Nelda Sue Sweeney

 

Nelda Sue Sweeney, 90 of Roanoke VA, passed away on Thursday, February 27th, 2025. Nelda was born on September 15, 1934 in Willis, VA; the daughter of the late Howard and Guida Spence.

Nelda graduated from Willis High School. She worked as a retail clothing buyer with Belk before attending nursing school. She spent her career working for RJ Reynolds hospital, the Department of Health and in home health care.

Nelda was an avid gardener, her flower arrangements were featured in the local newspaper. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, singing gospel music, attending church, traveling, and dancing at the Floyd Country Store. She was a lifelong member at New Haven Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her son, Frank Ward Sweeney, Jr.; grandson, Corey Scott Sweeney; brothers, Billy Wayne Spence and Howard Spence Jr.; and sister, Colleen Hutchens.

Nelda is survived by granddaughter, Ashley S. Carr (Geremy), Floyd VA; grandson, Lee M. Sweeney, Roanoke, VA; daughter-in-law, Donna Sweeney, Floyd VA; and great-grandchildren, Jaden, Cameron and Mason.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Allen Agee officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial donations in Nelda’s memory may be directed to Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 

225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago IL, 60601. The family would like to extend a special thank you for the outstanding care provided by Friendship Manor, Roanoke Va.

Teresa Newland

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Teresa Newland, a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, and friend, who left us on February 24, 2025, at the age of 57 following a prolonged illness. Although she had been struggling with health challenges for some time and though she fought bravely, she is now at peace. Known for her simplicity and strength, she found solace in life's quiet moments and cherished the love of those closest to her.

Born in Roanoke, Virginia, Teresa lived a humble life in Floyd County, where she valued peace and simplicity above all else. She took great comfort in the warmth of her home, sharing countless precious moments with her family. Despite her reserved nature and love for quiet reflection, her devotion to her son and grandson was always clear and unwavering.

Though Teresa’s illness made it difficult for her to live as she once had, her family always knew her to be a gentle, loving presence. Her quiet strength and steadfast love for her family will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

One of Teresa’s greatest joys was her grandson, Maverick. The time she spent with him brought her immense happiness, and she deeply cherished her role as a grandmother. She eagerly anticipated the arrival of her granddaughter, Emory, who will carry forward her memory.

Teresa leaves behind her son, Zachary Newland (Michaela); her grandchildren, Maverick and soon-to-be granddaughter Emory; her mother, Shirley Bowman; her brothers, Robbie Nichols (Rosalie) and Ricky Nichols; her nieces and nephews, Briana Nichols, Chase Nichols, Sara Nichols, Josh Nichols (Allison), and Whitney Reed (Zach); along with many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly. She is preceded in death by her father, Robert Nichols; and her infant brother, Jeremiah Nichols.

Her memory will forever live in the hearts of those who loved her. Teresa’s love, kindness, and presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Noon on Monday, March 3, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Rocky Huff officiating. Interment will follow in the Nichols Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until Noon prior to the service at the funeral home.

Ruby Alma Wade Mannon

 

Ruby Alma Wade Mannon, 97 of Floyd, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025. She was born June 8, 1927, to Ruby Dale Lester Wade and Arthur Boss Wade of Indian Valley, VA. 

Alma is preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Howard C. Mannon; two sons, Philip Arthur and Bruce Anthony Mannon; brothers, Barnie Wade (Evelyn), Oden Gene Wade and Arthur Dale Wade; sister, Ila Wade Agee (Strick), brothers-in-law, Beverly Hunter, Gratton Thompson, Bill Conner and Carnice Mannon (Betty Jean); and sister-in-law, Josephine Mannon Hundley (John).    

