Spring 2024 – Berea College Magazine (2024)

Tap or click on the arrows beside each section below to display full obituaries.

Staff & Faculty

Anna Lee Boes Hon. ’93
Executive Assistant to the Vice President
Nov. 18, 2023

Anna Lee (Anne) Boes, of Berea, Kentucky departed this life with her family by her side on November 18, 2023 at the Baptist Health Richmond. Anne was born in Franklin, Tennessee on March 30, 1929 and grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. A few years after graduating from Louisville Girls High School she married Orville Boes and they moved to Berea in 1949.

In addition to being a homemaker, Anne worked at Berea College in the Development Office. Anne started in the mail room at the Development Office and worked herself up to the Executive Assistant of the Vice President. She was Executive Assistant to four Vice Presidents while working at Berea College. Anne had a wealth of knowledge about Berea College and was often sought after to share her knowledge. In 1993 she became a Berea College Honoree Alumna and was very proud of this honor.

Anne taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School at Berea Baptist Church for many years. She was an avid reader, loved to travel, and loved to entertain at her home. Anne had a love for God, family, country and helping others. She was known as an “Encourager” as she loved to send cards and notes to her family and friends.

Survivors left to cherish her memory are her loving three children, Sheryl (Jim) Sutton, Laura Boes, Mark Boes, three grandchildren, Molly (Les) Fackler, John Mark (Allison) Boes, Jonathan Sutton, three great-grandchildren, and family friends Chris Baum, Melissa Osborne, Randy Hays, Jim and Betty Lucas, Jamie and Carol Edney, and many more.

Anne’s family wishes to extend many, many thanks to everyone at the Baptist Health Richmond for the extraordinary loving care she received.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial gifts to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital and/or Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.

Funeral services will be 1pm, Monday, November 27, 2023, at Berea Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Blaker officiating. Entombment will follow in Berea Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church from 10 am to 1pm..

Lakes Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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

Carl Carpenter
Facilities Management (1953-2023)
Oct. 18, 2023

Mr. Carl Edward Carpenter, 97, of Berea, passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at Baptist Health – Richmond.

He was born in the Paint Lick Community of Garrard County on September 9, 1926, the son of Cash & Evelina Isaacs Carpenter. Mr. Carpenter was a life-long farmer and was a dedicated employee of Berea College where he had been working for over 67 years – you could truly say “work” was his hobby, pastime, and source of enjoyment. He was a member of the Lighthouse Baptist Church.

Survivors include: his children, Charles Carpenter (Marsha), Mary Jane Bowman (John), Diane Croley (Teddy), Wanda Hurt (Philip), Keith “Pete” Carpenter (Rhonda); one sister, Francis Ogle; 11 grandchildren, Chris Carpenter (Kelly), Charles “Chad” Carpenter (Joanna), Joshua Carpenter, Kristina Vinson (Craig), Kelly Walters (Jon), Michael John Bowman (Lydia), Nathan Bowman (Jennifer), Whitney Croley (Kenny Lowder), Andy Hurt (Brooke), and Evonne Bullock(Chris), Marie McFerron (Randall); 21 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; his faithful dog, Ashley; and a host of other extended family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: his wife, Katherine Friend Carpenter; one son, Donald Wayne Carpenter; one daughter, Noratta VanWinkle; two grandsons, Timothy Allen VanWinkle, and Zachary Croley; and his brothers and sisters, George, Frankie, Ralph, Mary Liz, Ruth, Glatha, William, Bertha, and one infant sibling.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 1:00 PM Monday, October 23, 2023, at the Combs, Parsons & Collins Funeral Home, W. Main St., Richmond with his daughter-in-law, Rev. Marsha Carpenter officiating. Burial will follow in the Madison County Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be after 10:00 AM Monday, at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons, and great-grandsons.

Jimmy Lee Short
Meter Reader (1991-2004)
Dec. 2, 2023

Jimmy Lee Short, age 58, of Berea, passed away, Saturday, December 2, 2023, at his home.

Jimmy was born in Berea to James and Peggy Maupin Short. He retired from Berea College. He was a 1984 graduate of Madison Central High School. He enjoyed tinkering with cars, was passionate about keeping a neat yard, and enjoyed every minute he was able to spend with his kids.

Jimmy is survived by his children, Sierra (Dylan Lakes) Huff, Dillon Short, and Leah Short; his parents, James and Peggy Short; his siblings, Cathy Short Weaver, Michael Short, and Greg (Norma) Short; two grandchildren, Kinsley Lakes and Kolton Lakes; also survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will be 2pm, Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Lakes Funeral Home with Pastor Jimmy Ashcraft officiating. Burial will follow in the Pilot Knob Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 11 am to 2 pm at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Michael Short, Greg Short, Casey Short, Jordan Black, Tyler Black, Dillon Short, and Roger Young. Honorary bearers will be Bud Montgomery, Greg Saylor, Curtis McClure, and Charles Bishop.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.lakesfuneralhome.com

1940s

Roberta Larew Allison ’42
Sept. 27, 2023
Obituary Unavailable

Robert L. Fowlkes ’47
Dec. 31, 2023

Surrounded by the love from his family, Robert Lee “Bob” Fowlkes passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior on December 31, 2023.Bob was born February 25, 1926, to Oscar Marshall and Georgia Pauley Fowlkes in Griffithsville, West Virginia. He was raised in the beautiful Appalachians where he learned skills that he carried with him throughout his life. Finishing high school at 16 years of age, he traveled to Kentucky to further his education at Berea College. He joined the Navy in 1943 and was a submarine aboard the USS Cochino. He met the love of his life, Margaret Flora Gadd, on the Washington Street bridge in Charleston, West Virginia while he was on leave. They married on January 1, 1947, and moved to Berea where he could finish college with a degree in Chemistry. They moved to Knoxville TN where they had their first child. After moving back to West Virginia, two more children were born. The small family moved to Florida when Bob took a job with Chemstrand Corporation. After three more children were born, Milton is where they made their home. Bob was one of the fortunate who had a career in what he loved to do. He was a true scientist and inventor. He built a basem*nt in the family home and set up a lab there to try out ideas and processes. When he retired from Air Products, he built his own lab and started a business, SLI Technologies. And later, with his son Alex, built a larger lab which he continued to work in until he was 90 years old. Bob was known for his dry wit and one-liners. His sparkling blue eyes and infectious smile warmed the hearts of all who knew him best. He loved his family most, as evidenced by the legacy he left behind. He belonged to the body of Christ and worshipped at First Baptist Church of Milton. He preserved Sundays for God and family. He continued to watch his church’s service online when he became unable to attend in person. He has been welcomed home by these that went before him: his wife, Margaret Gadd Fowlkes; his son, Tad Robert Fowlkes; his parents, Oscar Marshall and Georgia Pauley Fowlkes; his brothers, Oscar Marshall Fowlkes and Melvin Pauley Fowlkes; and his sister Charlotte Fowlkes Jones. He is survived by his children, Niles Fowlkes of Roslindale, MA, Gregg Fowlkes(Brenda) of Jacksonville, Linda Fowlkes of Milton, Alex Fowlkes (Lisa) of Milton, and Leslie Leggett (Greg) of Milton; Two daughters-in-law: Linda Fowlkes of Oviedo and Donna Fowlkes of Bagdad; Ten grandchildren: Nichol Forte, Tara Buman (Brandon), Alessa Fowlkes (Nathan), Alex Fowlkes, Jr. (Kelsey), Cameron Fowlkes (Cindy), Leah Jacobs (JC), Perry Fowlkes (Cynda), Cody Leggett (Taylor),Luke Leggett, Jake Leggett (Jessica). Twelve great-grandchildren: Heather Forte, Adelae Fowlkes, Zachary Fowlkes, Noah Fowlkes, Kira Whiteman, Mason Bounpaseuth, Jackson Fowlkes, Elowen Buman, Emma Jacobs, Emerson Leggett, Elora Buman, and Avery Fowlkes. Two nephews: Marshall Jones and Lewis Jones. A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at First Baptist Church, 6797 Caroline Street, Milton, Florida 32570 with visitation Monday January 8, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and service Tuesday at 11 am with interment at Serenity Gardens. The pallbearers will be his grandsons: Alex Fowlkes, Jr., Cameron Fowlkes, Perry Fowlkes, Cody Leggett, Luke Leggett, and Jake Leggett. Honorary pallbearers will be George Cooper, Greg Gillis, Lamar and Sissy Faulkner, and Thad and Debbie Pace. The family wishes to express appreciation to Bob’s excellent physician, Dr. Travis Larson. Gratitude is also extended to Vitas Hospice. Disclaimer: has been originated and posted directly by Lewis Funeral Home. Any re-creation of to any other website is not deemed the original obituary.

