Alumni Class Notes

Sarah N. Minnix of Bluefield, Virginia married Cory Vaughan on March 21, 2020, at the home of her grandparents. A church wedding will take place after the Coronavirus epidemic is over.

Israel K. Penn of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away on January 29, 2020. Israel began at Bluefield College in Fall 2016 as a communication major. She was a sports journalist and instrumental in the formation and launch of the Black Student Alliance and other student initiatives. In Fall 2018, Israel learned that she would need to pause her educational journey to focus on her battle with cancer.

Kristen Murphy Parker and her husband, Tracey Parker, Jr., (’18) of Dryden, Virginia, welcomed their newborn daughter, Torryn Elizabeth James, on May 1, 2020, weighing 7.2 lbs. and 21 inches long.

Kenneth Edward Meadows, Jr. of Pulaski, Virginia, passed away on August 27, 2020.

Amanda Overby DeVor of Princeton, West Virginia was accepted into the Chemistry Ph.D. program at West Virginia University in August 2019.

Brian W. Vaught of Rural Retreat, Virginia, was selected to serve as the Chairman of the Wythe County Board of Supervisors in January 2020. Brian looks forward to being a voice for the people of Blacklick District and Wythe County.

William T. Workman and his wife, Katelyn, of Bluefield, West Virginia, welcomed their newborn son, Sawyer James, on May 20, 2020, weighing 6 pounds, 4 ounces, and 21.5 inches long. Sonya is happy to have a baby brother.

Michael Callaghan and Summer Rigney Callaghan were married on September 29, 2017.  Both are employed at Bluefield College, where Michael is the Head Coach for women’s soccer and Summer is a Traditional Financial Aid Advisor.  They welcomed their newborn daughter, Aella Louise, on October 16, 2019 weighing 8 lbs. and 20 ½ inches long.

Rodney O. Kasey and Rebecca Havens Kasey (’17) of Bluefield, West Virginia, welcomed their firstborn daughter, Olivia Paige, on August 3, 2020, weighing 8 lbs., 7 oz., and 21.5 inches long.

Bryce and Caitlin Allen Laxton of Virginia Beach, Virginia, welcomed their newborn daughter, Ayda, on May 26, 2020, weighing 7 lb. 9.6 oz. and 18.8 inches long.

Cheznee C. Daily of Mooresville, North Carolina is the new head volleyball coach at Lake Norman High School. Daily had competed in volleyball at the same school when she attended there as a high school student. For the past several seasons, she had served as the first volleyball coach at Mooresville’s Langtree Charter Academy. Daily started from scratch by guiding her team from a 6-14 record to a 9-12 record last fall. She has also been busy with the family-owned Daily Fitness Center. Daily is waiting on what classes she will be teaching at Lake Norman in the fall.

Samantha A. Magyar of Bland, Virginia married Nathan Cox on June 22, 2019. The couple currently resides in Rocky Gap, Virginia.

Patricia Wright Thomas of Wytheville, Virginia was selected as Employee of the Year for 2019 at Wythe County Community Hospital (WCCH). She is the Revenue Integrity Specialist and leads the Rewards and Recognition Team at WCCH.

Leslie A. Williams is the Director of Sports Performance and Student Wellness at Hollins University, in Roanoke, Virginia. In her new role, Leslie will assume responsibility for the wellbeing content for student-athletes and assist in employee wellness programming. When hired in 2019, Williams became the first strength and conditioning coach in Hollins Athletics history.

Julian A. Roberson of Fredericksburg, Virginia passed away on September 16, 2019.  He was employed with PepsiCo and recently accepted a position as a procurement officer in Homeland Security. Julian served as a junior trustee at Branch Fork Baptist Church.

Yeda J. Duarte of Mechanicsville, Virginia, holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration as of May 2020.

Erin Corr Miller of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is the new Vice President of People and Culture at Lulu Press, Incorporated as of August 2020.

Ashley M. Strickland and Jon Nowlin were married on May 4, 2019.  They welcomed their firstborn son, Rhett Cooper, weighing 6 pounds, 13 ounces, and 20 inches long on February 10, 2020.

Casey Palmer Taylor and her husband, Jonathan D. Taylor (’15), welcomed their newborn daughter, Lillian Grace, on September 5, 2019.  She weighed 7 lb. 14 oz. and was 20.5 inches long.

Danielle Workman Madison of Leland, North Carolina, and her husband, Michael, welcomed their newborn son, Owen Saylor, on May 27, 2020 weighing 9 pounds, 8 ounces and 20 inches long.

Le ‘Andra Sabatino Metzger and husband, Nathan, welcomed their newborn son, Gabrielle Alexander, on September 16th, weighing 6 lbs. 14 oz., 19 inches long.  Nathaniel is excited to have a little brother.

Evan G. Sherman and his wife, Jordan, of Newport, Pennsylvania welcomed their firstborn son, Jameson Grant on April 25, 2019.  He weighed 7 lbs. 1 oz. and was 19 3/4 inches long.

Laron E. Culmer, of Nassau, Bahamas, is expanding his restaurant, C Food Shack, by opening its first location in Miami Beach, Florida.

Katie Elizabeth Waugh and her husband, Jefferson, of Statesville, North Carolina, welcomed their new son Brooks Jefferson Waugh.

Sandy Motyleski Minor, of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania passed away unexpectedly on September 22, 2019. Sandy was an employee of the Human Resources Department at Prince William County Social Services and later worked as a Resource Manager for Amazon.

Donald L. Bales, II of Wytheville, Virginia holds a Masters of Fine Arts in Arts Leadership degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University as of May 2020.

Greg J. Kane and his wife, Keilah Ramey Kane (’08), welcomed Ramey River Kane on July 16, 2020, weighing 7 lbs., 2 oz., and 19.75 inches long. Harmony and Greg, Jr. are happy to have a baby sister.

Matthew Alan Cox and his wife, Lauren, of Roanoke, Virginia, welcomed their newborn Berkley.

