As Reported in the Floyd County Times Dated

Friday, December 28, 2001

Sam Fitzpatrick

Age, 79, of Prestonsburg, died Tuesday, December 25, 2001, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, following an extended illness. He was born September 16, 1922, at Prestonsburg, a son of the late Penn and Margaret (Stanley) Fitzpatrick. He was a road foreman for the Floyd County Road Department, and was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. Survivors include two sons, Steven H. Fitzpatrick of Prestonsburg and David M. Fitzpatrick of Boston, Ma.; one daughter, Lenora Margaret Kendrick of Prestonsburg; two sisters, Margaret Marshall of Titusville, Fl., and Jessie Brewer of Alhambra, Ca.; five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Ike Fitzpatrick, and four sisters, Bess West, Stella Spurlock, Garnet Spurlock, and Dorothy (Dot) Marshall. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, December 30, 2001, at 1 p.m., at the Burke Funeral Home of Prestonsburg, with graveside services following at the Fitzpatrick Cemetery at Middle Creek. Contributions may be made in his honor to the Heart and Kidney Foundation.

Ola Howard

Age 74, of Eastern, Ky., widow of Gold Howard, passed away Monday, December 24, 2001, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg, Ky., following an extended illness. She was born February 8, 1928, in Rock Fork, Ky., the daughter of the late Elbert Cox and Minnie Stamper Cox. She was a homemaker and a member of the Salt Lick United Baptist Church. Survivors include two sons, Donald Howard and Ronnie Howard, both of Eastern, Ky.; one daughter, Kathy Cornette of Douglasville, Ga., 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Larry Howard; one brother, Hodley Cox; two sisters, Ova Coburn and Osa Grigsby. Funeral services for Ola Howard were conducted, Thursday, December 27, 2001, at 1:00 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with the clergyman, Gary Mitchell, officiating. Burial followed in the Gold Howard Family Cemetery, Garrett, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Matilda Victoria Johnson

Age, 89, of Prestonsburg, Ky., died Friday, December 21, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on December 18, 1912, at Jenkins, Ky., she was the daughter of the late George and Piney Mae Brummett Adams. She was a homemaker and attended the Praise Assembly Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie Johnson. Survivors include one son, Johnny Little of Inglis, Fla.; four daughters, Betty White of Prestonsburg, Ky., Lorraine Arnett of New Carlisle, Oh., Peggy Rice of Grass Lake, Mich., Linda Bevins of Mare Creek, Ky.; two brothers, Ralph Wright of Jenkins, Ky., Everett Wright of Charleston, S.C.; two sisters, Hazel Boggs of Pound, Va., Juanita Johnson of Myra, Ky.; 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one brother, Edgar Wright; and one sister, Georgia Elswick. Funeral services were conducted Monday, December 24, 2001, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky., with J.M. Sloce and Randy Damron officiating. Burial was in the May Cemetery, Prestonsburg, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Gladys Bentley

Age 77, of Beaver, Ky., widow of Willie Bentley, passed away Wednesday, December 26, 2001, at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital, Pikeville, Ky. She was born May 10, 1924, in Weeksbury, Ky., the daughter of the late Emory Kiser and Tilda Howell Kiser. She was a homemaker and a member of the Samaria Regular Baptist Church since 1970. Survivors include seven sons, Gretho Bentley of West Liberty, Ky., Arthur Bentley of River Rouge, Mi., David Bentley of Romulus, Mi., Billy Bentley of Beaver, Ky., Randy Bentley and Frank Bentley, both of Harold, Ky., Hank Bentley of New London, Oh.; two daughters, Lois Newman of Hi Hat, Ky., Lou Martin of Craynor, Ky.; two brothers, Ollie Kiser of Dayton, Oh., Delmer Kiser of Teaberry, Ky.; 20 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. In addition to her husband and parents she was preceded in death by one son, Troy Bentley; one daughter, Arlene Hamilton; one brother, Elmer Kiser; and three sisters, Dorothy Hamilton, Dora Keathley, and Delphia Hamilton; and two grandchildren, Steven Hamilton and Gloria Gay Bentley. Funeral services for Gladys Bentley will be conducted Friday, December 28, 2001, at 1:00 p.m., at the Samaria Regular Baptist Church, Teaberry, Ky., with the Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in the Joe Reynolds Cemetery, Beaver, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation is at the church.

Emma Mae Pack

Age, 83, of Martin, Ky., died Wednesday, December 26, 2001, following a brief illness. Born on August 15, 1918, in Floyd County, Ky., she was the daughter of the late Grover Moore and Mollie Hamilton Moore. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hobert Pack. Survivors include two sons, Chester Pack of Prestonsburg, Ky., and Donald R. Pack of Martin, Ky.; one daughter, Bonnie Rayl of Martin, Ky.; one sister, Darlene Landrum of Chillicothe, Oh.; 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one brother, Astor Moore and seven sisters, Esta Blanton, Nannie Burke, Zella Ricker, Sophia Akers, Betty Moore, Isabelle Reynolds and Katherine Tennant. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, December 29, 2001, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky, with Ted Shannon officiating. Burial will be in the Lucy Hall Cemetery, McDowell, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Buford Coburn