She is survived by her son, Roger H. Mannon (Nancy); daughter-in-law, Anita Grim Mannon Smith (Charlie); grandchildren, Neal Mannon (Sarah), Christopher Mannon (Daphne), Eli Mannon (Amber), Adria Mannon Dillon (Bill), and Ethan Mannon (Bethany); great-grandchildren, Lydia Mannon, Alexandra Wells (Walter), Paul Bryum (Jazlyn), Della Mannon, Eva Dillon, Violet Dillon, Levi Dillon, Ander Mannon and Ruby Mannon; great-great-grandchildren, Walter Jr. and Elena Lynn Wells; sisters, Edith Wade Hunter and Alta Wade Conner; sister-in-law, Cora Bell Farley Wade Thompson; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Alma worked many years at Leggett’s Department Store in Christiansburg, VA and also at The Floyd Press, Inc., in Floyd, VA. She was a member of the Floyd Church of Christ. She loved to read, sew, and crochet baby afghans, scarves and book marks. She spent time reading her Bible and doing Word Search books. Alma was also a member of the Homemaker’s Club. In her last two years at Skyline Manor Nursing and Rehab Center, she participated in the arts and crafts, Country music, bingo and other activities.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Mitchell Floyd, minister for the Floyd Church of Christ, her nephew, Pastor Marvin Wade of the Beaver Creek Community Church, her grandson, Ethan Mannon and her son, Roger Mannon officiating. Interment will follow in the Mannon Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Flowers are appreciated or you can make a donation to the Mannon Cemetery Fund c/o Lester Mannon, P.O. Box 423, Floyd, VA 24091.

The family would like to thank Skyline Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center for their care of Ms. Alma. She made lots of friends, old and new, during her time there. Thank you to all of the groups who came to bless the residents with music, bingo and many other activities.

Richard "Dick" Pence, Jr.

It is with great sorrow that the family announces the death of Richard (Dick) Pence, Jr., 94 of Floyd, VA. Dick passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard S. Pence, Sr. and Mary Eleanor (Quick) Pence; along with his late wife, Nancy Radar Pence. He is survived by his wife Clara (Judy) Reed Pence.

Dick was born on June 4, 1930 in Los Angeles, CA. After high school he joined the Navy in 1949, where he served an amazing 31-year career. While in the Navy, he served in the Korean War, and five tours in the Vietnam War. His career included being an integral member of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). Dick was a deep-sea diver, a member of the Navy Experimental Diving Unit, and was recruited for the Marine Mammal Program. He finished up his career in San Diego, CA as a Chief Petty Officer Mineman (MNC), Master EOD Technician with his duties including being an Instructor for Under Water Ordinance and Diving, Explosive and Radiation Safety Officer, and Diving Supervisor. Dick received many decorations, medals, badges, citations and ribbons and awards throughout his incredible career to include the Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal (Vietnam), Korean Service Medal, Vietnam Service Metal, Korean Presidential Unit Citation, United Nations Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Navy Expert Rifle Medal, and Navy Expert Pistol Medal.

Dick married his loving wife Clara (Judy) Reed Pence 21 years ago on August 31, 2003. They enjoyed their retired years together traveling, enjoying family, friends and the charm of living in the country in Floyd, VA. They frequently listened to local musicians and attended the Friday night jamborees with close friends. Dick and Judy enjoyed living in Floyd, a small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains where the scenery is tranquil and beautiful. Dick raised catfish and large-mouth bass in their backyard pond and both he and Judy loved seeing the beautiful sunsets over the pond, watching the wildlife of deer, turkey, bear, geese, fox and beautiful birds right from their family room and porch.

Dick loved the outdoors and always enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping throughout his life. He continued taking his annual trips across country to Nevada and the high Sierra mountains with his family until he was 92 years old. They enjoyed fishing the lakes in Nevada and California and camping together. Over the years and having shared many experiences, Dick shared his favorite fishing lakes and life stories along the way.

Dick is survived by his wife, Judy Reed Pence; his three children, Debra Pence, Richard (Scot) Pence (Debbie), and Craig Pence (Beth); his six grandchildren, Sarah Massie (Jerel), Nathan Massie (Courtney), Ellen Massie, Courtney Pence, Richard Pence (Elizabeth). and Anna Dahlstrom (Matt); and a great-grandson, Dante Massie. He is also survived by his three step-children, Sandra Reed, Camden Reed, and Jeff Reed; six step-grandchildren, Andrea Fishburn (Nick), Leah Beland (Madison), Laura Reed, Chrissie Shives (Wes), Jason Reed, Colin Reed; and a great-grandchild, Alyas.

There are no memorial services scheduled at this time.