Katherine “Kat” C. Deal of Riverview, Florida was appointed by Boyd Sports, LLC, as the new General Manager for the Greeneville Reds (Rookie; Appalachian League). Deal spent the previous two seasons as the Assistant General Manager for the Johnson City Cardinals (Rookie; Appalachian League), another Boyd Sports, LLC team. Before Deal’s entrance into the Boyd Sports family, she worked with the Bluefield Orioles (Rookie; Appalachian League) and with Roger Dean Stadium as their Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing.

Vincent L. Jones of North Garden, Virginia is President and CEO of Pine Grove Adult Home in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Jeffrey A. Bailey of Fuquay Varina, North Carolina passed away on July 20, 2020.  He had studied at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and is survived by his wife, Alysha, and two sons, Maverick and Axel.

James ‘Jay’ E. Dunford, III of Rich Creek, Virginia passed away February 16, 2020. Jay was a lieutenant at the Radford University Police Department.

Ashley Jones Andrews and her husband, Jeremy, of Monroe, Louisiana, welcomed their newborn twins, Mabrie and Samuel, on August 12, 2020. Mabrie weighed 3 pounds, 14 ounces, 16 inches long, and Samuel weighed 3 pounds, 15 ounces, 15 1/2 inches long. Ashley owns her own company, Nutrition Bend, and can be found on Facebook.

J. Derek Bostic of Union, Kentucky, and employee of Western and Southern shared his experience (along with Heather Swensgard) in developing and implementing the company’s knowledge and organizational learning at Henley Forum’s Annual Conference. Western and Southern was selected as the overall winner in the category of “advancing knowledge and organizational learning” at the conference.

Jeffrey P. Dodson, Jr. of Radford, Virginia is the new City Police Chief. He had previously served as Police Lieutenant with the Culpeper Police Department.

Marcus Clinton Vaughan and his wife, Gina (’07), of Tappahannock, Virginia, welcomed their newborn twins, George and Emmet, on July 4, 2020. George weighed 4 pounds, 8 ounces, and Emmet weighed 5 pounds, 5 ounces.

Shelley L. Allen of Emporia, Virginia passed away on December 22, 2017.  She was a probation and parole officer with District 38.

Ethan Brown and his wife, Ashlee Voegtly Brown, welcomed their second son, August Michael,  in February 2020, weighing 6 pounds and 10 ounces.  Oliver is excited to have a little brother.

Chad L. Arnold is the new Associate Pastor at Life Changers Christian Center, Wytheville, Virginia.  Chad’s wife, Montana, is the Worship Pastor.  Their children, Lucas and Hazel, are happy to be a part of the church, too.

Brittany Pachuta Doss of Beckley, West Virginia, accepted a position as the State Collaboration Director for Head Start – Raleigh County Community Action Association, which will allow her to continue her work with head starts across the state, and work closely with pre-kindergarten and child care.

Deborah K. Worrell Padron of Hillsville, Virginia passed away May 31, 2016.

Michelle Fitzgerald Wooten, of Concord, Virginia, completed her Master of Education degree in May 2020 at the University of Lynchburg.

Sharina F. Cecil of North Tazewell, Virginia, passed away on June 9, 2018. She was employed with Cumberland Mountain Community Services and was a choir member at Midway Church of Christ, DOC.

J. Andrew Berry of North Chesterfield, Virginia was ordained as a minister at his home church, First Baptist Church of Richmond, Virginia in November of 2019.  He was surrounded by family, friends, and a handful of incredibly influential leaders in his life.

Ryan P. Taggart of Hummelstown, Pennsylvania passed away on March 27, 2020. He was employed in Hospitality and Management with Hershey Entertainment and was formerly an outside sales representative for MidAtlantic Machinery, Inc.

Marjorie K. Stallard of Bluefield, Virginia won several awards in February 2020 at the Virginia Professionals Photographer Association. The awards were: Photographer of the Year, Top 10 Photographers in Virginia, Best in Show, Best Non Masters Award, Best Artist, Best Portrait of a Group, and Certified Professional Photographer Competition Award. Some of her blue ribbon portraits went on to compete in the Southeast District Competition. Marjorie is certified as a professional photographer, “Marjorie Stallard Photography,” and artist, “Marjorie Stallard Fine Art.”

Jennifer Stender Burton of Roanoke, Virginia passed away on October 27, 2019.  At the time of her passing, Jenny was employed with Carillion in the Department of Orthopedics. She loved sailing, skiing, and trips to the beach.

Brandon S. Caldwell of Clifton Forge, Virginia graduated from the Virginia Bankers School of Bank Management at the University of Virginia in August 2019.

Jamie Lynn Null, of Princeton, West Virginia, was named the “2020 West Virginia Wonder Woman” after her tourism campaigns, as an outdoor destination, have done wonder for West Virginia and won multiple advertising awards. She was named the executive director for the Mercer County Convention and Visitors Bureau in 2014. She now also serves as secretary of the West Virginia Association of Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Ryan F. Schalles, and his wife, Lindsay, of Charlotte, North Carolina, welcomed the addition of their son, Kullen Robert, on July 12, 2019, weighing 8 lbs. 7 oz. and 21 inches long. Kenna loves her little brother.

Anthony L. Whitmore of Atlanta, Georgia graduated from West Chester University with a Doctorate in Public Administration in May 2019.  Currently, he is a Federal Agent with the FBI and NCIS.

Harold Daniel “Dan” Churchey of Haymarket, Virginia passed away on January 13, 2020.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and the Chief of Facilities for the National Park Service on the National Mall.

Yvette D. George of Mechanicsville, Virginia, was appointed director of the Department of Human Resources by the officials of Henrico County. She is a veteran of the United States Navy, holds the Professional in Human Resources certification and Master of Science Degree in Business Administration.

Denise Sykes Harris of Portsmouth, Virginia passed away on October 4, 2019. She organized Bridal Shows and assisted brides-to-be in finding the perfect dress at Tiffany Bridal Shop in Norfolk, Virginia.  Denise was also employed in the Workforce Development Department at Tidewater Community College until health issues forced her to retire at an early age.

Shirley A. Webb of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina passed away on February 6, 2014.

Dr. Kevin DeHart of Norfolk, Virginia, was recognized in the Top Doc 2020 list by Coastal Virginia Magazine.