Age, 68, of Garrett, Ky., died Tuesday, December 25, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on June 14, 1933, in Knott County, Ky., he was the son of the late Virgil and Ellen Green Wicker. He was a disabled coal miner, a member of the Ball Branch Old Regular Baptist Church, at Mousie, and a Korean veteran. He is survived by his wife, Avanell Short Coburn. Survivors include one son, Gary Coburn of Wayland, Ky.; daughter-in-law, Ouida Coburn; four grandchildren, Carla (Rodney) Robinson of Prestonsburg, Ky., Kristie Coburn of Wayland, Ky., Shawna Coburn of Wayland, Ky., Donavan Coburn of Wayland, Ky.; two brothers, Morton Wicker of Ligonier, Ind., Virgil Glen Wicker of Kendallville, Ind.; two sisters, Dani Reed of Elkhart, Ind., and Racine Smith of Albion, Ind. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, December 28, 2001, at 1 p.m., at the Ball Branch Old Regular Baptist Church, Mousie, Ky., with ministers of the Old Regular Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Chaffins Cemetery, Mousie, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation is at the Ball Branch Old Regular Baptist Church at Mousie.

Bruce Bentley

Age 83, of Topmost, Ky., husband of Velma Truman Bentley, passed away Sunday, December 23, 2001, at the McDowell Appalachian Regional Hospital, McDowell, Ky. He was born October 21, 1918, in Letcher County, Ky., the son of the late Irvin Bentley and Curl Vance Bentley. He was a retired merchant and coal miner, a World War II, Army veteran, and a member of the Rebecca Old Regular Baptist Church. Survivors, other than his wife, include one son, Russell O. Bentley, (Cessie), Topmost, Ky.; three daughters, Karen Caldwell, (Tom), Florence, Ky., Denise Martin, (Jack), San Antonio, Tx., Vivian Blair, (Mitch), Topmost, Ky.; eight grandchildren, Bruce Russell Bentley, (Kelly), Jarrod Owen Bentley, Travis Caldwell, (Phebe), Susan Petray, (Bryce), Shana Blair, Jana Martin, Matt Blair, and Jeff Martin, and two great-grandchildren, Austen and Kaleigh Petray. Funeral services for Bruce Bentley were conducted Wednesday, December 26, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., at the Providence Old Regular Baptist Church, Topmost, Ky., with the Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial followed in the family cemetery, Dry Creek, Topmost, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation was at the church. Pallbearers: Travis Caldwell, Jarrod Owen Bentley, Matt Blair, Jeff Martin, Todd Duff, Randy King and Clint Webb.

Beatrice Gibson

Age, 78, of Martin, Ky., died Sunday, December 23, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on January 17, 1923, in Knott County, Ky., she was the daughter of the late Charlie Gibson and Elma Slone Gibson. She was a homemaker. She was a member of the Martin Freewill Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Gibson. Survivors include one son, Roger D. Gibson of Langley, Ky.; one brother, Ivan Gibson of Mousie, Ky.; two sisters, Mabra Belcher of Mousie, Ky., Lilly Mae Davis of Hamilton, Va.; and two grandchildren, Donna Louise and Deirdre Nicole. She was preceded in death by one son, Earl Gibson; one daughter, Rita Ann Gibson; one brother, David Lee Gibson, and two sisters, Louise Smith and Ora Combs. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, December 25, 2001, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky., with ministers of the Freewill Baptist Church officiating. Burial was in the Gibson Cemetery, Larks Lane, Mousie, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Wednesday, December 26, 2001

Collene Meade

Age, 49, of Harold, Ky., died Friday, December 21, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on June 8, 1952, at Harold, Ky., she was the daughter of the late Willie and Anna Elliott Meade. She was a retired respiratory therapist and a member of the Lower Toler Church of Christ at Harold, Ky. Survivors include four brothers, Duard Meade of Betsy Layne, Ky., Wendell Meade of Lancer, Ky., Gary Meade, Hubert Meade, both of Harold, Ky.; one sister, Sharon Gearheart of Harold, Ky. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Doyle Meade, Warren Meade, Heabert Meade and David Meade; one sister, Billie Sue Meade. Funeral services were conducted Monday, December 24, 2001, at 12 noon, at the Lower Toler Church of Christ at Harold, Ky., with Buddy Ford officiating. Burial was in the Meade Cemetery, Spurlock, Printer, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation was at the Lower Toler Church of Christ at Harold.

Ethel Stumbo

Age 81, of Prestonsburg, Ky., died Friday, December 21, 2001, at her residence, after an extended illness. She was born June 28, 1918, at Prestonsburg, a daughter of the late Taylor and Rhoda (Fitzpatrick) Stumbo. She was a member of the Lancer Baptist Church, the Prestonsburg Ladies Auxiliary, and the Eastern Star. She is survived by several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, December 23, 2001, at 1 p.m., from the Burke Funeral Home Chapel in Prestonsburg, Ky., with Pastor J.M. Sloce officiating. Burial will follow in the Stumbo Cemetery at Stumbo Hollow in Prestonsburg, under direction of Burke Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Grace Allen Damron

Age 77, of Allen, Ky., widow of Jeffery J. Damron, passed away Friday, December 21, 2001, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg, Ky., following an extended illness. She was born May 26, 1924, in Hueysville, Ky., the daughter of the late David Murph Allen and Josephine Bentley Allen. She was retired after several years with the Floyd County Clerks Office as deputy clerk, judge executive and the sheriff’s office. Survivors include two sons, Robert Allen Damron of Allen, Ky., Michael Ray Damron of Banner, Ky.; one daughter, Melinda Kathryn Harrison of El Paso, Tx.; one brother, Bill Allen of Wittensville, Ky.; three sisters, Dorothy Marshall of Allen, Ky., Byrle Shrum of Lookout Mt. Ga., Patricia Jones of West Liberty, Ky.; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Grace Allen Damron will be conducted Sunday, December 23, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Ky., with the clergyman, James Harmon, officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Kentucky. Visitation was at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Sean Damron, David Jones, Mark Bustle, Chris Damron, Wilburn Samons, and David Woods.

