As reported in the Floyd County Times dated

Wednesday, July 30, 2003

Lena Davis

Age 99, of Dema, widow of James Davis, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2003, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, Martin. She was born January 22, 1904, in Oil Springs, the daughter of the late George W. Reed and Ida Williams Reed. She was a homemaker and a member and treasurer of the Topmost Baptist Church. Survivors include one son, James M. Davis of Abingdon, Virginia; two sisters, Edith Helton of Paintsville, and Genevia Conley of Staffordsville; three grandchildren, Ronald Lee Davis, James Romeyn Davis, and Robert Michael Davis; six great-grandchildren, Ronald Lee Davis Jr., Daniel Romeyn Davis, Rebecca Davis, Emily Davis, Sara Davis and Jessica Davis. In addition to her husband, and parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Robert Keith Davis. Funeral services for Lena Davis were conducted Sunday, July 27, at 2 p.m., at the Topmost Baptist Church, with Clergyman Carl Mullins officiating. Burial was in the Chandler Cemetery, at Lackey, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Topmost Baptist Church. Pallbearers: George Blankenship, Jimmy Nickles, Lenord Nickles, Wade Martin, Roger Hall and Doug Hall.

William “Bill” Arthur Deskins

Age 74, of Stanville, husband of Ruby Stratton Deskins, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2003, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg. He was born February 2, 1929, in Stanville, the son of the late Woodyard Deskins and Amy Hall Deskins Thompson. He was a retired coal miner, formerly employed by the Pittson Coal Company, at Stone, and a member of the U.M.W.A. Survivors include his wife, Ruby; two sons, Arthur Jr. Deskins, and Jerry Lee Deskins, both of Stanville; one daughter, Betty Sue Combs of Hindman; three brothers, Woodyard Deskins Jr., of Man, West Virginia, Donald Thompson of Columbus, Ohio, and Bobby Ray Thompson of Betsy Layne; three sisters, Mary Lou Lawson of Detroit, Michigan, and Barbara Mulkey and Ruby Jean Lawson, both of Betsy Layne; three grandchildren, Brian Keith Combs, Shawn Matthew Deskins, and Jessica Mieko Deskins; and one great-grandchild, Brantley Chase Deskins. He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Peggy Deskins and one brother, Oakie Thompson. Funeral services were conducted Sunday, July 27, at 1 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Clergymen James Harmon and Chuck Ferguson officiating. Burial was in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the funeral home, with church services Saturday evening at 7 p.m.

Mary Emmajean Reed Bevins

Age 63, of Banner, passed away, Thursday, July 24, 2003, in the King’s Daughters’ Medical Center, Ashland, following an extended illness. She was born February 24, 1940, in Coal City, West Virginia, the daughter of Elsie Smith Reed of Coal City, West Virginia, and the late William Jennings Reed. She was a head teller for Citizens National Bank, at Allen, and a member of the Katy Friend Freewill Baptist Church. Surivivors include her mother, Elsie; one daughter, Sandra Jean Bevins Griffith, of Prestonsburg; one son, Richard Lee Bevins of Banner; three brothers, Roger Reed of Sophia, West Virginia, and Dallas Reed and William “Bill” Reed, both of Coal City, West Virginia; two sisters, Wilma Reed Keffer of Coal City, West Virginia, and Wanda Reed Matherly, of Glen Morgan West Virginia; four grandchildren, Nathan, Timothy, Tommy and Tiffany; and one great-grandchild, Cody. Funeral services for Mary Emmajean Reed Bevins were conducted Sunday, July 27, at 2 p.m., at the Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley, West Virginia, with Clergymen Arnold Turner and Gary Hosey officiating. Burial was in the Thompson Cemetery, Coal City, West Virginia, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home; Martin, and Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Beckley, West Virginia. Visitation was Friday, at the Hall Funeral Home; and Sunday, at the Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home.