Laura Lee Hale Roebuck ’47
Nov. 3, 2022

Laura Lee Roebuck November 3, 2022 Obituary Condolences (4) Laura Lee Hale Roebuck, age 98, of Marysville, died peacefully Thursday, November 3, 2022 at her home. A homemaker, devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and a woman of deep Christian faith, she was a longtime member of First Presbyterian Church of Marysville where was a deacon and elder. Laura Lee served in many other loving ways within her church, including youth mission trips, Presbyterian Women, funeral and special event dinners and care of the church building. She volunteered in the community with various projects for those in need and enjoyed socializing with good friends for lunch or in a game of cards or taking a brisk fitness walk. She liked to travel, was a serious sports fan, and enjoyed watching and feeding the birds. She will be especially remembered for her compassionate heart and her unwavering, unconditional love for her family. She was born June 9, 1924 in Tazewell County, Virginia to the late Charles W. and Virginia Brown Hale. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Doyle E. Roebuck; her daughter and son-in-law, Rose Lee and Ed Forney; a daughter-in-law, Arlene Roebuck; her grandsons, Brett and Scott Forney; and her brothers, Charles, Clarence, Jack, Bob and Pat. She is survived by her children, Bill (Karen) Roebuck of New Hampshire, Don (Mela Kircher) Roebuck of Marysville and Virginia (Steffani Brandenburg) Roebuck of New York; her grandchildren, Rebecca Roebuck, Colin (Eliza) Roebuck, Hannah (Sawyer) Broadley and Kaitlyn “Kate” Forney; her great-grandchildren, Ethan, Reed and Mason Winter and Madison Forney; a sister-in-law, Ethel Hale; and many nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and friends, including Sandra Babbitt. Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, November 7, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church of Marysville. Rev. Carol Weiss will officiate. Burial will be in the Spring of 2023 at Maple Hill Cemetery in Bluefield, Virginia. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to her church. Underwood Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.underwoodfuneralhome.com.

Franklin Parker ’49
Dec. 16, 2023

Franklin Parker, 102 of Pleasant Hill, died peacefully at Wharton Nursing Home on December 16, 2023. He was born June 2, 1921, in New York City, NY, the son of Jacob and Ethel (Serebrenick) Zaranick. A veteran of World War II, Parker studied at Berea College, Berea, KY; University of Illinois, Champaign, and earned his doctorate at Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN.

Surviving are Betty, his wife of 72 years; special friend, Peggy Happy of Pleasant Hill; and fifteen nieces and nephews.

Dr. Parker retired in 1986 as Benedum Professor of Education, West Virginia University. He also taught at State University of New York (New Paltz) University of Texas, Austin, and the University of Oklahoma, Norman. He moved to Pleasant Hill in 1994 after retiring from Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina, where he was named Distinguished Visiting Professor.

Parker, a prolific writer, collaborated with Betty Parker on books, articles, and book reviews. Their books include George Peabody, A Biography; Southern Rhodesia; was president of the History of Education Honor Societies:1-Kappa Delta Pi and 2-Phi Delta Kappa; was president of the History of Education Society and newsletter editor of the Comparative and International Education. He and Betty Parker traveled extensively to participate in educational conferences and courses in England, the Soviet Union, Germany, Israel, southern Africa, and China. He held the Kappa Delta Phi Fellowship in International Education and was a Fulbright Fellow to study education in southern Africa. He was listed in several issues of Who’s Who in America, Who’s Who in the World, and other directories.

A celebration of his life and the interment of his ashes will be announced at a later date.

Frank Seto ’49
Dec. 18, 2023

Obituary of Frank Seto Dr. Frank Seto was born March 12, 1925, in Los Angeles, California. On the afternoon of December 18, 2023, Frank passed away peacefully. Frank was 98 years old. Frank was being cared in the last year by his daughters, Linda Seto and Carol Morin, and was being visited and comforted by family members at the time of his passing. Frank was attending high school when World War II broke out, and in 1942 he and his family were sent to a Japanese internment camp, Camp Manzanar, in eastern California. While at the camp he completed the last two years of his high school education. He was then allowed to leave the camp to attend Berea College in Berea, Kentucky. He left college after his junior year to enlist in the U.S. Army 88th Infantry Division and served in the Medical Corps in the Pacific Theatre. Afterward, he returned to Berea College and graduated in 1949 with B.A. degree in Zoology. From Berea, Dr. Seto went on to the University of Wisconsin where received his M.S. and Ph.D in Genetics in 1953. Frank married Gail Sprague on September 3, 1955 in Wausau, Wisconsin. Frank returned to Berea College in 1957 to teach and conduct research in the Biology Department. In 1962, he was awarded a Public Health Service Fellowship at the Oak Ridge National Laboratories in Oak Ridge Tennessee to conduct research in experimental embryology. While there, Dr. Seto was able to be on the forefront of new techniques studying the development of the immune system. Dr. Seto moved to Norman Oklahoma where he joined the faculty of the University of Oklahoma in 1965 teaching in the School of Biological Sciences and continued professional work in avian developmental immunology. Dr. Seto was a member of McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church, Norman Lions Club, National Association of Biology Teachers, Society of Developmental Biology, and American Society of Zoologists. Frank received a lot of satisfaction from helping people that’s why he enjoyed teaching his students as much as he did. Frank also enjoyed spending many hours drawing and painting birds of different species. He was an avid reader of all types of books and spent years reading about classical philosophers as well as works on religious nature. Frank will be remembered for his humility, kindness and his ability to persevere to overcome any obstacle. Frank is survived by his two daughters, Linda Seto and Carol Morin; his sister, Teru Ishihara; his grandchildren, Brad Corn, Melissa Luhrs; his great grandchildren, Jordan Luhrs, Ahna Luhrs, Ben Pingel; his nieces, Nancy Honda, Amie Lambert, and James Morita. Frank’s passing was preceded by his wife, Gail Seto; his mom, Yasu Ishii Seto; father, Harukichi Seto; brother, Suekichi Suey Seto; brother, George Seto; sister, Lily Morita.

