Ronald Leigh (Ronnie) Swoope, age 92, of 811 McCormick Boulevard, Clifton Forge, Virginia, died on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Davis & McDaniel Veterans Care Center in Roanoke, Virginia.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time and are being handled by Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge.

Mr. Burdette Alvin Rupert, Jr., age 69, of Covington, Virginia, died Sunday February 15, 2026, at Carrington Cottages, Daleville, VA, a day shy of his 70th birthday.

Mr. Rupert was born February 16, 1956 in Steubenville, Ohio but his home was Covington, Virginia. He was the son of the late Burdette Alvin Rupert, Sr. and Frances Parker Rupert.

He grew up in Covington and graduated from Alleghany County High School. He went to Dabney Lancaster Community College and Westminster Choir College with his beloved cousin, Susan Parker Potter.

He was employed as a real estate agent by B.A. Rupert Real Estate, Inc. with his father for a number of years before his retirement.

B.R. was a member of McAllister Memorial Presbyterian where he was an active member of the choir.

B.R. loved music and taught himself to play the guitar. He often shared his musical talents singing for weddings, funerals, local variety shows, with the Alleghany Chorale, at churches, at nursing homes, on a porch at the lake, really just everywhere! He loved singing karaoke. Particularly at the beach at Ocean Annie/s and most recently for his friends at Carrington Cottages assisted living.

He was an avid golfer, fisherman and hunter. He would often take his fishing pole down on the Jackson River or out on a pier at his parent's condo on Emerald Isle or at Smith Mountain Lake on a dock and spend hours watching the water rush past him.

B. R. could often be found on the fence line at a high school football game or in the bleachers at a basketball game. If he couldn't attend the local games, he was following along on the radio or checking out the highlight reels on the local news.

Mr. Rupert is survived by a brother, Stephen Aaron Rupert; his cousins, Rebecca Parker Hudson and husband, Kevin, Molly Parker, Howard Liptrap Jr., George Lindsay, Geoffrey Lindsay, Kaitlyn Potter Law husband, Drew; daughter, Teagan, Parker Hudson, Carter Hudson; special friends, Tammy Scruggs Duncan and Teenie Kegley, and his favorite cats, Friskey and MeMe.

He was predeceased by his beloved cousin, Susan Parker Potter.

A funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. Friday, February 20, 2026, at McAllister Memorial Presbyterian Church with Rev. Jim Moss officiating. Interment will follow in Smith/Armentrout Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Friday afternoon from 1:30 p.m. until time of service at McAllister Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home; to view Mr. Rupert's memorial tribute page, please visit www.lovingfuneralhome1913.com.

Robert Everett Vass Jr., 77, of Lewisburg, West Virginia, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026.

Born May 11, 1948, in Huntington, West Virginia, Rob E. Vass was the son of the late Robert E. (Bob) Vass Sr. and the late Heath McIntosh Vass.

He was a proud graduate of Huntington High School and attended Marshall University.

Rob lived for the people around him. He was happiest when his home was full of his children and grandchildren, and he carried that same warmth everywhere he went. Walking into a restaurant with him was an event with so many friendly stops that twenty minutes might pass before you ever sat down. He knew every back road and who lived in every house, and he loved to drive through Lewisburg or Huntington, recounting the memories each place held.

Rob and his wife, Liba built a life full of those connections. That his closest friends at seventy-seven were the same ones he'd had as a boy in Huntington says everything about his loyalty. That his two former wives, Libby Stephens and Mimi Vass, remained close friends until his passing says just as much.

While Huntington made him who he was, Greenbrier County, or God's Country as he called it, is where he built his life. He made his home in Lewisburg, where he became a respected figure in the community. He and Liba treasured their time at the Greenbrier Sporting Club, where they built a close circle of friends who became like family.

Rob believed a community is something you build, not just something you live in. In 1993, he developed the Greenbrier Pines community and later Jonah's Landing, helping create neighborhoods where families could put down roots.