Harry Lawson

Age, 59, of Printer, died Sunday, July 27, 2003, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, in Martin. Born April 27, 1944, in Floyd County, he was the son of the late Azzie and Rhonda Jane Hall Lawson. He was a disabled coal miner and a member of the Spurlock Church of Christ at Printer. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Greer Lawson. Other survivors include two sons, Harry Dale Lawson of Harold, and Hubert Gene Lawson of Printer; two daughters and their husbands, Kathy and Mike Samons, and Karen and Harold Spears, all of Printer; a brother, Hubert Lawson of Printer; a sister, Wanda Sue Yates of Honaker; two grandchildren, Brittany Nicole Lawson, and Noah Keith Samons; and best friends, Aaron B. Tackett and Andrew Baca. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, July 30, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Bruce Coleman, Richard Bowens and Ronnie Samons officiating. Burial will be in the Harry Lawson Family Cemetery at Honaker, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Jerry Price 

Age, 48, of Lexington, beloved husband of Theresae Price and devoted father of David Andrew and Patrick Price, passed from this life into eternal life after a valiant struggle against cancer. He was a brave, dedicated and compassionate man who gave his love, time and energy selflessly to his family, friends and extended communities. The world is enriched by his presence, talents and gifts. He will be greatly missed. He threw himself wholeheartedly into every activity his two sons joined, from Scout leader (guiding both to Eagle rank), to Castlewood baseball coach, president of Lafayette football boosters, and tireless supporter of Lafayette Band. Formerly of Shepherdsville, Jerry was a graduate of Bullitt Central High School and attended the University of Kentucky. He was employed by Lipari Foods, and was a member of Grace Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Myrtle and John Price. He is survived by not only his wife, Theresae, and sons, David and Patrick, but twin brother, Terry (Charlotte) Price, of Shepherdsville; sister, Mary Lee (Avis) Mason, of Louisville, and brother, John Jr. (Wanda) Price, of Columbus, Ohio; a special aunt, Mary Sue Bleemel (Joe) of Shepherdsville, and several loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, in-laws, and heartbroken friends. Visitation was at Kerr Brothers on E. Main Street, Thursday, July 24, from 4-9 p.m., and at Grace Baptist Church, W. Loudon, Friday, from 10-11, with the funeral following at 11 a.m. Interment was at the Lexington Cemetery. Information, courtesy of Hall Funeral Home, Martin.

Monday, July 28, 2003

Ethel Mae Burke

Age, 88, of Prestonsburg, passed away Thursday, July 24, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, following an extended illness. She was born March 27, 1915, at Bonanza, a daughter of the late Robert A. and Louvada (May) Burke. She is survived by one brother, Johnny W. Burke, of Prestonsburg. A graveside service was held Friday, July 25, at 2 p.m., at the Davidson Memorial Gardens at Ivel. Arrangements were under the direction of the Burke Funeral Home, Prestonsburg.

Fedie Blankenship

Age 61, of South Milford, Indiana, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 23, 2003, at the LaGrange Community Hospital. He was born in Floyd County, Kentucky, on April 28, 1942, the son of William and Mattie (Moore) Blankenship. He married Mary Conley Blankenship on May 4 1963, in Rome City, Indiana. He was a member and deacon at the Church of the True God in South Milford. He was employed at Indiana Builders Mfg. in Middlebury. He is survived by his wife, Mary Blankenship of South Milford. Other survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Julie Blankenship of Rome, City; daughter and son-in-law, Delores and Bill Forbes of Kendallville; daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Tracy Spriggs of South Milford; four grandchildren, Katie Forbes, Lauren Forbes, Holly Blankenship and Caleb Blankenship; four sisters, Elcie Gayheart of LaGrange, Maxie Stambaugh of Mongo, Tina Bolton of Wolcottville, and Alley Wiley of Duck Lake, Michigan; two brothers, Eddie Blankenship of Wolcottville, and Levi Blankenship of Floyd County, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Ellie, Delpha and Annie; three brothers, Henry, Mitch, and Condy; and three infant siblings. Visitation was held Friday, at the Church of the True God, State Hwy. 3, north of South Milford. A church service was held at 7 p.m., Friday night. Funeral services were held on Saturday, at 1 p.m., at the Church of the True God, with Revs. Sam Sawyer and Birtchell Mosley Jr., officiating. Burial was at the Mt. Pisgah Cemetery, LaGrange County. Memorials are suggested to the family. Hite Funeral Home, in Kendallville, was in charge of the arrangements.

James Wilburn Cox

Age, 78, of Louisville, formerly of Prestonsburg, passed away, Wednes-day, July 16, 2003. He was preceded in death by his wife, Blanche Burchett Cox. He is survived by his children, David M. Cox of Lexington, Karen Diehl, William J. Cox and Ollie J. Cox, all of Louisville, and Patty Dye of Dallas, Texas; one sister, Claire Faye King; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. A private memorial service was held Sunday, July 20, at Jeffersontown Chrisitan Church. Memorial gifts may be made to the VA Medical Center.

