Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Robert "Gooney" Lane Davis


Robert “Gooney” Lane Davis, 69, of Floyd, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus at his home on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Robert was born on June 5, 1954 to Emmett Elmer and Manilla Belcher Davis. He was the ninth of ten children. He is preceded in death by his parents, Emmett Elmer and Manilla Davis; brothers, Harden, Mason, Curt, Sr., and Jack Davis; nephew, Andrew Boyd; niece, Sandra Arrington; brother-in-law, Carlile Harris; and sister-in-law, Carol Davis.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 41 years, Cheri Whitlow Davis; son and daughter-in-law, Adam (Priscilla) Davis; step-daughter and husband, Rachel (Jason) Heyman; grandsons, Gabriel, Salem, and Asa Davis and James Heyman; granddaughters, Aniyah and Leighlana Davis and Sidney Heyman; great-granddaughter, EllaMae Davis; brothers and sister-in-law, George” G.W.” and Norman (Joanne) Davis; sisters and brothers-in-law, Ronda Harris, Jeanette (Gary) Cockram and Jill (Richard) Hylton; sisters-in-law and spouse, Dorothy Davis, Linda Davis, Gail Davis, and Carolyn (Menis) Reed; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Floyd County High School in 1972. He previously worked at Floyd Garment, C.W. Harman and Son, and Timberland Mulch. He retired from the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office after 24 years of service and was a volunteer for Floyd County Fire Department Station 2 and Station 3 for 35 years. He was a member of Floyd Masonic Lodge #329 and a member of Topeco Church of the Brethren.

He enjoyed fishing at the OBX, Buggs Island, and Philpot Lake, spending time with family and friends, camping and tractor pulling. He enjoyed life, serving his community, and was always willing to help others and had a great sense of humor. He loved his family and numerous friends including lifelong friends, Ralph Hollandsworth, Mark Grim, Dave Weddle, Andy Grim, and best friend and uncle, Mike Nelson.

His motto was “never give up, always look up.”

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Topeco Church of the Brethren with Pastor Jeff Dalton and Pastor Greg Cox officiating. Interment will follow in the Topeco Cemetery with honors by the Floyd County Sheriff’s Department and Volunteer Fire Department. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, February 23, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the family caregivers, the doctors and nurses at Blue Ridge Cancer Care, and Good Samaritan Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Floyd County Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 33, Floyd, VA 24091, to Topeco Cemetery, c/o Ewell Hodges, 3600 Laurel Branch Rd NW, Floyd, VA 24091, or to Good Samaritan Hospice, 2408 Electric Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24018.  



Monday, February 19, 2024

Donnie Lee Quesenberry


 

Donnie Lee Quesenberry, 72 of Riner, VA, passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2024 with his family by his side. He is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Reva Quesenberry; son, Jason Lee Quesenberry;  daughter, Brook Quesenberry; and brother, Glennis Quesenberry.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 41 years, Debbie Quesenberry; sons, Gregory Quesenberry, Adam (Heather) Quesenberry; a very special niece, Annabella “BooBoo”; brothers, Gary, Darrell and Doug Quesenberry; sister, Teresa (Larry) Battle; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ronny and Betty Lester; sisters-in-law, Cindy (Troy) Ford, and Melissa Lester; granddaughter, Brittany Johnson; three great grandchildren;  numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends, Steve and Christopher McGuire and family.

Donnie was an avid drag racer for 52 years and created a legacy with his son Adam and daughter Brook. Donnie was well known at several tracks, making many life long memories and friends along the way. Donnie’s devotion to God was shown through his love for family and his helping hand. He was an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2024 in the Fellowship Baptist Church, 3795 Surface Rd., Riner, Va. 24149, with Pastor James Bradley officiating. Interment will follow in the Duncan Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2024 at the church.

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Raleigh Kenneth Hodges

 

Raleigh Kenneth Hodges, 91 of Willis, passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024. He is preceded in death by an infant daughter, Rebecca K. Hodges; his parents, Mary Lee Harman Hodges and Glen B. Hodges; sisters, Eula Gay Edwards and Iva Dell Harris; and brother, Raymond Hodges.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Pauline Harris Hodges; sons, Mark H. Hodges and Michael K. Hodges (Donna); grandchildren, Brandon Hodges (Angela), Rahim A. Chantal (Gema), Amy Sue Canfield (Justin), and Andrew S. Hodges (Tabitha); nine great-grandchildren; sisters, Fern Harris, Willadean Hylton, Phyllis Thompson, Jewell Spickard (Joe), and Jean Lugar; brothers, Hubert Harman, Buster Hodges, and Ewell Hodges (Linda); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Elder Tim Whitten officiating. Interment will follow in the Indian Creek Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the church or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.