Dr. W. Dr. Kelly DeHart of Norfolk, Virginia was recognized in Top Doc 2020 list by Virginia Living Magazine.

William E. “Billy” Berry of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and coach of the Tennessee Wesleyan baseball team won the 2019 Avista NAIA World Series Championship for the second year in a row. “For the tournament, Tennessee Wesleyan (56-10) led in a number of offensive categories including batting average (.332), slugging percentage (.526), runs scored (41), hits (63) and RBIs (37). The pitching staff for the Bulldogs had the second-best ERA (3.48) of the tournament. The 56 wins on the season are the most in the program’s history dating back to at least the 2004 season. The second most wins in a season dating back to the same time period are 53….the amount the 2012 national championship team had.” © https://www.twcbulldogs.com/article/3392.php

Sherri D. Havens of Bland, Virginia was named Bland County Teacher of the Year by the Wytheville-Wythe-Bland Chamber of Commerce. Havens teaches science and history to fifth-graders at Bland County Elementary School.

Lisa Robinson of Pearisburg, Virginia, successfully defended her dissertation project at Virginia Tech in August 2020 and completed her educational goal of receiving a Ph.D. in Sociology. She is a full-time faculty member in the MBA Justice Administration specialization at Bluefield College.

Michael Andrew Dehart of Ripplemead, Virginia, passed away on June 6, 2020. He served in the Marines and earned a BA from Bluefield College at age fifty

Frederick Adams, of Winston Salem, North Carolina, wrote a commentary “I can’t breathe” on WS Chronicle on June 3, 2020.

David T. Kimball of Marion, Virginia passed away on July 7, 2002.

F. David Shockley Jr. of Newport News, Virginia passed away on June 18, 2019. David was a United States Navy veteran and retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad. He also worked for the Federal Railway Administration and was an adjunct professor at Bluefield College. David was active with the Big Brothers Mentoring Program, Little League sports associations, Parent Teacher Association, the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and the Piedmont Chapter of the American Foundry Society.

Tammy Burcham Vass of Hillsville, Virginia passed away February 16, 2014.

Vanessa Bandy Hicks of Pecks Mill, West Virginia, passed away on March 28, 2020.

James D. Brumagin of Dublin, Virginia, passed away on April 29, 2018. He served in the United States Navy, was an associate professor at New River Community College, and Lay Witness Minister for the Methodist Church.

Nannie Elswick Dunford of Claypool Hill, Virginia, passed away on February 21, 2014. Nan was the Business Manager from Southwest Virginia Community College. She was a member of the Red Hatter’s, the Richlands Women’s Club, the Friendship Circle, and Richlands First United Methodist Church.

Glenda L. Justus Scott, of Bland, Virginia, passed away July 6, 2020. She was a teacher in Wythe County Schools. Glenda was a long-distance runner and church treasurer at Mechanicsburg Christian Church.

Veronica S. Brooks and Patrick J. Broyles were united in marriage on Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Voice of Praise Worship Center. Patrick is the manager at O’Reilly Auto Parts and Veronica is an Occupational Therapist at Princeton Community Hospital.

Joseph F. Spear of Okinawa, Japan passed away on August 3, 2015.  Joe was the former pastor at Christ First Community Fellowship Baptist, Norfolk; served as interim pastor at Shadowlawn Baptist Church and served at the Korean Baptist Church.  Joe also taught the Kingdom Seekers Sunday School at Kempsville Baptist Church. 

Mary Ann Robinson Price of Franklin, Tennessee passed away on March 24, 2018. She was a teacher, worked in a flower shop and dental office, taught water aerobics at the Y, but her favorite positions were serving as Student Personnel Director at Bluefield College, working with special needs adults in Kentucky, and Upward Bound High School students in Virginia. Mary Ann was in the Girl Scouts for 21 years, participated in synchronized swimming, was active in various churches, including as a handbell choir member and choir director. Her hobbies included arts and crafts, gardening, collecting seashells and sea glass (some on the beaches of the Dominican Republic), and visiting friends across the United States and Germany.

James M. “Jim” Worley of Princeton, West Virginia, passed away October 25, 2018. He was the co-owner of Paragon, LLC, which owned and operated Heather Glen Mobile Home Park in Glenwood Park and Roundhouse Mobile Home Park in Princeton, West Virginia. Jim was a member of Advent Christian Church where he supported the Advent Church Campground known as “Camp Pocahontas.”

Sammy Lane Poindexter, of Dublin, Virginia, serves as the chairman of the board for TG Howard Community center as a volunteer position. TG Community Center goal is to build a stronger black community and connect them to cultural events, involving the arts, education, recreation, and local support services.

Michael L. Miles of Bluefield, Virginia passed away October 11, 2019. Mike was an employee of Richwood Golf Club and Fincastle Country Club, and was active in the junior golf programs throughout the area and in Virginia.  He was an assistant coach for the golf team at Bluefield College.

James Richard Bartholomew of Remington, Virginia passed away on May 17, 2020. Richard was a sergeant in the United States Army and the pastor at Calverton Baptist Church in Midland, Virginia.

Harry C. Graninger, of Roanoke, Virginia, has been employed with Unilever for the past thirty-seven years. He is the team business manager for analysis of retail teams for the United States and Canada (over 1,000 retail reps). Unilever is the number one supply chain company in the world.

Robert J. Lyttle of Sterling, Virginia passed away on June 13, 2019.  He was a field engineer for Leidos, Inc. formerly called Lockheed Martin.

E. W. “Scott Walker” Paulette, Jr., of Forest, Virginia passed away on March 12, 2020. He was the radio host for WTTX,  WYYD, and program director for Equip FM.

Mark A. Scruggs of Durham, North Carolina was the recipient of The John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award, a program which honors current and retired members of the North Carolina State Bar who have demonstrated exemplary service to the legal profession. Mark is a Lawyers Mutual Senior Claims Counsel in his hometown.