Wednesday, July 16, 2003

Conard Prater

Age 70, of Prestonsburg, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2003, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, following an extended illness. He was born September 24, 1932, at Prestonsburg, a son of the late Norman and Maggie Williams Prater. He was a retired heavy equipment operator for Columbia Gas Company. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vesta Dempsey Prater. He is survived by one son, Larry Prater of Banner; one granddaughter, Kristy Hol-brook; two brothers, Roy Prater and Robie Prater, both of Lexington; and one sister, Effie Wilkerson of Lima, Ohio. He was a member of the Cow Creek Freewill Baptist Church. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, July 16, at 1 p.m., at the Burke Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg, with Rev. Bill Campbell and Rev. Nathan Lafferty officiating. Burial will follow in the Richmond Cemetery, at Prestonsburg. All arrangements are under the direction of Burke Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Ida H. Hunter

Age 84, of Garrett, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2003, in Our Lady of the Way Hospital in Martin, following an extended illness. She was born in Knott County on June 9, 1919, the daughter of the late Bance and Mary Hall. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Buster Hicks in 1962, her second husband, Willie Hunter, and a son, Richard Hunter. Survivors include three sons, Eddie Hicks of Taylor, Michigan, Billy Hicks of Detroit, Michigan, and Arnold Hicks of Taylor, Michigan; three daughters, Versie Duncan of Huntington, West Virginia, Mary Wright and Betty Hicks, both of Taylor, Michigan; two sisters, Susie Rutherford and Mae Moore, both of Garrett; 22 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, July 15, at 1 p.m., in the Hall Funeral Home Chapel in Martin, with Denver Meade officiating. Entombment in the Family Mausoleum at the Hicks Cemetery at Garrett, was under the professional care of Hall Funeral Home. Pallbearers: Edward B. Hicks, Ricky A. Hicks, Charley Hicks, Dugie Wright, Billa Wright, Tony Vella, Frank Wright Jr. and Virgil Hicks.

Ellis Mullins 

Age, 78, of Bypro, died Friday, July 11, 2003, at his residence. Born March 16, 1925, in Floyd County, he was the son of the late Dave and Nancy Hall Mullins. He was a retired coal miner, member of U.M.W.A. Local Union 5899, and attended the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin. He is survived by his wife, Connie Johnson Mullins. Other survivors include a brother, Clines Mullins of Franklin Furnace, Ohio; a sister, Mae Clay of Ligon; two grandchildren, Terry Ellis Mullins and Jenna Mullins Brown; and two great-grandchildren, Cheyenne Mullins and Madeline Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Bill Mullins; six brothers, Frank Mullins, Crockett Mullins, Hilbert Mullins, Jerry Mullins, Enis Mullins and Finis Mullins; and six sisters, Frankie Hamilton, Fancy Isaac, Lizzie Newman, Annie Johnson, Okla Tackett and Mary Holbrook. Funeral services were conducted Monday, July 14, at 11 a.m., at the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church at Melvin, with Old Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial was in the Buckingham Cemetery at Bevinsville, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the church.

Pearlie Patton 

Age 94, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, passed away Friday, July 11, 2003, at Whitehall Nursing Center of Ann Arbor. She was born on March 18, 1909, the daughter of Joseph and Judy (Bentley) Prater in Hueysville, Ky. She retired from Beyer Hospital in Ypsilanti in 1974, after 25 years of service. She was a member and volunteer for the Beyer Hospital Auxiliary since 1983, and was a member of the Women of the Moose, Ypsilanti Chapter No. 286 since 1962, and the Ypsilanti Thrift Shop. She was very active in the Ypsilanti Township Travelers Senior Citizens for many years. She was a member of the Ypsilanti Old Regular Baptist Church. Survivors include her children, Joe E. (Ann) Patton, Pauline Layne, Sally Lou (John) Bailey, Cleffie (Danny) Wooten, Patsy Davis, Martha (Connie) Collins, Barbara (Brian) Goss, and Gary (Amanda) Patton; 30 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Marie Hall in 1974; one son, James Earl Patton in 1947; one grandson, William Collins in 1970; one granddaughter, Mary Ann Collins in 2002; five brothers and two sisters. Funeral services were Tuesday, July 15, at 1:30 p.m., at Ypsilanti Old Regular Baptist Church, 5668 Denton Rd., with Elder Gene Johnson officiating. Burial was at Union Udell Cemetery, under the direction of Stark Funeral Service, Moore Memorial Chapel, Ypsilanti. Contributions may be made to the Ypsilanti Old Regular Baptist Church. Visitation was at the funeral home, and at the church.

