BGAVAdvancing the Kingdom Together

2018 VIRGINIA BAPTIST ANNUAL

MEMORIALS

David AdkinsJanuary 21, 1947 - September 14, 2018

Rev. Dr. David W. Adkins, 71, of Stephens City, VA, and formerly of Martinsville, died on Friday, September 14, 2018, at his home from multiple system atrophy. Rev. Dr. Adkins was born in 1947 in Greenville, SC, a son of Joel Chandler and Elizabeth Rainey Adkins. He received a B.A. from Furman University; an M.Div. from Duke University Divinity School; and a D.Min. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, as well as a certificate in clinical pastoral education from Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. He served in the US Army Reserve. Dr. Adkins was, for 38 years, the pastor of Starling Avenue Baptist Church, Martinsville. Before that, he served churches in South Carolina. He began his career in Martinsville as minister of education in 1976; the church called him as senior pastor in 1979. Throughout his ministry, he was active in regional, state, and national Baptist organizations, serving in various capacities with the Henry County Baptist Association, the Baptist General Association of Virginia, and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. He was past president of the Alliance of Baptists of Virginia and helped coordinate the Virginia Baptist Ministers Discussion Group. He always worked to connect people across lines of division and conceived of his ministry as ecumenical and one of service to the entire community. He was very active in the Martinsville Henry County Ministerial Association, and served as a volunteer chaplain at Memorial Hospital throughout his career. Dr. Adkins founded, with Bill Adkins, Habitat for Humanity of Martinsville and Henry County, and was also instrumental in the founding of the Open Arms Sunday School class. He was one of the first participants in the interfaith dialogues sponsored by the Interfaith Council. Dr. Adkins was committed to continuing education, serving on the Board of Directors of the Baptist House of Studies at Duke Divinity School.

Though ministry was his calling, painting was his avocation. He also loved gardening, especially with native plants, understood the importance of a good cup of coffee, and was an excellent cook. He enjoyed performing music, was an accomplished pianist, and sang with the Martinsville-based choral group Gaudete, as well as church choirs. He is survived by his wife, Diane Sautter Adkins of Stephens City; daughters Rev. Dr. Kristin A. Whitesides (Sandy) of Stephens City; Katie A. Brennan (Shamus) of Philadelphia, PA; grandsons Isaac Whitesides and Samuel Whitesides; sister Joann A. Davis (Jolly); brother Jesse C. Adkins [Debbie]; sister Nancy A. Blumer [Adam]; and ten nieces and nephews. Dr. Adkins was, at the time of his death, a member of First Baptist Church of Winchester, VA, where his daughter is senior pastor. He was a man of broad intellectual ability and interests, combined with great empathy and compassion for others. He truly loved life.

Charles AndersonDecember 19, 1932 - January 7, 2018

Rev. Charles Pruden Anderson, Jr., died at his home on Sunday, January 7, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, a daughter, four grandsons, 10 great grandchildren; a sister, and a brother. Charles was a graduate on the University of Richmond and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army.

He pastored churches throughout Virginia for 50 years including the First Baptist Church of Monroe and Winfall Baptist Church in Gladys. After retirement he served as interim pastor for several area churches. Charles served as president of several ministerial associations and on the Virginia Baptist General Board. He was chaplain of Monroe Ruritan Club and served as pastor of the Camp Piankatank. He preached revival services throughout Virginia and led a Mission trip to Hungary. A service celebrating his life was held at the First Baptist Church of Monroe.

R. Dan Arnold, Sr.October 21, 1927 – May 20, 2018

Robert Daniel Arnold, Sr., 90 of Culpeper, VA passed away on May 20, 2018 at the Culpeper Medical Center Hospital. He was born on October 21, 1927, in Arlington, VA. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robert Daniel Arnold, Jr. and brother, James Raymond Arnold.

Dan retired in 1982 after 38 years of service in the transportation division of projects and planning with Arlington County. He was associated with the American Roadbuilders Association and former president of the Arlington County Retirement Board.

He and his wife have lived in Arlington, Warrenton, Kilmarnock, and Culpeper. He was a charter member of the Vienna Baptist Church and had been a member of Clarendon, Warrenton, Kilmarnock and Culpeper Baptist Churches, where he had served as a Sunday School teacher and director, choir member, deacon, and outreach leader of Faith Evangelism. He was a former lay member of the Virginia Baptist General Board.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Rollins Arnold; his son, Very Rev. David F. Arnold (Cathy) of Powhatan, VA; a nephew, James Lawrence Arnold, Carlsbad, CA; grandchildren, Dana, Danielle, Rachel, Sarah, Emily and Anna; great grandchildren, Haleigh, Kendra, Daniel, Jax, Eliza, and Paul.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, June 9, 2018 at Warrenton Baptist Church.

