from Corbin, Kentucky, Effie and Bill lived in several states, where Effie was a schoolteacher, before retiring in Rockport 37 years ago. Effie was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Rockport.

A private family remembrance of Effie’s long and loving life will be held.

Nell Porter ’52
April 2, 2024

Nell Halsey Porter, 92, of Rural Retreat, passed away April 2, 2024. Born in Independence, Virginia, she was the daughter of Clarence Halsey and Ileta Finney Halsey. Grandparents were Fields McTier and Zenna Cox Halsey; Charlie and Stella Cox Finney. She graduated from Berea College in Kentucky, the same college her father attended.

Nell began teaching in Wytheville, Virginia where she met and married fellow teacher, E. Bruce Porter, from Cripple Creek, Virginia. She enjoyed a long career teaching and farming with her husband. She also enjoyed flower gardening and extensive travel.

Nell was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son-in-law Rusty Sneed. She is survived by three daughters: Pat Porter of Marion, Pam (Jeff) Leonard of Sugar Grove, Polly (Del) Crigger of Wytheville, and a sister, Hazel (Jay) Harper of Marion.

Per her wishes all services will be private. Friends may send expressions of sympathy to the home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mobile Noble Shriners, 555 Peppers Ferry Road, Wytheville, VA 24382; or show your support of the Rural Retreat Farmers Market, one of her favorite activities, by making a donation to the construction of the planned permanent Farmer’s Market Facility, Rural Retreat Town Office, c/o Monica Patton, 307 South Main Street, Rural Retreat, VA 24368.

Lindsey Funeral Home of Rural Retreat, Virginia is serving the Porter Family.

Lindsey Funeral Home 219 N. Main St.; Rural Retreat, VA 24368

Published by SWVA Today on Apr. 6, 2024.

Dorothy May Schmidt Obi ’53
Mar. 4, 2024

Dorothy Schmidt Obi, 92, died March 4, 2024. Born in Washington, DC, Dorothy grew up in West Virginia, where her father’s work for the Department of Agriculture took the family. While at Berea, Dorothy’s interests in art and literature were nurtured and remained lifelong pursuits as she continued painting and writing poetry throughout most of her life. It was also at Berea that she met her husband Ogbuchukwu Fidelis Obi, Class of 1953. After their marriage in 1954, Dorothy began postgraduate studies in library science at Columbia University and earned her MLS in 1957. Soon after she left the United States to join her husband in Enugu, Nigeria. Later, in 1974, she acquired a Ph.D. in Library and Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Dorothy spent most of her working life at the Enugu Campus Library, University of Nigeria, where she rose to the rank of Deputy University Librarian, retiring in 1991. Predeceased by her husband, Dorothy is survived by her children, Charles, Ada, Almaz, and Francis, and their families; and her sisters, Ruth Davis and Ellen Schmidt.

Raymond C. Tackett ’53
Mar. 3, 2024

Raymond C. Tackett passed away at home in Calabash, North Carolina on Sunday March 3rd, 2024 at the age of 92. Ray is survived by his wife Sandy; children, Jolene Curry(Frank) and Michael(Sara); stepson, Richard Foster; grandchildren, Jessica (Lance) MacDonald, Matthew ( Lindsey) Foley, Elizabeth (Matt) Haynick, Peter (Liz) Foley, Caroline (Michael) Zotos, Eden (Melissa) Foley and Dorothy (Greg) Assaff and step-grandchild, Eli Foster; as well as 9 great grandchildren. Ray is also survived by his brother, Tommie Tackett (Alene) and sisters, Selby Dorgan (John) and Annetta Gay Thacker (Greg) and was predeceased by his parents, first wife Bobbie Jones Tackett and sister Emma Lou Bradley. Ray was born in Pikeville, Kentucky, son of Silas and Estelle and graduated from Martin HS (Auxier) in Martin, Kentucky. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Berea College. While attending Berea he met and married Bobbie Jones and they resided in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Ray earned a Masters Degree in Education at Indiana University in 1967. Following Bobbie’s death, Ray was married to Sandy Foster in 1993 and moved to Calabash, NC. From 1952 to 1953 Ray was in the Army stationed in Washington DC. Ray’s career was centered around accounting and finances. He began working as an accountant with General Electric which turned into long term employment as an accounting teacher in Jefferson County Schools in Louisville, later serving as president of the Jefferson County Teachers Association. This experience led to service as Finance Director with the Kentucky Education Association. Ray considered it to be a compliment when anyone took his services for granted. Before leaving Jeffersonville, Ray was a long time member and deacon at Oak Park Baptist Church. Ray had a passion for reading and was a history buff. He loved working crossword puzzles and playing Scrabble. Donations in memory of Ray can be made to the American Cancer Society which was a long time charitable cause of Rays throughout his life. A Celebration of Life is planned at Archer Park in Prestonsburg, KY on June 22 starting at 1pm. Online condolences may be made at www.shallottefunerals.com White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel

Masiel Ayers ’54
Nov. 13, 2023

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Laughlin Service Funeral Home & Crematory – Huntsville on Nov. 14, 2023.

Mrs. Masiel Deweese Ayers went to be with the Lord on November 13, 2023. She was a godly wife, mother, and grandmother, as well as a member of Whitesburg Baptist Church.

Mrs. Ayers was born to William and Beulah Deweese on February 10, 1931, near Beckley, West Virginia. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1950. She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 1954 from Berea College in Kentucky. While at college, she met her handsome and wonderful husband, Dr. Orval Edwin Ayers and they were married on December 20, 1952. After teaching for two years near Dayton, Ohio, she attended Auburn University where she received her master’s degree in Elementary Education in 1958. After teaching for nine and a half years in Dayton, Ohio, Opelika and Huntsville, Alabama, she retired to stay home with her three daughters.

Mrs. Ayers was involved for several years with Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) and church activities. She served on the communion committee, delivered meals to the homebound church members, taught children’s church and Bible clubs, and was active in the Ladies Bible Class.

Mrs. Ayers was preceded in death by her parents, William and Beulah Deweese, her siblings, Zelda Deweese Cowell, Harold Deweese, and Ronald Deweese, as well as four unborn grandchildren.

Mrs. Ayers is survived by her husband of almost 71 years, Dr. Orval Ayers; three daughters, Karen Pinkleton (David), Sylvia Ayers, and Lisa Knox; five grandchildren, David Allen Pinkleton II, Megan Zimmerman (Michael), Natalie Shannon (Ryan), James Pinkleton, and William “Billy” Knox (Autumn); great-grandchildren, Rikardo Zimmerman, Deven Zimmerman, Campbell “Camp” Knox, Archer “Archie” Shannon, and Chappell Knox; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 2 to 3 p.m. Monday, November 20, at Whitesburg Baptist South Campus. The memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. with the Rev. Guy Morton officiating.

The family wishes to thank Katrina Coleman at Kyser’s Place with her staff of Clarice, CeeCee, and Harriet, who took loving care of Masiel as her health declined.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Awana Children’s Ministry at Calvary Bible Church, 607 Drake Ave., Huntsville, AL 35802 (https://cbchsv.org/), or Gideon’s International (www.gideons.org).

Doris Musser ’55
Mar. 6, 2024

Doris Ann Hinkle Musser July 6, 1933 March 6, 2024 Entries Doris Ann Hinkle Musser was born July 6, 1933, in a log cabin to Cathleen Johnson and Samuel Granville Hinkle in Alderson, West Virginia. She started school at the age of 3 because her father was the teacher of the one-room schoolhouse, where the family lived. Doris graduated from Alderson High School in 1950, where she participated as a band member and cheerleader. She was a life-long sports enthusiast. Doris completed the nursing program at Berea College in 1955. Later she obtained degrees in Christian Education and Nursing, and in her 60’s went back to school for a Master’s Degree in Music. While in college, Doris met and married Harvey Austin Musser, who was also from Greenbrier County, West Virginia. Doris and Harvey were married over 50 years and had five children. While in their 30’s, Doris and Harvey felt God’s call to the mission field. The family first served in Ceres, Goias, Brazil at a boarding school for missionary children, where she was affectionately known as “Aunt Doris.” After Brazil, Harvey and Doris traveled to work at a mission hospital in Haiti, and later taught English in China. Throughout her life, Doris used her many talents in music, drama, folk dancing, writing, sewing, creativity, card-making, teaching and nursing to love and serve her family, her church and others, all in the name of her Savior Jesus Christ. While in her 80’s, residing in an independent living facility, Doris served others through organizing musical and holiday programs, and making holiday greeting cards for all the residents and staff. She was a longtime member of Trinity Church, PCA in Richmond, Kentucky. Doris had a wonderful sense of humor, loved all things Mickey Mouse and could also converse on the most serious topics. Some of her favorite roles were choir director, hospice nurse, caring for families with a loved one approaching death, and English teacher to international students. Doris was dearly devoted to her husband and family. She is preceded in death by her husband Harvey Austin Musser and brother Luther Grey Hinkle (Christine). She is survived by her five children Harvey Austin Musser, Jr. (H.A. and Rhonda), Paul Alan Musser (Elizabeth), Janet Granski, Scot Aaron Musser (Carol), Beth Ann Wren and her sister Noveda Mae Hinkle Webster (Walter). Doris is also survived by her 13 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, who call her “Mamaw.” Her grandchildren are Austin Wright Musser (Meggin), Joel Alan Musser (Nancy), Sadie Rosebud Wren, Andrew Paul Musser (Lacy), Aaron John Musser (Katie), Christopher Alan Musser (Ashlee), Lynnette Grace Musser Haizlett (Will), David Scot Musser (Katie), Rachelle Ashley Granski, Leighanne Nichole Granski, Emily Joy Musser, Hannah Kaye Musser, and Samuel Harvey Musser (Carly). Doris entered the very presence of her Lord on March 6, 2024. Funeral services will be held at Trinity Church PCA (315 Spangler Dr.) in Richmond, Kentucky, on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 am and the service will begin at 11 am.