James E. (Red) Rigney

Age, 83, of Martin, died Monday, July 14, 2003, at his residence. Born December 7, 1919, in Cabell County, Ohio, he was the son of the late George W. and Minnie Conley Rigney. He was a retired coal miner, a veteran of the U.S. Army, World War II, the D.A.V., and was a member of the Spurlock Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gracie M. Damron Rigney. Survivors include one son, Shawn Daniels of Drift; a daughter, Barbara Crisp of Martin; three step-children; three brothers, Marvin Rigney of Bycrus, Ohio, Franklin Rigney of Tampa, Texas, and Hartley Rigney of Procterville, Ohio; a sister, Eva Haskin of Red Bluff, California; four grandchildren, Katherine Grace, Anthony Scott, Laura Ann and Dakota Storm. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Harrison Rigney, Robert Rigney and Gilbert Rigney; and four sisters, Mable May Gregory, Brenda Weller, Catherine Rigney and Eleanor Rigney. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, July 17, at noon, at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Richard Bowens and Bruce Coleman officiating. Burial will be in the Drift Cemetery at Drift. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Daisy Hall Osborne

Age 91, of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, formerly of Price, widow of Ervin Osborne, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2003, at the Oakwood Hospital, Dearborn Heights, Michigan. She was born December 23, 1911, in Floyd County, the daughter of the late George Hall and Pricey Cole Hall. She was a homemaker and a member of the Baptist Church. Survivors include two sons, Clarence Mitchell of Williamson, West Virginia, Glenith Osborne of Brownstown, Michigan; three daughters, Edeth Walley of Livonia, Michigan, Hester Reynolds of Nancy, Janet Howard of Dearborn Heights, Michigan; one brother, Vondall Hall of Dearing, Georgia; 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, and parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Jimmy Osborne; three brothers, Earnest Hall, Tommy Hall, and Charles Hall; and three sisters, Hattie Stockdale, Martha Osborne and Della McCown. Funeral services for Daisy Osborne will be conducted Friday, July 18, at 1 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Visitation is after 5 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Madge Cochran Shepherd

Age, 83, of Prestonsburg, died Monday, July 14, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center. Born June 29, 1920, in Lawrence County, she was the daughter of the late Mark Cochran and Lora Blair Cochran. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilce Shepherd, on July 23, 1950. Survivors include one daughter, Betty Wilson of Prestonsburg; one son, Chester Shepherd of Mt. Sterling; one sister, Mae Shepherd of Prestonsburg; two brothers, Denzil (Barney) S. Walker of Prestonsburg, and John E. Long of Enon, Ohio; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, Gary W. Shepherd, on August 26, 1997. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, July 16, at 11 a.m., at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg, with Rev. Bobby Carpenter and Rev. Gordon Fitch officiating. Interment will be at Ford Cemetery, Prestonsburg. Visitation is at the funeral home. Carter Funeral Home is serving the Shepherd family. Pallbearers: Chris Haley, Dustin Haley, David Shepherd, Reese Ray, Alan Shepherd, Tommy Wilson, Scott Walker, Marty Long, Scott Thompson and Melvin Shepherd Jr.

Elic J. Blanton

Age, 77, of Liberty Hill Road, Chillicothe, Ohio, died at 2:10 p.m., Saturday, July 12, 2003, at his home. He was born May 16, 1926, in Johnson County, Kentucky, the son of the late John Edd and Myrtle Blanton. On December 26, 1952, he was united in marriage to Magdalene (Hamilton) Blanton who preceded him in death on May 16, 1994. Surviving are a daughter, Judy (Clark) Stauffer of Chilicothe, Ohio; two sons, Mark K. (Rita) Blanton and Timothy Lee (Teresa) Blanton, both of Chillicothe, Ohio; 10 grandchidren, and 11 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Everett (Donna) Blanton and Jim Blanton, both of Circleville, Ohio. In addition to his parents and his wife, Elic, was preceded in death by a son: Elic “Gene” Blanton, a daughter, Anna Sue Tackett; three sisters, Tooge Hamilton, Laura VanHoose and an infant sister; and two brothers, Cambridge and William Blanton. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict, a former employee of Ben Davis Construction, and Wonder Bread of Columbus. He attended Little Ettie Old Regular Baptist Church, Beaver, Ohio, and was a member of American Legion Post 757, Chillicothe, Ohio. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 15, 2003, at the Blanton Residence, Chillicothe, Ohio, with Bro. Johnny Thornsberry and Pastor Dennis Garman officiating. Burial was in Huntington Township Cemetery, Chillicothe, Ohio, with military graveside services conducted by Ross County Firing Squad. Visitation was at the residence.