1950s

Jean Pepper Hayes Rogers Fd. ’46, ’50
Oct. 3, 2023

Jean Pepper Rogers, passed away on Tuesday, 3 October 2023 in Escondido, California just short of her 95th birthday. Jean was born in Pioneer, Kentucky on 5 November 1928, to Harvey and Mildred (Pepper) Hayes. She completed her high schooling at and graduated from Berea College in Berea, Kentucky in 1951, majoring in music. She taught music briefly before marrying Marion Thomas (Tom) Rogers, Jr. in Dayton, Ohio on Christmas Day, 1952. Their first home was in Dexter, Missouri, where Tom was teaching aeronautics to new Air Force flight students. Both of their children, daughter Cathy and son Rick, were born there. They followed Tom’s work to Middletown, Ohio and then to Marshall in 1961. In addition to being a full-time mother and homemaker, Jean worked at Michigan Air Activities, which she owned with her husband, at Corning Glass Works and later Walters Distributing Co., all in Marshall, as a bookkeeper. She later served as Executive Director of Marshall United Way until her retirement in 2008. The family made their home in Homer from 1970 to 1995, where Tom returned to farming, which he knew as a boy. Jean and Tom began the adventure of a lifetime in 1983 when they moved to Point Mackenzie, Alaska to build a dairy farm from the ground up. While successful in that undertaking, they decided to return to Marshall in 1995 to spend their golden years among life-long friends. Tom passed away in Marshall in December 2008. Jean continued her love of music throughout her life, and was a committed member and frequent soloist in her church choir at Marshall United Methodist Church until she reluctantly gave up singing to enjoy the choir as a service participant at the age of 80. Jean loved playing games, particularly card games, and was a challenging opponent in multiple bridge groups until she left Marshall for what would be her last visit to California in December 2022. Jean is lovingly remembered by her sister, Anne Montgomery, of Sierra Madre, California, her daughter Cathy (Jerry) Thomas of Poway, California, her son Rick of Marshall, her stepson Tom of Jamestown, Ohio, two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces. A memorial service will be announced at a future date. The family invites you to express your thoughts and memories in the online guestbook at https://www.kempffuneralhome.com.

Caroline Atkins Gula ’52
Oct. 9, 2023

Barbara Joan Huys Frost, age 66, passed away Thursday November 9, 2023, at her residence in Berea, KY. She was born June 28, 1957, in South Bend, IN to the late Henry A. and Patricia G. Hill Huys. Barbara was a beautician by trade but an accomplished artist in painting at heart. Many of her paintings are cherished by family members. She loved her family, especially her daughters, going on walks, and traveling. Barbara was a member of Saint Clare Catholic Church. Barbara is survived by two daughters, Valerie Najwa, and her husband Ahmad of Berea, KY, Allison Smith, and her husband Eric of Indiana, five siblings, James Huys, John Huys, Laurie Guntle and her husband Richard, Mary Miller and her husband Charles, and Paula Stone. Five grandchildren, Rabia Najwa, Dillon Smith, Eli Smith, Noah Smith, and Caleb Smith also survive. Funeral Mass will be 11:00AM Monday November 13, 2023, at Saint Clare Catholic Church with Father Alfredo Basualdo officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery in Lexington, KY. Davis & Powell Funeral Directors in charge of arrangements. www.davisandpowellfuneralhome.com

Charles B. Bensenhaver Jr. ’53
Jan. 7, 2024

Charles Brook Bensenhaver, Jr., 92, passed away at Treyton Oak Towers in Louisville, KY on January 7, 2024. Charlie was a resident of Louisville for 71 years. He was a teacher, a scholar, a behind- the-scenes politician, a gardener, a neighborhood produce salesman, a swimmer, an Olympic Torch runner, and a good neighbor. Charlie (Bud) was born in Rig, WV and was a graduate of Moorefield High School, Berea College and the University of Louisville. He taught at Alice Waller Elementary School, where he met his wife of 64 years, Doretha Hanson, and Watson Lane Elementary School in Jefferson County, at various elementary schools in the New Albany-Floyd County School System as well as being the Big White Reading Bus driver and teacher for a few years in the same school district. A supporter of Democrats all his life, except for that slip of his finger when he voted for Eisenhower, he was well known among local and state politicians. Charlie was considered ‘The Mayor of Lakeside’ as he spent his spare time swimming laps as well as meeting and greeting as many other members of the swim club as possible in the more than forty years of his membership there. As the son of a farmer, Charlie never let the soil get far from his hands. His love for gardening and for meeting people led him to be known as the ‘Vegetable Man’ around Village Dr. in the Highlands. He always grew too much and loved to share the bounty of his labors. He was a member of Bardstown Road Presbyterian Church. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles, Sr. and Eula, his wife, Doretha Bensenhaver, two sisters and two brothers. He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Kennedy (Earl), Amye Bensenhaver, his son, Charles Brook Bensenhaver III (Rose), four granddaughters, four great-grandchildren, two brothers, Don and Dewey Bensenhaver, and three sisters Pat Riggleman, Nancy Brecher, and Helen Rohrbaugh. No service is planned. Donations in Charlie’s memory can be made to Berea College, CPO 2216, Berea, KY 40404.

Dr. George Lester ’54
Jan. 12, 2024

Dr. George Ronald Lester, 89, of Salem, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024. Born on September 6, 1934, he spent his childhood in the coal mining towns near War Eagle, W. Va., along with his parents, the late George Rush and Mary Lou (Cole) Lester, and brothers, John Lester and the late James and Richard Lester.

Dr. Lester was a graduate of Berea College and the University of Kentucky, culminating in a doctorate in physical chemistry. Following college, he, along with his family, including his four children, Julia, Kay, G. Brooke, and David, resided in Park Ridge, Ill., where he became employed with Universal Oil Products, now known as Honeywell Allied Signal. Dr. Lester dedicated a total of 38 years at Universal, where he developed the first catalysts for cleaner running automobiles and earned 42 patents. He also served as an adjunct professor for Northwestern University.

For the last 30 years, he, along with his wife, Patricia, have resided in Salem where numerous friendships were made. He has treasured his time and involvement with the Salem Presbyterian Church as well as the Opera Roanoke.

Above all, Dr. Lester adored his family and the time spent with them all. He truly enjoyed family vacations to the Outer Banks with his children and grandchildren.

Family remaining to cherish his memory includes his beloved wife, Patricia P. Lester; children, Julia, Kay, G. Brooke, and David; his bonus daughter whom he deeply cared for as his own, Cindy; brother, John Lester and numerous grandchildren.

Memorial services to honor Dr. Lester’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Salem Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Chris Vogado officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salem Presbyterian Church, 41 E. Main Street, Salem, Va. 24153, or to the George Ronald Lester Scholarship Fund of Berea College: https://www.berea.edu/giving (click Donate Now and indicate Other and George Ronald Lester Scholarship Fund).

Online condolences may be expressed to the Lester family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.

Russell G. Gadd ’55
Dec. 16, 2023

Russell Glenn Gadd, 91, passed away Saturday, December 16, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Russell was born in Wildie, Kentucky, to the late William Butler Gadd and Martha Catherine Gadd (nee Anglin). He rose from humble beginnings to be a kind and gentle soul, a man of strong Christian faith with unending patience, a father to many in need, a loving husband, father and Pa-paw. Russell graduated from Berea College with a business degree and worked as an accountant throughout his career. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1961 and served aboard the battleship USS Iowa (BB-61). Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers James, Oscar, Cluster, Henry, Marion, Earl, Bill, and sister Edna. Russell was a faithful member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. Russell is survived by his wife of 64 years, June Carole Gadd, and children Rick (Monica) Gadd, Therese (Dan) Busch, and Tracey (John) Hayes; grandchildren Leigh (Ben) Phillips, Mindy (Ed) Coy, Andrew (Lauren) Busch, Emily (Charles) Wilkerson, Rachel (Colin) Cranston, and Matthew Gadd; great-grandchildren Kameryn, Connor, Lily, Alexander, Emmett, Charlie, Noah, and River. Russell is also survived by his sister Margie Covington, sister-in-law Dorothy Gadd, and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a Funeral Service at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 23, 2023, at Newcomer Cremation, Funerals and Receptions, East Louisville Chapel, 235 Juneau Drive, Louisville, Kentucky, with a funeral service to follow. Burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Russell may be made to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 13800 Aiken Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40245.