Monday, February 5, 2024

Andrew Lewis Yearout

 

Andrew Lewis Yearout, 93 of Floyd, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Paula Yearout Willis; and brother, Curtis Yearout.

He served in the US Army and received the Army’s Bronze Star Medal for his leadership and bravery during war. He retired from the RAAP. He enjoyed sitting with old time friends and reminiscing.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Zelda “Inez” Yearout; son, Lewis “Dale” Yearout; granddaughter, Brandy Ballinger (Johnny); great-grandchildren, Emma, Carson, and Shaun Ballinger; sister, Virginia Yearout Williams; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 8, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Allen Agee officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery with Military Rites by Floyd VFW Post #7854, American Legion Post #127, and the Army National Guard. The family will receive friends from Noon until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Joshua Amos Weddle

 

Joshua “Josh” Amos Weddle, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 2, 2024. He was born on March 1, 1996. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Jeff & Lorene Radford; and uncles, Jr. Radford and Jimmy L. Radford. He is reunited with his special uncle, Jimmy and the love they had for each other.

Although he faced many struggles and difficulties in his short life, he faced them with courage and strength.

He enjoyed music by Carrie Underwood, the song “Long Black Train” and all other music. He loved to watch Bluey cartoons which were his favorite. He enjoyed shopping at Wally World, going to church, and spending time at school. He loved to go on van rides as long as he got to go somewhere.

He is survived by a special big brother and buddy, Gary Dickerson. They had a special bond with each other. He is also survived by his mom & dad, Johnnie & Betty Dickerson; aunts & uncles, Judy & Tommy Bell and Harry & Thannah Radford.

Remember Josh for his beautiful smile and contagious laugh. “To know Josh was to love Josh.”

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and special friends of Josh and to Amedisys Hospice Care.

There will be no services at this time.

“Fly High Little Buddy”


Saturday, January 27, 2024

Joyce Ann McGrady

 

Joyce Ann McGrady, 72 of Radford, was greeted in a glorious reunion with her loving parents, Lawrence & Rosie McGrady, on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. She is also preceded in death by her special Pomeranian, Taylor.

Joyce never met a stranger. She could talk to anyone. She was the same authentic person no matter who she was with! You never had to change who you were around her because she just loved you for who you were.  She was beautiful, never left the house without looking fabulous in perfectly coordinating outfits and jewelry and, of course, her signature lipstick. She had the gift of gab and a smile that would light up a room.

She is survived by her daughter, Jessica Cromer (Michael Lytton); son, Joshua Cromer; granddaughter, Kaylee Wood; sister & special brother-in-law, Janice & Larry Weeks; nephews, Jason Weeks (Donna) and Travis Weeks (Katie); and great-nephew, Grady Weeks.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Joyce’s many special friends for all of their calls, visits, prayers and care during this difficult time, as well as the doctors and staff at Roanoke Memorial Palliative Care.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

Friday, January 26, 2024

Jim Cecil Lemon

 

Jim Cecil Lemon, 57 of Floyd, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024. He is preceded in death by his father, Wayne Lemon; sister, Dana Lemon Danis; grandparents, Doug & Twila Reed and Sidney & Mildred Lemon; and great-grandparents, Cecil & Claris Reed.

He is survived by his daughter, Ayla Lemon; mother, Donna Johnson; brother, John Lemon; and several nieces and nephews.

There are no services scheduled at this time.


Monday, January 22, 2024

Peggy Buckner Underwood

 

Peggy Buckner Underwood gained her wings at her home in Floyd at 80 years of age on Saturday, January 20, 2024. She had a difficult battle with cancer and is finally at rest.

Born on November 18, 1943 in Floyd, she was the daughter of Ed and Opal Buckner. Peggy spent 27 hardworking years spreading joy and providing exceptional care to her patients at Skyline Nursing Home. She enjoyed spending her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as watching birds and yard work.

Peggy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Arthur Underwood; and her siblings, Willie Buckner, Troy Buckner and Polly Huff.