He served on the Foundation Board of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, contributing to the advancement of medical education in the state, and was a longtime member of Enslow Park Presbyterian Church in Huntington and later Ronceverte Presbyterian Church.

Rob made his career in insurance, but his real work was taking care of people. He started at Staats-MacIntosh, where he rose to owner and president, and built a specialty serving the physicians and medical practices of West Virginia. As the firm changed hands over the years, first to McDonough Caperton, then Acordia, and finally Wells Fargo, Rob remained a constant for his clients, ultimately retiring as Vice President.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Robin (Beth) Vass Lutz; and his beloved wife, Elizabeth "Liba" Ann Sadler Vass, who passed away in 2022.

Rob is survived by his children, Robert E. Vass III (Laura), Lisa Katherine Burke (Dr. Michael Burke), Trey C. Vass (Jaime), and Rowdy Galigher Vass (Turner); his stepchildren, Sarah Pinson Ezanidis (Peter), Rebecca Pinson, and Alexander Vence (Dr. Lacey Vence); his siblings, Frank (Hank) McIntosh Vass and Molly Vass Lehman (Rob); his grandchildren, Aidan Burke, Lainey Burke, Van Vass, Emery Vass, and Robert E. Vass IV (River); his step-grandchildren, Thomas Vence and Eva Vence; and numerous dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the organizations Rob cared about deeply: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine Foundation, HospiceCare of Greenbrier Valley, YMCA of Huntington, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tri-State, or the Marshall Big Green Scholarship Foundation.

Service details to be announced.

Online guestbook can be signed, or condolences may be sent to the Vass family at www.morganfh.net.

Arrangements entrusted to Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.

Mr. James Wesley Ralsten, age 77, of Covington, Virginia, died Friday, February 13, 2026, at LewisGale Hospital-Alleghany, Low Moor.

He was the husband of the late JoAnn Boggs Lowe Ralsten, who preceded him in death in 2023.

Mr. Ralsten was born February 1, 1949 in Virginia, the son of the late Malcolm McNeer Ralsten and Elizabeth Miller Ralsten.

He was a lifetime resident of this community. James was employed as a mechanic by United Parcel Service, retiring after thirty years of service. He was also a former employee of Loving Funeral Home.

In his spare time, James enjoyed working with crafts and making things with his hands.

Mr. Ralsten is survived by a daughter, Jennifer V. Ralsten of Richmond; three sons, John W. Ralsten of Dayton, OH, Clayton T. Lowe of Covington and Jeffery M. Lowe and wife, Brenda of Covington; four grandchildren, Caleb Lowe, Kara A. McCallister and husband, Nathan, Chase Bratton of Mooresville, NC and Nicholas Recker of Newberg, OR; a brother, William R. (Billy) Ralsten and wife, Kathy of Chester; two sisters-in-law, Gladys Ralsten of Roanoke and Trina Ralsten; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Mr. Ralsten was preceded in death by two brothers, Malcolm M. Ralsten and Marshall M. Ralsten and a sister, Margaret Ellen Bontz.

Family and friends should assemble in casual attire at Loving Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2026. A private graveside service for all family will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. at Cedar Hill Cemetery with Rev. Bill Gilliland officiating. For anyone wishing to visit the family during this time, please assemble at Jack Mason's Tavern in Clifton Forge, VA, at 4:00 p.m. following the graveside service.

The family suggests that memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426.

Loving Funeral Home is honored to conduct the arrangements for our beloved friend and former co-worker, James Ralsten; to view his memorial tribute page, please visit www.lovingfuneral home1913.com.

Mary Elizabeth Callahan O'Fallon, 82, of Clifton Forge, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at LewisGale Hospital – Alleghany in Low Moor.

Mary was born October 19, 1943, in Ayer, Massachusetts, to the late Edward and Beatrice Callahan.