Ann AshcraftJanuary 27, 1950 – April 15, 2018

Ann Browning Ashcraft, whose smile made everyone’s day brighter and whose laugh filled the air with joy, died April 15, 2018, in Richmond, VA, at the age of 68. A woman of remarkable accomplishment and impact in the many walks of her life, her greatest service was to family and to those that they served—in churches, where her husband was called to minister, as a loving mother and then grandmother and as a proud beacon of achievement to her Browning roots. Ann is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Randall Ashcraft of Richmond; son, Graham Ashcraft and his wife, Amanda, of New York City; and treasured grandchildren, Zane, Levi, and Skyler. A celebration of her life was be held on Friday, May 4, 2018, at First Baptist Church of Richmond, VA.

Earl BantonMarch 13, 1942 – June 17, 2018

Earl W. Banton III went peacefully to be with his Lord on June 17, 2018, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Cathy Ruziak Banton of Woman’s Missionary Union of Virginia (WMUV). Earl was active for many years in the Standing Rock Reservation partnership through WMUV.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Dennis (Michelle) and Michael (Linda); grandsons, Matthew and Michael; granddaughters, Sydney and Courtney; great-grandson, Bryson; brother, Richard; and sister, Carol Sue. He will be fondly remembered by his extended family and many friends. A Celebration of Life was held at on June 22 Fairmount Christian Church in Mechanicsville, VA.

Joyce Ann Taylor BickfordJanuary 4, 1952 – September 21, 2018

Joyce Ann Taylor Bickford joined her Heavenly choir unexpectedly on Friday, September 21, 2018. Mrs. Bickford was born in Danville, VA, on January 4, 1952. She attained her bachelor’s degree from Radford University. She lived all her life in the Danville area, where she was a school teacher for 36 years in Danville Public Schools. She was a member of College Park Baptist Church, where she served as Choir Director. She loved watching sports on television and vacationing at the beach. She is survived by her husband and one son. Funeral services were held at College Park Baptist Church.

Paul BlessingFebruary 18, 1922 – July 30, 2018

On July 30 at age 96, Rev. Paul Blessing departed this life to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Born in 1922, Paul grew up in the Kermit community of Scott County, VA. In his teenage years, while attending the Cowan’s Branch Baptist Church, he came to follow Jesus as Savior and shortly afterwards committed himself to serve as a minister of the Gospel. In the early 1940s, after finishing Scott County’s Cleveland High School, Paul began study at the Baptist Bible Seminary of Johnson City, NY. After his seminary training, he attended the University of Richmond, then completed his collegiate education at King College in Bristol, TN. He later received additional pastoral training at the Bowman-Gray School of Medicine in North Carolina.

Paul’s pastoral ministry was focused in Scott County, with early tenures at the Darthula, Hilton, and Zion Baptist churches. In 1945, while pastoring at Zion, he met, fell for, and in 1946 married the love of his life, Myrtle Robinette. Later he was called to pastor the Gateway Baptist (later known as the First Baptist Church) in Weber City, where he served for 24 years and raised his children. From 1972 until his retirement in 1987, Paul served as Director of Missions for the Clinch Valley Baptist Association.

Formal retirement did not end Paul’s commitment to Christ and to his fellow Scott Countians. In the 1990s he took on the mantle of de facto chaplain of the local Weber City nursing home and, for almost 20 years, visited most nursing home residents almost every day, giving attention, words of encouragement, and loving kindness during the evenings of their years. His ever-present smile and joy in life were signal to his character.

He led weekly Bible studies at the home, taught Sunday School at Zion Baptist Church, and his faith was a steadfast assurance of God’s promises of an eternal home in heaven with the Lord. His life stood in counterpoint to a debased culture, and his joyful demeanor served both as an example and challenge to all.

Paul’s marriage continued for 57 years until 2003, when his beloved Myrtle passed away. They had three children: Bill Blessing (Carol Anne, 1948-2008), now of Cincinnati, Ohio; Sue Blessing Arnold (Greg) of Scott County’s Clinchport community; and Joe Blessing (Catherine), now of Williamsburg, Virginia. Paul leaves four grandchildren: David Blessing (Erica) of Cincinnati, Ohio; the Rev. Wren Blessing of Bainbridge Island, Washington; Kimberly Wensel (Brent) and Nick Blessing (Stephanie) of Fairfax, Virginia; and seven great-grandchildren. To all these descendants Paul, affectionately known as “Peep,” was a joy and treasure.

