March 2003

As Reported in the Floyd County Times Dated

Friday, March 28, 2003

Delbert Denver “Thunderbird” Mullins

Age 69, of Martin, husband of Lilly Samons Mullins, passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2003, at his residence. He was born August 8, 1933, in Martin, the son of the late Hampton Foster Mullins and Florence Hale Mullins. He was a retired coal miner, and a Korean War Army veteran. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include three sons, Larry Mullins and Billy Mullins, both of Martin, and Michael Mullins of Nappanee, Indiana; one daughter, Naomi Samons of Martin; three brothers, Claude Mullins and Hampton Mullins Jr., both of Warsaw, Indiana, and Larry James Mullins of Martin; two sisters, Bessie Woods of Allen, and Avalene Lee of Ohio; and seven grandchildren. Funeral services for Delbert Denver “Thunderbird” Mullins will be conducted Saturday, March 29, at 2 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin. Burial will follow in the Bill Samons Cemetery, at Martin, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Sign the register for the family at: www.hallfuneralservice.com

Sheila Ann Hamilton

Age, 75, of Lexington, died Sunday, March 23, 2003. She was born August 22, 1927, in Grethel, the daughter of the late H.H. and Phena Roberts Hamilton. She is survived by two daughters, Diana Gale (Richard Earl) Honea of Parker, Colorado, and Karen Lynn Wira of Louisville, formerly of Chicago, Illinois; one son, Lanny (Stephanie Ann) Hall of Lancaster; one sister, Georgia Mitchell of Grethel; two brothers, Winford Hamilton of Greenfield, Indiana, and Link Hamilton of Winchester; eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, William Frank Hamilton; one sister, Angie Gillan; and one great-granddaughter. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 25, at 1 p.m., at the W.R. Milward Mortuary-Southland, Lexington, with Elder Tom Hamilton officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. www.milwardfuneral.com

Gary Edward Crum

Age, 59, of Prestonsburg, died Sunday, March 9, 2003, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg. Born August 15, 1943, in Floyd County, he was the son of the late Andrew and Elworth Well Crum. He was a disabled truck driver. Survivors include four daughters, Tammy Carol Glassman of South Bend, Indiana, Pamela Lynn Hensley of Indiana, Sherri Ciesielski of New Carlisle, Indiana, and Tonya Jean Capps of Dickinson, Tennessee; one brother, Charles Keith Crum of Powell, Ohio; two sisters, Carol Crum (Kenneth) DeRossett, and Andrea Crum (Payne Jr.) Blanton, both of Prestonsburg; six grandchildren, two nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Veerble Hackworth of Prestonsburg. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one infant daughter; and one brother, George Roy Crum. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 11, at 10 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, with Garfield Potter officiating. Burial was in the Wright-Crum Cemetery, at Cliff, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Roger Dean Stephens

Age, 39, of Wayland, died Tuesday, March 25, 2003, at his residence, following a brief illness. Born June 2, 1963, in Willard, Ohio, he was the son of Aldene Bayes Stephens of Wayland. He was a former water plant operator, and a Kentucky Colonel. In addition to his mother, other survivors include four brothers, Gregory Stephens and Tim Stephens, both of Wayland, Larry Stephens of Richmond, and Joey Stephens of Martin; and a sister, Rhonda Christianson of Kendallville, Indiana. He was preceded in death by one brother, Ricky Stephens. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, March 29, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Martin, with J.M. Sloce and Brad Tackett officiating. Burial will be in the Lackey Cemetery, at Lackey. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Adrain Chester Jarrell

Age, 60, of Dwale, died Tuesday, March 25, 2003, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center. Born April 16, 1942, at Slick Rock, he was the son of the late Bill and Victoria Riddle Jarrell. He was a disabled coal miner, and attended the House of Prayer at Dwale. He is survived by his wife, Eve Ett Wireman Jarrell. Other survivors include three sons, Gary Jarrell of Slick Rock, Rick Jarrell of Bentley, Kansas, and Oscar Jarrell of Stanton; two daughters, Lesia Maines of Prestonsburg, and Lorenia Lee Jarrell of Wichita, Kansas; one sister, Lou Ellen Branham of Ashland; 19 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Adrain Jarrell Jr.; four brothers, Lonnie Jarrell, Eugene Jarrell, Raymond Jarrell and Kenny Jarrell; and one sister, Lola Boyd. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, March 28, at 2 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Martin, with Wendell Clevinger, Doug Marshall, Nickie Rogers, and Gary Jarrell officiating. Burial will be in the Jarrell Cemetery (Slick Rock) at Prestonsburg. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Adam Wright