Homer J. Akers

Age 88, of Banner, Ky., husband of the late Josephine Hall Akers, passed away Thursday, December 20, 2001, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg, Ky., following an extended illness. He was born August 14, 1913, in Banner, Ky., the son of the late Noah Akers and Vann E. Sturgill Akers. He was a retired powerhouse operator for LTV Steel Corporation, in Michigan. Survivors include one son, Paul Akers of Banner, Ky.; two daughters, Patricia Richie of Lake Orion, Mi., Sylvia Allen of Howell, Mi., nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Elva Akers, Clifford Akers, and Earl Akers; six sisters, Bertha Hall, Emma Compton, Virdie Jones, Coosie Grant, Ona Rice and Gertie Akers. Funeral services for Homer J. Akers will be conducted Sunday, December 23, at 1:00 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with the minister, Ronnie Samons, officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Kentucky. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Friday, December 21, 2001

Rebel Nelson

Age, 68, of Prestonsburg, Ky., died Sunday, December 9, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on February 1, 1933, in Floyd County, Ky., he was the son of the late Homer and Pearlie Jane Hackworth Nelson. He was a self-employed owner of Pyramid Body Shop. He was a Korean War veteran. Survivors include two sons, Randy Nelson and Rick Nelson, both of Warsaw, Ind.; one daughter, Sandy Nelson Brito of Syracuse, Ind.; four brothers, Walter Nelson, Homer Nelson Jr., John Nelson, and Ronnie Nelson, all of Prestonsburg, Ky.; three sisters, Eva Adams of North Manchester, Ind., Geneva Whitaker, and Vickie Poe, both of Prestonsburg, Ky.; and six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren, several step-children and step-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Shelby Jean Prater and Delores Jean Nelson; and two grandchildren, Gregory Brian Nelson and Nathan Nelson. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, December 12, 2001, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky., with Larry Adams officiating. Burial will be in the Nelson Family Cemetery, Prestonsburg, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Mary Mabel Wiley

Age, 93, of Prestonsburg, Ky., died Wednesday, December 19, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on July 31, 1908, in Johnson County, Ky., she was the daughter of the late Manford Dixon and Laura May Dixon. She was a homemaker and a member of the Church of God of Prophecy at West Prestonsburg, Ky. She was preceded in death by her husband, Overton Wiley. Survivors include four sons, Jimmy Wiley of Columbus, Ohio, Gary Wiley of Ontario, California, Jack Wiley of Dearborn, Michigan, and Russel Wiley of Colorado Springs, Colorado; one daughter, Betty Mullins of Wheelwright, Ky.; two brothers, Paul Dixon of Columbus, Ohio, and Carl Dixon of Flatwoods, Ky.; two sisters, Virginia Ambrose of Indiana, and Ethel Woods of Prestonsburg, Ky., 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, Overton Wiley Jr.; two daughters, Ellene Fletcher and Helen Smith; two brothers, Glenn Dixon and Billy Dixon; two sisters, Ruth Stratton, and Laura (Toostie) Casebolt; and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, December 23, 2001, at 11 a.m., at the Church of God of Prophecy at West Prestonsburg, Ky., with Atha Johnson and others officiating. Burial will be in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation will be at the Church of God of Prophecy at West Prestonsburg, after 1 p.m. on Friday.

Wednesday, December 19, 2001

Denzil Yates

Age 74, of Printer, Ky., husband of Josephine Meade Yates, passed away Sunday, December 16, 2001 at his residence. He was born October 12, 1927 in Garrett, Ky., the son of the late Andrew Jackson Yates and Maggie Moore Yates. Mr. Yates was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Martin, Ky., a retired coal miner, and a member of the United Mine Workers Association, Local No. 1373, Wayland, Ky. Survivors include five sons, Steven Yates and Denzil Yates Jr., both of Printer, Ky., Danny Yates and Tim Yates, both of Garrett, Ky., and Carter Yates, Martin, Ky.; five daughters, Connie Mullins and Pearlene Yates, both of Printer, Ky., Nadine Herrell, Columbus, OH, Helen Isaac, Martin, Ky., LaDonna Briggs, Prestonsburg, Ky., two sisters, Ester Hall Lawson, Harold, Ky., and Katherine Meade, Printer, Ky., 16 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Chris Yates, two daughters, Gwinna Davis Carroll and Anna Doris Yates; two brothers, Andrew Yates Jr., and Clifford Yates; one sister, Ethel Elliott; four grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Funeral services for Denzil Yates were conducted Tuesday, December 18, 2001, at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with the elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints officiating. Burial followed in the Meade Cemetery, Printer, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Kentucky. Visitation was at the church. Pallbearers for Denzil Yates were Craig Isaac, Chris Yates, Shannon Yates, Justin Yates, Brian Yates, Allan Mullins, Ralph Justice, Randy Conway, Carl Ray Briggs, Richard Elliott, and Mike Handcock.