Peggy will be remembered as a loving mother by Linda Underwood Harris (Rick) and Lisa Underwood Smith (Jason); a loving grandmother to Kendall Huff (Leah), Kendra McAlexander (Josh), Tiffany Smith (Elijah) and Troy Harris; loving great-grandmother to Bentley McAlexander, Ethan Huff, Brenton McAlexander, Elliott Huff, and Haisleigh McAlexander; a loving sister to Madalene Cox (Alfred); and God daughter, Shannon Huff.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Andrew Fintel, his oncology staff and Good Samaritan Hospice for their remarkable care.

Funeral services will be held at Noon on Saturday, January 27, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kenneth Poston officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until Noon prior to the service at the funeral home. 


Friday, January 19, 2024

Marie Agnes Simpkins

 

Marie Agnes Simpkins, 86 of Floyd, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Thursday, January 18, 2024 in her home surrounded by family.

Marie was known for her many dedicated years of service at the Radford Arsenal. Everywhere she went she was recognized by many, never knowing a stranger. She loved many things including gardening, flowers, and family gatherings. Her bubbly personality will be dearly missed by all of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Marie is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, “Paul” Ritivo Simpkins of Floyd; her children, Karen Lytton of Christiansburg, Kevin (Stacy) Simpkins of Floyd, Kim (Ernie) Woods of Christiansburg, and Kelli Hill of Max Meadows; grandchildren, Timothy (Ashley) Simpkins, Brian Lytton, Justin (Laurel) Simpkins, Tyler Hill, Taylor Hill, Bryce Thompson, and Brent Thompson; many other extended family including great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rommie & Dovie Duncan; son, Kendall Simpkins; granddaughter, Brandy Acord; son-in-law, “Bubby” Phillip Lytton; siblings, Evans Duncan, Maxie (Dick) Neece, Irvin (Lois) Duncan, Carl Duncan, and Bernard (Georgia-Lee) Duncan. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, January 22, 2024 in the Beaver Creek Church with Pastor Marvin Wade officiating. Interment will follow in the Beaver Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at the church.

 Tomorrow

When tomorrow starts without me
And I’m not there to see
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me
I wish so much you wouldn’t cry
The way you did today
While thinking of the many things
We didn’t get to say
I know how much you love me
As much as I love you
And each time that you think of me
I know you’ll miss me too
But when tomorrow starts without me
Please try to understand
That an Angel Came and Called my name
And took me by the hand
And said my place was ready
In heaven far above
And that I have to leave behind
All those I dearly love

Thursday, January 11, 2024

Suzanne Prideaux Roberts

 


Suzanne Prideaux Roberts, 76, passed away on January 8, 2024, in Floyd, VA. 

She is remembered by her children, Genevieve, Elizabeth, and Robert; brother, Steven; and 11 grandchildren. 

She was known for her love of reading, genealogy, and history. 

A private family memorial will be held. Suzanne's journey has come to a close, leaving behind memories and moments that will be remembered.

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Lynda Faye Bowman

 


Lynda Faye Bowman, 71 of Meadows of Dan, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 in the Light Cemetery with Pastor Nathan Montgomery officiating.

Brenda Kay Higgs

 

Brenda Kay Higgs, 78 of Christiansburg, passed away on Friday, January 5, 2024. Her final moments were spent surrounded by her loving family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harless and Kate Harris; brother, Roger Harris; and sister, Katherine Zehner.

Brenda is survived by her loving husband of nearly 60 years, Douglas Higgs; daughters, Debra Higgs French, Rebecca Higgs-Campbell, and Lisa Higgs O’Connor; grandchildren, Weston Allen, Emily O’Connor, and Mark O’Connor; brother, Philip Harris. Her grandson Weston was her whole heart and best friend.

Known for her kindness and loving spirit, Brenda will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Brenda’s family asks that she be remembered for the unconditional love and joy she brought to others in life, not the sadness of her passing.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 12, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Roy Turpin officiating. Interment will follow in the Indian Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.