Norma Grove ’55
Nov. 23, 2023

Age 91, of Vandalia, passed away Thursday, November 23, 2023, at Miami Valley Hospital – North Campus. Norma was born October 1, 1932 in Menifee County, Kentucky to the late Ernest & Eliza (Carpenter) Wallen. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Roger Olsen, who was the love of her life; two sons, Richard Alan Olsen & Ronald Eugene Olsen; and by thirteen siblings.

Norma was a graduate from Berea College and later earned her Master’s degree in Education. She retired as a teacher from MCJVS.

She is survived by one daughter, Rebecca Webb & her husband, Karl; and by three grandchildren, Zachary Ryan Olsen Webb, Emily Kirsten Webb & Nicholas Eugene Olsen. She was a strong, independent woman who dearly loved her family and friends.

The family will be receiving friends from 1:00 – 2:00 pm, Tuesday, December 5, at Morton & Whetstone Funeral Home, 139 S. Dixie Dr., Vandalia. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 pm with Pastor Michael Malcosky officiating. Norma’s final resting place will be next to her beloved husband, Roger Olsen, at Dayton Memorial Park Cemetery.

LTC Ralph Ramey ’55
Obituary Unavailable

Eleanore Sturgill ’55
Dec. 20, 2023

Eleanore Burchell Sturgill, age 91, of Charlottesville, Virginia passed away on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.

Delma Welder ’55
Nov. 14, 2023

Delma P. Welder July 8, 1934 November 14, 2023 KINGSPORT, TN –Delma P. Welder (89) was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 14th, 2023. A longtime resident of Kingsport, TN and native of Monroe County, West Virginia. Delma found joy in life and blessed everyone around her with her loving presence. She was born on July 8, 1934 in Union, WV, the first of seven children of the late O. Roy Parker and Julia Oxley Parker. A large, loving, extended family dedicated to each other, education, and their community. Having been raised in a family of educators, Delma excelled in her coursework and pursued a career in nursing, which she considered her calling. A proud graduate of the Greenville School, the Berea College of Nursing, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Public Health Nursing program, Delma’s nursing career spanned six decades. Her dedication and love of nursing inspired generations of family members to pursue healthcare professions. Delma married Franklin Hayes Welder, Sr., also of Monroe County, West Virginia, on June 5th, 1960. At Frank’s passing in 2020, they had been married for 60 years. The couple were inseparable for most of their lives and were best friends. They were long time members of First Broad Street United Methodist Church, Kingsport, where Delma joyfully sang in the choir. They raised a daughter, Lynette Thomas (Jeff) and two sons, Bill Welder and Franklin H. Welder, Jr. (Cathy). Delma was very proud of her grandchildren, Tanner Thomas (Alison Horley), Kaysey Thomas (CJ Rabey), Luke Welder and Ethan Welder. Delma loved her extended family dearly and was very proud of her Monroe County roots; she was a loving daughter, sister, aunt/great-aunt and surrogate grandmother to many relatives and friends of the Parker, Oxley and Welder clans. She was always interested to hear how someone was doing and to make sure they “felt her hug.” She and Franklin made a point of returning frequently for family gatherings and events so that their children could share the incredible support of their tight-knit community of family and friends. In addition to being a consummate caregiver, Delma was an avid landscaper, a rose grower, and lover of hummingbirds. She was a voracious reader and skilled multi-tasker. She truly loved coffee. She was a skilled baker, and her rolls, pizza and pecan pies were legendary. She was kind, considerate and infinitely patient, sitting as a loyal audience member through many tedious and overly enthusiastic concerts by loved ones. Delma loved to sing, was a fan of Garden Clubs, and enjoyed her time in church youth leadership. Delma was an adventurous traveler who, along with several recent nursing graduates from southern WV, traveled extensively in Europe right after WWII. She often laughed at the “American Girls” sign they had in the back window of their VW bus. After a public health nursing career, followed by raising her children, Delma went back to nursing school a second time, and rejoined her chosen profession decades later for a second act with Nursing. She was head night shift nurse of a small community hospital in Brevard, NC, often participating in church and community activities straight from a brief catnap. She completed additional work in Home Health and Hospice nursing before retiring with Franklin to live close to children and grandchildren in Kingsport, TN. Retirement certainly did not slow her down, as she was incredibly busy with church, family and friends for decades, and she and Franklin enjoyed a long, full, wonderful retirement together, frequently traveling between their two homes in Kingsport, TN and Greenville, WV. Delma was happiest when she had a house full of friends and loved ones to care for. She and Franklin were perpetually planning the next family gathering, reunion, or just simply enjoying the outdoors. There always seemed to be a yard to be mowed or a chore to be done that required a fun trip. Delma was preceded in death by her parents, O. Roy Parker and Julia Oxley Parker, sisters Joyce Parker, Mary Ella Parker Smith, and brothers Robert L. Parker and Frederick L. (Judith Houchins) Parker. Delma is survived by her children, Lynette (Jeff) Thomas of Kingsport, TN, Bill Welder of Kingsport, TN, Franklin (Cathy) Welder, Jr. of Norwich, VT; grandchildren Tanner (Alison)Thomas, Kaysey Thomas (CJ Rabey), Luke Welder, Ethan Welder, her sisters, Gatha (William) Meadows and Teresa (Mason) Johnson, and many cherished extended family members, friends and grand-furbabies. Funeral services will be conducted 12:30 p.m. Saturday, November 18th at the Greenville United Methodist Church, in Greenville with Brian Young presiding. Graveside services will follow at the Greenville UMC Cemetery with Mason Johnson, Neil Dunlap, Tanner Thomas, CJ Rabey, Tripp Shiflet and Eli Allen serving as pallbearers. Kathy Martin will provide the piano accompaniment. The Family will receive friends Saturday, November 18th from 11:30 a.m. until time of the service at the Church. Lifelong members of the United Methodist Church, the family ask in lieu of flowers, that donations, if desired be made to either the Holston United Methodist Home for Children, P.O. Box 188, Greeneville, TN 37744 or the Greenville United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Randall Young, 323 Deep Valley Road, Lindside, WV 24951. Arrangements by Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Homes, Kingsport, TN and Groves-Mann Funeral Home, Union, WV.

Nancy Graves Ball ’57
Oct. 16, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dr. Jack C. Blanton, Fd . ’53, ’57
Oct. 28, 2023

Lexington, Kentucky – Jack Christopher Blanton, Ph.D. was born in Berea, Kentucky in 1935 the son of his late parents Christopher Lindsey Blanton and Lena Ellen Barr Blanton. He received a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science at Berea College in 1957. In 2013 he was named the Outstanding Alumnus of the Year by his alma mater. Upon graduating, he was selected for a full scholarship from the Southern Regional Training Program in Public Administration which allowed him to attend the University of Alabama, the University of Tennessee, and the University of Kentucky. He earned a Master of Arts from UT in 1964 and his Ph.D. from UK in 1982. In 1966 he was selected by the Ford Foundation to receive full funding as a graduate fellow at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California.

Dr. Blanton’s professional career began in 1958 as a news reporter for the Knoxville Journal in Tennessee. Within two years he was called to work in government as an analyst in the State Budget Division of Kentucky. He worked closely with four governors helping prepare their biennial budgets, and in 1970 he was appointed State Budget Director. He was elected president of the Southern Association of State Budget Officers and was active with the National Association of State Budget Officers.