She dedicated many years of her life to serving as an Instructional Assistant in South Carolina Public Schools. She had a special gift for helping elementary students learn to read and found great joy in watching young minds grow and flourish.

Mary found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid reader, loved a good game of BINGO, and rarely passed up a word puzzle. She especially enjoyed coloring pictures to share with friends and family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald O'Fallon; two sisters, Claudia Knott and Patty Williams; and two granddaughters, Torie and Lauren.

She is survived by her daughter, Missy Phillips (Paul) of Fincastle; two sons, Richard Burnside (Tara) of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Jarrod Burnside (Jennifer) of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; three sisters, Cathy Grove of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Suzanne Adams of Parker, Colorado, and Bridgette Callahan of Cheyenne, Wyoming; twelve grandchildren, Breanna (Trevor), Trey (Flor), Cassie (Becky), Amanda (Kellan), Anthony (Jessica), Isabella, Brayden (Sam), Slade (Ashley), Ella (Joshua), Dayne, Nolan, and Haylen Grace; ten great-grandchildren, Callahan, McKenna, Hayden, Arizona, Lucas, Cooper, Kai, Nia, Calliope, and Kingston; and several nieces and nephews.

In accordance with her wishes, Mary has been cremated and no services are planned at this time.

Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, is handling arrangements.

To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com.

Douglas (Doug) D. Fisk, born on Apri 16, 1947 in Ronceverte, West Virginia, passed away on February 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born to Ralph and Ann Erwin Fisk, Doug grew up with the values of kindness, hard work, and service — principles that guided him throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Greenbrier High School and Marshall University, Doug carried his deep love for his community into every role he filled.

In his earlier years, he worked at Davis Stuart Children's Home, where he found purpose in meeting the needs of children and offering support during some of their most difficult moments. He later continued his commitment to service by working as a police officer, approaching the job with compassion and integrity. Doug concluded his professional life as Director of Lending at First National Bank in Ronceverte, where his warmth, fairness, and steady presence earned the trust of countless friends and neighbors.

After retirement, Doug cherished the simple joy of summer days spent on the Greenbrier River. Whether floating, fishing, or relaxing with friends and family, he found peace in the water and loved watching his children and his beloved grandson, Gavin, enjoy the same river he held dear.

Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He leaves behind his loving wife, Janice Lambert Fisk; his children, Michael (wife, Rachel and son, Gavin), Mathew (wife, Leslie), and Emily (husband, Kenny); and his sister, Debbie Bush.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Danny, whom he remembered with great affection.

Known among family and friends as the world's best bread maker, Doug poured love into everything he baked. His music was another gift — he enjoyed playing his guitar and singing, often turning quiet evenings into cherished memories with the sound of his voice and strings. These cherished moments have inspired so many others to pursue their passion for music.

To know Doug was to know warmth, humor, humility, and a generous heart. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the moments he made brighter, and the family who loved him deeply.

He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A graveside service for Doug will be held on February 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the McLean Cemetery, Ronceverte, with Rev. Stephen Baldwin officiating.

The Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Franklin Monroe Cook, age 67, of Caldwell, West Virginia, passed away on Friday, February 13, 2026, at CAMC Greenbrier Valley Medical Center.

Born on April 15, 1958, Frank was the son of the late Gail Franklin and Allie Marie Odell Cook.

He was a devoted member of Bethesda Church and cherished his faith, often sharing his favorite phrase, "I'm blessed and highly favored."

Frank was passionate about carpentry, spending most of his life building and creating.

Family meant everything to him, and he treasured every moment spent with loved ones. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, exploring the outdoors, and fishing.

Along with his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his brother, Barry Cook.

He is survived by his companion, Pamela Laursen; son, Jeremiah Cook (Stefanie); daughter, Laticia Anderson (Charlie); sister, Belinda Workman; brother, Mark Cook (Dawna); grandchildren, Breianna, Brandon, Alexis, Ava, Braxton, and Brody; as well as several nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Funeral services will take place at 12:00 noon, Thursday, February 19, 2026 at the Morgan Funeral Home Chapel, Lewisburg, WV, with Rev. Roger Boggs officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Hillsboro, WV.