Danny Wheeler Mayo

Age 55, of Hager Hill, Ky., passed away Monday, December 17, 2001, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center in Prestonsburg, Ky., after an extended illness. He was born December 11, 1946, at Paintsville, Ky. A son of Royce W. Mayo of West Prestonsburg, Ky., and the late Garnet (Akers) Mayo. He was a disabled coal miner. A member of the Church of Christ. He was a Mason having belonged to the Thomas Cecil Lodge in Pikeville, Ky. He is survived by one brother, Mr. Royce F. Mayo, of Pikeville, Ky.; three sisters, Mrs. Peggy Rice, of East Point, Ky., Mrs. Laura Hyden, of Martin, Ky., and Mrs. Sandy Alvarez, of Simpsonville, Ky. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 2 p.m., from the Burke Funeral Home Chapel in Prestonsburg, Ky. Officiating minister will be Evangelist Bennie Blankenship. Burial will follow in the Richmond Memorial Cemetery, Prestonsburg, under the direction of Burke Funeral Home. Friends may call at the Burke Funeral Home in Prestonsburg, Ky., after 5 p.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2001. All arrangements under the direction of Burke Funeral Home, Prestonsburg, Ky.

Ethel Kendrick

Age 60, of Prestonsburg, Ky., died Thursday, December 13, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on March 5, 1941, at Prestonsburg, Ky., she was the daughter of the late Amos and Ann McGuire Poe. She was a restaurant worker. She is survived by one son, Gene Kendrick, of Prestonsburg, Ky.; one daughter, Charity Kerr, of Prestonsburg, Ky.; three grandchildren, Margaret Lea Horn, Jason Mitchell, and Kay Ann Kerr; seven brothers, Amos Poe Jr., of North Webster, Indiana, Elbert Poe, of Austin, Texas, Isaac Poe, of Louisville, Ky., John Poe, of Blue River, Ky., Billy Poe, of Indiana, David Poe, of Winchester, Ky., and Ronnie Poe, of Indiana; three sisters, Lois Crace, of Prestonsburg, Ky., Mabel Rickle, of Indiana, and Lucy Davis, of Prestonsburg, Ky. She is preceded in death by one grandchild, Chase Daniel Kerr. Funeral services for Ethel Kendrick were conducted Saturday, December 15, 2001, at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Clergymen Harold Lewis and Jim Smith officiated. Burial was in the Arnett Cemetery, Prestonsburg, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Paul Newton Martin

Age 72, of Allen, Ky., died Wednesday, December 12, 2001, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg, Ky., following an extended illness. Born June 9, 1929, in Whitesville, West Virginia, he was a son of Cary Martin and Ina Pearl Bailes Martin. He was the owner of the Country Kitchen Restaurant, Allen, Ky. He was a member of the American Legion, AmVets, V.F.W., Disabled American Veterans, and served in the United States Army in the Korean War. He received the Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars and the U.N. Service Medal. He is survived by one daughter, Paula M. Layne, Prestonsburg, Ky.; one brother, Clarence Martin, Prestonsburg, Ky.; one sister, Florence (Shug) Music, Prestonsburg, Ky.; one granddaughter, Heather Ousley, Prestonsburg, Ky.; two nephews; and, two nieces. He is preceded in death by one sister, Carrie Pearl Wimer. Funeral services for Paul Newton Martin were conducted Saturday, December 15, 2001, at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg. The Rev. George Love officiated. Interment was at the Mayo Cemetery, Prestonsburg, Ky., under the direction of Carter Funeral Home. Military gravesite services were conducted by Big Sandy Chapter No. 18, D.A.V., Auxier, Ky. Pallbearers for Paul Newton Martin were Chris Bailey, Neil Bailey, David Allen Layne II, Fred Martin, Reece Ray, and Mike Spradlin.

Laverne Reedy Slone

Age 62, of Bevinsville, Ky., died Friday, December 14, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on July 26, 1939, at Floyd County, Ky., she was the daughter of the late James Oscar Reedy and Virgie Honeycutt Reedy. She was a homemaker and a member of the Wheelwright Freewill Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Slone. She is survived by two sons, Denver Ray Slone and Ricky Dean Slone, both of Bevinsville, Ky.; two daughters, Janet Reynolds, of Bevinsville, Ky., and Theresa Ousley, of Martin, Ky.; two brothers, Troy Reedy, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Denver Reedy, of Seattle, Washington; two sisters, Inez Owens, of Bevinsville, Ky., and Rhonda Keith, of Denver, North Carolina; 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by four brothers, Carlos Reedy, Hargus Reedy, Luther Reedy and Manis Reedy; and four sisters, Thelma Spivey, Ethel Click, Marie Hall, and Edna Reedy. Funeral services were conducted Monday, December 17, 2001, at the Wheelwright Freewill Baptist Church, with the clergyman Rev. Louis Ferrari officiating. Burial was in the Buckingham Cemetery, Bevinsville, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Evan Akers