In 1972 he transitioned to higher education where he was named Associate Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. After two years there he moved to the position of Vice Chancellor for Finance for the Tennessee Board of Regents. In 1975 he returned to his home state of Kentucky to serve as Vice President for Business Affairs and Treasurer at the University of Kentucky. There he began a long and distinguished career in academia in a variety of capacities including University Treasurer, a member of six university affiliated foundations including the University of Kentucky Athletic Association, and he contributed two decades on campus as an adjunct professor in the Gatton College of Business and Economics, and the Martin School of Public Policy and Administration. He also served briefly as interim Vice President for Minority Affairs. As vice president he was a member of the Lexington Mayor’s Task Force on Growth Planning. He retired from UK in 2013.

Dr. Blanton was instrumental in the establishment of the WRFL radio station and a residence on campus for the University Press of Kentucky in addition to being a member of its governing board. He was instrumental in finding a residence on campus for the Kentucky Humanities Council, the KMen’s House, and the Ronald McDonald House.

Dr. Blanton served in the U.S. Air Force and the Tennessee and Kentucky Air National Guard from 1958 to 1964. He served on the board of directors of the Lexington Community Kitchen and the Lexington Chamber of Commerce. He was active with the board of the Community Concert and Lecture Series, the Hope Center for Homeless Men, the Civil War Roundtable, and the Kiwanis Club.

Among his awards, he was named an honorary Kentucky Colonel by several governors, and was honored by the governor of Arkansas as Arkansas Traveler. For his work at UK he was given a Leadership Award by the national society of Omicron Delta Kappa. Dr. Blanton was also honored with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dr. Blanton was a member of the National Association of College and University Business officers, the National Association of State University and Land Grant Colleges, and the Forum for College Finance Alternatives. He was a featured lecturer at the College Business Management Institute at the University of California in Santa Barbara, California for 15 years. Dr. Blanton was also a member of the Finance Executive Institute, an honorary member of the Kentucky Society of Architects, and a member of 14 visiting committees charged with the reaccreditation of their universities.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Sandra Lynne Craft Blanton, two daughters Leslie Rene Jacovitch and her husband Dan Jacovitch, Lorri Lynne Blanton and her husband Douglas Adams, all of Lexington, three grandsons, Christopher Jacovitch and his wife Dina Klimkina of Versailles, Max Tsarev and Colette Harley of Chapel Hill, NC, and Darius Tsarev of Lexington, and one great grandson, Jack Jacovitch of Versailles.

No Service. Donations kindly made to Hospice of the Bluegrass and the Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky.

Published by Lexington Herald-Leader on Nov. 5, 2023.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Kenneth D. Griffith Fd. ’57
Mar. 23, 2023

Kenneth D. Griffith, age 83, passed away peacefully at his home Thursday, March 23, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Gwynne Norman Griffith, three daughters; Sharon (Don) Sapienza of Louisville, KY, Linda (Greg) Carrington of The Woodlands, TX, Susan (Kendall) Gadd of Berea, KY. He is also survived by seven grandchildren; Kier (Mary) Sapienza, Michael Sapienza, Katie Sapienza, Jennifer Day, Jennifer (Jackson) Walsh, Steven Gadd, David Gadd, two great-grandchildren; Isabel Sapienza, Sophia Sapienza, and his brother-in-law Gurney (Nyoka) Norman of Lexington, KY. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ruby Lovely Griffith and two grandsons, Brian Duvall and Scott Sapienza. Ken was born May 20th, 1939, in Middlesboro, KY and his family moved to Berea when he was two years old. He attended Knapp Hall, Berea Foundation School, earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Eastern Kentucky University, and his MBA from the University of Kentucky. He was a Certified Public Accountant and began his career with Ernst & Ernst in Cincinnati, OH as an auditor. In 1965 he joined the faculty of Eastern Kentucky University as a professor of Accounting. During his 32 years of service, he encouraged and mentored countless students both in the classroom and as the faculty advisor to the Accounting Club. Ken also served many clients in his private tax preparation practice. He thoroughly enjoyed serving his community as a volunteer fireman for over 25 years. Extended road trips and camping were the norm for family vacations with their children and grandchildren. He and Gwynne loved to travel and were always looking forward to their next adventure. One of his favorites was their road trip to Alaska (camping 60 nights in a row), a trip they repeated five times. Despite his enthusiasm for travel, Ken loved his hometown and was known to say when returning home, “there’s no place more special and beautiful than Berea there’s just no place like home”. Ken loved the outdoors, camping, hiking, backpacking, and the beach. An avid sports fan both as a participant and spectator, Ken loved tennis, basketball, football, racquetball and ping pong whether playing himself or cheering on his grandchildren in every sport they played. A true family man, Ken delighted in the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren’s various activities and encouraged their many individual interests and talents. He was a lifelong faithful member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), for 81 years. Ken was very active in the leadership of his church serving as a Deacon, Trustee, Board Chairman, and member of various committees through the years. He helped to establish the Permanent Fund of the church to ensure continued ministries for future generations. Visitation will be held Sunday, April 2nd, from 1:00 -3:00 pm at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Berea, KY. Services will begin at 3:00 with Reverends Mark and Lisa Caldwell-Reiss officiating. Ken’s grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. A Celebration of Life reception will immediately follow in the Fellowship Hall of the church. Graveside service will be at 10:00 am on Monday, April 3rd at the Berea Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to the First Christian Church Permanent Fund, Building Fund or General Fund. First Christian Church206 Chestnut Street Berea, KY 40403.Davis & Powell Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Ronnie C. Graves ’58
Jan. 28, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ronnie Clark Graves of Grayson, Kentucky, born in Frankfort, Kentucky, who passed away on January 28, 2024, at the age of 88, leaving to mourn family and friends. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.

He was predeceased by : his parents, Hannon “Pete” Graves and Dorothy Mildred Smith Graves. He is survived by : his wife Rachel Critz Graves; his children, Lisa Plummer (Sam) and Clark Graves (Karen) of Lexington, KY; his grandchildren, Sara Reeves (Hunter) of Lexington, KY, Hunter Plummer of Baltimore, MD, Elizabeth Graves of Raleigh, NC, Victoria Graves of Houston, TX and William Graves of Lexington, KY; his great grandchildren, Annalise and Eliza Reeves of Lexington, KY; and his siblings, Gene Graves (Uneva) of Winchester, Jack Graves (Vicky) of Olive Hill and Lelana Tierney (late John P.) of Olive Hill. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 1st 2024 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Malone Funeral Home (325 Malone Ln, Grayson, KY 41143). A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 1st 2024 at 2:00 PM at the TBD Malone Funeral Home (325 Malone Ln, Grayson, KY 41143).

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to one of the following: Berea College, https://berea.salsalabs.org or Willard Missionary Baptist Church, In care of Debbie Prichard, 380 Lakeview Circle, Grayson, KY 41143, or Gideons International, https://www.gideons.org.