Susan BurgerJanuary 27, 1944 – January 19, 2018

Susan Fitts Burger went home to be with her Lord and Savior on January 19, 2018. Susan was born in Danville on January 27, 1944. Susan was a homemaker and was involved with her husband in ministry. She was a member of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church. She was very active in WMU. She was married to Rev. Carl E. Burger, who survives her. Survivors also include two loving sons, two sisters, a brother, and two grandsons.

Jane ClarkeApril 17, 1926 – January 21, 2018

Jane Matthews Clarke, 91, of Kenbridge, VA, died peacefully at home on January 21, 2018. Jane was preceded in death by her husband, George B. Clarke III; her brother, Tom Matthews; and a sister, Alice Ray Stevens. She is survived by her three children, Betsy Clarke Cavanna and her husband, Rob, Alice Hunt and George B. Clarke IV; in addition, five grandchildren, Kate Fippinger and husband, Nick, Watkins Hunt, Ben Clarke, Cabot Enroughty and husband, Price, and Laney Clarke; one great-grandchild, Clarke Fippinger; and her sister, Lanie Kabrick.

Jane was born on April 17, 1926, in Brunswick County, to Elizabeth and Thomas Matthews. She graduated from High Point College in 1949 with a B.S. degree in Bible studies and then taught Bible in Halifax County Public Schools until she met and married George B. Clarke in 1954. Jane grew up Methodist at Pleasant Grove Church. However, after marrying George and moving to Kenbridge, she became a member of the Kenbridge Baptist Church, where she became actively involved. Jane dedicated her life to her husband and children, as well as her extended family and church.

Jane became the Woman’s Missionary Union of Virginia (WMUV) Mission Study Chair from 1976 to 1979, and she traveled thousands of miles a year speaking in churches around Virginia. In 1979, she was elected as state president of the WMUV. Under her leadership from 1979 to 1983, WMUV continued its strong heritage of mission work by developing a sister relationship between Virginia and Colombia WMU. During her tenure, she oversaw the purchase and development of WMUV’s Camp Little Crossroads in the Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition to her work with the Kenbridge Baptist Church and the WMUV, she was on the Board of Trustees of Hargrave Military Academy. The ease in which Jane related to people different from her resulted from her genuine Christian ethic. Jane was well-known for her capacity to help others. She believed you should give part of your life to your fellow man every day.

Hattie Myra Plante CopelandDecember 23, 1924 – January 9, 2018

Hattie Plante Copeland, 93, of Henrico passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord Tuesday, January 9, 2018, at Lakewood Manor in Richmond. She will be remembered for her servant’s heart, musical talents and loving hugs. Hattie was born December 23, 1924 in Fitzwilliam, NH.

She graduated from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, and served as church organist at Ginter Park Baptist Church in Richmond, and Children’s Choir Director at Flagler Street Baptist Church in Miami, FL. Most recently she was a member of Derbyshire Baptist Church for 50 years, where she served as the pastor’s wife from 1967-1989.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. James R. Copeland. She is survived by her three sons, Richard (Marian) Copeland of Henrico, Robert Copeland of Richmond, and James (Gail) Copeland of Manakin Sabot; grandchildren, Rich Copeland of Mascot, Australia, Valerie Williamson (Patrick) of Henrico, Rob Copeland (Kendra) of Henrico, Brian Copeland (Andrea) of Midlothian, Stephanie Copeland of Midlothian, and Michael Copeland of Henrico; seven great-grandchildren all living in the area.

Roy E. DeBrandOctober 28, 1942 – February 6, 2018

Roy Everett DeBrand, 75, died February 6, 2018, at Duke University Medical Center. Dr. DeBrand was born in Portsmouth, VA. He obtained his PhD and ThD from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX, and he retired with over 40 years in the ministry.

He was senior minister in numerous churches including Broadway Baptist Church (Fort Worth, TX), First Baptist Church of Richmond (Richmond, TX), First Baptist Church (Americas, GA), and Franklin Baptist Church (Franklin, VA). He was a retired professor of homiletics at North American Baptist Seminary in Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Southestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC; and Campbell University Divinity School in Buies Creek, NC. He authored seven theological books.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn H. DeBrand; his son, Brian E. DeBrand (Olivia); his daughter, De Ann D. Lyda (James); three grandsons; two sisters, and a brother. A service was held at First Baptist Church of Henderson, NC, where he served as a deacon and also a former interim minister.