Patricia Wright Baker ’56
Feb. 6, 2024

Patricia Hereford Wright Baker stepped into eternity on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at her home surrounded by those who loved her most. She was 89 years young and a resident of the Cawood, Kentucky, community. Born on March 10, 1934, in Dorton, KY, Pat was the third of five daughters born to Arnold and Virginia Hereford Wright. She graduated high school from the Pikeville College Academy, attended Pikeville College for two years and obtained her bachelor’s degree in education from Berea College, where she met Tipton ‘Tip’ Baker. Pat and Tip were married in August of 1956. They eventually made their home in eastern Kentucky, where Pat became a teacher. She spent the better part of 32 years teaching and loving on first graders. Pat and Tip were parents to seven children: Sissy, Janie, Ben, Tippy, little Bill, Ron, and Tara. They had two bonus sons: Bill and Don. Pat was a firecracker of a lady. She was outgoing, opinionated, and didn’t hesitate to let you know what she was thinking. She was a great conversationalist and never seemed to meet a stranger. She enjoyed knitting, quilting, gardening, and serving. For ten years, Pat and her best friend, Nan Howard, volunteered at Christ’s Hands serving the residents of the Harlan area. Faith was a vital part of Pat’s life and its importance had been instilled in her at a young age by her parents. She, in turn, instilled those same values in her own children. She was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Harlan, where she loved to sing in the church choir. Her most precious possessions were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her fur-baby, Stark, a Golden Retriever. Pat’s absence leaves a huge void in the hearts of those who love her, but they know for certain that she is celebrating in the presence of her God with family members who were there to welcome her home. Pat is preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Virginia Wright; her husband, Tip Baker; three children: Sissy, Tippy, and little Bill; a son-in-law, Steve Cooksey; and two sisters: Janice Bailey and Clair Stubblefield. Left to cherish her memory are her four children: Janie Cooksey of Burkesville, KY; Ben Taylor Baker (Karen) of Cawood, KY; Ron Baker (Debra) of Fletcher, NC; Tara Baker of Clark, NJ; three bonus sons: Bill Baker, Don Short (Brenda); two sisters: Carolyn Ford of Prestonsburg, KY and Margaret Boley of Winchester, KY; twelve grandchildren: Bradley Hall (Shining), Casey Hall (Arielle), Brittany Major (Roderick), Katelyn Card (Chris), Chase Baker, Taylor Baker (Troy Wells) Sydney Baker, Shane Short (Barbara), Carol Corum (Jason), Tommy Baker, Kari Cooksey, Eric Cooksey; sixteen great-grandchildren; special friends, Jerry and Wanda Weaver, Grover and Mary Bret Milwee; a host of extended relatives and many dear friends. Of those who will mourn her absence, perhaps none will do so more than her beloved companion, Stark, who was by her side for many years, until the end. A gathering of family and friends will take place on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 1:00-2:00pm at the Harlan Presbyterian Church. Pat’s Celebration of Life Service will begin at 2:00. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church building fund or Bluegrass Care Navigators (Hospice). Harlan Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ms. Pat Baker.

Dr. Darrell Crase ’56
July 6, 2023
Obituary Unavailable

Jo Ann Marsh ’56
Obituary Unavailable

Jean B. Musser White ’56
Feb. 20, 2024

Jean B. (Musser) White of Frankford, WV, passed away at her home on February 20, 2024.

Born November 15, 1933, she was a daughter of the late Ralph and Birdie (Handley) Musser. She was married to her late husband, Raymond C. White for 68 years.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings, George, Charlie, William, Marshall, Glenn, Harvey Musser and Mary Nash.

Jean worked at the Greenbrier Valley Airport for over 30 years working for various car rental agencies manning the desk and delivering cars. She was also a dedicated poll worker for the Frankford District. Jean was a long and active member of the Frankford Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed her garden, reading, doing puzzles and writing to her family and friends.

She is survived by her children, Donna (Mike) Myles of Renick, WV, Raymond C. “Ray” White of Frankford, WV, James (Connie) White of Rocky Mount, VA and Ralph White (Dr. Ginamarie Foglia) of Ivins, UT; sister, Betty White of Silva, NC. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held for Jean on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Frankford Presbyterian Church in Frankford, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations of sympathy be made to the Frankford Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 149, Frankford, WV 24938 or Greenbrier County Library, attn: Ann Farr, 152 Robert W. McCormick Drive, Lewisburg, WV 24901.

Sadie York ’56
Feb. 6, 2024

Sadie York Obituary Sadie Marie York August 27, 1933 February 6, 2024 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina There will be a memorial service for Sadie York on Friday, May 31st at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrews by the Sea, 20 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head, SC 29928To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store

Nancy Maria Ball ’57
Oct. 16, 2023

Nancy Graves Ball, daughter of Palmer Ray Ball and Bonnie May Ball (nee Sage) was born in Toms Creek, Virginia on June 12, 1934. She was the third and youngest surviving child in the family. Her childhood consisted of regular movement in the southeast Kentucky/southwest Virginia coal mining region of the Appalachian Mountains until the family eventually settled in Haysi, Virginia. Her father was an accountant and her mother was a teacher and renowned local historian. She grew up amidst hardship, and yet emerged an intelligent, sensitive, creative and fiercely independent woman.

She graduated from Haysi High School in 1952 and went on to Berea College, where she earned a degree in English and graduated in 1956.

After completing school, Nancy moved to Chicago, where her sister, Dorothy, and brother-in-law, Basil had settled following their marriage. In Chicago, she worked a variety of jobs, including case worker, receptionist and bicycle messenger. She also acted in local theatre and most importantly, made numerous close and life-long friends.

Nancy’s father passed away in 1981. When her mother’s health began to falter later in the 1980’s, she moved to Big Stone Gap, Virginia, where she cared for her mother until her passing in 1996. Following the loss of her mother, Nancy remained in Big Stone Gap and was well-known for creating the breathtaking scenery for the local outdoor drama, The Trail of the Lonesome Pine. Her scenery is briefly captured in the film Big Stone Gap, based on the book by Big Stone Gap native Adriana Trigiani. She was often called upon for her extraordinary artistic talent for personal projects and background scenery for local school theater and dance events. Her family and friends were annual recipients of her exquisite holiday drawings of nativity scenes.

Nancy was a faithful and active member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Norton, Virginia.

Father Tim Drake was with her shortly before her passing, and her dear friends Joie Cantrell and Christina Gipson were holding her hands as she transitioned.

Nancy was preceded in death by her father and mother, her sister Dorothy, her brother George, her brother Maurice, (who passed in infancy before Nancy’s birth), and her niece Deborah Sams. She is survived by nephews Eric Ball, Timothy Sams and Barry Booton, and by niece Katharine Booton Wilson, by her brother-in-law, Basil Booton, and by countless close, loving friends.

Nancy’s independent spirit and gentle nature inspire us to speak our own truths while remaining loving and connected to those around us. She will be dearly missed.

The family will receive friends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Monday November 13th at Saint Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Norton, with a service to follow at 11:00 officiated by Father Tim Drake.

Burial will be at the Ball family plot in the Cecil-Fry Cemetery in Pennington Gap.

Sammy Ray Bryant ’57
Jan. 31, 2024

Sammy Ray Bryant, beloved husband, father and grandfather, died Jan. 31 after complications following surgery and a struggle with dementia. The native Kentuckian and longtime Polk County resident was 90 years old.

Sam was unfailingly kind, adventurous and eager for new experiences. He loved sailing, traveling with his wife, spending time with family, and had a great appreciation for grouper sandwiches, banana pudding and a glass of “good red wine.”

He worked for decades as chief chemist at the phosphate mine at Nichols.

Born Sept. 5, 1933, in Pulaski, Ky., to Lonnie Arizona and Thelma Fitzgerald Bryant, Sam was the youngest of five sons. Growing up in Burnside, Ky., his brothers loved trying out their projects on him, plopping him in the seat of a homemade go-cart and setting him off downhill. Sam, who was 5’8”, loved telling how in high school he was known for his speed on the basketball court.

The boy who grew up “gigging” frogs to bring home to his mother’s kitchen graduated in 1957 from Berea College in Berea, Ky., with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He made his way to Florida to run the lab at the phosphate mine then owned by Virginia-Carolina Chemical Corp. (later, Mobil). There he met Blanche Eastman of Mulberry, whom he married on Dec. 16, 1961. They settled in Bartow and later moved in retirement to Homeland.