Randall L. Stephens ’58
Sept. 19, 2023

Randall Logan (Jack) Stephens, 87, of Georgetown, Florida passed away September 19, 2023Randall was born February 13, 1936, in Stearns, Kentucky to Estle C. and Lousetta (Shepherd) Stephens. He graduated from Berea College in Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree and Murray State University in Murray Kentucky with a master’s degree in physics. He was a building contractor in Sidney, Ohio for a number of years and spent the remainder of his career teaching physics and mathematics at Northeast State Community College where he was also head of the school’s Pre-Engineering program. Randall loved to read, fish, and tend to his garden in his spare time. He also had a life-long love for astronomy and celestial photography and occasionally taught classes in these subjects. Randall is survived by his wife Angy of Georgetown, Florida; sons Jonathan (Sophia) Stephens of Mount Dora, Florida, Martin Stephens of Taylorsville, NC; granddaughter, Eleanor Stephens of Yarravel, New South Wales, Australia; siblings Sue (Dave) Thomas of Delray Beach, Florida, Harold (Sue) Stephens of Springfield, Ohio, Janice (David) Davis of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mary Lou (Larry) Cain of Debary, Florida and Jim (Janet) Stephens of Sidney, Ohio. A memorial service will be held later. Memorials may be given to Berea College in Berea, Kentucky at berea.edu or a charity of your choice in Randall’s memory

1960s

Marcus G. Hoover ’60
Sept. 21, 2023

Tribute Marcus Gray “Mark” Hoover, 85, of Fredericksburg, VA passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023. Married for 62 years, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Mark loved to laugh and spend time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, baking, Orioles baseball, traveling, and country music. Mark was born on May 20, 1938 in Wynne, Arkansas and was the youngest of five children. After graduating from Oak Ridge High School (Tennessee), he attended Berea College (Kentucky) where he earned a degree in Business Administration. A year later, he married his college sweetheart. Mark proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 30 years, achieving the rank of Captain before retiring. He worked for the Department of Defense civilian sector as a Project Coordinator at NSWC Dahlgren Division Dam Neck in Virginia Beach for more than 30 years. Mark’s hard work and dedication earned him the Meritorious Civilian Service Award from the U.S. Navy. Mark had a deep, life-long Christian faith. As an active member of Fredericksburg United Methodist Church for many years, he especially enjoyed opportunities to learn and teach in the Wayfarers Sunday School class. Mark is survived by his loving wife, Alice Gosnell Hoover; son Steven Hoover (Sandra); daughter Jennifer Kessler; granddaughter Jessica Harris (Mac); and grandsons Alexander Kessler and Andrew Kessler. He also is survived by his brother, John W. Hoover, Jr.; sisters-in-law Margaret Hoover and Delphine Fillers; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John W. Hoover, Sr. and Aline Hoover; sisters Ruth Hunter and Louise Huffman; and brother James “Ed” Hoover. The family would like to send a special thank you to the staff of Heritage Hall, who have shown Mark and his family endless care, compassion, and kindness in these last months. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to any of the following organizations that have had special meaning to Mark and his family: National Kidney Foundation , American Stroke Association , Berea College , or Fredericksburg United Methodist Church .

Robert Lee Shepherd Jr. ’61
Nov. 28, 2023

Robert Lee Shepherd Jr., age 84, of Hiawassee, Georgia, passed away Monday, November 28th, 2023.

Bob was born and reared in Kentucky. After graduating from Berea College with a Biology degree he married Eva and then served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Texas, California and Hawaii. He later retired from Delta Airlines after 30 years as a pilot. He served as an elder in the PCA church, sang in the choir, was a Chaplain with the Gideons, and was deeply involved in mission work. He enjoyed traveling the world, visiting National Parks, playing games, telling silly jokes, and spending time with his family, especially the love of his life, his wife of almost 62 years, Eva. His goal in life was to share the love of Jesus with everyone he could.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Eva Nell Shepherd; son, Robert Lee Shepherd, III (Michelle); daughter, Mary Beth Tucker; grandchildren: Chandler Ellen Shepherd, Heidi Slay Shepherd, Savannah Faith Tucker and Noah Tucker, and his sister, Phyllis Warner.

A memorial service will be held at Grace Presbyterian Church in Blairsville, Georgia on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. Military honors will be presented by the North Georgia Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Missions Fund of Grace Presbyterian Church, or The Gideons.

Cochran Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hiawassee is honored to be serving the family of Mr. Robert Lee Shepherd, Jr. Please share your condolences with the family online at cochranfuneralhomes.com.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Lee Shepherd, Jr., please visit our flower store.

Forest L. Greenawalt ’62
Dec. 12, 2023

Forest L. Greenawalt, 86, of Bourbonnais, Illinois passed away Thursday, December 12, 2023 at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, Illinois. He was born April 24, 1937 at Kline, West Virginia and was the son of the late David and Clara (Alexander) Greenawalt. He was a Civil Engineer for IDOT. He graduated from Berea College in Kentucky for his undergraduate degree and received his MA degree from the University of Illinois. He was a world traveler, and went on multiple mission trips with his church. He planted over 3000 trees around his home, had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. He was a member of the College Church of the Nazarene in Bourbonnais. On August 9, 1975, he married Rachel (Champion) Greenawalt in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania Surviving in addition to his wife of 48 years are One daughter Keren Greenawalt-Russell (Jason) of Peoria, IL And many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, Willie, Vernon, Carl, Fred, Hugh and Dale; and two sisters, Geneva and Twila. The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon 1:00 PM on Friday, December 22, 2023 at Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church at Mozer, where a funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM with Pastor David Webb officiating. Burial will be at Kline Cemetery. Memorials may be made to a charity of choice.

Evelyn Merlo ’62
Obituary Unavailable

Ella Moore Reavis ’62
Sept. 13, 2023

Theda Rasnick Riemann ’63
Dec. 29, 2023

Theda Rasnick Riemann of Misenheimer, NC passed away December 29, 2023 at age 83. Theda was born April 12, 1940, in Clintwood, VA to her parents Napoleon and Eda (Eddie) Rasnick. She was the youngest of eleven children. Preceding her in death were her parents, her brothers Byron, Howard, and Tilden, and her sisters, Ida Belle, Marjorie Anderson, Essie Stallard, and Mozelle Steffey.

Theda is survived by her husband of 61 years Mike Riemann, children Neil Riemann (wife Maria), Lana Riemann-Royer (husband Hal), grandchildren Casey Riemann (significant other Quinn Harrison), Cammy Riemann and Ella Riemann-Royer, as well as her brothers Franklin (wife Lochiel) and Giles and sister Nila Brown (husband Doug).

Theda attended Berea College (Major in Business and Home Economics) and Ohio University (Masters in Home Economics/Textiles). She worked for the Employment Security Commission in Albemarle before beginning her life as an educator, first at Stanly Community College and Pfeiffer College (now University), and then at Albemarle High School and Albemarle Middle School, retiring in 2002.

Theda was a tiny person who was larger than life. She was smart and strong and funny and kind. She could do almost anything. Most of all, she could love you – deeply and fiercely and without measure. She always stood up for what she believed in and she always defended, protected, and supported those she loved, including all of the dogs (especially her baby, Lulu) and other small creatures.

Our family is grateful to Theda’s care team at Hospice of Davidson County for their devoted care, and to all of the family, friends and neighbors who have supported us. If you would like to honor Theda, please donate to Hospice of Davidson County, the Stanly County Humane Society, or The Falcon Trail. Or find someone in your life that you could love a little more unconditionally and do it like Theda would – with your whole heart.

Published by Salisbury Post on Jan. 4, 2024.