Brydon DeWittJanuary 25, 2018

Brydon M. DeWitt died January 25, 2018. He is survived by his wife, Lou; son, Brydon; daughter-in-law, Lisa; grandchildren, Brydon John, Mark and Caroline; and aunt, Ruth Gift. Brydon was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Brydon was a strategic and involved participant in BGAV’s Southwest VA Partnership. He dedicated his career to serving non-profits and was a teacher and author. A memorial service was held on at Second Baptist Church

Frances DickertAugust 5, 1922 – August 1, 2018

Frances T. Dickert went to be with her Lord on August 1, 2018. She was a longtime resident of Lakewood Manor in Richmond, VA, having moved there from Mathews County. She is survived by her son, Thomas L. Dickert; her daughter, Bettie D. Brezee; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; and her sister, Marjorie Apperson. Her life was certainly a gift from the Lord. She was a loving mother, sister and friend to many. She will be put to rest next to her husband, John T. Dickert, in Smither Cemetery, Hudgins, VA.

Beatrice Sorrell EllisJuly 8, 1933 – May 7, 2018

Beatrice S. Ellis, 84, of Spotsylvania County, passed away Monday, May 7, 2018 at Mary Washington Hospital. Mrs. Ellis was the daughter of the late Milton and Eva Sorrell. She was the widow of Rev. Robert F. Ellis, with whom she served in ministry for many years. Mrs. Ellis was an active member of Mine Road Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school, had served as Vacation Bible School Director, and was on many other committees. She was also active in the Goshen Baptist Association. Survivors include her sisters, Marguerite Mastin (Russell) and Connie Lane; brother Milton C. Sorrell Jr. (Barbara); and numerous nieces and nephews. Although she had no children of her own, she was known to many children as Aunt Bea.

Gary Moore FergusonFebruary 13, 1944 – December 30, 2017

Gary Moore Ferguson Gary Moore Ferguson, 73, passed away on Saturday morning, December 30, 2017, at his residence. He was born in Frankfort, KY, on February 13, 1944. Gary was educated in the public schools of Franklin County, and in 1966, he graduated from the University of Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in music with an emphasis in piano. In 1969 he received the Master of Church Music degree with an emphasis in organ from the School of Church Music at Southern Baptist Seminary. In addition to music, Gary enjoyed sailing, running, gardening, and yoga. He is survived by his sister, Carol Ferguson; and his brother, Kevin Ferguson and Kevin’s wife, Barbara.

Gary served from 1969 until 1984 as Minister of Music and organist at First Baptist Church of Darlington, SC. He moved to Danville, VA, in March 1984 to serve West Main Baptist Church as organist/Minister of Music. He also served in an adjunct position teaching organ and handbells at Averett University. Gary retired from West Main Baptist Church in June of 2011.

Sherry FleetJune 24, 1944 – September 8, 2018

Sherry Fleet passed away on Saturday, September 8, 2018. She was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Etta Dixon; and a brother, J.P. Dixon. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth; sister, Elaine Dean; her best friend, Judy Jarrett; and several cousins. Sherry worked for a year as Interim Director of Religious Activities for Westhampton College. She had a B.A. from the University of Richmond and an M.Div. from Southeastern Seminary. She served as director of WMU for the Appomattox Association and on committees of the Richmond Baptist Association. She also worked for the SBC Foreign Mission Board. For many years, she served various churches as an administrative assistant.

Audrey FletcherNovember 9, 1921 – July 16, 2018

Audrey Hall Fletcher, 96, formerly of Roanoke, died Monday, July 16, 2018. She was born on November 9, 1921, in Hanover County and was the daughter of Charles Hall and Bessie Puller. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, George H. Fletcher Jr., in 2014; and her sister, Francis Sweeney. Audrey Hall Fletcher was a devoted wife and mother who enjoyed caring for her family, gardening, puzzles and playing cards, particularly setback. She was active in her church, serving faithfully in several churches, including Fairmount Memorial in Richmond, First Baptist of Roanoke and Bonsack Baptist. She is survived by her sister, Alice Mann of Hanover; and two sons, 2018 BGAV President George H. Fletcher III (Peggy) of Zion Crossroads and Gary H. Fletcher (Lisa) of Cincinnati.