Their adventures in boating started in the ’70s with a tiny green houseboat they took all around Florida’s lakes and Keys. He learned to navigate by the stars, to scuba dive and to sail. Sam and Blanche later traveled all over the world, with Sam charming the people he met with his good-heartedness and optimism, often despite the barriers of language. As his son-in-law said, “Sam never met a stranger.” A longtime friend noted: “Everybody loved Sammy.”

He was devoted to family and loved being with his grandsons, who saw him as “an absolute legend.” Sam lit up talking about his upbringing in Kentucky, making hardship seem like an adventure.

Sam never forgot the value of a dollar, and could reduce a car salesman to tears. Yet he quietly donated money to multiple causes. He also served as past president of Bartow Kiwanis Club and the Florida Phosphate Chemist Association and as past commander of the Lakeland Sail and Power Squadron.

He was raised in the Baptist church and though he did not attend church later in life, retained his Christian faith.

Sam was preceded in death by his brothers: James, Paul, Conard and Dudley. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Blanche Bryant of Homeland, Fla; daughter Rebecca Bryant Mohan and son-in-law Geoff Mohan of La Cresenta, Calif; and two grandsons: Bryant Mohan of New York, N.Y., and Liam Mohan of Los Angeles, Calif.; sisters-in-law Georgia Ann Eastman Stuart and Cindi Beahm; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Family will receive friends from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm Saturday, February 10, 2024 Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 500 W Stuart St in Bartow, FL. A Celebration of Sammy’s Life will follow at 4:00 pm at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Bartow.

Memorials may be made to Berea College at https://www.berea.edu/giving

Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com

John C. Owen ’57
Oct. 21, 2023
Obituary Unavailable

Thelma Wilson, RN ’57
Mar. 9, 2024
Obituary Unavailable

Basil Borders ’58
April 1, 2024

Basil Borders (1936-2024)Basil Borders, 87, of Lake Forest, IL, passed away at Lake Forest Hospital on April 1, 2024.He was born in Falcon, KY, May 11,1936 and grew up in Eastern Kentucky. Basil attended Paintsville (KY) High School before studying Business at Berea College (KY). Basil was selected as a Kemper Scholar in 1956, and graduated in 1958. He served in the US Army in Germany from 1958 1960, and in the US Army Reserves from 1960 1963. His career as a Corporate Systems Officer and Manager at Kemper Insurance was from 1960 1993, and afterward he and Ellie enjoyed 31 years of retirement. Basil was a member of the Union Church of Lake Bluff for 56 years, serving as chairperson of the Elders and Trustees, as well the Finance Committee. He served multiple terms on the Lake Bluff Library board. He enjoyed time on both the golf course and tennis court, and spent many an evening serving the homeless with PADS of Lake County. Basil was the last surviving child of Manuel and Margie Borders, and is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Eleanor Borders of Lake Forest; his daughter Kay (Brad) Wilson of Mount Prospect; his son Keith (Erin) Borders of Saint Louis, and granddaughters Alexandra and Brooke Wilson. A Memorial Service and reception will be held at 1 PM on May 21, 2024, at the Union Church of Lake Bluff (525 E. Prospect Ave.)Memorial gifts to the Union Church of Lake Bluff would be greatly appreciated. Info: Wenban Funeral Home, Lake Forest www.wenbanfh.com or (847) 234-0022

Grace Harness ’58
Jan. 26, 2024

Grace Illene Howard Harness, 87 of Crab Orchard, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, January 26, 2024. She was the widow of the late “Johnny”, John R. Harness, Sr., who preceded her in 1995. Born October 19, 1936 in Crab Orchard, Kentucky to her beloved mother, the late Margaret Saylor Howard and Father, Benjamin Harrison Howard. After her birth, two wonderful sisters followed her. Phyllis Howard Bodner and Bennie Howard Reynolds. They grew up so happily together, running and playing and loving the life their mother built for them. They farmed, milked cows, gardened and canned their harvest. They were taught about Jesus and grew up in the love of the Lord, all the while being under their mothers precious wing. She was a graduate of Crab Orchard High School and Berea College with a degree in nursing. She worked many years at Garrard County Hospital loving and caring for many precious patients. Grace also worked as a nurse for the Lincoln County Health Department before accepting the position of Health Careers Instructor at Garrard County Vocational School where she touched the lives of so many young nursing students. She went above and beyond the role of a teacher, being an advisor, counselor and friend. She always loved when former students kept in touch with her over the years. Running into her students, while out and about, always made her day. Grace had a passion for serving the Lord. She was a lifelong member of Watts Chapel Baptist Church, where she was a faithful servant in so many roles. She loved her Ladies Sunday School Class and Classmates, the fellowship of WMU. She loved teaching Awanas classes and helping with many children’s activities. Of all this, the joy of her life was her loving family. She married Johnny in 1959 and was his devoted wife and partner in life until his passing. Her son, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her greatest happiness. She was blessed to spend all her days of her retirement on the family farm, loving, looking after and cooking wonderful meals for her family so dear to her heart.

Survivors Include:

Son, John Robert Harness, Jr.

Two Grandchildren: April & Husband, Shannon Howard

Elijah William “Eli” Harness

Three Great Grandchildren:

Brayden Lucas Howard, Shelby Paige Howard & Katie Belle Howard

Two Sisters: Phyllis Bodner and Bennie Reynolds

Several Nieces and Nephews also survive.

Daughter in law of many years, Teresa Gail Harness

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her Dad, Benjamin Harrison Howard in 1962, Mother, Margaret Saylor Howard in 2001, One Great Granddaughter, Anna Gail Howard in 2014, and her Half-Brother, Robert Bailey “Bob” Howard.

The public funeral will be held 1:00 PM Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at Watts Chapel Baptist Church with visitation beforehand at 12 Noon at the church. Bro. Dan Gutenson will officiate.

Place of Burial: Bethel Church of Christ Cemetery with McKnight Funeral Home entrusted with the arrangements.

Pallbearers Include: Brayden Howard, Shelby Howard, Eli Harness, Shannon Howard, Bobby Gene Bodner, James Lee Reynolds, and Corey Hurst

Memorial contributions suggested to Gideons International Bible Fund, P.O. Box 155, Stanford, Kentucky 40484

An online guestbook is available at www.mcknightfuneralhome.com

Dan P. Blalock Jr. ’59
Nov. 8, 2023

Daniel Pinkney Blalock, Jr., age 86, of Sevierville, was united with his brothers and sisters that were waiting for him in Heaven on November 8, 2023.

Dan graduated from Sevier County High School in 1955 as the class Salutatorian. He went on to graduate from Berea College, in Kentucky with a BA degree in Mathematics. He taught at Sevier County High School from September 1959 to June 1993. He was a member of the Retired Teachers. He enjoyed fishing and watching all kinds of sports, especially baseball and football. He enjoyed Gospel music and playing computer games and Facebook.

Dan is preceded in death by his parents Daniel Pinkney Blalock Sr. and Ora Ruth Atchley Blalock; sisters Faye Graham, Ora Blalock, Ila Leatherwood, Nancy Butera, Glenda Sue Blalock; brothers William Augustus Blalock and Albert Abijah Blalock, Sr.; nephews Dan Wilson Graham, Jr. and Albert Abijah Blalock, Jr.

He is survived by his sister Anna Lee Blalock; sister-in-law Aileen Maples Blalock; nephews Daniel Clark Blalock (Sherry) and Timothy Mark Blalock.

The family would like express a special thanks to the many special friends and neighbors, especially Don and Patsy Farmer, for assistance and support during Dan’s hospitalization.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sevier County Food Ministries or a charity of your choice.

The family will receive friends from 4-6 PM on Thursday November 16, 2023, at Atchley Funeral Home in Sevierville. A graveside service will be held at 11 AM Friday November 17, at Red Bank Cemetery in Sevierville with Reverend Jimmy Maples officiating.

Online condolences can be made at www.atchleyfuneralhome.com.

Shirley White ’59
Dec. 27, 2022

Shirley Ann Harrison White, 87, of Benton, departed this life peacefully on Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at her home surrounded by her beloved family.

She was born on December 9, 1935, in Stanton, Kentucky to the late William F. and Elsie Vance Harrison Sr. and was a lifelong member at First Presbyterian Church of Stanton. After graduation from high school, she received her bachelor’s degree in 1958 from Berea College in Berea, KY., majoring in home economics. Upon completing her studies, she then traveled to Benton, Tennessee, where she became employed with the Polk County Department of Education. Mrs. White had the blessing of educating hundreds of students throughout her career, was a faithful and dedicated pianist/soloist at Benton United Methodist Church, and was a passionate supporter of the Kentucky Wildcats, Tennessee Lady Vols, and Polk County Wildcats.

She met the love of her life, W.K. “Toddy” White while excursioning the roads along Lake Ocoee, and together they traveled the world following The Big Orange for over 60 years with a few of their dearest friends. Along with being a well-loved educator, pianist/soloist, and traveler, being a mother, sister, daughter, and nana was her true life’s pleasure.