Timothy W. Sharp of Edmond, Oklahoma retired from the American Choral Director’s Association, and moved to his farm in Nashville, Tennessee. He will take sabbatical leave to spend time with family and will work internationally as a practicing conductor, teacher, and writer. Tim will continue to serve as Director of Innovation for Trevecca University’s Center for Community Arts Innovation and as Vice-President for the International Federation for Choral Music. Video announcement can be found through this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuvtgGNxQu8

Stephen R. Drosick of Lexington, Kentucky, passed away on April 15, 2019. Mr. Drosick was a LFUCG engineer, and an active member of Holy Spirit Parish Newman Center.

Peggy Emert Bickford of New Canton, Virginia passed away on April 16, 2020. Peggy was employed with the United States Postal Service and retired as the Arvonia Postmaster. She served on the Guest Services Team at Passion Community Church and hosted a weekly study group in her home. Peggy and Steve spent many weekends on the sidelines watching the Bluefield College Rams. She served on the President’s Advisory Council, Centennial Campaign Steering Committee, and hosted the Central Virginia Alumni Reunion during the summer at her home. The last words she spoke were “My work is done, there is more to do, and ya’ll need to do it.” In the end, she continued to encourage others to carry the torch and share God’s love. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bluefield College, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, VA 24605. Please add “Peggy Bickford” to the memo section of the check.

Lofton P. Delgado of Lima, Ohio, passed away on February 28, 2018. He was a Senior Consultant with Abreon Group.

George “Rich” R. Nuckolls, Jr. of Marietta, Georgia, passed away on May 23, 2019. Rich retired from Norfolk Southern, was the co-founder of Art Colony Giverny, and sang with Georgia Festival Chorus and church choirs. He was past-president of the Atlanta Baroque Orchestra, a volunteer for Bugles Across America, and a member of the Weatherstone ALTA team. Rich was an Eagle Scout and an award-winning photographer.

Ida C. Allgood of Boydton, Virginia passed away on May 21, 2011.

Thomas L. Bailey, Jr. of Henrico, Virginia passed away on August 23, 2019.

Donald W. Daugherty of Princeton, West Virginia, passed away on February 22, 2016.

William Henry “Billy” Dawson, Jr., of Heathsville, Virginia, passed away January 31, 2017. Billy, who farmed land in the Northern Neck of Virginia, was a conservationist, an entrepreneur, the co-founder of Bay’s Best Seed, and a deacon at Smithland Baptist Church.

Robert S. Johnson, Sr. of Deep Run, North Carolina, passed away on August 19, 2018. He was the Director of the Department of Social Services in Pamlico County. Robert served as a deacon, choir member, and Sunday School Director at Albertson Missionary Baptist Church. He also served as a Gideon in Lenoir County.

James K. Clark of Hinton, West Virginia, passed away on April 7, 2020. Jim was a Brakeman-Conductor with CSX and legislative lobbyist/secretary/treasurer for United Transportation Union, Local #118. ​He was a member of several civic clubs and active with United Methodist Men, Yummy Bags Ministry, and the Matthew 2540 Guatemala Mission at First United Methodist Church in Hinton, West Virginia.

Jim L. Duke, Jr. of Angier, North Carolina, passed away November 13, 2019. He was an associate pastor of Villa Heights Baptist Church, Roanoke, Virginia, and minister of youth at Broadus Memorial Baptist Church, Richmond, Virginia. During the next 30 years, Duke was a senior service technician for General Binding Corporation, IKON, and ACCO Brands, while serving as a volunteer in churches in Richmond, Virginia, Fuquay-Varina, and Angier, North Carolina.

Major Arthur A. Shrader of Columbia, South Carolina passed away on June 24, 2014. He retired as a Major from the U.S. Army, and served during Vietnam and the Gulf War, receiving a Bronze Star.  Shrader was employed with SCDHEC as a hydrogeologist.  His hobbies included rock hounding, duck/deer hunting, and Civil War history. He was a past president of Columbia Gem and Mineral Society.

Donald L. Tatum of Petersburg, Virginia passed away on July 20, 2012.

Elizabeth Carolyne “Betis” Snipes, of Hillsborough, North Carolina, received the C. Knox Massey Distinguished Service Award due to her tremendous effort and hard work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as an employee.

Emmet R. Blankenship of North Chesterfield, Virginia, passed away on August 30, 2017.

Stephen E. Boling of Waynesboro, Virginia, passed away on July 25, 2019. He held positions in local companies as a sales representative and retired from OryxDesigns promotional products. Stephen served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and member/chair of numerous committees at First Baptist Church.

Emmett Wayne Cumbow, of Talbott, Tennessee, passed away on September 25, 2020. Emmett served God in many different ways; he served as a youth pastor at Farmstead Baptist Church in Alabama, he served as a minister of music at Nance’s Grover Baptist Church in Tennessee, and he also served as a volunteer chaplain with Covenant Health sharing the love of Christ.  

Philip E. Blankenship of Sarasota, Florida passed away on June 8, 2011. He was the Executive Director of the Suncoast School for Innovative Studies and the Administrator of Education at First Baptist Church. Philip founded the Small Forest Foundation to help people in need.

Robert C. Hufford of Hopewell, Virginia passed away on March 4, 2019.  Bob was a Physician’s Assistant for 40 years, 15 of those were for the Army.  He was an actor of the American Revolution, a biographer on finding a grave; an interpreter; and ran marathons.

Royce D. Barker of Marion, Virginia, passed away on January 28, 2019. Royce received a purple heart for serving in the United States Marine Corps. He worked for the Smyth County Sheriff’s Department, Virginia State Police, and retired from the Smyth County Ambulance Service.

William G. Whittington of Chesterfield, Virginia passed away on May 14, 2018. Bill served in the United States Army. He loved sports, animals, gardening, and playing the stock market. 

Linwood H. Gilman, III of Richmond, Virginia, passed away on March 30, 2019. He served in the United States Army and was employed with Bellwood, a defense general supply center. 

Preston L. Foster of Lowry, Virginia passed away on May 25, 2016. He retired from B & W Technologies in 2006. Preston served on the Board of Directors of CVFCU and was a substitute teacher in Bedford County.

James C. Mabe of Moneta, Virginia passed away on March 21, 2012. He served in the United States Army and enjoyed fishing and gardening.