Harry S. GirtmanMay 23, 1928 – February 17, 2018

Rev. Harry Spruiell Girtman, affectionately known as “Pop”, born May 23, 1928, of Columbia, SC, went to be with his heavenly father on February 17, 2018. Rev. Girtman was the son of the late John Carl Girtman, Sr. and Maude Irene Spruiell, and is survived by his loving wife, Pam Girtman; his three daughters, Sue Ellen (Wayne) Bennett of Pendleton, SC, Elizabeth Ann (Don) Grant II of Lamar, SC and Sharon Kay (Bruce) Allred of Tucson, AZ. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

An active member of St. Andrews Baptist church, Rev. Girtman lived a life devoted to teaching and serving others. Rev. Girtman served as a minister for over 40 years, most recently as pastor of Belmont Baptist Church in Columbia, SC. He also served as pastor of Hilton Baptist in Newport News, VA, Hampton Heights Baptist Church, in Greenville, SC, and Pendleton First Baptist Church in Pendleton SC.

A native of Alabama, he served in the US Army Air Corp as a draftsmen during WWII. He graduated from the University of Alabama and has remained a passionate fan of the Crimson Tide throughout his life. He attended Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY, where he earned a Master of Divinity and Master in Theology degrees. He is a former President of the General Board, South Carolina Baptist Convention, as well as, the Board of Trustees of the Baptist Courier. Rev. Girtman was also a charter member of the Theology Done Here Group in Columbia, SC. He also served as the Moderator for the North Greenville Association.

Clifton E. “Cliff ” HudginsSeptember 21, 1947 – April 25, 2018

Clifton Earl “Cliff ” Hudgins, 70, husband of Glenda Bell (Sorenson), passed away Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at his residence.

Mr. Hudgins was born on September 21, 1947 in Corpus Christi, TX, a son of the late Marcus Earl and Tarsha Pauline (Jones) Hudgins. Cliff was a member of Linden Heights Baptist Church. He was the Director of Missions for Pittsylvania Baptist Association and was a Field Strategist with the Baptist General Association of Virginia.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Hudgins was preceded in death by a sister, Wanda F. Todd.Surviving in addition to his wife of 50 years are three sons, Darrin E. Hudgins and his wife Angela Dawn, Nathan L. Hudgins, and Daniel W. Hudgins; three grandchildren, Kayla Marie Hudgins, Emma Noel Hudgins, and Adam Emery Hudgins; a brother, Leonard A. Hudgins; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Diane HutchinsonFebruary 19, 1953 – June 25, 2018

Diane Figueroa Hutchinson, 65, passed away on June 25, 2018. She was predeceased by her husband of 33 years, William “Billy” Hutchinson; and is survived by many family and friends. Family visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 9, 2018, at Winter Park Baptist Church, Wilmington, NC.

Robert LivesayApril 20, 1947 – August 7, 2018

On August 7, 2018, faithful servant, Robert W. Livesay, III, passed away. Robert was born April 20, 1947, to Robert W. and Mary Holloway Livesay. Robert was brought up in the Wesley United Methodist Church and in later years converted to the Baptist faith. He graduated from Richard Bland College, received an Associates in Arts degree from John Tyler Community College, and attended Duke University and graduated from Duke University Divinity School.

He served three churches on the North Brunswick charge of the United Methodist Church in Alberta, VA, from 1968 to 1973. He served as pastor of Liberty Church of Lawrenceville, VA, from 1973 to 1992. He also served as Minister of Youth and Outreach at Immanuel Baptist of Colonial Heights. He served as pastor of Oakland Baptist Church of Disputanta from 1993 until the present.

Robert served in many capacities with the Petersburg Baptist Association including President of the Men’s Brotherhood, Chairman of the Ordination Committee, Chairman of the Personnel Committee, and member of the Finance Committee. He also served on the Virginia Baptist Mission Board. In community service, he served as the F.C.A. Chaplain for the Prince George High School football and basketball teams. He also served as a member of the F.C.A Board of Directors and was a founding member and chaplain for the Prince George Police Department’s Chaplain Program since 1991. From 1977 until the present, he was part of Gospel Truth, where he and his partner shared music and the gospel with many senior groups and churches. On June 24, 2018, his church honored him during a special service, recognizing his 50 years in the ministry and the burning of the church note. He was very proud of the accomplishments that Oakland has made while he was pastor.

Long Cong “Kevin” LySeptember 20, 1979 – November 27, 2017

Long Cong “Kevin” Ly, 38, of Luray, Virginia, died unexpectedly Monday, Nov. 27, at Page Memorial Hospital, after collapsing during his morning workout. Kevin, known as “Rev Kev,” was the senior pastor of the Main Street Baptist Church in Luray. On Oct. 21, 2017, he married Jacqueline “Jackie” Wright, a Fauquier County native. They honeymooned in Malta and Sicily and spent Kevin’s last weekend helping out at Jackie’s family’s Christmas tree farm and decorating their home for their first married Christmas together.