Linda Marshall Urbano

 

Linda Marshall Urbano, 76 of Bronx, NY, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2025. She is preceded in death by her sons, Zachary Rabinowitz and Ashley Rabinowitz; and husband, Jesse Rabinowitz.

Linda loved being in Floyd County for her many visits. She was kind, strong-willed, and loved by all. She was a friend and mama to everyone. She was a workaholic, always finished everything she started, and did everything she did, well. She was known most recently as a “tough nut.”

She is survived by her daughter, Rachel Rabinowitz; grandchildren, Isabelle, Victoria, Amanda, Mickey and Nico; brothers, Daniel McCuiston and Ron Marshall; sisters, Cyndy Kiger, Dee Lawrence (Ron), and Brenda Scott; and special friends, Dr. Ben and Enver.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of Linda’s many friends for always being there for her.  

Graveside services will be held at Noon on Thursday, February 20, 2025 in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Steve Wade officiating.

Annie Marie Allen Martin

 **Please note updated service date**

Annie Marie Allen Martin, 88 of Copper Hill, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025. She is preceded in death by her parents, Charlie William & Mary Alma Janney Allen; and siblings, Ruth Collins, J.D. Allen, and Woodrow Allen.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Lee Martin; sons, Eddie Lee Martin, Gary Wayne Martin, and Charlie Lee Martin; granddaughter, Allie Nicole Martin; brothers, Alton Lee Allen and Dalton Dee Allen; nieces and nephew she helped raise, Eva Dawn Marshall, Debbie Alma Crooks, and Jr. Collins; several cousins including a special cousin who cared for Annie, Patricia Bailey; and special friends, Bonnie Conner and Linda Jean Wright.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Harold Furrow officiating. Interment will follow in the Cannaday Cemetery. The family will receive friends from Noon until 1 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Betty Jean Radford Martin

 

Betty Jean Radford Martin, 81 of Willis, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025. She is preceded in death by her parents, Albert & Elsie Radford; and siblings, an infant sister, Everett “Buddy” Radford, Mildred Ferguson, and David Radford. Betty was lovingly nicknamed “Turkey.”

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Richard Lee Martin; sons & daughters-in-law, Allen & Deonna Martin, Ricky & Kathy Martin, and Daniel Martin & Crystal Dalton; daughters & sons-in-law, Brenda & Randy Moran and Sussanna & Damon Moore; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brothers & sisters-in-law, William & Earnestine Radford and Jimmy & Martha Radford; sisters, Nancy Wade and Mary Grooms; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends, Crystal Dalton and Larry Smith.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Dakota Queen officiating. Interment will follow in the Williams Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Joel Myron Cockram

 

Joel Myron Cockram, 57 of Check, went to be with his Lord and Savior in his Heavenly Home on Thursday, February 6, 2025. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Welby and Patsy Cockram; and brother, Steven.

He was the very definition of hard working, dedicated to the people and things he loved, and a continual example of strength. Joel was a devoted husband and friend and never met a stranger. He was an avid racing and wrestling fan, with a special love for Richard Petty and Ric Flair. Joel worked as a courier for FedEx Express and was fondly known as Ric Petty at the wrestling matches he refereed. Both his FedEx and wrestling families were near and dear to his heart.

Joel is survived by his loving wife, Beth Cockram; mother-in-law, Bobbie Aldridge (L.E.); step-children, Pamela (Nate), Brittany (Tyler), Mason, and Jarrett (Veronica); step-grandchild, Owen; brothers and sister, Gary (Jeanette), Philip, Jennifer (Stacy); a very special great-niece, Avalyn; and many loved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Stanley Hawkins, Pastor Roy Turpin, and Matthew Browning officiating. Interment will follow in the Lee Cemetery, Tuggles Gap. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Roger Lee Phillips

Roger Lee Phillips, 83 of Floyd, met his Savior on Monday, February 4, 2025.  He is preceded in death by his parents, John Brady and Odell Phillips; siblings, Chester Phillips (Edith), Claburn Phillips, Harold Phillips, Paul Phillips, Jo Ann Kingrea (Albert), Willie Phillips, Geneva Smith, Curtis Phillips and Elwood Phillips; brother-in-law, Dorsie Montgomery; sisters-in-law, Annie Phillips, Sandy Phillips, Noble Phillips and Bea Ann Phillips.