You may sign the online guestbook at www.morganfh.net.

Arrangements are entrusted to Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.

Orville Lee Childers, 73, of Fairlea, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, surrounded by love at Peyton Hospice House in Fairlea, West Virginia.

Orville was born February 26, 1952 in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia to the late Opha Orville and Catherine Waid Childers.

Orville graduated from Greenbrier East High School. He married his beloved wife, Helen, in 1974, and together they raised one daughter, Amanda.

He retired from West Virginia Division of Highways District 9, where he dedicated 38 years of service.

Left to cherish his memory are is loving and caring wife of 51 years, Helen Childers; his daughter, Amanda (Darren) Campbell and his two brothers, Wayne Childers and Sam Childers; several nieces and nephews, special friends, and his feline companion, Lily.

Orville found joy gardening, hunting, watching NASCAR races and sporting events, and spending time with his beloved pets and family.

Orville's kindness, humor, and love for his family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

A funeral service celebrating Orville's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the Wallace and Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg, West Virginia. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Orville will be laid to rest at the Wallace Memorial Mausoleum in Clintonville, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Peyton Hospice House, 1265 Maplewood Avenue, Lewisburg, WV 24901 and/or Greenbrier Humane Society, P. O. Box 926, Lewisburg, WV 24901.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the Greenbrier County Emergency Ambulance team, medical staff at CAMC GVMC ER, and Peyton Hospice House for the care they showed.

Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg is in charge of arrangements.

Kevin Roger Schulrud, 63, of Union, West Virginia, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026.

Kevin was born on July 3, 1962 at Great Lakes, IL, to Roger Charles Schulrud and the late Phyllis Irene Boggs Schulrud.

Kevin was a member of the Union Church of Christ, worked in maintenance and was a handyman.

Surviving include his wife, Sarah Jane Jackson Schulrud of Union; daughters, Jennifer Marie Schulrud of Ashland, Ky, Tara Nicol Bennett and husband, Mark of Ashland, KY and Rona Kimberly Crookshanks and husband, Billy of Lewisburg; grandchildren, Christopher Bennett, Nicholas Bennett, Madisyn Bennett, Emmalyn Bennett, Carmen Crookshanks and Haylie Crookshanks; sister, Kimberly Schulrud-Grossman and husband, Doug of Coronado, CA; brother, Todd Schulrud of Sweet Springs; step sister, Dawn Hoffmann and husband, Steve of Wausau, WI; step brother, John Schulrud of Wausau, WI; three nieces and one nephew.

There will be a private service for the family.

The Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Charles (Lowell) Terry, age 87, of Big Valley, Bath County, Virginia, passed away Friday, February 13, 2026 at Bath Community Hospital, Hot Springs.

He was born in Big Valley March 28, 1938, a son of the late Charles “Ernest” and Daisy Margaret (Doyle) Terry.

On December 20, 1969, he married the love of his life, Anna Gale (Anderson) McDaniel, who preceded him in death in 2024.

A Christian, Lowell attended Valley Bethel Church of the Brethren and Hamilton Chapel Advent Christian Church, ultimately becoming a member of Set Free Fellowship Church, where he loved attending.

Lowell and Anna Gale enjoyed every aspect of life together including worshiping at church, raising cattle and sheep, and having fun while attending square dances and street dances.

Additionally, he loved to hunt bobcats with his hounds and visiting with friends throughout the community.

Above all, Lowell will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet disposition, and most certainly his flatfooting on the dance floor.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by two sisters, Marie May and Carol Waybright; sister-in-law, Vonda Terry; and brother-in-law, Steve Hodge.