Kevin, who grew up in Arlington, VA, was known to his vast circle of friends as a caring and compassionate man of God, who lived his life with passion and purpose. He charmed everyone he met with his warmth, his broad smile, his intelligence and his great sense of humor. He was famous for the numerous and hilarious hashtags on his social media posts. As a minister, Kevin touched many lives. He was driven to make his church a force for good in the community. Kevin was previously a ministry associate at Gateway Community Church in South Riding, VA; youth pastor and campus minister at Parkwood Baptist Church, Fairfax, VA; youth pastor at Calvary Hill Baptist Church, Fairfax, VA; and youth pastor at Greenbrier Baptist Church, Arlington, VA. Kevin loved working with and counseling young people. Many of the youth he worked with over the years are now adults who remember how Kevin transformed their lives.

He was the oldest son of Chau and Quyen Ly of Fairfax. Born in Hong Kong on Sept. 20, 1979, during his parents’ immigration from Vietnam to the United States, Kevin lived in Greensburg, PA, as a child before the family moved to Arlington.

Kevin earned his Master of Divinity degree in 2015 from the John Leland Center for Theological Studies, Falls Church, VA, and had been accepted into the Doctor of Ministry program at McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University, Atlanta. He earned a psychology degree from George Mason University in 2003, having previously earned an associate’s degree in business management from Northern Virginia Community College, Woodbridge.

Patricia Scott MorganDecember 30, 1967 – November 5, 2017

Dr. Patricia Morgan, 49 of Amelia, Viriginia passed away on November 5, 2017. She was born in Richmond, VA, on December 30, 1967, the daughter of Charles and Doris Scott. She was a veterinarian at Claws and Paws Animal Care in Powhatan, VA. She volunteered with Christian Veterinary Mission. She was a deacon at Arbor Baptist Church in Amelia, VA. She was the wife of Reverend Samuel “Mike” Morgan, the associate pastor of Arbor Baptist Church.

She is survived by her husband, Mike Morgan: sons, Seth Ryan Zaki and Imrane Amadou; her parents, Charles and Doris Scott; sister, Hollie Cammarasana and her husband, Mike.

A memorial service was held November 25, 2017 at Arbor Baptist Church in Amelia, VA.

Mary Ellen Owen RudderMarch 6, 1929 – February 22, 2018

Mary Ellen Own Rudder of Danville passed away at home on February 22, 2018. She was born in Danville on March 6, 1929. Mary Ellen attended The Woman’s College in Greensboro, NC. She was a member of Moffett Memorial Baptist Church where she served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, WMU Director, and on several committees. A faithful Baptist, Mary Ellen often worked with the Pittsylvania Baptist Association and served as Associational WMU Director. She served on the Executive Board of the Woman’s Missionary Union of VA and was a member of The Virginia Baptist General Board from 1982-1986. Mary Ellen served as Assistant Secretary and a member of the Board of Trustees for Virginia Baptist Homes. She is survived by four children, one great grandson, and several nieces and nephews. A funeral service was held at Moffett Memorial Baptist Church, Danville.

Donald Lee “Don” SageJune 24, 1934 - April 4, 2018

Donald Lee Sage passed away on April 4, 2018 in Richmond, Virginia. He was born in Palm Beach, Florida and raised in Richmond by his mother Virginia Beazley Sage. He gratuted from Virginia Technical College with a degree in Industrial Enginering. He worked for 38 years for AT&T. During this time he earned numerous professional accolades. He retired from AT&T in 1994.

He was a long-time member of Derbyshire Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He was a former member of Virginia Baptist Mission Board. He also served as the Chairman of the River City Faith Network until his death.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary Etta Glenn Sage; children Beth Newell and husband Bill; Donald Sage and wife Marla; and Donna Earley and husband Brad. Also surviving are six grandchildren and one great- grandchild. A funeral was held at Derbyshire Baptist Church.

Michelle SchwoebelMay 31, 1963 – December 25, 2017

Michelle Ranae Schwoebel, 54, of Glen Allen, VA, born May 31, 1963 in East St. Louis, Illinois, passed away December 25, 2017, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, VA.