G. Sharon Hamilton ’65
Dec. 5, 2023

Glenna Sharon Cotton Hamilton, 80, of Lancaster, passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2023. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, James “Jim” Hamilton. Sharon was born on March 27, 1943, in Lancaster, KY to the late Ira Glenmore and Evelyn Joseph Hurt Cotton. She graduated from Paint Lick High School in 1961. Afterwards she graduated from Berea College in 1965 with a B.A. in history and political science and received her master’s from Eastern Kentucky University in Education. Glenna was a teacher for 28 1/2 years in the Garrard County School System and was a proud member of the Retired Teachers of Garrard County. While at Berea College, she met Jim Hamilton. They were married at Berea College in Danforth Chapel and spent 43 years together. In March 1963, she was a political science intern for Senator Dr. Sherman Cooper at the capital in Washington, D.C. She met all the Kennedy’s and other members of Labor that were involved in the government. She was invited to participate in the March on Washington with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. After retiring from the school system, she enjoyed gardening, taking care of flowers, being outdoors, bird watching, people watching, tracing genealogy, reading, history, working puzzles and being with her grandchildren. She had a wonderful life and shared many wonderful memories with family and friends. She was a member of Kirksville Christian Church and loved the Lord Jesus Christ as her Savior. Surviving are four daughters, Kimberly Hamilton (Troy Von) of Lancaster, Jennifer Whitaker of Fairfield, Ohio, Rebecca Atkins of Lancaster, and Lucy Hensley of Lancaster; a sister, Sue Janet Cotton Metcalf of Bowling Green; Kentucky. The grandchildren are George Whitaker III of Cincinnati, Ohio. Daniel Whitaker of Fairfield, Ohio, Andrew Whitaker of West Chester, Ohio, Augustus Hensley of Waco, KY, Matthew Whitaker of Fairfield, Ohio, Abigail Hensley of Waco, KY and Ava Hensley of Waco, KY; bonus grandchildren, Danielle Forker of Danville, and Megan Singleton of Lawrenceburg; great grandchild, Valerie Whitaker and bonus great grandchildren, Millie Forker and Jemma Forker; and numerous special family members, and friends. Visitation will be 11:00 am -2:00 pm Saturday December 9, 2023, at Spurlin Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 2:00 PM Saturday December 9, 2023. Graveside services will be 1:00 PM Monday, December 11, 2023, at Lancaster Cemetery. Active pallbearers are George Whitaker, Daniel Whitaker, Andrew Whitaker, Matthew Whitaker, Augustus Hensley, and Troy Von. Honorary pallbearers are Darrell Logan, James Schooler, Jeff Hamilton, Gary Hamilton, and Tim Metcalf.

Sandra Sue Roy ’65
July 2, 2023

Sandy Hale Roy, 80, widow of Cleetis Roy, passed away Sunday, July 2, 2023 at UK Medical Center in Lexington. She was born March 15, 1943 in Oneida, TN to the late Chester Lee & Suzie Coleman Taylor. A beloved fixture of the Powell County community, she lived a very full life as a teacher, dietician, seamstress, truck driver, referee, realtor, real estate broker, and nurse. Survivors include: daughter Jodie (Mark) Brandenburg; son Johnny (Stephanie) Hale; grandchildren Madeline Brandenburg, Jacob Brandenburg, Kyle (Beth) Roy, David Roy, Lyssa (Zack) Renk, Adam (Erin) Roy, & Taylor Roy; step-son Tim (Carie) Roy); sisters-in-law Susan Taylor & Vicki Taylor; special companion Gloyd Lee; and Becky Eagan, who was like a daughter. She was preceded in death by husband Cleetis Roy, parents Chester & Suzie Taylor, brother Robert Taylor and step-son Jeff Roy. Funeral services will be conducted at 1PM on Thursday, July 6 at Wells Funeral Home in Stanton with Bro. Brad Epperson officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 5 at the funeral home beginning at 4PM for family & 5PM for friends. Burial at Stonegate Cemetery directly following the funeral with Kyle Roy, Rob Taylor, Mark Brandenburg, Jacob Brandenburg, Tyler Smith, & John Parks serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Powell County Health Department employees, Willie Brewer, C.B. Martin, the Bruen’s Gang, Hillbilly Flywheelers, Smokehouse & General Store Kids, & Ryan Thacker. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Hospice East & Palliative Care Partners.

James L. Hamilton ’67
Obituary Unavailable

Barbara Jane Johnson ’68
Oct. 18, 2023

Jane Johnson, class of ’68 passed away on a sunny day in October in her beloved Blue Ridge Mountains. She is survived by her identical twin sister, Laura Johnson Dorrer, class of ’68 and her husband, John, of Topsham, Maine.

Patricia Hill Para ’68
Sept. 7, 2023

Patricia Eileen Hill Para, age 78 of Talbott, TN passed away peacefully on September 7th 2023 at Holston Manor in Kingsport, TN. Patricia was a loving mother of three children who loved sewing, gardening and reading. She graduated from Berea college with a degree in home economics, she went onto a master’s program in food and nutrition. She was a Sunday School teacher and Deaconess at Stepney Baptist Church in Monroe, CT for many years. She also was a Boy & Girl Scout Leader. Patricia worked for more than 30 years in retail management before her retirement. In retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at Second Source Thrift Store in Jefferson TN and Jefferson City Heath and Rehabilitation She was preceded in death by her parents, Vestus M. and Thelma Beatrice Brown Hill, and her brother, J.C. Hill. She is survived by her daughter, Tori Fae of San Luis Obispo, CA, son’s Christopher (Tiffany) Para of Monroe, CT, and Michael Para of Beloit, WI, two grandchildren, sister, Peggy Cameron of Jefferson City, TN, two brothers, James Vestus Hill and Billy Hill both of Newport, TN, as well as several nieces and nephews. Per Ms. Para’s request she will be cremated and her family will be carrying out her final wishes.

1970s

Barbara Vlasnik ’73
Jan. 6, 2024

Barbara Strickland Vlasnik, age 72 passed away on January 6, 2024, at her home in Lexington, Kentucky. She grew up in Brevard, North Carolina and earned her RN degree from Berea College in Berea, Kentucky. Barbara was born on April 19, 1951. If you were born in 1951 like Barbara, you share birth years with Robin Williams, Sting, and Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman). Babies born in 1951 were born in a time when creativity was historic in the theater such as “The African Queen”, and “A Place in the Sun” and music could be heard by Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, and Perry Como.

Barbara was the daughter of Frances and Wade Strickland (both deceased). She is survived by an older daughter, Meiko Welch (spouse, Joe) and a younger daughter, Brooke Hitte (spouse, Brandon). She has one granddaughter Lyla, who she loved to brag about. She believed that Lyla has tremendous potential to make the world a better place. She is also survived by two older sisters, Sybil Rappaport and Jenell Harris (spouse, Sonny). Her brother Buddy is deceased. Barbara is preceded in death by her sweet pug Jackie, who will be her forever companion.

Barbara was a mentor and teacher to many young nursing students at various Veterans Hospitals in North and South Carolina as well as Lexington, Kentucky, as well as working on the Spinal Cord/Rehab units at Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky, and Toms Rehabilitation Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. Her gifts of hospitality and compassion aided her in reaching veterans with respect, sensitivity, and professionalism.

Donations may be made to Bluegrass Care Navigators at www.bgcarenav.org and to Kids Cancer Alliance at www.kidscanceralliance.org

Visitation for Barbara will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm, Wednesday, January 10th at Milward – Southland located at 391 Southland Drive. A private service will be observed by the family.

To share a remembrance of Barbara or to offer condolences to her family, please visit milwardfuneral.com to sign the tribute portion of her obituary page.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara, please visit our floral store.

Jacqueline Walker ’74
Jan. 13, 2024

Jacqueline Lee (White) Walker departed her earthly body on January 13th, 2024. Jackie was born in Berea KY on January 27th, 1952, to the late Walker White Sr and Glendon Reynolds White. Other than her parents she was preceded in death by her four brothers Walker White Jr, George White, Monte White, and Kenneth White and two sisters Dolores Rice and Elizabeth Denny.

She accepted Christ at an early age at First Baptist Church of Berea (Middletown). Jackie was a graduate of Berea Community High School and graduated from Berea College with a degree in nursing. Her professional career was spent at the Madison County Health Department where she worked until her retirement after 34 years. Three short months later she returned to the health department where she worked part time until the birth of her first grandchild. Her favorite job was taking care of her girls. She dutifully drove to Lexington daily until her health declined.