Monday, July 14, 2003

Cecil E. Webb

Age 92, of Allen, formerly of Nicholasville, husband of the late Sallie Mae Hamilton Webb, passed away, Friday, July 4, 2003, at the Garrard County Memorial Hospital, Lancaster. He was born November 20, 1910, in Allen, the son of the late Elizabeth Webb Carr. He was a lifetime gas well driller and farmer and member of the Allen United Baptist Church, at Allen. Survivors include three sons, Cecil E. Webb Jr., of Salt Springs, Florida, John H. Webb of Livingston, Texas, and Joe T. Webb of Nicholasville; one daughter, Betty S. Hutchinson of Scottsdale, Arizona; nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife and mother, he was preceded in death by one son, Robert Webb. Funeral services for Cecil E. Webb were conducted Thursday, July 10, at 11 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home, Martin, with Clergyman Arnold Turner Jr., officiating. Burial followed in the Jones Cemetery, Allen-Banner Road, at Allen, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was from 5 p.m., to 9 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana Chapter, 3703 Taylorsville Rd., Ste. 1202, Louisville, KY 40220. Pallbearers: Dan Overton, Bill Webb, Daniel Webb, Jordon Delpont, Mark Sellards, Scott Webb, Tony Webb, and Nick Price.

Monday, July 7, 2003

Aaron Tackett

Age 57, of Prestonsburg, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2003, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital emergency room, in Martin, as a result of injuries sustained from a gunshot wound. Born May 19, 1946, at Mud Creek, he was the son of the late Hampton and Mirty Nunnery Tackett. He was a disabled coal miner. He is survived by his wife, Scheryl Moore Tackett. Other survivors include a son, Jason Aaron Tackett, of Prestonsburg; two daughters, Genia (Jeff) Hall, and Samantha (Ronnie) Terry, both of Richmond; four brothers, Robert Tackett, of Grethel, Jay Tackett, of Ohio, Eurie Tackett, of London, and Hazle Tackett, of West Virginia; a sister, Beatrice Tackett, of Grethel; and four grandchildren, Billy Aaron Hall, Staci Hall, Siera Hall, and Justin Bailey Terry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Azzle Tackett, and three sisters, Sylvia Tackett, Ossie Paige, and Jettie Tackett. Funeral services were conducted on Friday, July 4, at the Church of God of Prophecy, at Hi Hat, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Tom Nelson officiated. Burial followed in the Elliott Cemetery, at Beaver. Visitation was at the church.

Evelyn Samons Hall

Age 66, of West Liberty, formerly of Melvin, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2003, at the McDowell Appalachian Regional Hospital. Born December 16, 1936, at Martin, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Shirley Crum Samons. She was a homemaker and a member of the Freewill Baptist Church, in West Liberty. She is survived by her husband, Logan Hall. Other survivors include a son, Hershel Hall, of Bevinsville; a daughter, Carol Sue Hall, of West Liberty; a brother, Richard Samons Jr., of Martin; four sisters, Nancy Jean Amburgey, Lori Samons, and Betty Lou Dutton, all of Martin, and Louvnia Samons, of Indiana; and five grandchildren, Keith, Dwayne, Holly, Tina, and Jacob. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Anna Mae Miller, and a grandson, Michael Gene Reynolds. Funeral services were conducted Friday, July 4, at the Joppa Old Regular Baptist Church, at Melvin, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Old Regular Baptist ministers officiated. Burial followed in the Buckingham Cemetery, at Bevinsville. Visitation was at the church.