Barbara “Bobbie” Jones Vinson, of Pearisburg, Virginia, passed away on January 22, 2020. She was a pre-school and elementary school teacher and a member of the Angels Rest Baptist Fellowship in Pearisburg, Virginia. 

Denos C. Demopoulos of Bluefield, West Virginia and originally from Leriza-Nemea, Corinth Greece passed away on August 17, 2019. He served as a lieutenant in the Greek Army and traveled across Europe with NATO as an intelligence agent.  Denos emigrated to the United States and was a clinical psychologist at Bluefield Mental Health, Southern Highlands, and Mercer County Health Department. He was awarded the Americanism Medal by the John Chapman Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.  Denos was inducted as a Paul Harris Fellow and voted Rotarian of the Year by the Bluefield Rotary Club.  He was also a member of the Century Club.

Dorothy Sinsheimer, of Gladstone, Missouri, passed away on January 21, 2015. She was a licensed clinical social worker with Comprehensive Mental Health.

Ronald L. Wagner of Woodstock, Georgia, passed away on March 18, 2020. He was employed with The Dow Chemical Company and excelled as a National Sales Manager for Styrofoam Products. Ron had numerous hobbies including astronomy, woodworking, fly fishing, ham radios, photography, watercolor painting, and traveling.

Thomas H. Webb of Lynchburg, Virginia passed away on October 24, 2018. He was employed with the Campbell County School System, served on the Lynchburg City School Board, was an elder of Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church, and involved in many philanthropic activities.

Judith “Judy” Davis Angles, of Williamsburg, Virginia, passed away August 8, 2020. Judy worked for the Richmond Times-Dispatch and later became the Human Resources Director for the family-owned business. She was a board member of the Queens Lake Community Association, director of the Queens Lake Clubhouse, and member of Williamsburg United Methodist Church.

Robert ‘Doug’ Coon of Bluefield, Virginia passed away on March 30, 2019. He served in the Army Reserves from 1961 to 1967. Robert’s career included tenures at Dixie Appliance Company, Norfolk and Western Railway, Poly Scientific, and retired from Pyott Boone Electronics. He was a mechanic, electrician, craftsman, and gardener. Doug was a member of the Chancel Choir at the First United Methodist Church and a participant with the Bluestone Choral.

Harry E. Morehead of Bastian, Virginia, passed away on January 26, 2013.

John Donald Ragland and spouse of Loretta H. Ragland (’59), of Madison Heights, Virginia, passed away on September 23, 2020. John lived his life serving his country and God. He served in the Marines and as a Naval Chaplin during the Vietnam War. He also served as interim pastor at Madison Heights Baptist Church and many churches in Virginia and North Carolina as a pastor, retiring from Hull’s Memorial Baptist Church.

Milford V. Rollins, Jr. of Hayes, Virginia, passed away on June 23, 2012.

Eleanor H. Barnett of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on March 5, 2013.

Gary C. Hodges of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away on June 6, 2020. He was a certified optometrist and operated his own practice in Alleghany Highlands. Gary was the treasurer for the Covington-Hot Springs Rotary Club and Chaplain of the Covington Masonic Lodge. He was an amateur radio operator and member of the Virginia Mountain Amateur Radio Club.

Robert L. Parks of Huntersville, North Carolina passed away on April 14, 2017.

Wilton Max Rhea of Saltville, Virginia, passed away on February 19, 2020. Max was a teacher and administrator at several schools in Smyth County and Bath County, Virginia, and was a principal at Saltville Elementary School.

James E. Shumate of Coal City, West Virginia passed away on March 18, 2013.  James was the former owner of Shumate Furniture of Coal City.  He was a member of the Missionary Baptist denomination of the Coal City Community Church where he served as deacon and Sunday School superintendent.

Teddy F. D. Farrar of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina passed away on September 3, 2017. He had worked with The American Counseling Association of Arlington, Virginia.

Phyllis G. Gibson of Bluefield, West Virginia passed away on June 1, 2018. She had taught piano lessons for the past 60 years and was the pianist at Pine Grove Church of Christ.

Joseph E. Moricle of Bluefield, West Virginia passed away on July 1, 2017.  He was a detective with the Bluefield Police Department and security guard at Flat Top Bank and First Community Bank.

Ronald L. Stacy of Raleigh, North Carolina passed away on October 11, 2019.

James Woodrow Turner of Martinsville, Virginia passed away on January 19, 2019.  He had retired from E. I. Du Pont de Nemours.

Stanley R. Woodyard of Melbourne, Florida passed away on February 2, 2018.

Roy N. Young of Saint Petersburg, Florida passed away on October 25, 2018.  He and his wife, Mary Lou, had resided in Saudi Arabia for a brief time.  Roy retired from the University of Tampa.  He was a member of the Boca Ciega Yacht Club and enjoyed dancing.

Douglas B. Hawks, Sr. of Monroe, Georgia, passed away on June 21, 2020. During his youth, Doug developed a love for basketball and played at Bluefield College, Virginia. While at Bluefield, Doug’s hometown of Pound was devastated by a flood and his family lost everything. Doug returned to college and told the president that he was dropping out. Soon after, Doug was told that the remainder of his college had been paid for by an anonymous donor. Doug decided that he would do everything in his power to someday pay it forward in life and business. After graduation, he joined the Tom McCord Construction Company of Decatur, Georgia, as an assistant to the president and later became the company’s president. Doug was also the Chairman of the Board of Tom McCord Construction Company and of Continental Stucco Products. He served as president of the little league association and the high school football booster club. Doug was a member of the Rotary Club and was Rotarian of the Year on two different occasions for his work with Interact. He served as a deacon and was a member of the Seekers Sunday School Class.  

Doug and his wife, Janice, remained dedicated and loving to Bluefield College throughout the past 60 years. While generous donors to an endowed scholarship, the BC Fund, and many other initiatives, they were instrumental in several capital projects, including Harman Chapel and the recent expansion of the Science Center. Because of their generous support in two major improvement projects associated with Harman Chapel, you will find a plaque in the foyer acknowledging our gratitude for their generosity. Additionally, Doug served as a faithful leader on the board of trustees and held the rank of Emeritus Trustee.