He is survived by a sister, Linda Hodge of Warm Springs; brother, Tommy Terry of Big Valley; brothers-in-law, Elmer Waybright of Monterey and Billy May of Covington; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell with pastor Mike Puffenbarger officiating. Burial will follow in Hamilton Chapel Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Scottie Green, Timmy Hodge, Andy Terry, Andrew Terry, Caileb Ryder, Eddie Ailstock, Chris Moore, and Grayson Coleman.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bolar Volunteer Fire Department, 6311 Big Valley Road, Warm Springs, Va. 24484.

The Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell, Virginia, is handling the arrangements.

Carmen Ercell Smith, age 100, a resident of Colonial Heights, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

She was born on June 6, 1925, in Covington, Virginia, the daughter of the late Albert Munsie Smith and Minnie Alice Rucker Smith.

Carmen spent much of her working life at Allied Chemical, where she worked in the laboratory. Beginning her career at a young age, she was known for her strong work ethic, intelligence, and determination — qualities that defined her throughout her life.

She was also a longtime member of Colonial Heights Baptist Church.

Family was always Carmen's highest priority. She was deeply devoted to her loved ones and remained closely connected to them throughout her long life. She especially enjoyed sharing family stories and attending reunions, and she maintained a standing invitation for family to come and visit.

Carmen was the last surviving member of her immediate family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Nellie Persinger, Arlie Smith, Evelyn Warwick, Agnes Bell, and Pattie Thompson, and by her brothers, Bud Smith, Scott Smith, and Clark Smith.

She is survived by a loving extended family, including numerous nieces and nephews, who will cherish her memory and the example she set through her life.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to devoted friends Ellen and Bill Yancey, who assisted Carmen for many years, and to the staff of Dunlop House for their compassionate care and many kindnesses.

A graveside service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2026, in Alleghany Memorial Park with Rev. James MacDougall officiating.

The family will receive friends on Saturday morning from 11:30 a.m. until time to leave in procession for Alleghany Memorial Park.

There will be no formal family visitation at E. Alvin Smalls Funeral Home in Colonial Heights, VA, but family and friends may stop by the funeral home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Local arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home; to view Carmen's memorial tribute page, please visit www.lovingfuneralhome1913.com.

Calvin Lee Hyler-Gregory, formerly of Covington, Virginia, unexpectedly passed away on February 9, 2026, at just 17 years-old.

Born July 25, 2008, he was the son of Lee Putnam Gregory of Albuquerque, New Mexico and the late Mark Allen Gregory.

Calvin brought light, love, laughter and love into the lives of everyone who knew him. He loved playing video games and being outdoors.

He is survived by his mother, Lee Putnam Gregory; his birth mother, Catherine Flynn; his birth father, Christopher Tucker; his three brothers, James Flynn III, Jayden Flynn, and Jasper Flynn.

Calvin was preceded in death by his father, Mark Allen Gregory.

His body will be cremated and a private memorial service held at a later date.

Phyllis Sorrells Tyree, 82, of Clifton Forge, Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Woodlands Health and Rehab Center.

Born on September 10, 1943, in Amherst County, she was the daughter of the late Andy Sorrells and Ammie Burch Sorrells.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Edward Tyree, and sister, Darlene Staton.

She is survived by her four children, Glenn Tyree and wife, Angie, Jeanne Davis and husband, Kevin, Eric Tyree and wife, Kelly, and Kathy Tyree; six grandchildren, Allison Tyree, Scott Tyree, Josh Tyree, Lindsey Tyree, Alex Davis and Elizabeth Davis; sister, Brenda Straub; brothers, Lester Sorrells and Andrew Sorrells; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 17, at Green Hill Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, February 16, at Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Shirley Saunders Flint, 95, of Buena Vista, Virginia, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

Born June 30, 1930, in Rockbridge County, she was the daughter of the late Norton W. Saunders and Nettie Wright Saunders.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Ronald Flint; son, Ronald Leon Flint; and five siblings.