Age 57, of Galveston, Ky., died Friday, December 14, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on November 17, 1944, at Floyd County, Ky., he was the son of Oscar Akers, of Grethel, and the late Annie Evans Akers. He was a disabled coal miner. Survivors include his wife, Bonnie Sue Hamilton Akers; two sons, Stacy (Jessica Renee) Akers, of Grethel, Ky., and Tracy (Barbara Jane) Akers, of Galveston, Ky.; two daughters, Bonnie Faye Bryant, of Teaberry, Ky., and Linda Sue Akers, of Grethel, Ky.; three brothers, Windell Akers, of Dayton, Ohio, Lovel Akers, of New Carlisle, Ohio, and Austin Akers, of Grethel, Ky.; five sisters, Shirlene Akers, of Dayton, Ohio, Marlene Spears, of Harold, Ky., Magalene Patrick, of Tram, Ky., Amolene Damron, of Dayton, Ohio, Avonelle Spears, of Harold, Ky.; four grandchildren, Triciah Dawn Akers, Tyra Mashea Gambill, Jessica Nicole Bryant, and Bobby Evan Bishop; and one step-grandchild, Devon. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by one brother, Eugene Akers. Funeral services for Evan Akers were conducted Monday, December 17, 2001, at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Ministers of the Old Regular Baptist Church officiated. Burial followed in the Akers Family Cemetery, Grethel, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Friday, December 16, 2001

Jerry M. Hackworth

Age 86, of Prestonsburg, Ky., passed away Thursday, December 13, 2001, at the Prestonsburg Health Care Center, Prestonsburg, Ky., after an extended illness. He was born August 29, 1915 at Prestonsburg, Ky., the son of the late Harry and Della (Stephens) Hackworth. He was married to Mae (Johnson) Hackworth who precedes him in death. A coal miner having worked at Princess Elkhorn Coal Co., at David, Ky. He is survived by two sons and one daughter, Mr. Joe Hackworth of High Point, N.C., Mr. Forrest Hackworth of Raceland, Ky., and Mrs. Dianna Hackworth of Prestonsburg, Ky. Graveside service will be conducted Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 2 p.m. at the Johnson Family Cemetery at Blue River, Ky. Burial will be in the Johnson Family Cemetery at Blue River, Ky. Officiating minister will be his son, Joe Hackworth. Friends may call at Burke Funeral Home, Prestonsburg, Ky., after 6 p.m. Thursday evening. All arrangements by Burke Funeral Home, Prestonsburg, Ky.

Roger Lee Ray

Age 53, of Beaver, Ky., passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2001, at his residence. He was born May 12, 1948, in Beaver, Ky., the son of the late Edgar Ray and Pearl Reynolds Ray. Mr. Ray was a coal miner. Survivors include four brothers, Gary Lee Ray, Danny Keith Ray, Jimmy Dean Ray, and Edgar Allen Ray, all of Beaver, Ky.; four sisters, Lucille Ray, Anna Gail Ray, Linda Kay Ray, and Dylene Ray, all of Beaver, Ky.; and two nephews, Joshua Dean Ray and Nathanial D. Ray, both of Beaver, Ky. Funeral services for Roger Lee Ray will be conducted today, December 14, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., at the Samaria Regular Baptist Church, Teaberry, Ky., with the Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in the Joe Reynolds Cemetery, Beaver, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Kentucky. Visitation was held at the church.

Sedge Hicks Sr.

Age 75, of Garrett, Ky., husband of Sarah Whitaker Hicks, passed away Tuesday, December 11, 2001, at the Kindred Hospital, Louisville, Ky., following an extended illness. He was born September 9, 1926, in Hippo, Ky., the son of the late Joseph Hicks and Maudie Bailey Hicks. Mr. Hicks was a retired transportation worker for the Indiana State Highway Department, and a member of the Salt Lick Community Church, Hueysville, Ky. Mr. Hicks was a firm believer and supporter of education and educational processes. In addition to his wife, Sarah, he is survived by one son, Sedge Hicks Jr., Butler, IN; three daughters, Billie M. O’Quinn and Maudie Sexton, both of Garrett, Ky., and Betty Blomeke, Waterloo, IN; two brothers, Monroe Hicks, Plymouth, OH, Cecil Hicks, Lima, OH; two sisters, Cynthia Gillette, Fort Meyers, FL, Jeanette Bailey, Plymouth, OH; and ten grandchildren, Tim Blomeke, Nick Blomeke, Robby Sexton, Michael Sexton, Jason Hicks, Brian Hicks, Adam Hicks, Kevin O’Quinn, Kyle O’Quinn, and Morgan Sexton. Mr. Hicks was preceded in death by one grandchild, Steve Blomeke. Funeral services for Sedge Hicks Sr., will be conducted today, December 14, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with Jeff Prater and Chester Varney, clergymen, officiating. Burial will follow in the Hicks Cemetery, Hippo, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Kentucky. Visitation was at the funeral home, with special singing.

Enid Netherly Alexander

Age 90, passed away on Thursday, December 13, 2001, at Riverview Health Care Center following an extended illness. Born on May 25, 1911, in Glencrian, Wolfe County, Ky., she was the daughter of Steve Netherly and Lula Potts Netherly. She was a homemaker. She was a Red Cross worker during World War II. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Willard Alexander and two great-grandchildren. She is survived by two sons, Darrell “Bud” Alexander, Prestonsburg, Ky., and Kendall “Jeep” Alexander, Wooster, OH; two daughters, Mildred Horn, Paintsville, Ky., and Ruby Sammons, Prestonsburg, Ky.; nine grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Enid Netherly Alexander will be held Saturday, December 15, 2001, at 12:00 p.m., at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. George Love officiating. Burial will be at Walker Horn Cemetery, Paintsville, Ky., under the direction of Carter Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Friday from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions suggested to the Floyd County Emergency and Rescue Squad.