Gladys Hall Hamilton

Age 76, of Union City, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2003, at her residence, following a short illness. Born September 26, 1926, in Melvin, she was the daughter of the late Oliver “Connie” Conwell and Victoria Hall. Survivors include her husband, Ray Hamilton; one step-daughter, Brenda Patrick, of Fulton, Mississippi; one step-son, Anthony Walker Hamilton, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; four sisters, Pearl Berger, of Bevinsville, Roberta Reeves, of Melvin, Beulah Collins, of Kenova, West Virginia, and Nancy Tipton, of Pikeville; two brothers, Jesse E. Hall, of Syracuse, New York, and John D. Hall, of River Rouge, Michigan. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one sister, Katherine Wilson. Graveside services were held Tuesday, July 1, at the Tackett Cemetery, at Melvin.

Friday, July 4, 2003

Elder Wallace Scott Calhoun

Age 87, of Water Gap, Prestonsburg, passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg. Born December 1, 1915, at Catlettsburg, he was the son of the late Bill and Agnes Scott Calhoun. He was a retired coal miner, a member of the U.M.W.A. Local Union at David, a 60-year member and minister of the United Baptist Church of the New Hope Association, and a member of Zebulon Masonic Lodge 273, for more than 50 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Easter Porter Calhoun. He is survived by three sons and their wives, Dallas and Freda Calhoun, of Martin, Donald and Rita Calhoun, of Lexington, and Darrell and Vickie Calhoun, of Water Gap; a daughter and her husband, Josephine and Ed Plazek, of Cleveland, Ohio; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and three step-great grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Dode Calhoun, Denver Calhoun, and Darvin Calhoun; and three sisters, Mimie Fosson, Stella Stephens, and Josephine Calhoun. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, June 28, 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Martin. Reuben Lycans, Chester Adkins, and Eual Debord officiated. Masonic funeral rites were conducted on Friday, June 27, 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Burial followed in the Richmond Cemetery, at Prestonsburg, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home. Active pallbearers: Scott Calhoun, Derek Calhoun, Dodd Sorrell, Ron Plazek, Bob Kobasic, John Calhoun, Gordon McKee, David Care, and Brian Boyd.

William “Billy” Blankenship

Age 21, of Ligon, passed away Saturday, June 28, 2003, at his residence, as the result of a house fire. Born July 27, 1981, at Martin, he was the son of Ranny and Judith Pennington Blankenship, of Ligon. In addition to his parents, he is also survived by four brothers, Ranny Robert Blankenship, of Winchester, James Lee (Jamie Lynn) Blankenship, of Prestonsburg, and Eric Gene Blankenship and Justin Lee Blankenship, both of Ligon; one sister, Tammy (Jeffrey) Gibson, of Lexington; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Funeral services were conducted Thursday, July 3, at noon, at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Martin. Burial followed in the Blankenship Family Cemetery, at Ligon. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Wednesday, July 2, 2003

Ethel Frazier

Age 89, of Martin, the widow of Thaoe Merrill Frazier, passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2003, at her residence. Born November 18, 1913, in Knott County, she was the daughter of the late William Smith and Minnie Bell Smith. She was a homemaker and a member of the Martin United Methodist Church. Survivors include: one son, Dr. Donald T. Frazier, of Lexington; one daughter, Mary June Frazier Allen, of Martin; one sister, Narcissus “Sissy” Dingus, of Allen; seven grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by one great-grandchild. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, July 3, at 11:00 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, in Martin. Clergyman Roy Harlow will officiate. Burial will follow in the Frazier Family Cemetery, in Martin, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Pallbearers: Stephen Allen, Tim Allen, John Frazier II, James Frazier, Frank Fitzpatrick, Carl Slone, Mike Pennington, Norman Napier, Tommy N. Hall, Bud Reynolds, Dewey Jamerson, Doug Derossett, George Frazier, and Charles Camp. Visitation is after 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Dorothy Newman Hall

Age 85, of Allen, passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg, following a brief illness. Born April 9, 1918, at Hi Hat, she was the daughter of the late Hent and Mary Mitchell Newman. She was a homemaker and member of the New Salem Old Regular Baptist Church, at Dana, since 1977. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hauley Hall. Survivors include: two sons, Raymond (Martha) Hall, of Louisville, and Larry (Mary) Hall, of Allen; four daughters, Mary Chapman, of Louisville, Feenie Marie (David) Byrge, of Warren, Michigan, Brenda (Jim) Clevenger, of Prestonsburg, and Hollie (Warren) Blanton, of Allen; one brother, Harve Newman, of McArthur, Ohio; one sister, Fannie Murray, of Piketon, Ohio; nine grandchildren, Warren Kevin Blanton, Herbert Dwayne Howell, Raymond Hall Jr., Kathy Ellen Kendrick, Mary Renee Welch, Katrina Sutton, Connie Myers, Chrystal Julian, and Melissa Hall; 17 great-grandchildren; and a special cousin, Hester Hall. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, July 2, at 11 a.m., in the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, at Martin, with Old Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel, under the professional care of Hall Funeral Home. Pallbearers: Warren Kevin Blanton, Dwayne Howell, Raymond Hall Jr., Rick Kendrick, Charles Julian, and Joshua Kevin Blanton.