“I fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4:7 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Smoke Rise Baptist Church, 5901 Hugh Howell Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 or to Bluefield College, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, Virginia 24605, designated towards the Hawks Scholarship (in the memo field).

Paul E. Weikle, Sr. of Cocoa, Florida, passed away on January 12, 2018. Paul served in the United States Air Force. He was employed with The RCA Corporation, GE/RCA and retired from Computer Sciences Raytheon as a Systems Analyst. He coached Cocoa High School football, baseball and basketball, Cocoa Little League, and Cocoa Youth Football.

Shirley Moon Brooks of Tappahannock, Virginia, passed away on May 23, 2015. She was a realtor and former member of Tappahannock Essex Chamber of Commerce.

Alton G. Hancock of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed away on January 25, 2017. Alton was a retired lawyer.

Leonard C. “Pooch” Yost, Sr., of Pulaski, Virginia, passed away on November 24, 2019. Pooch was a veteran of the United States Army and National Guard. He was a retired physical education teacher in the Bluefield public school system, a member of First Christian Church (DOC) in Pulaski, the Dublin Lions Club, and the Dublin American Legion Post #58.

Richard B. Calvert of Deland, Florida, passed away on February 6, 2020. Richard served the people of Miami Dade County, Florida for 36 years as a police officer.

David W. Dunn of Martinsburg, Pennsylvania passed away on March 3, 2020. He served in the United States Army. David was the Territory Manager selling farm equipment for AGCO Corporation and served as an elder, deacon, and trustee at Martinsburg Grace Brethren Church.

Stuart R. Grim of Barboursville, Virginia passed away on January 5, 2015.

Charles R. Schellenger of South Point, Ohio, passed away on September 19, 2010. He was a World War II Navy veteran and a retired trainmaster from Norfolk and Western Railroad.

Rev. David M. Armbrister, of Princeton, West Virginia, passed away on June 9, 2020. He pastored churches from Blairtown, Kentucky to Charlottesville, Virginia and was the youth director at Graham Christian Church and Trinity United Methodist Church in Bluefield. David was listed as a noteworthy minister and religion educator by Marquis Who’s Who. He was an associate professor at Bluefield College and was acting chairman in the Division of Social Sciences. David was the author of Dr. Charlie: The Life and Works of Dr. Charles Lee Harmon, 2006 and Lighthouse on the Hill: The Bluefield College Story, 2007. He was a former trustee at Oak Hill Academy, member and past president of the Lions Club, member of Phi Theta Kappa, Phi Beta Kappa, and Kappa Delta Pi.

Robert J. Johnston, Jr. of Bluefield, Virginia passed away October 27, 2015. Bob had served in the United Stated Navy, was Vice President of Sales at Rish Equipment, and partner and founder of Global Equipment in London, Kentucky. He was an elder, deacon, and Property Manager for the Administration Committee at First Presbyterian Church, in Bluefield, West Virginia. Bob was a member of Fincastle Country Club, the Sales Executive Club and supported the Bluefield Union Mission.

Glen T. Shrader, Jr. of West Chester, Ohio passed away on August 23, 2017.

Freda Belle Simpkins of Rocky Gap, Virginia passed away on October 7, 2017. She was a supervisor at Celanese.  Freda enjoyed softball, bowling, archery, and fishing.  

John T. Anderson of Richmond, Virginia passed away on August 6, 2014.

David B. Camden of Appomattox, Virginia passed away on February 16, 2019.  Dave began as a minister in the Southern Baptist denomination and then moved to the United Methodist Conference where he served until his retirement in 1993.

Loomis H. Gibson, of Forest, Virginia, passed away on January 26, 2019. Loomis served in the United States Army Air Corps and in missions over Rhineland, Rome-Arno, Northern and Southern France and air combat in the Balkans. Loomis was employed with Limitorque (now Flow Serve).

Violet Mae Meade of Bluefield, Virginia and Surfside Beach South Carolina, passed away on July 24, 2020. Violet was a Professor Emeritus of Physical Education at Bluefield College, Radford University, Duke University, University of South Carolina, and Coastal Carolina College. She was one of the first to educate students to become physical education teachers for special needs. Violet was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame at Coastal Carolina University. She was one of the first women coaches in volleyball and basketball, and took the first USC Women’s Basketball team to win a National Championship. Her love for teaching included the first annual Special Olympics in Horry County, South Carolina.  She was a member of American Physical Health Education and Recreation Association, and an Honorable Member of the Nana Mouskouri Fan Club.

James Ted Blankenship of Valencia, California passed away on January 24, 2020. Ted was an accountant for Douglas in his early career and traveled to Europe on a “secret” assignment. Ted and three other people that he met at Glendale Baptist Church formed a quartet and sang for entertainment. He was the principal to several elementary schools, including, Saugus, Sky Blue, Cedar Creek, Honby, Emblem, Seco Canyon, and Foster and eventually closed Honby Elementary in the Sangus Union School District of California. Ted was also a supervisor to many student teachers.

Ronnie E. Graham of Wytheville, Virginia passed away on February 13, 2020. Ronnie served in the United States Air Force. He was an Assistant Principal, Principal, and then Director of Personnel in Prince William County Schools. 

James B. Haymes, Jr. of Williamsport, Pennsylvania passed away on July 11, 2019.  He served in the United States Army. James was the CFO for several corporations, retiring from Woolrich.

Charles J. Arrington, Jr., of Courtland, Virginia, passed away on October 12, 2015. He was a captain in the United States Air Force. Charles was a partner in Southampton Tractor Company and Cogsdale Implement Company. He served on the Board of Directors and was previous President for the Virginia Farm and Industrial Equipment Association. Charles was a teacher, deacon, and superintendent at Courtland Baptist Church and a member of many civic clubs.

Charles O. Godsey, Sr. of Chester, Virginia passed away on August 5, 2013. Charles was a Technical Sergeant in the United States Air Force. He worked in civil service at Bellwood.