Jarrette "Pinky" Lawrence Jinnett


Jarrette "Pinky" Lawrence Jinnett, age 87, passed from this world peacefully on December 13th, 2023 at Sacred Ground Hospice House of Knoxville, TN. “Pinky” was born on February 10, 1936 in Check, VA. She was a graduate of the Executive Secretarial Course at the National Business College in Roanoke, VA. While in Roanoke, she married the late John G. Jinnett on April 16, 1965, and they moved to Knoxville in 1974. She is survived by one sister, Dianna Wimmer from Check, VA , numerous nieces and nephews, her four step-children, eight grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

“Pinky” enjoyed a successful career as a legal secretary with the Eggleston and Holton law offices, the US Attorney's office in Virginia and later with TVA in Knoxville. She was a faithful member of Concord United Methodist Church and the Friendship Sunday School Class. 
There will be a Celebration of Life Service at the church, 11020 Roane Drive, Knoxville, TN on Thursday, January 11 at 11:00 a.m. There will also be a time for family visitation 30 minutes before the service to allow for those coming in from out of state. She will be laid to rest at a graveside service which will be held on January 12th at 2:00 p.m. at Wilson Cemetery 941 Wilson Cemetery Road, Check, VA 24072.
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Shriners Children's, Attn: Shriners Children's, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394 or to Sacred Ground Hospice House, 1120 Dry Gap Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918.

Monday, January 8, 2024

John Mildridge Weeks

 

John Mildridge Weeks, age 81 of Floyd, passed away suddenly on Friday, January 5, 2024. He was born on October 11, 1942 to the late Julian and Minnie Hylton Weeks. He is preceded in death by the love of his life, Charlotte “Sue” Weeks.

In 1956 at the age of 14, he started his first job at Floyd Tire Shop recapping tires. Later he became co-owner which later led to him becoming the owner of Floyd Tire Center. Being the owner, he built a lot of trust with his customers over the years; they knew they could depend on him to pump their gas, clean their windshield, fix a flat tire, and change their oil. He was often called “The Tire Man.”

He is survived by two loving and devoted daughters, Wanda McAlexander (Steve) and Lorie Miracle (Mark); five grandchildren, Ashlee Stevens (Anthony), Kayla Burleson (CJ), Joshua McAlexander (Kendra), Adam Miracle, and Jamison Miracle; nine great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Albert Weeks (Janet); sisters, Alberta Weeks, Pauline Repass, and Peggy Howell; several nieces and nephews; neighbors he considered family; and special friend, Dennis Sowers.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Roy Turpin officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from Noon until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Floyd County Rescue Squad, PO Box 257, Floyd, VA 24091 or to the Floyd County Fire Department, PO Box 33, Floyd, VA 24091.


Thursday, January 4, 2024

Alivene Alley


Alivene Alley, 80 of Indian Valley, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.  She is preceded in death by her husband, James Arthur Alley; son, Jesse Alley; parents, Hubert and Virgie Hall; and grandson, Jamie Lafon Alley. 

She is survived by her sons & daughters-in-law, Rocky & Wanda Alley and Jeff & Carol Alley; daughter & son-in-law, Melissa & Elwood Nester; grandchildren, Heather & Michael Greer, Misty & Elliott Johnson, Grace & Christopher Duncan, Faith & Isaac Harris, Danielle Alley and Jesse James Alley; great-grandchildren, Trinity Alley, Jaydon Jones, Rowan Alley, Madison, Madelyn, Margo, Nehemiah & Elias Greer, Nalani & Miles Johnson, Tinley & Ariella Duncan and Hazel Harris.  

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2024 in the Captain George Quesenberry Cemetery with Rev. Kenneth Poston officiating.

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

Jacqueline "Jackie" Dalton

Jacqueline “Jackie” Dalton, 87 of Willis, passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2023. She is preceded in death by her siblings, Artimesa Tyrell, Joe Hughes, William “Bill” Hughes, and Ted Hughes.

Jackie enjoyed her career as a cosmetologist and cosmetology instructor at four different schools. She also owned several shops.

She is survived by her husband, Arlie E. Dalton; children & their spouses, Richard & Kathy Stewart, Jeffrey & Sheila Stewart, Tonya & Harry Cuthrell, Chantay Arney, and Jacqueline Hinton; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Nevin Hughes and John Hughes; step-children, Cara & Richard Perdue and Jeff & Michelle Dalton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, January 8, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jeff Dalton and Minister Jeff Stewart officiating. Interment will follow in the Goad Cemetery, Meadows of Dan. The family will receive friends from Noon until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the ASPCA.


Jerry Lee Willis

 

Jerry Lee Willis was born on October 23, 1948 to Wilford Archie and Lake Evelyn Willis on a beautiful Saturday afternoon on Goose Creek in Check, VA, Floyd County.