She was a member of Stone Church of the Brethren and belonged to the Women of Stone Church.

Surviving are her daughter, Marvita Flint and husband, Timmy Wallace, and son, Garry S. Flint and wife, Shirley; three grandsons, Garry Stephen Flint II (Robin), Joseph "Dale" Ingram (Raquel) and Dean Saunders Ingram; four great-grandchildren, Alexis I. Burns, Caden A. Ingram, Dylan Flint and Matthew Flint; and four great-great-grandchildren.

A funeral will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, February 13, at the Stone Church of the Brethren Church, 2162 Forest Ave., Buena Vista, with Brother Dorsey Hostetter officiating. Burial will be private. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Stone Church of the Brethren General Fund. Thanks to the staff of Shenandoah Valley Health and Rehab for taking care of her while she was living there.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Vesta Fern (Bussard) Ruckman, age 102, of Bolar, Virginia, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at the Springs Nursing Center in Hot Springs.

Born in Bolar October 7, 1923, she was a daughter of the late Raymond Earl and Cora Elizabeth (Caricofe) Bussard. On June 10, 1950, she married James Arnold Ruckman, who preceded her in death in 1988.

A woman of great faith, Vesta was a member and Sunday school teacher of the Valley Bethel Church of the Brethren, as well as a member of the Women’s Fellowship and the Highland County Extension Homemakers Club.

Both a homemaker and farmer at times, she loved to cook meals, bake cakes and cookies, and enjoyed time spent sewing, quilting, and crocheting. Outside the home, Vesta lovingly tended to her sheep and cows, enjoyed planting and working in her garden, producing fresh food, and canning her bounty for the winter. Family meant the world to Vesta, and her love for them was always on full display. This was often highlighted by the special handcrafted items she gave her children and grandchildren during Christmas, or the annual fall reunions she hosted so extended family members could enjoy the fall foliage.

Above all, she will be remembered for her strong work ethic, selfless nature, and for the steadfast love she provided as a mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by an infant son and infant twins, Velda Faye and Verna Ray Ruckman; as well as her brother, Erwin Lewis Bussard.

She is survived by two sons, Duane Arthur Ruckman of Sneads Ferry, NC and Blane Early Ruckman and wife, Amy of Bolar; grandchildren, Thomas D. Ruckman, Tamara Lynn Ruckman, Jamie Scott Ruckman, and Theresa O'Connor and husband, Mike; as well as great-grandchildren, Hailey Nicole Ruckman, Isabella Rose Thaxton, Lilia Grace Ruckman, and Brielle Faith Ruckman.

A funeral service will be held 2 p.m., Friday, February 13, 2026 at Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell with pastor Zach Royer officiating. Burial will be held in Big Valley Cemetery at a later date.

In addition to her sons, pallbearers include Eugene Bussard, Jamie Ruckman, Ronnie Carpenter, and Eddie Ailstock.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Big Valley Cemetery, c/o Amy Ruckman, 7197 Big Valley Road, Warm Springs, Va. 24484 or to Bolar Volunteer Rescue Squad, 1099 Robinson Lane Warm Springs, Va 24484.

The Obaugh Funeral Home, McDowell, Virginia, is in charge of arrangements.

Dewey Melvin Eary, 88, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, in Lewisburg, West Virginia.

A man of unwavering work ethic and devotion to his family, Dewey leaves behind a legacy of service and love.

Born on October 30, 1937, in Alderson, WV, Dewey was the son of the late Frank James Eary Sr. and Essie Pearl Eary.

Growing up, Dewey was a standout athlete at Alderson High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. Following graduation, Dewey answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army and served as an Armor Intelligence Specialist and an Armor Crewman. It was during his time stationed in Germany with the 67th Armored Brigade that he met the love of his life, Gisela. The two were married and shared 64 beautiful years of marriage together.