David A. Jones of Cocoa Beach, Florida passed away on January 27, 2017. Dave was a Chief Chemist in the United States Air Force and Head of Sanitary Engineering for Pan American World Airways. He served as Brevard County Administrator of Utilities, and consultants for Smith and Gillespie Engineers and Post, Buckley, Shuh, and Jernigan. Dave served as a deacon and elder at Riverside Presbyterian Church.

George C. Kitts of Moneta, Virginia passed away on January 12, 2019.  He was a sales engineer with Gulf Oil and Chevron, where he was known as an expert on lubricant products. Carter appeared in several Gulf Oil print media publications, such as the ‘Pro from Gulf.’

Arnold ‘Mitch’ R. Mitchem of Hillsville, Virginia passed away on August 29, 2019. He served in the United States Army and retired as a lab technician from R.J. Reynolds. 

Walter Johnson Reynolds of Blacksburg, Virginia, passed away on July 21, 2018. He was a charter member of the Longshop-McCoy Volunteer Fire and Rescue and previous Chaplin of Virginia Association of Volunteer Rescue Squads (VAVRS).

Arthur E. Riley, Sr. of Princeton, West Virginia, passed away on March 1, 2020. Art was known as ‘Mr. Bluefield,’ and President of the Downtown Merchant Association and the Downtown Neighborhood Association. He was the owner of Landmark Antique Mall in Bluefield, West Virginia and Southwest Holdings in Bluefield, Virginia. Art was a member of the Ridge Runner Committee (preservation of locomotives).

Shirley E. Rountree of Virginia Beach, Virginia passed away on August 14, 2016. She taught for the Department of Defense in Germany. Shirley was an Assistant Principal at Kellam High School and Green Run High School and was named Assistant Principal of the Year. She was the Mayor of 75th Street.

Robert E. Widener, Sr. of Cedar Bluff, Virginia passed away on March 19, 2017. Robert served in the United States Air Force and was a criminal investigator for the United States Department of Treasury. He was a charter member of Gethsemane Baptist Church.

Samuel S. Evans of Beckley, West Virginia passed away on August 17, 2012.

Joseph D. Van Dyke of Chesterfield, Virginia passed away on April 5, 2016.

George L. Evans of Princeton, West Virginia passed away on July 25, 2013. He was a veteran of the United States Army and mechanical engineer with Appalachian Power Company.

William R. Gardner, Jr. of Summerfield, North Carolina passed away on August 17, 2013.

Oscar Price ‘Pete’ Johnson of Florence, South Carolina passed away on April 28, 2017. Pete served in the United States Navy. He was employed with Union Carbide Corporation and British Acheson Electrodes, Limited (in Sheffield, England), Vice President of UCC’s Linde Division, and  President and Chief Operating Officer of L-Tec, which later became known as ESAB North America. Pete was elected Business Person of the Year by the Florence Chamber of Commerce. He served on the Board of Trustees for the Francis Marion Foundation, the local United Way and Rotary Club, Advisory Board Member of the of the Francis Marion Business School, Director of Sales for the Hogan PGA Golf Tournament, and member of the Florence Museum Board of Trustees.  

Helen Price Maberry of Roanoke, Virginia passed away on March 20, 2015. She was a receptionist for Boone & Co./Long & Foster and a member of the former Roanoke Valley Chorus.

Shirley Branch Ring of Thaxton, Virginia passed away on March 3, 2012. She was a travel clerk with the Department of Defense.

Spencer T. Branham of Belleville, Illinois, passed away on March 30, 2019. He served in World War II and the Korean Wars. Spencer had a passion for operating the Ham Radio.

Robert A. Bruch of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on September 3, 2019. He served in the United States Army, was a Chief Warrant Officer in the United States Naval Reserve, and a West Virginia Blue and Gold Officer for the US Naval Academy, where he mentored young service members in their military career paths. Bob was an Eagle Scout and retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad.

Robert W. Dilcher of Simpsonville, South Carolina, passed away on March 25, 2017.

William P. Eaton of Greenwood, South Carolina passed away on May 10, 2011. He served as a Commissioned Officer in the Air Force. Bill was a pioneer in the infant television broadcasting industry beginning as a salesman selling TV advertising, growing to sales manager, TV Station General Manager, Operations Vice President for two different major Broadcasters, and ultimately to President and Owner of his own Radio Stations. 

Jean Smith Felts of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away on Jan. 25, 2020.   She was a nurse at Maguire Veterans Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. 

Malcolm O. ‘Mack’ Perkins of Mechanicsville, Virginia, passed away on July 23, 2020. He served in the United States Army and retired from the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services. 

Randolph Harman Sexton of Bramwell, West Virginia, passed away on June 27, 2020. He was a Korean War Veteran and a lifelong member of the Bramwell Methodist Church. After retirement from the army, he worked as a draftsman with Pocahontas Fuel Compan

Sandra N. Godsey Torquato of Boca Raton, Florida passed away on January 4, 2019. She self-funded her undergraduate degree at Bluefield College through her modeling career. Sandy was employed in the medical field and was an accomplished artist in painting and sketching.

Donald S. Adkins of Bluefield, West Virginia passed away on April 2, 2012. He served in the United States Army and was a former employee of the State of West Virginia, with responsibilities for immunizations within the state. 

Roy E. Caldwell of Sevierville, Tennessee, passed away on April 25, 2017.  He served in the United States Army and was a member of the American Legion Post#104.

Dr. Conrad G. Crow of Jonesborough, Tennessee passed away on August 21, 2018. He was employed with General Electric in Pennsylvania, Vermont, Georgia, and Kentucky. Conrad pastored Highland Presbyterian Church and Crescent Hill Presbyterian Church in Kentucky; Village Chapel Presbyterian Church in West Virginia, Great Bridge Presbyterian Church in Virginia, and was the interim minister at six Presbyterian churches in Tennessee. Conrad was a member of the Kiwanis Club and supported the International Storytelling Center of Jonesborough.

Doris Hartsoe Eggleston and spouse of the late Charles W. Eggleston (’49), of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away on July 30, 2020. She was a member of Cave Spring United Methodist Church, where she was active in the Friendship Sunday School class and the Afternoon Circle. The family suggests donations in her memory be sent to Cave Spring United Methodist Church, Roanoke, Virginia, or to Bluefield College, 3000 College Avenue, Bluefield, Virginia, 24605.