She was the faithful and devout wife of 61 years to W.K. “Toddy” White; beloved mother of Lisa W. (John) Beard, and Jennifer W. (Charlie) Qualls; cherished Nana to Tracy W. Beard, Tucker “Tuck” Beard and Kristin Bastian, Ryan N. Qualls and Nikki Dean, and Stephanie Q. (Alex) Akins; great-granddaughters, Ivy Grace and Emma Ann Qualls; beloved brothers, William F. “Billy” (Davona) Harrison Jr., and Henry C. (Brenda) Harrison. Several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends also survive.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at Benton United Methodist Church, with her brothers, Billy and Henry Harrison officiating.

Family and friends will gather from 12:00 p.m. (noon) to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Benton United Methodist Church, 135 Highland Dr., Benton, TN 37307.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Nikki Dean and Laken Lankford for their dedicated and compassionate care throughout Shirley’s final days.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.

Dr. Robert N. Compton ’60
Feb. 27, 2024

Dr. Robert (Bob) Norman Compton was born in Metropolis, Illinois, to Robert Wilson and Wava Jennett (Lambert) Compton. He passed away peacefully on February 27, surrounded by family, after a short battle with brain cancer.

As a child in 1943, Bob moved with his family moved to Oak Ridge, where his father worked at Y-12 during the Manhattan Project during World War II. He was interested in science and how things worked from a young age and was one of those kids who would take apart a radio to see how it worked. Bob graduated from Oak Ridge High School in 1956, where he played basketball and ran track, and traveled throughout east Tennessee giving Tesla coil demonstrations to teach others about physics and electronics.

Bob earned a B.A. in physics from Berea College in 1960, where he met fellow student Milinda (Byrd) and they married in 1961. He received an M.S. in physics from the University of Florida in 1962, and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Tennessee in 1966. Bob returned to Oak Ridge to work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) during summers and joined as a permanent scientist after completing his Ph.D. For much of his 30-year career at ORNL, Bob served as a group leader in molecular physics in the Health Sciences Research Division. After retiring from the lab, he had a 19-year career as Professor of Physics and Zeigler Professor of Chemistry at the University of Tennessee until retiring in 2015. He was also co-founder of Comstock, Inc., a scientific instrument company. Since retiring from UT, Bob published two books, one on Laser Experiments and another on Raman Spectroscopy Under Liquid Nitrogen. In fall 2023, he completed the second edition of Laser Experiments.

Dr. Compton was a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Physical Society, and the Optical Society of America. He was honored in 1991 with the J.W. Beams Award by the American Physical Society and in 1995 with the Meggars Award by the Optical Society of America, presented annually to recognize outstanding work in spectroscopy. Compton was named Corporate Fellow at ORNL in 1986 and a Senior Corporate Fellow in 1995.

For over half a century, Bob was a celebrated experimentalist and inspirational leader and teacher in the fields of physics and chemistry. He attributed his longevity in the field to his desire to understand the physical world. His work at ORNL focused on experimental studies in atomic and molecular physics, particularly developments in the field of nonlinear laser spectroscopy and the physics of negative ions. He was known for his willingness to collaborate on research projects and for his wide network of contacts across an interdisciplinary scientific community. He had a tremendous passion for science and his desire for understanding was contagious. Bob advised more than 40 graduate students and post-doctoral scientists, and he was extremely proud of their accomplishments.

His research took him and his family across the world, including as a Visiting Professor at the University of Aarhus, Denmark, the University of Paris, and the FOM Institute in Amsterdam. In 2001, he was an Erskine Fellow at the University of Christchurch, New Zealand. He and Milinda traveled several times to scientific meetings in Greece and throughout Europe.

Bob was also an active member of the Oak Ridge community, coaching t-ball, basketball and soccer. During the 1970s, he was involved in the Citizens Council for Clinch River Planning (CCCRP); this group’s foresight protected the scenic beauty of the Oak Ridge Marina, now one of the top three rowing courses in the US. In recent years, Bob was very involved in the Friends of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and was a frequent speaker on a wide range of topics including lasers, the universe, and the science and history of the Manhattan Project.

Bob is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret Milinda (Byrd) Compton, along with children Jana Compton (Steve Perakis) of Corvallis, Oregon, Derek Compton (Stacy) of Lake Stevens, Washington, Amy Horner (Rick) of Boise, Idaho, and Anne Wilkerson (Scott) of Denver, Colorado. He also leaves seven grandchildren: Ashlee (Compton) Hagen, Lane Compton, Sophia Perakis, Liam Wilkerson, and Richard, Maddie and Wava Horner. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he loved hearing about their interests and passions. Bob is also survived by his sister Susan Compton Carpenter (Joe), niece Keri Carpenter and nephew Timothy Carpenter, and brothers-in-law Alan Byrd (Joann, deceased), Gary Byrd (Wanda), and Randal Byrd (Stephanie) of Morganton, North Carolina and Colon Byrd (Markly) of Georgia.

Bob was incredibly thankful to be able to attend Berea College, and felt he might not have been able to pursue his career without that opportunity. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to Berea College (https://www.berea.edu/giving/ways-to-give).

A reception will be held at Mott-McKamey funeral home on Saturday March 2 from 2-3 pm.

Dr. Larry G. Keeter ’60
Jan. 19, 2024

LARRY G. KEETER was a Spindale native, a gifted teacher, ASU professor emeritus, and former Mayor of Boone. He was professor of sociology at Appalachian State University, at Campbell University, and at Emerson College, Massachusetts, as well as faculty exchange professor at the University of Ireland in Dublin. He wrote popular and scholarly articles on a variety of issues in sociology, minority relations, and religion, and produced DVD/videos on Max Weber, which were distributed by the American Sociological Association. Dr. Keeter served as President of the North Carolina Sociological Association and in various offices and committees of the Southern Sociological Association, and of the Popular Culture Association, including Chair of the Elvis section. He was an active member of First Baptist Church, serving as Sunday School teacher and Deacon.

Dr. Keeter was a graduate of Berea College with a major in philosophy and psychology and was the recipient of fellowships at Columbia University (National Woodrow Wilson Fellow), Harvard University (Hopkins Share), where he served as Baptist chaplain, and Boston University (Rockefeller Scholar), which granted his PH.D. While completing his Ph.D.., he was pastor of the Congregational Church (UCC) in Winchester, Massachusetts, where both of his children were born. As a graduate student, Keeter participated in the March on Washington, served as a counselor in the Billy Graham Evangelism Campaign at Harvard University, participated in the Student Vigil at the Lincoln Memorial (on his honeymoon) in support of the Civil Rights Act; and as a pastor, in the Poor Peoples’ Campaign in Washington, and in the School of Evangelism in the Billy Graham Crusade at Madison Square Gardens.

Dr. Keeter received summer faculty fellowships with NASA in Langley, Virginia; the National Endowment for the Arts at University of Berkeley, California; and the USIA Program in Poland. As a sociology professor, he was very active with the ASU’s off-campus sites at the New York Loft (led over 50 ASU student programs) and at the App House in DC (led over 30 ASU student programs); as well as Elvis student programs and Elvis Week in Memphis; at the King and Carter Centers in Atlanta; and the ASU Summer Study Abroad Program ( led 5 ASU student programs to Europe); all these trips giving students immersive experience in on-the-hoof sociological study. He always thought “outside the box.” He enjoyed the theater in New York, Dublin, London, ASU, Barter, and Lees-McRae College, He was a founding member of the Elderhostel Program at ASU. Throughout, Keeter chose to be an educator, not an administrator, serving in the classroom for his entire academic career. He declined with gratitude all administrative offices. He was not consumed by ambition but had a passion for teaching. His career Philosophy was, “Do what you love to do, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” Keeter was the recipient of numerous teaching awards, including the University Trustee Teaching Award, the College of Arts and Sciences Teaching Award, the Alumni Teaching Award, and the Student Government Association Teaching Award, of which he was most proud.

Dr. Keeter’s university and community service included six years on the Faculty Senate, three years as the Chair; nine years as a founding delegate to the University of North Carolina Faculty Assembly; and eight year in the Boone Town Government, a four-year term on Town Council and then two terms as the first ASU Professor elected Mayor of Boone, retiring undefeated. As a Town Council Member and as Mayor, he was instrumental in establishing the Town Manager system and the Office of Town Planner, the zoning and sign ordinances, the Greenway Trail, the Comprehensive Plan, the AppleCart, the Jones House, annexation, ABC control, the “Mayor’s Report” on local radio and TV, and the Town Council meeting on Cable vision. He declined gratefully the opportunity to be a Watauga County Commissioner.

Inducted into the WataugaDems Hall of Fame, this high honor stated: “Larry’s two terms as Mayor was known as a progressive period for the Town of Boone – the Jones House purchase, the funding of AppleCart, the important sign ordinance (which reformed the cluttered and occluded look of Boone). During Larry’s town service, Len Hagaman – who became Sheriff – served as Town Manager. What you may not know about Larry: In the mid – 1990s, he spearheaded the effort to place a memorial to the German professor Max Weber (known as one of the ‘Fathers of Sociology’) at the Mount Airy house where Weber visited his relatives in 1904.”

Dr. Keeter is survived by his wife and love of his life, Ann Keeter, in Boone; a daughter, Dr. Laura Keeter and husband, Dr. Grant Fletcher in Seattle, Washington; and artist son, Kyle Keeter in Boone. He was preceded in death by his sister, Lola Kay Collins, his brother, William Claude Keeter, his father William Eugene Keeter and mother, Lola Crotts Keeter all of Spindale, NC. He was a romantic husband, a devoted dad-and he vacuumed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church, Audio-Visual Division; or to ASU Off-Campus Sites or to the ASU International Studies Program.