Michelle was an Assistant Program Manager at Network Building + Consulting after having previously worked for Capital One for many years. She was a member of Derbyshire Baptist Church and participated in its music ministry, where her husband serves as Minister of Music and Composer in Residence.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Mannon. Surviving are her husband, David Schwoebel of Glen Allen, VA; children, Brittany (Matt) Fennell of Chesterfield, VA, Ashley (Chris) Rogers of Glen Allen, VA, Courtney Schwoebel of Claymont, DE.; grandson, Logan Fennell; brother, Steven Mannon of Belleville, IL.; father, Harvey Mannon of Belleville, Illinois.

Lee SlattonMay 2, 1935 – September 8, 2018

Elberta Lee Slatton of Henrico County died September 8, 2018. She was born in Norfolk, VA, May 2, 1935. She is survived by her husband, James H. Slatton of Henrico County; two sons and a daughter.

“Bertie Lee” as she was known during her younger years was a classical pianist and organist who loved playing and hearing the works of such composers as Schubert, Brahms, Ravel, and Granados. She attended Greensboro College for a year and graduated two years later with a BA in music and religion from Baylor University. She established and maintained a studio in her home for the teaching of private piano lessons for 55 years. Vivacious and outgoing, she was always a dedicated member and church worker in the congregations where her husband served during their 62-year marriage. A memorial service was held at River Road Church, Baptist.

Mary ThigpenDecember 14, 1934 – May 29, 2018

Mary Thigpen, wife of Pastor Bill Thigpen, died on May 29, 2018.

Mary was a special friend to NorthStar, serving alongside her husband, Bill, as he pastored at Annandale Baptist, Middleburg Baptist and his current pastorate at Upperville Baptist. She also served on staff at Calvary Hill Baptist Church and on the Association Committee that bought the George Mason Student Center property.

Mary is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A service was held on June 4, 2018 at Upperville Baptist Church.

Amos TurnerAugust 10, 1927 – June 11, 2018

Rev. Amos C. Turner, 90, of Patrick Springs, passed away on Monday, June 11, 2018. He was born in Patrick County on August 10, 1927, to the late Grover and Ada Foster Turner. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Margaret J. Turner and several brothers and sisters. He was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church. He pastored several churches in Virginia and West Virginia.

Rev. Turner is survived by a daughter, Brenda Owens; a son, Maynard Turner; three grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sister, Mildred Stone and several nieces, nephews and other loving family members.

William VestNovember 23, 1920 – March 22, 2018

The Rev. Dr. William Vest, Sr., Captain, U.S. Navy Chaplain Corp. (Retired), passed away on March 22, 2018, at Westminster-Canterbury in Lynchburg. He was born in Appomattox, VA, on November 23, 1920. He is survived by three daughters and one son, 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and seven great great-grandchildren. He was a graduate of Lynchburg College and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also graduated from Luther-Rice College and Seminary, where he received a Doctor of Ministry degree. He served 26 years as a U.S. Navy Chaplain. Before and after his military service, he served as Interim Pastor for local churches in Lynchburg, Bedford County, and Amherst County. A funeral service was held at the West Lynchburg Baptist Church.

Dottie VoightApril 28, 1931 – August 22, 2018

Dorothy R. Voight, 95, of Richmond, VA, passed away on Monday, May 21, 2018. She was the daughter of John and Sarah Rainey of Paris, TN; and the widow of Dr. Frank G. Voight of the Virginia Baptist Mission Board. Mrs. Voight was a retired guidance counselor from Midlothian High School and a longtime, devoted member of Bon Air Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her seven brothers and sisters; and her youngest daughter, Elaine V. Decker. Mrs. Voight is survived by her daughter, Marianne Lamberton of Newport News, Va.; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild, along with extended family and a host of dear friends.

Bob WayneNovember 24, 1930 – September 30, 2018

Robert (Bob) Lewis Wayne passed away September 30 in Roanoke, VA. He was born November 24, 1930, in Louisville, KY, to Lewis and Olive Wayne. As a baby, his parents dedicated him to the Lord. Bob was called by God to the ministry while in college at Georgetown College (now University) in Georgetown, KY. He served God faithfully for the rest of his life. He also graduated from Southern Baptist Seminary in Louisville, KY receiving both a Bachelor of Ministry degree and a Doctor of Ministry degree.

He pastored churches in Kentucky, Indiana, and Virginia, most recently pastoring Lynn Haven Baptist Church in Vinton. He also served on the Baptist State Convention staff of each of those same three states, retiring from the Baptist General Board of Virginia. During his retirement, he served as an interim pastor of several churches in Virginia as well as Minister to Senior Adults at Vinton Baptist Church. He was a member of Vinton Baptist Church. He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Lois Wayne. Dr. Wayne is survived by his daughters, Susan Wayne Griffin and husband, Charles and Ruth Wayne Willis and husband Brady. He is also survived by his grandchildren Amanda Manna (Matt), Mark Willis, Zach Willis (Ashley), and Aaron Denton, and great-granddaughters Chloe and Emree Willis and Penny Manna.