She loved her husband of 50 years fiercely, she also loved her daughter, favorite son in law and her girls unconditionally. Lovingly named Dodo, she was at her best doing for others and taking care of those she loved.

She leaves to cherish her memory her husband John Sherman Walker Jr, her daughter Shannon Rae (Ryan) Hamilton, granddaughters Brynnlee Irvine and Emma Rayne; her siblings Juanita (Lucian) Huguely, Shirley (Jack) Jackson; beloved sister-in-law Faye White, bonus family member Sarah Harris Pack, as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 20th, 2024, from 9:00 AM until the service at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church Berea at Middletown. Officiating will be Rev. Mitchell Brown with Eulogist Rev. Dr. Robert R. Blythe; services will be livestreamed at www.davisandpowellfuneralhome.com. Burial will follow in the Berea Cemetery. The pallbearers will be Greg Kennedy, Lamont Cornelison, Josh Martin, Jasper White, Clint Jackson, and Darnell Martin. Honorary pallbearers will be, Stewart Martin, Bernard Denney, Kenard Bosley, and Marshall Washington.

Davis & Powell Funeral Directors in charge of arrangements. www.davisandpowellfuneralhome.com

Michael Brian Robinson ’75
Jan. 2, 2024

Michael Brian “Robo” Robinson, 70, passed away Jan. 2, 2024, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Mike was born in Shelbyville, Ky. on November 7, 1953, and was raised in Valley Station, Ky. (Jefferson County). He graduated from Valley High School in 1971 after finishing a notable career in basketball. He then enrolled at Berea College and played basketball for four years. He was selected as a member of the Mountaineer Honor of Distinction in 2019.

He remained in Berea and worked for Delta Natural Gas Inc. for forty years. After serving various roles with the company, he was promoted to a position of Manager of Distribution where he remained until his retirement. During his tenure with Delta Gas, he served as the President of the Kentucky Gas Association. He also traveled abroad to Armenia several times to work/assist natural gas personnel in the capital of Yerevan. He was well known throughout the natural gas industry.

He was an avid golfer, softball player, collector of various memorabilia and a devout UK fan, and he was a longtime member of the Berea United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Mary Glover Robinson, their daughter, Bethany Warner (Chad) and two grandsons, Clayton Alvin, and Camden Michael.

He is also survived by two sisters, Shirleene Robinson, and Patty Murray (Jeff), two brothers Dmitri “Dee Dee” Robinson (Vicki) and Steven Robinson, three nephews, Evan, Ty, and Jay, a niece Kim and their spouses and children. Mike was preceded in death by his parents William “Bill” and Shirley Redding Robinson and a brother William “Robbie” Robinson.

Lakes Funeral Home, Berea, Ky, will be in charge of arrangements. A memorial service is planned for Sunday Jan. 21, 2024 at 2 pm in the Old Gym, Seabury Center at Berea College. The family will receive friends at 1:00 pm Sunday also at the gym. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Berea United Methodist Church building fund, 101 Fee St., Berea, KY 40403, or Hospice Compassionate Care Center, 350 Isaacs Lane, Richmond, KY 40475.

1980s

Roberta Irene Larew-Smith ’83
Obituary Unavailable

1990s

Anna Lee Boes Hon. ’93
Nov. 18, 2023

Anne’s family wishes to extend many, many thanks to everyone at the Baptist Health Richmond for the extraordinary loving care she received.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial gifts to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital and/or Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.

Lakes Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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

Tonya Clovetta Joyner ’95
Jan. 15, 2024

The all wise and just God has given rest to another one of His servants. On Monday, January 15, 2024, Tonya Clovetta Green Joyner passed this life. Toyna Green Joyner was born on November 28, 1972, to Mr. and Mrs. Melvin and Linda Green, in Scottsboro, Alabama. She graduated from Scottsboro High School in 1991. Upon graduation, she attended Brea College in Brea, Ky. She also attended Northeast Community College and the University of North Alabama where she earned her degree as a Medical Assistant in Phlebotomy. She was employed at Huntsville Hospital until her health failed.

Tonya Joyner was married to Anthony Joyner, Sr and to this union one son was born. Anthony Joyner, Jr. Tonya was a very loving and outgoing person. She loved to laugh, and she always had a smile on her face. She also loved her jobs and was an extremely hard worker.

Tonya was a loyal member of Mt. Zion M.B. Church in Hollywood, Al. She was a member of the choir at Mt. Zion and a former member of the youth choir at Horton’s AOH Church of God. As a toddler her father, Melvin taught her and her sisters to sing at the kitchen counter. Since then, she has been a member of numerous quartets and groups: The Green Sisters, The Voices of Faith, Renewed, The Gospel Choir at St. Paul AME., just to name a few. Tonya and her sister(s) were one of the favorites to sing at funerals, weddings, and community affairs near and far.

Tonya Joyner is preceded in death by her father Melvin Green. She leaves to cherish her memory, a devoted husband Anthony Joyner, Sr, and loving a son, Anthony Joyner, Jr, stepdaughter Yolandra Joyner (Ben), Heinkel. Mother, Linda Green, 2 sisters DeUndrea King (Archie), and Sonya Green (Melvin Turner), mother-in-law, Deborah Joyner, brother-in-law, Koran Joyner, 3 nephews, Melvin Tyrelle (Karrie) McCamey, DiAnte (Jennifer) Alexander, Omoro Joyner, 1 niece, NaTonuia Harris, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, January 21, 2024 at 2:00 P.M., at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 3240 County Road 105, Hollywood, Alabama 35752

2020s

Abdallahi Hamdy ’25
Jan. 1, 2024
Obituary Unavailable

Abigail Ramirez Sandoval ’26
Oct. 10, 2023

Abigail Ramirez Sandoval, age 19, of Bronston, Kentucky, passed from this life on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at the UK Children’s Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Abigail was born on March 30, 2004 to Hipolito Ramirez Ricardo and Maria Del Rocio Sandoval in Somerset, Kentucky. She enjoyed spending time with family, friends and on her phone. She loved traveling and shopping. She was a freshman at Berea College. She will be sadly missed by all that knew and loved her. Abigail leaves behind to cherish her memory, her parents Hipolito Ramirez and Maria Del Rocio Sandoval, aunt Jaz, grandmother, Teresa Gonzaga Cruz, paternal grandfather, Lazara Ricardo Utrera, paternal grandmother, Praxedis Ramirez Pulido, brothers, Victor Antonio Ramirez and Isamel Ramirez, niece, Kimberly Ramirez, uncles, Pablo Hipolito Gonzaga, Enrique Gonzaga, Fernando Sandoval, aunts, Hilda Gonzaga, Carmen Gonzaga, Marisol Gonzaga, Haydee Sanchez, cousins, Mario Gonzaga, Julio Gonzaga, Rosa Perez Ramirez, Kevin Perez Ramirez, Henry Gonzaga, aunt, Dora Ramirez Ricardo, uncle, Lucas Lopez Garcia, aunt, Concepcion Ramirez Ricardo, cousins, Samuel Torales Ramirez, Joel Torales Ramirez, Beatriz Torales Ramirez, Nancy Speidy Ramirez Ricardo, Nataly Tryillo Ramirez, uncle, Nicanor Hipolito and sister in law, Jazmin Cruz Rivera. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 12-2pm in the Chapel of the Southern Oaks Funeral Home with a funeral service to begin at 2pm with Pastor Mario Taborda officiating. Southern Oaks Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements for Abigail Ramirez Sandoval.