The above obituary was written by Larry Keeter.

Memorial services for Larry Keeter will be conducted Sunday afternoon, February 4, 2024, at 3 PM at First Baptist Church of Boone, officiated by Rev. Roy Dobyns and Dr. Alan Hauser. A reception will follow services in the church fellowship hall.

Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Darlene Carr ’61
Mar. 7, 2024

Darlene Alsip Rice Carr, 86, passed away on March 7, 2024, after a prolonged illness, precipitated by a broken hip during the Covid Pandemic. Her family would like to thank the entire staff of Berea Health & Rehabilitation Center and Hospice Care Plus & Compassionate Care Center for their care, support, and kindness during the last two years of her life.

Darlene was born on November 16, 1938, to Pearl Stewart Alsip and Kenneth Alsip in the then Sublimity City Forest Community in Laurel County, KY. She was one of five children along with Darrel, Don, Keith, and Anita. Her mother died very young, and her father was called to serve in WWII. For a while she was cared for by a collective of grandparents, aunts, and uncles – Alsips, Stewarts, Binghams, Brewers. Her best friends growing up were a motley crew of very special cousins, mostly centered around the Steele’s Chapel church community. She told stories of their antics and adventures often. Hopefully, she and those cousins who preceded her in death are keeping St. Peter on his toes – Doris, Arlene, Lela, and Ora. Family ties, history, and genealogy were very important to her.

Darlene attended Barton Elementary, Woodbine High, and Corbin High Schools. She graduated from Berea College in 1961 with a Bachelor of Arts. She served the Commonwealth of Kentucky for more than 20 years in child protective services. After retiring from the State, she earned her Master’s at Eastern Kentucky University and continued serving children and families through her work at the Kentucky Methodist Children’s Home in Versailles, KY and the Cumberland River Comprehensive Care Center in Williamsburg, KY. She worked tirelessly to protect vulnerable children and help the adults in their lives in an effort to keep families together. After she retired completely, she continued helping anyone she could to navigate state bureaucracy to receive needed benefits.

She will be remembered always for her deep love of all animals and her passion for bluegrass and gospel music. She bottle-fed many motherless kittens and puppies. She and her cousin, Ollie, performed kitchen surgery on sick puppy they found while walking along the road – and it lived. She and her roommates hid stray kittens in their dorm room at Berea College. She climbed fences to “rescue” dogs she knew were being mistreated. There was never a time in her life when she did not have at least one dog and cat companion – usually it was a menagerie of critters and she loved to ride horses when she was physically able to. She was heart-broken when she was no longer able to care for a pet of her own. She was an accomplished musician and vocalist as were her mother, Pearl, and brother, Darrell. She was a member of The Steele’s Chapel Gospel Quartet that performed from the through the 1970’s and1980’s. She would pick a guitar and sing at the drop of a hat and did so with many ensembles. There was always a collection of musical instruments and musicians around her home. She was a founding member of the Happyland Travelers, a bluegrass band whose music is catalogued in the Digital Library of Appalachia. https://dla.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/berea/search/searchterm/darlene%20rice/page/1

She spent most of her life in Corbin and Williamsburg but moved around central Kentucky for a while. No matter where she was, it was very important to her to connect to a church community and find a musical outlet, but she always considered Steele’s Chapel her home church and all its members her family.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband and fellow musician, Louis Carr; her parents, Pearl and Kenneth, and beloved stepmother, Hazel Bingham Alsip; and siblings Don Taylor and Darrell Alsip.

She is survived by her three children, Anna Roaden (Jeff), David Rice (Michelle), and Becky Hasty (Eric); four grandchildren, Jacob Harmon (Sarah), Quinn Hasty, Conan Hasty, and Joshua Rice; one great-grandchild, River Harmon; and two siblings Keith Alsip (Karen), and Anita Stephen and their children.

A visitation and memorial service will be held at Steele’s Chapel Christian Church in Corbin, KY on Friday April 5, 2024. We will visit and celebrate Darlene’s life from 2-4:00 PM followed by brief service officiated by Rev. Andrew Darden. The burial will be private. Please bring your memories to share, and any pickers and singers, please feel free to bring your music to share in honor of the Angel Band’s newest member.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Knox-Whitley Humane Association or shelter of your choice or to Hospice Care Plus & Compassionate Care Center in Richmond, KY.

William Donald Miller ’61
Jan. 10, 2022

Mr. William Donald Miller better known as “Don” age 83, of West Jefferson passed away Monday night, January 10, 2022 at his home. A private funeral service will be held at Boone Family Funeral Home with Rev. Phil Arnold officiating. Mr. Miller was born in Ashe County on Wednesday, May 11, 1938 to the late Earl and Florence Roland Miller. He worked as a parts manager at West Jefferson Chevrolet and Superior Pontiac. He was a dedicated member and a deacon at Smethport Baptist Church. He will be greatly missed. Mr. Miller is survived by: his wife, Gustava Hollyfield Miller; two sons, Jeff Miller, of West Jefferson and Keith Miller (Cynthia), of Lewisville, NC; three brothers, Alden Miller (Maryann), of Marion, VA, Tommy Miller (Sue), of Warrensville and Larry Miller (Cathy), of Warrensville; a sister, Helen Sexton (Ward), of Lansing; four granddaughters, Brittany Scott (Isaac), Courtney Miller, Taylor Beeken and wife Sara and Hailey Miller; a great-grandson, Archer Ashby; several nieces and nephews also survive. The family requests no food please! Flowers accepted or memorials may be made to Smethport Baptist Church, PO Box 441, West Jefferson, NC 28694.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory ofWilliam, please visit ourTree Store.

LeBron Free, II, Esq. ’63
Mar. 23, 2024

LeBron Free, a beloved husband, father, man of faith and esteemed member of the legal community, passed away on March 23, 2024 at the age of 84. Born in Cleveland, Tennessee on Jan. 27, 1940, LeBron grew up to be a dedicated student, eventually earning degrees in both theology and law.

After graduating from Largo High School in Florida, LeBron attended Lee College in Tennessee, where he was recently honored.

LeBron earned his undergraduate degree from Berea College in Kentucky. He went on to receive his Master of Divinity from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. LeBron served as a Methodist minister for years before moving to the field of law. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Oklahoma City University School of Law. LeBron then moved home to Florida to practice corporate law at Jim Walter Corp. before establishing his own family law practice in Clearwater.

LeBron is survived by his loving wife, Anna Free, as well as his twin sons, Jason (Sarah) and Ryan (Marian), as well as five grandchildren: Clark, Charlotte, Walter, Otem and Duel. He’s also survived by his black and white German Shepherds, Sweetie and Sugar Free, who he and Anna adore like their own children. He was predeceased by his parents Duel and Cathleen and his brothers, Brooklyn and Kenneth. He was loved by many friends and his extended family, including James Duel (Jackie), David (Angela), Angela Free-Schimenek, Sandra (Jerry) Aslinger and Rose Hebeler, among others.

LeBron will be remembered for his commitment to serving others. He helped start the Suncoast Hospice in Pinellas County, where he was cared for during his final months before passing away at Suncoast Hospice House.

A memorial service to celebrate LeBron’s life will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 1, 2024 at Veterans Funeral Care, 830 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, Florida. Bishop Randy Morris will be officiating. LeBron will be greatly missed, but his legacy of kindness, integrity and service will live on. Rest in peace LeBron.

Frederick C. Beddingfield Jr., USAR Ret. ’64
Mar. 5, 2024

Frederick C. “Freddy” Beddingfield Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on March 5, 2024 at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his father, Fred C. Beddingfield Sr., his mother Willa Staton Beddingfield, and his brother Alvin Ronald Beddingfield, Sr. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Juanita Ballard Beddingfield and his three children: Tamara Ferretti (Kevin) of Kennesaw, GA; Tina Pierce (Bruce) of Indian Harbour Beach, FL; and Dr. Frederick Beddingfield III (Dr. Jenny Kim) of Pacific Palisades, CA. He is lovingly remembered by his seven grandchildren: Rachel, David, Sara, Kristin, Bryan, Catherine and Claire, and by four great-grands: Liam, Olivia, Miguel and JohnFreddy was born in Hendersonville, NC and attended the Tuxedo School and Flat Rock High School. He was well-known for the amazing detail of the stories he shared of growing up in Green River. He married his childhood sweetheart, Juanita Ballard in 1958. His college attendance was interrupted by enlisting in the Air Force, but he returned to earn a degree in Physics from Berea College, Kentucky. After graduation he returned to the Air Force as a commissioned officer. Later he obtained a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Rollins College, Winter Park, Florida Freddy was very proud of his military career and experiences. Highlights were a tour of duty in Greece with the Ground Electronic Engineering Installation Agency (GEEIA), and the years he spent as an Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) Special Agent conducting technical security countermeasure surveys. He fondly remembered providing distinguished visitor protection for Presidents Ford and Carter. He spent a year in Korea on remote assignment, while the rest of the family stayed in North Carolina. The last five years of his Air Force career were spent at Patrick Air Force Base in Florida, where he served as Chief, Technical Service Division, AFOSI District 7Following his retirement from the Air Force in 1980, he and Juanita moved back to the Green River area of western North Carolina. Freddy pursued an interest in horticulture at Blue Ridge Technical College, and enjoyed hobbies of growing vegetables in his garden, auto-body repair and hunting with the Buck Club. He assisted Juanita with her antique store, Summer Antiques, set up in the old country store, Staton’s Grocery, that they purchased from his grandmother. He had a second career as a Program Supervisor at the Henderson Correction Center for nine years, where he had a meaningful impact on many inmates’ lives. In their golden years, Freddy and Juanita moved back to the Space Coast of Florida. He is a man remembered especially for his kind and generous nature, always lifting a hand to help others, most content in family and community life. He will be sorely missed. In lieu of funeral services, the family will have a private Celebration of Life.