Macie L. Hunt

Age 80, of Hunter, the widow of James Monroe Hunt, passed away on Friday, June 27, 2003, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, Martin. Born January 19, 1923, in Salisbury, she was the daughter of the late Trimble Wayne Meade and Topsy Salisbury Meade. She was a homemaker and member of the Lancer Church of Christ. Survivors include: two sons, Velmer Hunt, of McDowell, and James Monroe Hunt Jr., of Hippo; five daughters, Patricia Joseph, of Brunswick, Ohio, Shelby Robinette, of Prestonsburg, Margaret Ward, of South Shore, Linda Shelton, of McDowell, and Freda Hunt, of Hunter; 16 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Macie L. Hunt were conducted on Monday, June 30, at 1 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin. Clergymen Bill Meade and Tim Blankenship officiated. Burial followed in Salisbury Cemetery, at Hunter, under the professional care of Hall Funeral Home. Pallbearers for Macie L. Hunt were: Kelly Todd Ward, Kyle Shelton, Eddie Shelton, Eddie Spurlock, Billy Joseph Jr., Eric Spurlock, Danny Hunt, Greg Salisbury, Chad Woody, Dwayne Cornett, Chris Click and Terry Williams. Honorary Pallbearers were: Ron Robinette, Donnie Meade, and Russell Shelton Jr.

Smitty Joe Mitchell

Age 62, of Hi Hat, passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2003, at the UK Medical Center, Lexington, of accidental causes. Born November 5, 1940, at Ligon, he was the son of the late Hillard and Dacie Hall Mitchell. He was a general laborer. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by two brothers, Jerry Mitchell and Charles Mitchell. Survivors include: five brothers, Jack Mitchell, of Prestonsburg, James Mitchell, of Columbus, Ohio, Philman Mitchell and Forrest Mitchell, both of Hi Hat, and Roy Mitchell, of Milan, Michigan; and two sisters, Alberta Hamilton, of Hi Hat, and Ida Mitchell, of Dearborn, Michigan. Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, July 2, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Old Regular Baptist ministers will officiate. Burial will follow in the Buckingham Cemetery, at Bevinsville. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Brenda Kay Hamilton

Age 53, of Printer, wife of Lanny R. Hamilton, passed away Thursday, June 26, 2003, at her residence. She was born March 31, 1950, in Prestonsburg, the daughter of Sarah Arnett Davis of David, and the late Raymond Davis. She was a teacher at South Floyd Middle School, Hi Hat. In addition to her husband, and mother, she is survived by two sons, Shawn Ray (Christy) Hamilton of Langley, and Zachary Kyle Hamilton of Printer; one daughter, Amber Brook Hamilton of Printer; four sisters, Phyllis Walters of Belleville, Michigan, and Mary Lou Hamlin, Rhonda Ousley and Vonda Robinson, all of David; two grandchildren, Dawson Hamilton and Brayden Hamilton. Funeral services were conducted on Sunday, June 29, at 1:30 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin. Clergyman Danny Curry officiated. Burial followed in the Lucy Hall Cemetery, at McDowell, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Serving as Pallbearers were: Wayne Akers, Richard Hamilton, Ryan Hamilton, Larry Hackworth, Shane Allen, Dustin Robinson, and Kyle Ousley. Honorary Pallbearers: William Walters, Greg Hamlin, Ricky Hamilton, Barry Hamilton, Stanley Allen, Kip McNally, Tandy Hamilton, Ricky Ousley, Randy Robinson, Randy Hamilton, Nicky Hamilton, and Terry Giese. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Kathleen Thomas