Pollyanna Yost Lucas of Lebanon, Tennessee, and spouse of the late Thomas F. Lucas (’45) passed away on March 03, 2019. Polly was a teacher and guidance counselor in Tazewell County Schools.

Patrick A. Romano, Sr. of Bluefield, West Virginia passed away July 4, 2012. Pat served in the United States Army, was a member of the Army band, and received a Purple Heart.  He was an industrial sales representative for Texaco. Pat was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #1404, Elks Lodge, and Sons of Italy.  Pat sang in the choir at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Roger F. Whitt of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on February 6, 2020. He served in the United States Air Force and was a civil engineer at Norfolk Southern Railway. Roger was a deacon and Sunday School teacher at Brushfork Baptist Church.

Arlene Goosby DeNardo of Pinehurst, North Carolina, passed away on June 11, 2019.

Marilyn B. Mustard Tinder of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on July 21, 2019. She attended Marilyn Watts Hospital School of Nursing in Durham, North Carolina. Marilyn was an employee of the Bluefield Daily Telegraph and for Maggie Bennett, a boutique in Bluefield. She was a member of the East River Mountain Garden Club and served as a board member for the Bluefield Area Arts and Crafts Center.

Dorothy Granger Bryant of Bluefield, Virginia, passed away on April 30, 2019. She was employed with the IRS during WWII and retired from Bluefield News Agency. Dorothy was a volunteer at Bluefield Regional Medical Center. ​

Franklin C. Johnson, III of West Palm Beach, Florida passed away on March 8, 2014.

Anita Smith Garrett of Woodbridge, Virginia, passed away on September 26, 2019. She was a substitute math teacher for Fairfax County Public Schools and a private tutor. Anita taught Sunday School and Bible classes, created Faberge style eggs, and was skilled in various forms of needlework.

Charles G. Gunn, Jr. of Winston-Salem, North Carolina passed away on September 28, 2018. Charlie trained as a doctor in the United States Navy V-12 program and served on a ship, the USS Bayfield. He remained in the Naval Reserves for decades. Charlie was employed at Ford Motor Company and was the medical director at Hanes Hosiery Company, which later evolved into part of Sara Lee Corporation. He won national recognition for developing a program of preventive care, employee education, and regular examinations. Charlie had many hobbies, such as a 1965 Prairie Bronze convertible, paintings, woodworking, and in writing music and lyrics. He was a volunteer at Contact Helpline of the Triad, the Community Care Center, Meals on Wheels, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Hartman Kearns of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, passed away on May 8, 2017.  She was a homemaker.

Kathryn Kearns Kirkwood of Odenton, Maryland, passed away on April 29, 2018.  

Fred L. Troy of Los Alamitos, California passed away on January 15, 2020. He was a B-17 bomber pilot in the Army Air Corps and flew 35 missions over Germany. Fred was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and four Air Medals. He was employed with General Electric, Motorola, Fairchild Semiconductor, Inc., and sold real estate for DeBenedictis Realty and Century 21. Fred’s WWII memoir, ‘Flak Storm’, is available at https://www.amazon.com/FLAK-STORM-Soldiers-Journey-Decorated-ebook/dp/B00RI9R5QI/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=flak+storm&qid=1584566603&sr=8-1

Harold R. Bausch of Amityville, New York passed away on December 18, 2011.

Ruth Ownbey Gibbs of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away February 13, 2018. Ruth was an active volunteer and leader with the American Red Cross, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Federation of Women’s Clubs, Greensboro Lecture League, Greensboro Symphony Guild, Ingleside Garden Club, Potpourri Club, Starmount Forrest Country Club, and Tar Heel Seniors Golf Association. She also was a strong advocate for youth, appointed by Governor Bob Scott to the North Carolina State Youth Advisory Board and the White House Conference on Children and Youth. Also, she served her church as a Sunday School class president, circle leader, and Woman’s Missionary Union president.

Louis Lazerow of Deerfield, Illinois passed away on September 22, 2018.

Marjorie Norman Bailey of Narrows, Virginia, passed away on January 15, 2020. Margie volunteered for Sunday School, Brownies, Cub Scouts, Lion’s Club Eye Exams, Junior Woman’s Club, and Red Hat Society. As a long-time member of Giles Country Club, she recorded a hole-in-one (much to the chagrin of her husband). 

Roger M. Aker of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on May 7, 2016.   He was a manager at Spear Sterling and enjoyed plumbing and carpentry.

Louise Rae Keith Gloeckler of Fairfax, Virginia passed away on August 20, 2019. She was a charter member of Immanuel Presbyterian Church and a member of the Women’s Club of McLean, Virginia. She volunteered at INOVA Fairfax Hospital and its Treasure Trove Shop. 

Lance E. Oblinger of Charleston, West Virginia passed away on February 19, 2014. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII and retired from the West Virginia Public Commission. 

William A. Crotty of Charlotte, North Carolina passed away on August 16, 2002.

Fannie Miller Cole of Bluefield, West Virginia passed away on August 19, 2017.

Robert R. Stuart, Jr. of Bluefield, Virginia passed away on February 13, 2012. Bob was a captain and carrier pilot in the United States Naval Academy.  He was the president of Betsy Ross Bakeries.  Bob served on the board at the Bluefield Flat Top National Bank and  Fincastle Country Club. He was a deacon and choir member at First Presbyterian Church.

George Russell Garrett passed away on September 3, 2019.  He served in the United States Navy aboard the LST 878 in the Pacific.  Russell was a comptroller and accountant at Pocahontas Fuel Company (Consol).  He was the treasurer of both First United Methodist Churches in Pocahontas, Virginia and Bluefield, Virginia.  Russell was an avid gardener and shared his homegrown tomatoes with friends and neighbors.

Evelyn Wells Arenz of Lexington, Kentucky passed away on October 24, 2015. She served with the American Red Cross in Europe during World War II.  After retiring from the California School System, Evelyn was a world traveler and an accomplished artist.