Eddie Elswick ’64
Mar. 18, 2024

Bent Mountain, Va., has lost a good friend. Eddie “Ed” Elswick passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024, due to complications of Parkinson’s disease.

Ed was a retired financial executive from General Electric. He lived in his mountaintop home, “Eutopia,” for 40 years, making good friends and throwing many a legendary party.

As a former member of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors, one of his proudest accomplishments was securing funding for Glenvar Public Library.

With a master’s in education from Ball State University, Ed valued learning. He received his master’s degree in industrial arts from Berea College, becoming one of the first members of his family to go to college.

Born in Pike County, Ky., Ed loved the mountains, animals, woodworking, bluegrass music, Corvettes, and Moon Pies. When he was a young man, Ed served in the National Guard, earning recognition as a sharpshooter. He took his guiding philosophy from Henry David Thoreau: “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.”

He was preceded in death by his father, George Elswick; his mother, Maxie (Bartley) Elswick; his sister, Jessie Scott; and his half-sister, Wanda Bartley.

His survivors include daughters, Jill Elswick and Wendy Huffine; son-in-law, David Huffine; and brother Fred Elswick.

Ed’s Celebration of Life Service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Oakey’s South Chapel. Pastor Alan Clark Officiating. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. For those unable to attend the service, it will be live streamed at www.Oakeys.com. Click on the link below to view the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Berea College. www.berea.edu/giving

Betty Nanney ’64
April 7, 2024

Betty Jean (Ramey) Nanney was born November 1st, 1939, in Luray, Virginia, and died April 7th, 2024 in Spring Hill, Florida.

Mom was a teenage beauty queen having won both Miss Luray in 1957 and the Winchester Apple Blossom Festival the following year. Not just a pretty face, she graduated as Salutatorian from Luray High School (1959) and from Berea College with a Bachelor of Arts degree (1964).

Her artistry was woven throughout her life, in her beautiful sculptures, flower beds, and also in the young minds that she molded in the classroom and at home. She was friendly and kind to everyone she met. As a good friend put it, “I’ll never forget her hospitality. No risk of ever going hungry around her!”

She loved her husband Clark with joy and tenacity through 60 years of marriage. The legacy she leaves is that she loved her boys fiercely and her grandchildren with her whole heart. She was wonderful at sewing and sharing her skills. One thing her granddaughters remember is her sewing clothes for their dolls.

She will be reunited with her husband Clark, parents Amos and Beulah (Vaughn) Ramey, brother Robert (Bob) Ramey and sister Boni (Tommy) Wiatrowski as she returns home. She is survived by her children, Rodney (Nanci) Nanney, Jeff (Christopher) Nanney, and David (Jennifer) Nanney, and by her grandchildren, Nathan, Elana, and Eilah. She is also survived by her sister Barbara (Bill) Cragg. Send condolences to the Nanney Family at 301 W. Nelson St, Midland, MI 48640.

Published by Ann Arbor News from Apr. 20 to Apr. 21, 2024.

Clark W. Nanney Jr. ’64
Jan. 26, 2024

Clark William Nanney, Jr. was born Tuesday, January 12, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and died Friday, January 26, 2024, in Spring Hill, Florida.

Dad loved large and showed it especially in the care he took of his family. He worked hard for them and excelled at Ford Motor Company for over 30 years. 2024 is the 60th year of marriage for Clark and the love of his life, Betty (Ramey).

One of Dad’s favorite things to do was woodworking. He had the gift of making beautiful useful items which he often gave away. His most recent service has been with Toy Makers where he created wooden toys for sick and needy children. Throughout the years he could often be found in his shop in Michigan and later in Florida working on a project.

He will be reunited with his parents, Annie Mae and Clark Nanney, his sister Yvonne McConnell and brother Maurice Nanney as he returns home. He is survived by his wife Betty, his children, Rodney (Nanci) Nanney, Jeff (Christopher) Nanney and David (Jennifer) Nanney and his grandchildren, Nathan, Elana, and Eilah. He is also survived by his sister, Myra Long, and his brother Maurice’s wife, Janette Nanney.

As per Dad’s wishes, no funeral will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to make donations in Clark’s name to: Toy Makers

Online at: www.toymakers.org (scroll down to the “donate now” button on the left) or mail a check to:

Toy Makers c/o Bill Coccia

4816 Fort Peck Rd

New Port Richey, FL 34655

Sign our “guest book” by commenting here: https://celebratingclarknanney.wor[JW1]

Mary Velten ’64
Mar. 20, 2024

Mary Jo “Jody” Velten, 81, died March 20, 2024, at her home in Arlington. She was born April 1, 1942, in Somerset, Kentucky, to John and Lois (Russell) Hood. Jody graduated from Somerset High School in 1960, and went on to graduate from Berea College with a Chemistry degree and minor in Microbiology in 1964. She did graduate work at McNeese State University and UC Irvine, studying chemistry. Jody worked in the chemistry field for several years before staying home to care for her family. On June 1, 1964, she married Terry Velten, in Berea, Kentucky. They shared nearly 60 years together. Jody is survived by: husband, Terry Velten, Arlington; son, Joe Velten, Lancaster, South Carolina; daughter, Mimi Leis (Kurt), Wichita; sister, Jean Hanson (Dan), Chattanooga, Tennessee; brothers, Jim Hood (Linda), Savannah, Georgia, Bill Hood (Kim), Dallas, Georgia; grandchildren, Abigail Leis, Sophia Leis, Tanner Velten (Jennifer), Ryan Velten, Karley Velten (Joseph); step grandchild, Adrian Hewett; and great-grandson, Roman Taylor. She was preceded in death by: her parents; brother, Robert Hood; and daughter-in-law, Joanna Hewett. Memorial mass will be 1:00 pm Saturday, April 6, 2024, at St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 645 N 119th St W, Wichita, KS 67235. Friends may sign the book Friday from 9 am to 8 pm at Elliott Mortuary, with family present from 6 to 8 pm. Rosary will begin at 7:30 pm. Memorials are suggested to Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Wayne E. Hambright ’65
Feb. 1, 2024

Obituary Wayne E. Hambright was born June 28, 1943, in Blacksburg, SC to the late Davis and Virgie Hambright. He graduated from Blacksburg High School in 1961 as Salutatorian of his class, graduated from Berea College in Berea, Ky., with a B.A. in social work and later attended the University of Kentucky, earning a master’s in social work. He received many awards, including state president of Kentucky Human Services, Outstanding Employee of Department of Social Services and the President’s Award for Tenure Club of Kentucky. He was the Chairman of the Bluegrass Head Start program for three years. Wayne formulated and instituted the child support program in Kentucky, known by code name KASES. The basis of this program has been used throughout the United States. He is survived by; four grandchildren; Melissa (Terry) Moore, Josh (Gina) Poole, Tammy (Chris) Poole and Tiffany (Tony) Downs; six great-grandchildren; Andrew Poole, Timothy Moore, Megan Moore, Kaleb Poole, Kaitlynn Cox and Cameron Moore; three great-great Grandchildren; Ava Moore, Kensley Moore and Emery Moore. Three sisters; Eloise H. Hambright, Nancy H. Allison and Janice (Glenn) Bolin, and one brother: Keith (Lisa) Hambright of Wheatland, Ca. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Tim Downs, a brother, Teddy Hambright and nephew Johnny Randall Allison. Nieces and nephews are Jimmy Allison (Karen), Scott Allson (Karen), Laura Allison (Angela), Chris McDaniel (Cecila), Tina McDaniel, Kevin Bolin (Tina), Greg Bolin (Michelle), Dave Hambright, Marcus Hambright (Ann), Eric Hambright, 17 great nieces and nephews. In honor of Wayne’s lifetime work with caring for children, memorial donations should be made to the St. Jude’s Children Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tn. 38105 or online at www.stjude.orgThe family will be at their respective homes and all other times at 616 Leagan Dr, Blacksburg, SC. Visitation will be at White Columns Funeral Service, Sunday March 3, 2024, from 1:303:00, with a service at 3 pm to follow at the funeral home. Entombment will be Monday, March 4, 2024, at 10:00 am, at Clingman Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. Rev. Dr. Jamie Billings will be officiating. Pallbearers serving are Chris McDaniel, Jimmy Allison, Scott Allison, Dave Hambright and Eric Hambright. E-dolences may be made on the tribute page at www.whitecolumnsfuneralservice.com. White Columns Funeral Service is serving the Hambright Family.