Jerry joined the Army during the Vietnam War. After service, he moved to the state of Michigan where he found employment with General Motors for 30 years until his disability retirement in 2005. At that time, he returned to his home state of Virginia in Riner where he found solace in his log home on the mountain until his death on December 29, 2023.

Jerry is survived by one daughter, Katelyn Marie Thomas, who is now serving in the United States Navy, stationed in Japan. Jerry Lee is also has three living siblings out of seven, two living sisters, Ruth Madeline Price of Pulaski, Lillian Carol Conner and husband James of Christiansburg; and one brother, Michael Raye Willis and wife Wanda of Georgia.

Funeral services will be held at Noon on Friday, January 5, 2024 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Roy Turpin officiating. Interment will follow in the Restvale Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until Noon prior to the service at the funeral home.

Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Patricia Ann Merchant


Patricia Ann Robbins Merchant, 61 of Woolwine, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Matthew Merchant; and brothers, Ronnie Robbins, Buddy Robbins, and Wayne Robbins.

She is survived by her son, Dustin Moore (Shakayla); daughter, Jessica Payne; sisters, Carol Galvan, Betty Peters (J.P.), Brenda Martin (Jimmy); brothers, Donald Robbins and Jimmy Robbins; two granddaughters; two grandsons; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 in the Topeco Cemetery with Pastor Wes Conner officiating.

Lloyd Wendell Akers, Sr.

 


Lloyd Wendell Akers, Sr., of Floyd, died suddenly on December 29.

Born on December 10, 1937 in Copper Valley, Lloyd died as he lived, hard at work with a hammer in his hand, making the world a more beautiful place. Lloyd loved to garden and to share his bounty with family, neighbors and strangers.  He was a wicked card player and he loved to win. Lloyd enjoyed fishing, creating beautiful ponds to enjoy with family. His loved ones were blessed to have shared many recent visits. Lloyd was a proud member of Willis High School Class of ‘56, and the Sprinkler Fitters Union Local 669 member for 66 years.  Lloyd lived much of his life in Scranton, PA. He retired in 1995 and moved back to his beloved home place to spend time with his mother and help care for her.

He leaves to mourn his beloved children, Gary Akers and wife Denise of Scranton, PA, Janice Akers Kohler and husband Tom of North Myrtle Beach, SC, and Mark Akers and wife Mina of Lehighton, PA. He is also survived by his devoted sister, Lois Akers Tatum. They spoke or saw each other daily. Also his dearest friend Odetta Bond Terry, with whom he joyfully spent every Sunday cooking and watching sports together; his uncle and aunt, Vance and Lena Duncan; eight grandchildren, Jillanne Akers Salazar, Matthew Joseph Duffy, Tyler Akers, Louis Borrini, Stephanie Kohler, Joshua Kohler, Avery Akers and Eva Akers; four devoted nieces, Susan Woodhouse, Katherine Williams, Barbara Farmer, Lisa Gentry and their husbands; his dear friend Foster Bond and great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Lelia Duncan Akers, his brother William Akers, his son Lloyd Akers Jr., grandson John Verkitus and his former wife, Jean Berstecher Akers. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 5, 2024 at White Rock Church of the Brethren with Rev. Michael Pugh officiating. Interment will follow in the White Rock Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the church.

Memorial donations may be made to White Rock Church of the Brethren, 1863 White Rock Rd. NW, Floyd, VA 24091.

Friday, December 29, 2023

Judy Harris Duesberry

 

Judy Harris Duesberry, 82, of Portsmouth, VA, passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 in Lake Mary, Florida, at the home of her daughter.

She was born November 4, 1941 in Roanoke, Virginia to Cornelia and Vernon Harris. Judy graduated from Floyd County High School and received a degree in fashion design from Richmond Professional Institute (RPI).

After beginning her career as a department store model and elementary school teacher, Judy taught for 20 years in the special education department of Western Branch High School in Chesapeake, VA. She was a talented artist, loved by her students, and enjoyed shopping, reading, traveling and arts and crafts. After retirement, she enjoyed several years back in her hometown, and later resided in Florida.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her former spouse, Harry Edward Duesberry; and her great-niece Annalia Meredith Wills. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Regina and Michael Christian; her sister and brother-in-law, Constance and John Mitchell; her niece, Christie Wills; and her great-nephew and niece, Jackson Thomas and Augusta Claire Wills.

She is being buried at Baldwin-Fairchild Oaklawn Cemetery.