Upon returning to West Virginia, Dewey settled in Lewisburg and began a career defined by dedication. He worked at the paper mill in Covington, VA, for 39 years, followed by another 20 years at his local Wal-Mart. When he wasn't working, Dewey was an avid sports fan. He could often be found cheering on Greenbrier East High School and his beloved West Virginia University Mountaineers in football, basketball, and baseball.

Dewey also shared a love for animals and valued his time with his pets.

Dewey was preceded in death by his parents and his eight siblings: John, Frank Jr., James, Samuel, Eugene, George, Annie, and Helen Donlon.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Gisela Eary; his children, Richard Eary and Christine Eary; his grandchildren, Eric Eary, Charles Eary, his wife, Laura Eary, and Lindsey Eary and her partner, Joseph Baker; and his great-grandchildren, Dylon Boone, Aiden Boone, Jaxon Baker, and Lane Alderman. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews across the country who will miss his presence dearly.

Dewey was a man who loved his country and cherished his roles as a husband, father, and Opa. In accordance with his final wishes, he will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held for family and close friends at a later date to honor his remarkable journey.

Donations may be made to Greenbrier County Humane Society In lieu of flowers www.greenbrierhumane.org.

Col. William (Bill) Cedric Noell Jr. of Lexington, Virginia, and Norris Lake, Knoxville, Tenn., died on February 7, 2026, at Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital following a brief illness.

Bill was born on April 26, 1931, in Birmingham, Ala. He was the son of Lt. Col. William C. Noell, Virginia Military Institute class of 1924, of Lynchburg and Rosamond McArthur Noell of Birmingham.

Although the family lived in Raleigh and Charlotte, N.C., until World War II, Bill spent many of his summers on his grandfather's family farm at Cifax, Bedford County where the family had settled in 1756 from Essex County.

Bill graduated from George Washington High School in Alexandria. He enrolled at VMI, graduating in 1953 with a bachelor of science in chemistry and physics. He later attended the University of Richmond in the evening division toward a master's in business administration.

Bill was a member of the VMI Beta Commission of Kappa Alpha Order.

Bill served two years in the United States Air Force and 28 years in the active Air Force Reserve. Bill retired as deputy commander of the 459th, C-130, Tactical Air Lift Wing at Andrews Air Force Base, Washington, D.C., in 1983 with the rank of colonel.

Bill worked for Albemarle Paper/Ethyl Corporation in Richmond and for Virginia Chemicals/Hoecht-Celanese in Portsmouth and in hazardous material consulting under Department of Transportation regulations with chemical companies on the East Coast. He completed his professional career consulting at the Oak Ridge, Tenn., nuclear facilities in the field of hazardous material and low-level radioactive waste packaging and shipping in compliance with DOT regulations. Bill retired in 2002.

Bill had many great loves in his life, including Judy, oysters, vanilla ice cream, Virginia country ham, peanut butter, the Outer Banks, Noell Harbor at Norris Lake, fixing things, his family, his church communities, VMI, his Brother Rats, dozens of adopted VMI cadets over the decades, the Tennessee Vols and a gin and tonic on a summer day. Bill served as class agent for the VMI class of 1953 for almost 40 years. Bill never met a stranger, making friends wherever he went. We will all miss hearing him tell his stories.

Col. Noell is survived by Judith "Judy" J. Noell, his wife of 35 years; sister, Shirley Chaffee of Pleasant Garden, N.C.; sons, William C. Noell III (Judy) of Lake Gaston, N.C., James R. Noel (Fonda) of Sterling, John Lee W. Noell (Tracy) of Port Orange, Fla., Christopher B. Noell (Ashley) of Montpelier and Andrew M. Jay (Heidi) of Lexington; daughter, Jennifer Jay Beacham (Brad) of Lexington; grandchildren, Jordan Noell of Port Orange, Fla., Bobby Noell (Heather) of Suffolk, Sandy Beale (Andy) of Newport News, Shelly Noell of Manassas, Travis Parker (Darcy) of Smith Mountain Lake, Miller and Peyton Jay of Lexington, Jackson (Emma), Addie Jay (Rosser), Judson and Mary Jude Beacham of Lexington; and eight great-grandchildren.