Dr. Roswell David Cox ’66
Mar. 10, 2024

Dr. Roswell “Ros” David Cox (79) of Berea, Kentucky, was born April 2, 1944, to Paul and Effie (Akers) Cox in Roswell, New Mexico. Dr. Cox passed away at home on March 10, 2024 after many years of battling chronic illness. Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by grandson David, granddaughter Arowyn, infant sister Melinda Rose, former spouse and friend Fredonna Ritchie, and many beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Teresia, and four children: David (Casie) Cox of Cincinnati, John (Angela Eades) Cox of Berea, Sarah (David) Gray of Richmond, Virginia, and Julia (Rahim) Cox-Mohamed of Calgary, Alberta. He leaves behind siblings: Paul (Colleen) Cox of Princeton, WV, Linda Carnell of Barren Springs, VA, Cindy Webb of Pulaski, VA, Jimmy Cox of Pulaski, VA, Mike (Cassandra) Cox of Alisonia, VA, Danny (Marsha) Cox of Alisonia, VA, and Ellie Dalton of Max Meadows. He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Madeline Vowell, Allison Vigil, Brennen Cox, Ian Cox, Eliza Gray, Austin Cox, Megan Colwell, Emily Colwell, and Olivia Colwell. He is further survived by many beloved former students, colleagues, dear friends and family members.

He was raised all over the world, due to his father’s military service, from his birth in New Mexico to Japan, to the Philippines, Alaska, and ultimately spent the majority of his childhood in Pulaski County, Virginia surrounded by a support system of his mother, siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles and cherished grandparents. He enjoyed playing baseball as a young man and spending time outdoors along Big Creek in Alisonia, Virginia. As an adult, he longed to return to Alisonia.

After graduating from high school in 1962, he would go on to be the first in his family to attend college. Upon graduating from Berea College in 1966, he would go on to earn a Master’s Degree from the University of Alabama in 1967 and a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro in 1970. After earning his Ph.D., he returned to Berea to begin his prolific career of teaching the next generations of early childhood educators that would go on to teach in some of the most underserved areas of Appalachia and beyond. His positive impact on the lives of children, through his teaching, is his greatest professional accomplishment and his legacy.

Dr. Cox spent nearly 40 years as a professor of Child and Family Studies at his Alma Mater, Berea College. He dedicated his adult life to the betterment of lives of children, most obvious through his relationships with many dear students over the years who were like family and his large part in the opening of the Boyd and Gaynell Fowler Child Development Lab at Berea College. During his career, he also held responsible positions with Berea Child Care Association and the Kentucky River Foothills Headstart Program. He was a consultant to numerous programs and projects related to young children. While teaching, he was a member of the Southern Association on Children Under Six, the Southern Council on Family Relations and state and national professional organizations.

His greatest passion was being a dad to his four children, “Grandpa Ros” to his grandchildren, and husband to Teresia, his wife of many years. He loved cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats, raising a garden, taking care of his land, helping his neighbors, reading Westerns, listening to George Jones, Diet Dr. Pepper, collecting stamps, and spending time with Kippy (his special dog and companion) and cats Theo and Betsy. Ros was a member of West Side Baptist Church. He will be incredibly missed by his family, friends, former colleagues and students.

A visitation will be held at 11am Friday March 15th at West Side Baptist Church. Service, also at West Side, will follow at 12pm March 15th.

Private burial services will be held by the family in Alisonia, Virginia by Big Creek. His final resting place will be the Webb Family Cemetery in Alisonia.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Madison County Animal Shelter or Berea College in his memory

Iverson Louis Warinner ’66
Jan. 25, 2024

Iverson Lewis Warinner, an esteemed professor and accomplished actor, passed away on January 25, 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky. He was born on October 28, 1944, in Albany, Kentucky, to Edgar Paul Warinner and Josephine Dempsey Warinner. Iverson was preceded in death by his siblings Edgar Paul Warinner, Jr., Joanne Katherine Warinner, David “Buzz” Sawyer, and David Hartwell Sawyer.

Iverson Lewis Warinner is survived by his loving sister Harriett Warinner Hile, her Husband Steve Warren Hile. His nieces and nephews Stephen Paul Hile, Nicole Zinner Hile, Jonathan Dempsey Hile, Nicholas Joseph Hile, Megan Faris Hile, Scott Thomas Hile, Stephen Eugene Hile. His Great-Nieces and Nephews Lillian Grace Hile, Katelynn Rose Hile, Jackson Nicholas Hile, Stephen Gregory Hile, Annie Jean Hile, John Joseph Hile,

Iverson’s passion for education was evident throughout his life. He graduated from Clinton County High School in 1962 and pursued further studies in Theatre, History, and French at Berea College, where he graduated in 1966. He continued his studies at Corral Playhouse at Eastern New Mexico University, Indiana University (Bloomington), and Eastern Kentucky University, receiving his Rank III in 1969 and a Master’s degree in 1977. He also received Rank Certification and Rank II in Theatre from Spalding University in 1985 and 1986, respectively.

Throughout his career, Iverson made significant contributions to the field of education. He started his journey as a Secondary School Teacher at Garfield Senior High, where he taught French and Theatre. Iverson later became a teacher at Taylorsville High School, where he excelled in teaching English Grammar, Literature, French, Speech, and Theatre. He was also instrumental in creating a top-rated theatre program, leading to numerous awards for the school’s yearbook and newspaper.

Iverson’s passion for acting was evident in his involvement in various theatre groups. He performed as an actor in the Corral Playhouse in Portales, New Mexico, during the summer of 1967. He was a Director, Actor, and Public Relations member of the Summer Arena Theatre at Berea College from 1968 to 1971. Additionally, Iverson showcased his talent at the Henrietta Child Children’s Theatre in Berea, Kentucky, where he played lead roles for four seasons.

One of Iverson’s notable roles was as the Theatre Manager, Public Relations Director at the Wilderness Road Outdoor Drama in Berea, Kentucky, where he worked for six seasons. His dedication and expertise contributed to the success of the drama. Iverson’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Indiana University, teaching honors public speaking.

In 1990, Iverson joined General Electric (GE) as a Communication Trainer and Consultant, providing valuable insights and expertise until his retirement in September 2016. Iverson’s passion for education and theatre led him to become a Professor Emeritus of Communication and Theatre at Spalding University. He served in this position from August 1977 until his retirement in June 2014, leaving a lasting impact on his students and colleagues.

In 1996, Iverson played the part of “Saltz” on The Pretender as well as an extra on an episode of Chicago Hope.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Iverson found joy in his hobbies and interests. Theatre held a special place in his heart, and he was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, Kentucky. He also had a profound love for travel, education, and, above all, his family.

Visitation will be Friday, February 9th from 11am-12pm at First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, KY with his Memorial service at 12pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church in Taylorsville, KY.

Carolyn Lois Keith Brazill ’67
Feb. 26, 2024

Carolyn Lois Keith Brazill went to be with her Lord on February 26, 2023 at Lynchburg General Hospital. Born in Alleghany Virginia on January 22, 1945, she was the daughter of the late Glenn Monroe Keith and Jeanette Keith Gadd Shinault. She was 78 years of age.

Carolyn was a 1963 graduate of Dunlap High School. She furthered her education with a Bachelors in Administration at Berea College in Berea Kentucky. She worked in Administration at Sweet Briar College in Amherst Virginia until her retirement.

Carolyn loved nature, horses, and animals. She would spoil any animal that would be in her care.

Carolyn leaves behind her stepson, Brian Brazill, her brothers, Clifford Keith (Ruth), and Robert Keith. Also, she leaves behind one nephew and two nieces.

She is preceded in death by her husband, George James Brazill, one brother, Wesley Monroe Keith, and her parents, Glenn Monroe Keith and Jeanette Keith Gadd Shinault.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 6, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Driskill Funeral Chapel in Amherst Virginia.

Driskill Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. For more information, please visit www.driskillfuneralchapel.com.