Age 63, of Red Fox, passed away Monday, June 30, 2003, at her residence. Born June 2, 1940, in Letcher County, she was the daughter of the late Linville Finley and Theo Caudill Finley. She was a homemaker. Survivors include: three sons, Gary Grayson Thomas and Gerald Leon Thomas, both of Red Fox, and David Thomas, of Dayton, Ohio; one daughter, Lita Holbrook, of Kite; two brothers, Robert Finley, of Jeremiah, and Jimmy Finley, of Logan, Ohio; five sisters, Mildred Faye Caudill, of Jeremiah, Donna Neil, of Cincinnati, Ohio, Lorene Kabis, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Lois Thomas, of Logan, Ohio, and Zereda Kepics, of Cresent City, Florida; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Canton Thomas, and one son, Estill Canton Thomas. Funeral services were conducted Thursday, July 3, at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Hindman. James Hicks and Bobby Thomas officiated. Burial followed in the Thomas Family Cemetery, at Red Fox, under the direction of the funeral home.

Estill Adams

Age 59, of Wooster, Ohio, formerly of Grethel, passed away Monday, June 30, 2003, at the Castle Nursing Home, in Millersburg, Ohio. Born July 15, 1943, at Teaberry, he was the son of the late Milford Adams and Lucy Cross Adams, and the step-son of the late Lizzie Adams. He was a former coal miner and a member of the Regular Baptist Church. Survivors include: two brothers, Milford Adams Jr., of Wooster, Ohio, and Walker Adams, of Lorain, Ohio; and, one sister, Ella White, of Jackson, Ohio. In addition to his parents and step-mother, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Roy Adams and Walter Adams, and one sister, Rosie White. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, July 3, at 11:00 a.m., at the Pilgrim Home Regular Baptist Church, at Grethel. Regular Baptist ministers will officiate. Burial will follow in the Andy Hamilton Cemetery, at Teaberry, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is after 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Sherry Witt

Age, 42, of Harold, died Thursday, June 26, 2003, at Pikeville Methodist Hospital. Born January 29, 1961, in Fort Lee, Virginia, she was the daughter of Nancy Goble Nisley, of Lexington, and the late Elmer Watkins. She was a teacher at Betsy Layne Elementary and a member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church, Pikeville. She is survived by her husband, Tommy Witt. Other survivors include: a daughter, Tabetha Somer Witt, of Harold; a son, Trai Charles Witt, also of Harold; her maternal grandmother, Erma Goble, of Ivel; two brothers, David Watkins and Elmer Watkins Jr., both of Ivel; four nieces, Taylor Watkins, Paige Watkins, Leslie Wiehe, and Kourtney Watkins; and three nephews, Kyle Watkins, Brian Witt, and Dennis Manning. Funeral services were conducted Sunday, June 29, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Martin. Pastor Sam Crawford officiated. Burial was in Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Mable Cooley Hensley

Age 97, of Langley, the widow of Irby Hensley, passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg. Born June 8, 1906, in Eastern, she was the daughter of the late Harry Cooley and Mandy Turner Cooley. She was a homemaker and member of the Bethel Old Regular Baptist Church, Langley. Survivors include: two sons, Donald Hensley and French Hensley, both of Langley; one daughter, Herma Howell, of Louisville; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Funeral services for Mable Cooley Hensley will be conducted on Wednesday, July 2, at 1 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in the Cooley Cemetery, at Eastern, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home.

Marie Akers Kirby

Age 95, of Banner, passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2003, at the Riverview Health Care Center, in Prestonsburg, following an extended illness. Born April 23, 1908, at Dana, she was the daughter of the late Tecumseh “Jim Bob” Akers and Janie Dingus Akers. She was a homemaker and member of the Kilbourne Baptist Church, in Columbia, South Carolina. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Clyde Kirby; one brother, David “Socker” Akers; and two sisters, Sadie Howell and Kay Akers. Survivors include: four sisters, Novella Compton, of Warsaw, Malta Howell, of McDowell, Toda Akers Tackett, of Banner, and Emodel Boyd, of Banner; two half-sisters, Etta Crisp, of Allen, and Goldie Lafferty, of Martin. Funeral services for Marie Akers Kirby were conducted Tuesday, July 1, 2003, at 11 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin. Clergyman Arnold Turner Jr., officiated. Burial followed in the Boyd Cemetery, at Dana, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Serving as Pallbearers were: Shawn Howell, Gary Akers, Joey Akers, and Chester Tackett. Honorary Pallbearer: William Johnston.