Age 25, of Printer, passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2003, in Staffordsville.
He was born September 12, 1977, in Martin, the son of Ronald Everett Wright and Loretta Hamilton Wright, of Printer. He was a coal miner. In addition to his parents, he is survived by one son, Justin Tyler Wright of Inez; three brothers, Michael Wright, Matthew Wayne Wright, and Ronald Wright Jr., all of Printer; two sisters, Sherry Ann Nichols of Staffordsville, and Allison Hicks of Lexington. Funeral services for Adam Wright will be conducted Sunday, March 30, at 11 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Mark Tackett officiating. Burial will follow in the family cemetery, Fisher Hollow, at Printer, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home. Sign the register for the family at www.hallfuneralservice.com

Beatrice Thornsbury

Age, 77, of Emma, died Monday, March 24, 2003, at the Riverview Manor Health Care, Prestonsburg. Born August 4, 1925, in Erwin, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late John Wilson and Mattie Sparks Ivey. She was a mother and homemaker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell Thornsbury. Survivors include two sons, Jack Donald Garland of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Randall Lee Norton of Florida; a daughter, Lynda Parsons of Springfield, Virginia; a sister, Louise Meade of Greenville, South Carolina; and three grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Pauline and Maybelle. Funeral services were conducted Thursday, March 27, at 10 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, in Martin, with Jack Howard officiating. Burial was in the Cave Hill Cemetery, (Bardstown Road), Louisville. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Wednesday, March 26, 2003

Pauline (Napier) Foley

Age 83, of Prestonsburg, passed away Sunday, March 23, 2003, at the Cabell-Huntington Hospital at Huntington, West Virginia, following an extended illness. She was born October15, 1919, at Laurel City, West Virginia, a daughter of the late Samuel and Mary Etta (Bradshaw) Napier. She was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church, and the Order of the Eastern Star. She was married to Willie T. (Bill) Foley, who preceded her in death. She is survived by one son, Paul Foley of Prestonsburg; three daughters, Billie Jo Wireman, and husband, Bob; Betty Lou Derossett and husband, Paul, all of Prestonsburg; and Sara Smith, and husband, Robert, of Portsmouth, Ohio; eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, March 26, at 1 p.m., at the Burke Funeral Home Chapel, at Prestonsburg, with Rev. Bill Campbell officiating. Burial will follow in the Foley Cemetery at Auxier. Visitation is at the funeral home. All arrangements are under the direction of Burke Funeral Home.

Margie Mae (Ratliff) DeRossett

Age 86, of Blanchester, Ohio, formerly of Ivel, passed away Friday, March 21, 2003, at the Clinton Memorial Hospital, at Wilmington, Ohio, following an extended illness. She was born May 25, 1916, at Rhodafeild, West Virginia, a daughter of the late John and Vina Mae (Elkins) Ratliff. She was a member of the Tom Creek Baptist Church. She was married to Ollie DeRossett, who preceded her in death. She is survived by two sons, Phllip (Bud) Morris DeRossett of Milford, Ohio, and John Hillard DeRossett of Palmetto, Florida; one daughter, Phyllis Jean Deem of Blanchester, Ohio; 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 24, at 1 p.m., at the Burke Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg. Burial followed in the Davidson Memorial Gardens at Ivel. Arrangements were under the direction of Burke Funeral Home.

Shirley Hall

Age 69, of Printer, widow of Azzie B. Hall, passed away Sunday, March 23, 2003, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, Martin. She was born September 6, 1933, in Printer, the daughter of the late Willie Case and Ethel Williams Case. She was a homemaker, and a member of the Honaker Church of Christ. Survivors include five sons, Mike Hall, Earl Hall, Terry and Azzie Junior Hall, all of Printer, and Dewey Hall of Honaker; two daughters, Jone Kidd of Hazel Green, and Rosie Hall of Teaberry; four brothers, Farley Case and Ray Case, both of Dana, Racey Case of Martin, and Terry Case of Stanville; four sisters, Shelby Iricks of Betsy Layne, Rosanna Case of Harold, Geraldine Case of Norwalk, Ohio, and Betty Case of Printer; 21 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, and parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Bill Bailey Hall; and two brothers, Elmer Case and Delmer Case. Funeral services for Shirley Hall will be conducted Wednesday, March 26, at 1 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with the ministers, Frank Junior Kidd, Ronnie Sammons, and Bob McKinney, officiating. Burial will follow in the Harvey Cemetery, at Printer, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Sign the register for the family at www.hallfuneralservice.com.