He is survived by the loving mother of his children, Modene Quesenberry; daughters, Andrea Phillips and Karen Harris; granddaughter, Shawna Conner (Dustin); three great-grandchildren he adored, Emberlee, Benji and John-Brady Conner; siblings, Bobby Phillips (Sylvia), Clarence Phillips, Jackie Phillips (Alice), Reba Montgomery, Ronald Phillips and Timmy Phillips (Sandra); sister-in-law, Oleda Phillips; and brother-in-law, Ronald Smith.

On a Saturday night you would find him enjoying music at Wildwood Farm. He was most proud of his granddaughter and great-grandchildren, who he would proudly show pictures of everywhere he went. When Roger was too young to even drive, he drove a dump truck in the coal mines of West Virginia with his dad and brothers. He went to work at Donnkenny as the manager of the cutting room where he worked for 35 years. He started working at Legacy Linens in Floyd in 2001 where he was still employed.

Roger was always a hard worker, he enjoyed yard work and was never afraid of manual labor. Just this fall and winter, you could find him outside mowing, shoveling, raking and carrying leaves. Not too long ago he was seen at the rock quarry shoveling rocks into his pickup truck to work on his driveway. He was a devoted member of Graysontown New Life Ministries with Pastor Justin Quesenberry. After church he regularly drove by to visit his great-grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Justin Quesenberry and Pastor Kenneth Poston officiating. Interment will follow in the Jacksonville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from Noon until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Hubert Roy Harman

Hubert Roy Harman, 96 of Check, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025.  He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Lou Poff Harman; and daughter Sandi Lou Harman. 

He is survived by his sons, Jem Harman of Roanoke and Joe Harman of Kansas City; grandsons, Bryce Harman (Tessia) and Brian Harman (Nicole); granddaughter, Kari Harman; great-grandsons, Mason Harman, Adric Harman and Archie Harman; sisters, Fern Harris, Willadean Hylton, Phyllis Thompson, and Jewell Spickard (Joe); brothers, Buster Hodges and Ewell Hodges (Linda); and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Hubert was born in Willis, Va and spent much of his youth on his grandfather’s farm while his uncles were off to war. After graduating from Willis High School in 1945 he attended Coyne Trade school in Chicago where he completed electrical training. Returning home he wired many of the older houses in Floyd County for electricity the first time.

He married Mary Lou Poff and moved to her home in Check where he took care of her mother’s farm. He was one of the earliest employees at the General Electric plant in Salem, Va. He worked there for 30 years. After retiring from GE he continued to run the farm, as well as expanding the number of new homes he wired. 

Hubert enjoyed grouse hunting and spent many hours with his dog hunting in the hills and valleys around Check. He also loved fishing in Nags Head with friends from Floyd County and others he met.

His friends found his unpredictable, disarming sense of humor enjoyable. The nursing staff commented that he never lost that during his last days.

Hubert’s family wishes to thank those in Check and the surrounding area who visited frequently and took him out for sightseeing rides and meals. An extra special thanks to those living near him who brought him food, friendship and watched out for his forays in lawn mowing, weed whacking and other antics.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jerry Hylton officiating. Interment will follow in the Restvale Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Copper Hill United Methodist Church c/o Janice Conner, 6227 Floyd Hwy N, Check, Va. 24072.

Carlis Marvin Hale

Carlis Marvin Hale, 79 of Blue Ridge, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, February 02, 2025. 

Carlis was born to Cebert and Algie Conner Hale in Floyd County, Virginia. He was one of seven children. He spent most of his adult life in Blue Ridge, Virginia. He was an entrepreneur and enjoyed buying and repairing rental properties. He retired from Norfolk and Southern Railroad after over 30 years of service.

He was considered by those who knew him as kind, caring, giving and a neighbor to all.

Carlis is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Edgar and Vannie Sue Hale; nieces, Becky Owens, Martha Beckner, Connie Wade, Teresa Gibson, Sue Justice, Carol Cladwell, Durene Chavarria; nephews, James Hale, Amos Hale, Michael Goad, Ricky Goad, William Goad, Samuel Hale; sister-in-law, Brenda Hale; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. 

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 in the Maberry Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Mark Spencer officiating. Interment will follow in the Old Salem Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.