Aaron WheelerMay 13, 1947 – May 22, 2018

Aaron Wheeler passed away May 22, 2018. He was born May 13, 1947 to the late Elijah and Evelyn Wheeler in E. Cleveland, OH. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Barbara Ann Wheeler; five children; 10 grandchildren; seven brothers; and a host of other relatives and friends. Services were held at Calvary Baptist Church.

Barbara WilsonApril 23, 1935 – September 7, 2017

Barbara Joyce Wilson, 82, passed away Thursday, September 7, 2017. Born in Morgantown, WV, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Martha White. Barbara was also preceded in death by her two sisters, Bonnie Oliver and Betty Bertschinger; and one granddaughter, Tara Wilson. Barbara was known for being a loving housewife, mother, and worked as an LPN for several years and was a devoted member Calvary Baptist Church in Colonial Heights, VA, where a funeral service was held on September 12, 2017. She served alongside her husband, Rev. James A. Wilson, Sr., a BGAV pastor for many years.

James A. Wilson, Sr.June 29, 1932 – December 14, 2017

Born in Martins Ferry, OH, James was the son of the late Joshua Albert Wilson and Hazel Alta (Stead) Wilson. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Joyce Wilson; his granddaughter, Tara Wilson; his parents; five sisters, and brother, Charles Wilson. Rev. Wilson spent his life serving the Lord. He served as pastor to Adial Baptist, Reidville Baptist, Sussex Baptist, Goshen Baptist and Mt. Shiloh Baptist Church. He also served his country in the Korean War and then worked for the government until he retired. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Colonial Heights, VA, where a funeral service was held on December 18, 2017.

Jeffrey WithAugust 23, 1948 – April 13, 2018

The Rev. Jeffrey Leland With, age 69, died peacefully at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, NC, surrounded by family on April 13, 2018. He was born on August 23, 1948, in St. Joseph, MO, to Ralph Charles With and Bibi Jeanne With. Jeff graduated from North Kansas City High School in 1966. He earned a BS degree in social work from Missouri Western University, and a master’s degree in religious education from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was ordained to Christian ministry by Temple Baptist Church in Norfolk, VA, on October 1, 1978. On June 25, 1977, he married the love of his life, Sarah Diane Gwaltney, and they had one son. Jeff and Diane enjoyed taking road trips, laughing every day, dining out, and spending time with close family and friends.

Jeff was a minister and Christian educator for 33 years, serving churches in Virginia and North Carolina. He served as a pastor, associate pastor, and minister of education. In Virginia, he was a church growth consultant, leading and organizing conferences and workshops on Christian education and church growth and serving terms as president of the Virginia Baptist Religious Educators Association and the Religious Educators of the Peninsula Baptist Association.

He also served as an instructor of seminary extension Christian education classes at various times in his ministry. Later, he served for 12 years as social worker for children and families in his role as director of family services for the Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina at Kennedy Home. He was proud to minister with so many wonderful families and staff members at Kennedy Home.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Diane; son, David; daughter-in-law, Sarah; granddaughter, Olivia; sisters, Cindy Hager (Doug), Nancy With, Tracy Hees, Leslie Dailey (Jeffrey); brothers, Roger With (Glenna) and Clayton With (Jan); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Melodye Jo With.

Robert L. WoodsonFebruary 25, 1929 – February 18, 2018

Rev. Robert L Woodson Sr., went peacefully to be with his Lord on Sunday morning February 18, 2018 in Stanardsville Va. He was born February 25, 1929 to Joseph Wallace and Margie Southall Woodson of Farmville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years Marie Ashburn Woodson.

He is survived by his second wife, Gladys Brown Woodson, of Culpeper.

He and Marie are survived by their five children, Shirley Hrebik (Karl) of Cape Coral Fla, Bob (Marion) of Ft Mill SC, Jim(Joyce) of Stanardsville , Bill(Michele) of Burlington NC, and Gary(Jackie) of Stanardsville , 11 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

Robert joined the US Army in 1946 and served in Japan. After returning home from service, he met and married Marie in 1949 and soon after yielded to the Lord’s call to the pastoral ministry. He spent the next 50 years faithfully serving as pastor to 14 Baptist churches in VA, NC, and MD. He was a graduate of Washington Bible College and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He loved people unconditionally and was loved by all who knew him.