Private burial will be at High Bridge Presbyterian Church cemetery. A memorial service honoring the life of Col. William C. Noell Jr. will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, February 20, at Trinity United Methodist Church with the Rev. Anita E. Mays Lucord officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Virginia Military Institute Alumni Agencies, Post Office Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450-0932.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.

Shakespeare famously wrote "All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players." David Lusk of Lexington, Virginia, took his final bow on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

From a grumpy old man to Santa Claus, from a Roman soldier to a cross-dressing judge, David played many characters, both serious and humorous, over the years. Community theatre was his love. He graced many stages in his home state of Michigan and, more recently, the Virginia Military Institute Gillis Theatre and the ShenanArts Theatre in Staunton.

Born David Robert Lusk on April 21, 1944 in Highland Park, Mich., he was the son of Robert Lusk and Miriam (Lattin) Lusk. He lived most of his life in the greater Detroit area before moving to Lexington.

Following high school, he spent six years in the United States Navy achieving the rank of Torpedoman second class. Taking advantage of the GI Bill, he attended Michigan State University and graduated from Wayne State University in 1974 with a bachelor's degree in theatre.

He worked for many years in the automotive industry, retiring in 2017. As a quality control consultant, he traveled throughout the world providing training to automotive suppliers.

Surviving is his wife, Deborah Bodner; his brother, Jon Lusk (Sally); his former stepsons, Michael Gilbert and Steven Gilbert (Melissa); two grandchildren and extended family back in Michigan.

No service is planned at this time. Please consider a donation to ShenanArts Theatre, 300 Churchville Avenue, Staunton, VA 24401.

Betty May Brown, age 81, of 214 Chapel Drive, Covington, Virginia, died on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at her residence.

Betty was born on June 20, 1944 in Alleghany County, Virginia to the late Jessie Lee and Beulah Pearl Andrews May.

She was a homemaker through her life and a member of Emory United Methodist Church in Natural Well.

She loved being outside, growing flowers, gardening, weed eating, and driving the tractor. She also enjoyed cooking and listening to the music of Elvis Presley.

In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by a daughter, Tammy Lynette Brown; seven brothers, Edwin "Buddy" May, Berlin May, Basil May, Ralph May, Carlos May, Danny May, and Freddie May; and four sisters, Edith Ehlers, Christine Young, Barbara Carpenter, and twin sister, Pat Shiflett.

She is survived by her husband, John Wayne Brown; a daughter, Susan Brown Honts, and a sister, Rita Sue Terry (Brance), all of Covington; a sister-in-law, Gloria Sams of Staunton; a granddaughter, McKenzie Renee Honts; several nieces and nephews, all of which were very special to her; her two grandcats, October and Butters; and her ducks.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Nicey Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, with Reverend Doug Hollenbeck officiating. Interment will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Covington. The family will visit with friends on Friday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Nicely Funeral Home and other times at the residence.

The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426.

To send condolences to the family online, please visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com.

Shelby Moats Goode, 84, of Covington, Virginia, died Monday, February 9, 2026 at her residence.

She was born April 12, 1941 in Covington, a daughter of the late Julian and Laura Wolfe Moats.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Kenny E. Goode in 2014; and a sister, Barbara Cadd.

Shelby worked for many years as a retail clerk at Cato's and the former Leggett's department store in Covington.

Surviving is her daughter, Debra (Charley) Morrison of Covington; nieces, Christy (Kenny) Gunter of Covington and Pam (Joe) Snead of Garner, NC; and several great nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with the Rev. Mike Warren officiating. The family will receive their friends from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Interment will be made in Alleghany Memorial Park.

Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.