Jewell Patricia Morgan ’67
Jan. 20, 2024

Jewell P. Morgan, age 78, passed away peacefully at Highland Hospital on January 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Jewell was born on March 5th, 1945, in Brownwood, Texas, but spent most of her childhood growing up in northeast Tennessee, where her parents owned a small general store. This rural setting in the mountains of TN is where Jewell developed her love of gardening and being in nature. As the eldest of three children, she spent most of her time outdoors, playing in the fields and creeks or hiking through the mountains. After high school, Jewell attended Berea College, a private liberal arts school, in Berea, Kentucky where she received a degree in Home Economics Education. Progressive for its time, Berea was the first interracial and coed college in the South, and to this day, it remains tuition-free. Shortly after graduation, Jewell pursued her master’s degree at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro. It was here that Jewell met her first husband, and together they had two wonderful sons, Mark and Matt. They spent their early years in Greensboro and Fayetteville, NC before settling in the Rochester area for work in 1982. Upon relocation to Rochester, Jewell became employed at the Rochester City School District as a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher and worked at Nathaniel Rochester and East High School. After 22 years of public education, Jewell retired in 2007, but still maintained the many wonderful friendships that she had developed while working at the city schools. In retirement, Jewell pursued a wide range of hobbies and interests. She loved to read, garden, quilt, walk, feed her birds, and spend time with her friends and family including her beloved grandchildren Jackie and Kate. Her passions for these interests led her to a variety of volunteer activities, including: volunteer coordinator for a not-for-profit bookstore run by the Friends of the Library; president and vice president of two quilt guilds; and an active member of an online photography group which consists of fascinating people from all over the world. The skills she developed as an amateur photographer were often shared with her two grandchildren and she had a knack for capturing two of her favorite subjects birds and flowers. Many of her amazing of birds were taken just outside of her kitchen window, where the birds were plentiful. Jewell had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and this passion led her to pursue a personal fitness challenge in 2022. Her determination to walk every day for at least a mile regardless of the weather, culminated in a total of 808 miles in the hot sun, rain, wind and snow. Her motto for persevering, “There is no bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.” Jewell was remarried to the love of her life, Tom Morgan, in the year 2000, and they remained married for 19 years until his passing in 2019. They met at a Halloween swing dance and shared life together, blending two beautiful families and creating everlasting memories. Jewell was a highly devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family brought her great joy and her unwavering love for her sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren will forever be etched in our hearts. She is predeceased by her beloved parents Grace and Avery Miller, and husband Tom Morgan. She is survived in adoration and love by her sister Edith Crumley of Piney Flatts, TN, and brother Roger Miller (Debbie) of Piney Flatts, TN, as well as her two sons, Mark Aberi (Diane) of Skaneateles, NY, and Matt Aberi (Heidi) of West Irondequoit, NY, and her two grandchildren, Jackie, and Kate Aberi. Jewell is also remembered with love by Tom’s children, Tim Morgan (Kelly), Tracy Morgan, and grandchildren Kacy and Morgan Handzel and Hayden Morgan. Jewell’s love and loyalty to her friends, family, and community was reflected in everything she pursued. In fond remembrance, we invite you to join us in a colorful celebration of life service and informal reception in the Spring to honor the vibrant life of Jewell Morgan.

Barbara Jane Johnson ’68
Oct. 18, 2023

Victoria Williams ’70
Mar. 26, 2024

It is with deep sadness the Williams Family announces the passing of Victoria Klar Williams, 76, on March 26, 2024.

Victoria (Vicki) was born in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 11, 1948, to parents, Eddie and Miriam Klar. She graduated from Hillsborough High School in 1966. She attended Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, graduating in 1970 with a B.A. in Sociology and Religion as well as a teaching certificate in English. She later attained two master’s degrees: an M.A. in Counseling and Psychology from Ball State University, and a Master of Public Health from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.

At Berea College, Vicki met her future husband, Allen Williams, and they were married at the college’s historic Danforth Chapel in 1969. The couple lived in Germany at Rammstein Air Base for four years, where Vicki taught at the base’s school and wrote for the base newspaper, while Allen served in the Air Force. She treasured her memories of this time in their lives and loved sharing stories from their travels around Europe and northern Africa. She always enjoyed traveling and was particularly enamored of Seville, Spain.

Vicki went on to have a distinguished career in the field of elder care. She and her family resided in Paducah, Kentucky, from 1991, and for over 25 years she served as the Director of the state’s Agency on Aging and Independent Living for the Purchase Area Development District (PADD) in Murray, Kentucky. This role brought her an enormous sense of satisfaction and purpose. She was very dedicated to her work with and for the elderly. When she wasn’t working, her favorite hobby was collecting antiques (which may have just been an excuse for more travel). She also cherished spending time with her family and was a proud mom and grandma.

Vicki was a devoted and loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. She is preceded in death by her father, Edwin Francis Klar; mother, Miriam Dillard Klar; and her husband, Allen Eugene Williams. She is survived by her daughter, Emily Victoria Williams Miller (Zach); son, Eric Allen Williams (Leigh); granddaughter, Sylvie Victoria Bronkhorst Miller; brother, Louis Klar (Karen); sister, Gayle Lund (John); nephews Michael Klar, Matthew Klar, Mark Klar, Ryan Lund, and Michael Williams; nieces Erika Lund Wyant, Marie Klar Stroud, Holly DeFord Harris, Christie co*ker, and Melissa Williams Hensley, and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Vicki touched the lives of many with her warmth and gentle kindness. Those of us who knew her now carry the memory of her sparkling, playful, and thoroughly beautiful soul in our hearts.

Online condolences may be extended at forevermissed.com/victoria-klar-williams. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Vicki’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.

Carl G. Pittman
Spouse of Patricia O. Pittman ’72
Oct. 2, 2023

Carl passed away Monday, October 2, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville Ga. He succumbed to the heart issues that affected so many in his family. He was an early Augusta resident and graduate of Richmond Academy in 1968. In 1974, after a job move to Lexington, Ky. Carl met his wife of 47 years, Patricia Oliver. They married in 1976 and had one son, Chaffin Oliver Pittman, both of whom survive. Carl was the son of Benjamin Carl Pittman and Louise Pittman Masur. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, his stepfather (Louis Masur) and all of his sisters and brothers: Larry D. Pittman; Carolyn Youngblood; Jacqueline Luke; and Gayle Hicks. Carl demonstrated his sincere love of Jesus in the way he treated others. He lived life to the fullest and would always say “life is not a dress rehearsal”. Carl would not want a long list of educational and employment accomplishments to appear in this obituary, however, it seemed he was very successful in each thing he pursued. Positions he held took he and family to enjoy lifestyles in many diverse locations. This provided opportunity for a true southern fellow to experience the kinds of participatory activities others long for: house boating in MS; bow hunting for bear in Canada; salmon fishing in WI.; and playing golf on many championship courses, just to name a few. He brought his family back to Evans, GA. in 2011 where his most cherished activity involved boating on Clarks Hill and the houseboat at Plum Branch Yacht Club. In 2018, the family relocated to Braselton and then Jefferson, GA. Carl did not want a funeral. He wanted people to celebrate heartily the fact that he lived. He will be cremated and his dust spread in Clarks Hill Lake.

Rev. Sanford K. Hill ’79
Feb. 13, 2024

Sanford Kyle Hill, born January 12, 1957, went to his reward February 13, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Ruby Hill, who raised him in LaFollette, TN. He is survived by his wife of over 46 years, Debbie; son Garrett and his wife Sarah; son Gentry and his wife Alli; 7 grandchildren; sister Katheryn and her husband Eddie; and many other extended family members. His mom prayed for the blessing of another child and the Lord heard her cries. She continued to pray for him to be born again and he professed faith in Jesus Christ as an eleven-year-old. He recalled feeling like he could fly knowing Jesus had saved him from his sins-and he didn’t look back. He took on a man’s share of the farm load when he was just a boy. He traveled back and forth from college to take care of things when his dad was sick. He counted everything as loss for the sake of Christ. He sold his 1967 Chevelle SS as a teenager when he found himself thinking about it during church. He walked away from his promising career as an industrial arts professor and the house he built with his own hands to surrender to the Lord’s call to pastor His flock. He graduated from Berea College in 1979 and earned his masters from Murray State in 1980. He taught industrial arts at Morehead State University, Murray State University, and Berea College. He went on to receive a MDiv from Southern Seminary. He served four churches over the course of his thirty plus years in pastoral ministry. He began bi-vocational ministry with full-time work at Kentucky Community and Technical College in 2011 and retired from there in 2019. He loved ministering through song in the gospel quartet, “Fishers of Men.” He was committed to the Great Commission and took part in missions trips all over the world. He volunteered for kingdom work in everything from construction to cooking. Sanford loved the Lord and demonstrated it in his love for people. He followed his Master’s example of service and selflessly used the gifts God gave him. We celebrate his faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, now made sight, and relish the hope of the resurrection of the body when He returns. Visitation for Sanford will be on Sunday, February 18 from 2-6 PM at Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home, 10600 Taylorsville Road and on Monday, February 19 from 10-11 AM at Poplar Level Baptist Church, 14302 Poplar Lane. Funeral will be on Monday at 11 AM at Poplar Level Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Crosswater Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Poplar Level Baptist Church.

Freddie Dale Noe Jr. ’89
Mar. 20, 2024

Freddie Dale Noe, Jr., 62, passed away Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at his home in Mount Vernon, KY. He was born in Berea on May 17th, 1961, to the late Freddie Dale Sr. and Lorene Baker Noe of Mount Vernon. Dale’s love for the outdoors, specifically plants and exploring Caves, led him to a degree in biology from Berea College. He worked for many years as a botanist with the Kentucky State Department of Transportation in Frankfort. Most recently he was employed by Hardee’s in Mount Vernon. Survivors include one son, Mason Sage Noe, of Berea, and former spouse Lisa Noe. In accordance with Dale’s wishes he is to be cremated. There will be a private time of remembrance. Davis & Powell Funeral Directors in Berea entrusted with arrangements.

Vadim Kornilov ’99
Jan. 2, 2024
Obituary Unavailable

Mohammed Humed Yusuf ’10
Jan. 24, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Mohammed Humed Yusuf of Beaverton, Oregon, who passed away on January 24, 2024, at the age of 36, leaving to mourn family and friends. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

https://www.echovita.com/us/obituaries/or/beaverton/mohammed-humed-yusuf-17549023