Paul Edward “Pete” Lemaster

Age 48, of Ivel, husband of Jane Reynolds Lemaster, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2003, in West Virginia. He was born November 18, 1954, in Prestonsburg, the son of Paul Lemaster of Prestonsburg, and the late Ann Deloris Ray Lemaster. He was a truck driver for Action Petroleum, and was a member of the Pleasant Home Baptist Church, at Allen. In addition to his wife and father, he is survived by one son, Zachary Paul Lemaster of Ivel; one daughter, Katelyn Elizabeth Lemaster of Ivel; two brothers, William David Lemaster of Prestonsburg, and Herbert Ray Lemaster of Lexington. Funeral services for Paul Edward “Pete” Lemaster were conducted Tuesday, March 25, at 11 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, at Martin, with Clergymen Mark Tackett and Randy Polk officiating. Burial was in the Highland Memorial Park, at Staffords-ville, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home. Visitation was prior to the service. Pallbearers: Mike Spradlin, Richie Reynolds, Todd Tackett, Bill Reynolds, Reese Ray, Bud Spradlin and Larry Spradlin. Sign the register for the family at www.hallfuneralservice.com.

Martha Story Hamilton

Age, 69, of Teaberry, died Monday, March 24, 2003, at the McDowell Appalachian Regional Hospital. Born August 30, 1933, in Pike County, she was the daughter of the late Bob and Feney Hamilton Story. She was a retired cook for the Floyd County Board of Education, and was a member of the United Christian Church of God at Hi Hat. She is survived by her husband, Henry Hamilton. Other survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Frank and Sharon Dotson of Beaver; one daughter and son-in-law, Garnet and Rexal Hamilton of Teaberry; two sisters, Febie Blankenship of Teaberry, and Maudie Keathley of Harold; four grandchildren, Franklin, Jason, Deonna and Lesli; and two great-grandchildren, Katelyn and Cody. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by seven brothers, Estel R. Story, Joe Story, Ted Story, Paul Story, Bernie Story, Donnie Story, and Remur Story; and three sisters, Fannie Story, Virginia Howard, and Mary Story. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, March 27, at noon, at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Ralph Hall and Bill Slone officiating. Burial will be in the Davidson Memorial Gardens at Ivel, under direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.

Gregory Allen Tackett

Age, 45, of Hager Hill, died Saturday, March 22, 2003, at the Central Baptist Hospital, Lexington. Born February 6, 1958, in Martin, he was the son of the late John B. and Magelene Brown Tackett. He was a disabled coal miner. He is survived by his wife, Lena (Lynn) Baldwin. Other survivors include one daughter, Sabrina Tackett of McDowell; one granddaughter, Kierstin Belt; five brothers, Ricky Tackett, Nicky Tackett, Ken Tackett, and Kevin Tackett, all of Beaver, and Dana Tackett of Pikeville; four sisters, Sue Johnson of Teaberry, Sheila Kidd of Harold, and Charlotte Collins and Kimberly Hamilton, both of Stanville. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 25, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, with ministers of the Old Regular Baptist Church officiating. Burial was in the Tackett Family Cemetery, at Beaver, under direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.


Friday, March 21, 2003

Critt Conn

Age 75, of Richmond, formerly of Dana, husband of Eula Smiley Conn, passed away Monday, March 17, 2003, at Samaritan Hospital, Lexington. He was born August 5, 1927, in Dana, the son of the late Charlie L. Conn and Mayte Boyd Conn. He was a self-employed carpenter, a World War II Army veteran, and a member of the Little Salem Regular Baptist Church, at Dana. Survivors, other than his wife, include two sons, Tim Conn of Richmond, and Randy Conn of Florence; two brothers, Norman Conn of Dana, and Hershel Conn of Prestonsburg; two sisters, Myrtle Akers of Dana, and June Akers of Vermilion, Ohio; three grandchildren, Tamyra Frazier, Jonathon Conn and Charles Conn, and one great-grandchild, Matthew Isaiah Frazier. Funeral services for Critt Conn will be conducted Friday, March 21, at 11 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in the Akers Cemetery, at Dana, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is at the funeral home. Sign the register for the family at www.hallfuneralservice.com