Lincoln Creech

Age 83, of Emmalena, Ky., died Wednesday, December 12, 2001, following a brief illness. Born on November 3, 1918, at Talcum, Ky., he was the son of the late Sam and Lettie Fugate Creech. He was a retired farmer. He is survived by his wife, Polly Combs Creech; two sons, Sammy Lincoln Creech, of Portage, Indiana and Ralph Creech, of Emmalena, Ky.; two daughters, Nannie Joyce Patrick, of Emmalena, Ky., and Cathlena Patrick, of Dahloega, Georgia; two brothers, Logan Creech and Bennett Creech, both of Portage, Indiana; five sisters, Bessie Browning and Edna Bratton, both of Lexington, Ky, Iva Everidge, of Fisty, Ky., Dixie Mae Caudill, of Indiana, and Edith Ritchie, of Floyd County, Ky.; 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters. One infant sister and Bertha Williams. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, December 15, 2001, at 1:00 p.m. at the Maggie Memorial Old Regular Baptist Church, Emmalena, Ky., with the clergyman Silas Williams officiating. Burial will be in the Combs Cemetery, Emmalena, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation will be at the Maggie Memorial Old Regular Baptist Church.

Wednesday, December 12, 2001

Champ Clark Gibson

Age 89, of Langley, Ky., husband of Alda Hazel Hobbs Gibson, passed away Sunday, December 9, 2001, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, Martin, Ky. He was born August 17, 1912, in Dema, Ky., the son of the late Miles Gibson and Lucy Bradley Gibson. He was a retired foreman for Kentucky West Virginia Gas Company, and a member of the Church of Christ, Hueysville, Ky. In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, Dennis Clark “Denny” Gibson of Langley, Ky.; three daughters, Gwendolyn Mitcham of Lexington, Ky., Judy Turner of Murfreesboro, Tn., Myra Beth Sandfoss of Ft. Thomas, Ky.; one brother, Miles Gibson Jr., of Danville, Ky.; one sister, Stella Martin of Langley, Ky.; five grandchildren, Thomas Clark Hewlett, Mark Hewlett, Christy Hewlett Bianconcini, Beth Hewlett Lindsay, and Bryan Sandfoss; and five great-grandchildren, Kevin Logan Preston, Justin Charlie Lindsay, Hunter Allen Lindsay, Teal Nicole Hewlett, and Natalie Elizabeth Hewlett. Funeral services for Champ Clark Gibson will be conducted Wednesday, December 12, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with the clergymen, Chester Varney and Gus Andrews, officiating. Burial will follow in the Gibson Family Cemetery, Langley, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Thomas Clark Hewlett, Mark Hewlett, Bryan Sandfoes, David Gibson, Miles Kent Gibson and Gerald Gibson.

Rebel Nelson

Foster Howell

Age, 74, of Grethel, Ky., died Saturday, December 8, 2001, following an extended illness. Born on June 15, 1927, in Floyd County, Ky., he was the son of the late Butler and Lizzie Evans Howell. He was a retired coal miner and member of U.M.W.A. He is survived by his wife, Maxie Hall Howell. Other survivors include four sons, Roy Howell of Teaberry, Ky., Larry Howell, Michael Keith Howell, and Timothy Foster Howell, all of Grethel, Ky.; one daughter, Roma Lou Howell of Grethel, Ky.; five half sisters, Elva Hall of Harold, Ky., Evalene Akers of Galveston, Ky., May Newsome of McDowell, Ky. and Ruby Keathley and Irene Kiser, both of Teaberry, Ky.; six grandchildren, Sandra, Kelvin, Anthony, Stephanie, Cory, and Kimberly; and four great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Megan, Madison, and Cody. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Charlie Howell and Albie Howell; two sisters, Octavia Adkins and Elsie Hall; one half-brother, Hatler Howell; and one grandchild, Tameric. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, December 11, 2001, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky., with ministers of the Old Regular Baptist Church officiating. Burial was in the Hall Family Cemetery, Grethel, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Furman Dingus

Age, 89, of Martin, widower of Faye Vanhoose Dingus, and the father of Charles “Crush” Dingus, died Monday, December 10, 2001, at his residence, following an extended illness. He was born December 10, 1912, in Alphoretta, Ky., a son of the late Bill and Flora Reynolds Dingus. Furman attended Pikeville College, the University of Kentucky, and taught school at Dinwood and Stephens Branch. He operated a dry cleaning business in Martin, and worked as a lineman and bookkeeper for Columbia Fuels. He was a Past Master of the John W. Hall Masonic Lodge No. 950, and was a 55-year Mason, as well as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Martin. Survivors include one son, Charles D. “Crush” Dingus of Martin; his wife, Delores; one brother, Phillip Dingus of Martin; one sister, Blanche Dingus of Martin; two grandchildren, Deanna Faye Dingus and Kris Douglas Dingus; four step-grandchildren, Michael Click, Brian Click, Mary Reynolds and Belinda Jarrell, and six step- great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Furman Dingus will be conducted Thursday, December 13, 2001, at 1:00 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with Elders of the Church Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Ky., under the professional care of Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation is at the Hall Funeral Home.

Sharon Gail Blackburn

Age, 54, of Allen, Ky., died Tuesday, December 4, 2001, at her residence, following an extended illness. Born on November 21, 1947, in Letcher Co., Ky., she was the daughter of the late Hubert Stallard and Monnie Marie Wright Stallard Beverly. She is survived by her husband, Larry Blackburn. Survivors include one brother, Robert Beverly of Paintsville, Ky.; six sisters, Pat Bradshaw, Janie Beverly and Monnie Osborne, all of Prestonsburg, Ky., Vickie Hale of Paintsville, Ky., Toni Hayes of W.Va., and Kathy Mullins of Letcher County, Ky. Private arrangements were conducted on December 4, 2001, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Breast Cancer Association.

Monday, December 10, 2001

C. Readie Scroggins

Age, 53, of Harold, Ky., died Thursday, December 6, 2001, following a brief illness. Born on March 29, 1948, in Covington, Alb., he was the son of the late Columbus Marcus and Cora Lee Treadway Scroggins. He was a disabled welder and a Vietnam veteran of the Air Force. He is survived by his wife, Aretta Tackett Scroggins. Survivors include two sons, Mark (Sandy) Scroggins of Stanville, Ky., Mike (Melinda) Scroggins of Boleman, Ky.; three brothers, Robert Scroggins of Dade City, Florida, Randall Scroggins and Ricky Scroggins of Frostproof, Florida; three sisters, Virginia Norris and Charlotte Scroggins of Dade City, Florida, Jo Ann Reid of Hiddenite, N.C.; and three grandchildren, Blake, Zack and Nathasha. Funeral services will be conducted Monday, December 10, 2001, at 12 noon, at the Lower Toler Church of Christ at Harold, Ky., with ministers of the Church of Christ officiating. Burial will be in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Ky., under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation will be at the Lower Toler Church of Christ at Harold, Ky.

Martha Alice Burke

Age 76, of West Prestonsburg, Ky., passed away Wednesday, December 5, 2001, at the Highland Regional Medical Center at Prestonsburg, Ky., after an extended illness. She was a daughter of the late Bill and Ermie (Parker) Perry. She was married to Douglas Burke who survives her. She was a member of the Trinity Chapel at Martin, Ky. She is also survived by four sons and four daughters, Mr. Paul Burke, Mr. William Burke, Mr. James Burke, and Mr. Ronnie Burke, all of Prestonsburg, Ky.; Mrs. Dorothy Bailey of Lancaster, Ohio, Mrs. Erma Conley of Salyersville, Ky., Mrs. Betty Slone of Prestonsburg, Ky., and Mrs. Debbie Stanford of Thealka, Ky. Also surviving are two brothers and two sisters, Mr. Sam Perry of Norwalk, Ohio, Mr. John David Perry of Prestonsburg, Ky.; Mrs. Ellanoel Howell of West Prestonsburg, Ky., and Mrs. Avanell Sturgill of St. Mary’s Ohio; 21 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, December 8, at 1 p.m., from the Burke Funeral Home, Prestonsburg, Ky., with Rev. Jim Price, Rev. Ellis Stevens, and Rev. Tommy Nelson officiating. Burial was in the Richmond Memorial Cemetery at Prestonsburg, Ky., under the direction of Burke Funeral Home, Active pallbearers were Wendell Burke, Scotty Burke, Keith Slone, Greg Slone, Boyd Bailey, Roy Lee, Tommy Bailey, William Anthony, Jamie Burke, and Eric Burke.

Friday, December 7, 2001

Lois Slone

Age 72, of Estill, Ky., wife of the late Bennie Slone, passed away, Wednesday, December 5, 2001, at the Berea Hospital, Berea, Ky. She was born April 20, 1929, in Wayland, Ky., the daughter of the late Wiley Whitaker and Pauline Burke Whitaker. Survivors include two daughters, Wanda Sue King of Berea, Ky., Deborah Ann Buboltz of Frankfort, Ky.; one brother, Micky Whitaker of Texas; six sisters, Chiquita Dillon, Kay Smith and Pam Banks, all of Prestonsburg, Ky., Danese Antonopoylos of Amherst, Ohio, Belva Call of Naples, Fl., and Deanna Lawson of Sidney, Oh.; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Jack Whitaker, and one sister, Billie “Boots” Whitaker Algeao. Funeral services for Lois Slone will be conducted Friday, December 7, 2001, at 1:00 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with the clergyman, Sherman Williams, officiating. Burial will follow in the Dyer Cemetery, Leburn, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation is from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, at the funeral home.

Wednesday, December 5, 2001

Marcella Jones Slone

Age, 55, wife of Phillip, mother of Julie, and Kim Slone of Prestonsburg, Ky., passed away Monday, November 19, 2001, after a long battle against the dreaded and debilitating diseases of breast and ovarian cancer. She was born July 6, 1946, the fourth of six children to the late Earl C. “Chip” Jones and Eula Mae Hall Jones, Dema, Ky. She graduated from Alice Lloyd College and obtained a degree in elementary education from Morehead State University. She was a retired teacher in the Floyd County School System, a member of the Community United Methodist Church, Prestonsburg, the FCTA and the KEA. In additon to her husband, daughters, and mother, she is survived by sisters, Della (Louie) Martin of Corbin, Ky., and Ida (Larry) Parsons of Winchester, Ky.; and brothers, Glen Wood (Susan) Jones of Mt. Orab, Oh., William Kenneth (Donnarae) Jones of Cincinnati, Oh.; and Thomas Alvin (Becky) Jones of London, Ky. She also leaves an aunt, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers and sisters in Christ, and many friends to mourn her passing. Funeral services were conducted Wednesday, November 21, 2001, at the Community United Methodist Church, Prestonsburg, Ky., with clergyman Steve Pescosolido officiating. Burial followed in the Whitt Martin Cemetery under the care of Hall Funeral Home. Serving as pallbearers were Glen Wood Jones, William Kenneth Jones, Thomas Alvin Jones, Glen Wood Jones Jr., Shawn Kelly Jones, David Jennings Martin, Wade Jones, and David Borden. Honorary pallbearers were Louie Martin, James Larry Parsons, Jim Slone, James Dudley, Robert Earl Jones, and Jason Sammons.

James Earl Wright

Age 65, of Prestonsburg, Ky., husband of Madgalene Stephens Wright, passed away Sunday, December 2, 2001, in the Central Baptist Hospital, Lexington, Ky., following a brief illness. He was born November 13, 1936, in Floyd County, Ky., the son of Susie Ousley Wright and the late George Wright. He was a retired coal miner and a member of United Mine Workers Association. Survivors include five sons, Steve Wright of Banner, Ky., James Earl Wright Jr., and Ronald David Wright, both of Munith, Mi., Tommy Wright of Lexington, Ky., Bruce Edward Wright of Prestonsburg, Ky.; six daughters, Diana Lynn Crider of Winter Haven, Fl., Sharon Ann Robinson of Pikeville, Ky., Brenda Sue Wright and Threasa Gail Blackburn, both of Prestonsburg, Ky., Tammy Jo Hiatt of Jackson, Mi., Jennifer Marie Glaspie of Grass Lake, Mi.; five brothers, Hager Wright and Johnny Wright, both of Prestonsburg, Ky., Arthur Wright of Leslie, Mi., Raben Wright of Munith, Mi., Ronnie Wright of Onondaga, Mi.; two sisters, Dorothy Ratliff and Phyllis Elliott, both of Martin, Ky., 13 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren. Funeral services for James Earl Wright will be conducted Wednesday, December 5, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, Ky., with the Old Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in the Wright Cemetery, Spurlock Fork, Prestonsburg, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.

John David “Dee” Case

Age 51, of Garrett, Ky., husband of Wanda Joyce Hall Case, passed away Monday, December 3, 2001, at his residence. He was born February 13, 1950, in Martin, Ky., the son of Johnnie Case and Anna Jewell Prichard Case of Garrett, Ky. He was owner and operator of Case Auto Sales, Garrett, Ky. In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by two sons, Shawn David and Christopher Douglas Case, both of Garrett, Ky.; two brothers, James Martin Case and Jerry Thomas Case, both of Garrett, Ky.; and one sister, Joyce Ann Gore of Lackey, Ky. Funeral services for John David Case will be conducted Thursday, December 6, 2001, at 1:00 p.m., at the Garrett First Baptist Church, Garrett, Ky., with Clergyman Randy Osborne officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, Ivel, Ky., under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, Ky. Visitation is after 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home and after 12:00 noon, Thursday, at the church.

Monday, December 3, 2001

Ronnie D. Leslie

Ronnie D. Leslie, 68, died Wednesday, November 21, 2001, at St. Joseph Hospital, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Born on April 2, 1933, at Emma, Ky., he was the son of Ballard and Molly Leslie. He was the youngest son of seven brothers and sisters. They have all preceded him in death, except John Lee Leslie of Gladwin, Michigan, who is the only survivor. Ronnie grew up and attended school in Floyd County. He moved to Michigan 35 years ago, and worked for Ford Motor Company until retirement. He will be returned to Saline Michigan, to the Robison-Bahmyiller Funeral Home. His body will be cremated and his ashes will be returned to his only surviving brother. We, his family, who are scattered in different states, feel a special grief for our beloved Ronnie. He lived far away from us, but he was always close to our hearts and our thoughts. We loved him dearly, and he will be greatly missed by all of his family.

Sylvia Pillersdorf

Sylvia Pillersdorf of Nanuet, New York; formerly of Lower Johns Creek died of natural causes on November 26, 2001. She was eighty-four years old, having been born on September 21, 1917 in New York City. Sylvia Pillersdorf was a World War II Veteran, having served in the United States Navy as a Wave. She was predeceased by her husband Stanley Pillersdorf, who was also a World War II Veteran having served in the United States Army, and was a former American prisoner of war in Germany. Sylvia Pillersdorf is survived by her daughters Nan Rabinowitz of Brookline, Massachusetts; Frances Pillersdorf of New York City; her son Ned Pillersdorf of Lower Johns Creek; and her daughter-in-law Kentucky Supreme Court Justice Janet L. Stumbo. She is also survived by five grandchildren; Kate Rabinowitz of Hoboken, New Jersey; Noah Rabinowitz of Seattle, Washington and Sarah Pillersdorf, Nancee Pillersdorf and Samantha Pillersdorf of Lower Johns Creek. Sylvia Pillersdorf was laid to rest on November 28, 2001 at Washington Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. In Lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Floyd Bar Association Food Pantry Fund; or to the Piarist School or David School.