James Edward Fultz

Age 69, of Geismar, Louisiana, formerly of Wayland, passed away Tuesday, March 18, 2003, at the Saint Elizabeth Hospital, Gonzales, Louisiana. He was born September 4, 1933, in Rowan County, the son of the late Charley C. Fultz and Ada Puckett Fultz Mosley. He was a construction worker, and a U.S. Navy veteran. Survivors include his loving companion, Erma Theriot of Geismar, Louisiana; his step-father, Clabe Mosley of Wayland; two sons, James Fultz Jr., of Demopolis, Alabama, and Charley C. Fultz of Las Cruises New Mexico; four daughters, Elizabeth A. Crawford of Phoenix, Arizona, Marjorie “Monnie” Winters of Zion Grover, Pennsylvania, Charlene Barber of Collinsville, Mississippi, and Debra A. Davidson of Sebastopol, Mississippi; four brothers, Billy R. Fultz of Linden, Alabama, Bobby G. Fultz and Leroy Fultz, both of Demopolis, Alabama, and Jerry A. Fultz of Wayland; one sister, Darlene F. Wiggins Arnett of Salyersville. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Roger Fultz. Funeral services for James Edward Fultz will be conducted Saturday, March 22, at 11 a.m., at the Zion Deliverance Church, at Wayland, with Clergyman Harvey Puckett officiating. Burial will follow in the Fultz Cemetery, at Christy Creek, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is at the funeral home. Sign the register for the family at www.hallfuneralservice.com.

Palmer D. Hopson

Age, 59, of 421 Shawnee Trail, husband of Mary Sue Wright Hopson, died at 7:13 a.m., Tuesday, March 18, 2003, at his home. A native of Auxier, he was the son of the late James W. and Draxie Hall Hopson. He was a chemical weapons inspector at the Bluegrass Army Depot, Richmond, an Army veteran of the Vietnam conflict, and a member of Machinists Union. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include a son and daughter-in-law, Glenn and Kimberly Ann Hopson, of Winchester; a stepson and daughter-in-law, Alex W. and Jennifer Berryman, of Winchester; two stepdaughters, M. Layne Cornette, of Lexington, and Susan E. Berryman, of Winchester; and three step-grandchildren, Mia Cornette, Alex Queen and Jahde Berryman; three brothers, Glennen Hopson, of Thelma, Johnson County; Alexander W. Hopson, of Omar, West Virginia, and James R. Hopson, of Evans, Georgia; two sisters, Ilene Davis, of Alexandria, and Opal June Doth, of Cleveland, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.  Services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, March 21, at the Scobee Funeral Home, in Winchester, by Rev. Scott Buck. Burial will be in Clarmont Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Garry Stanfield, Donald Pelphrey, Michael Flynn, Thomas Wells, Rod and Skip Hopson, Andrew Hunter and Alex Berryman; honorary, members of the Bluegrass Chemical Crew, Bluegrass Army Depot, at Richmond. Visitation is at the funeral home.

 

Monday, March 17, 2003

Mikey Little

Age, 80, of Wheelwright, died Tuesday, December 10, 2002, at McDowell Appalachian Regional Hospital, following an extended illness . Born February 22, 1922, at Bypro, he was the son of the late Lafe and Mary Johnson Little. He was a retired coal miner and a member of Local Union 5899; a World War II veteran; a member of DAV Chapter 128 at Garrett; a member of the Wheelwright Freewill Baptist Church at Bypro, a Kentucky Colonel; and a member of the American Legion. He was preceded in death by his wife, Audrey Bailey Little. Survivors include two daughters, Peggy A. Bates and Mary Little, both of Wheelwright; two sisters, Dovie Hall and Julia Little, both of Bypro; and three grandchildren, Judy Lynn Miley, Jason Edward Cook, and Stephanie Ann Arnold. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers, Bill Little, Walter Little, James Little, Bobby Little, and Charley Little; and seven sisters, Beulah Mullins, Gladys Little, Callie Little, Vassie Little, Lori Little, Virdie Newsome, and Maggie Wallen. Funeral services were conducted Saturday, December 14, 2002, at 1 p.m., at the Wheelwright Freewill Baptist Church at Bypro, with Louis Ferrari officiating. Burial was in the Buckingham Cemetery at Bevinsville, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the church.

Friday, March 14, 2003

Emma Ray Tibbs Wells

Age, 79, of East Point, died Wednesday, March 12, 2003, at the Mountain Manor of Paintsville. Born October 4, 1923, in Smyth County, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Ray Tibbs and Docia Spradlin Tibbs. She was a homemaker, and a member of the Auxier United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard C. Wells. Survivors include four sons, Tom Wells of East Point, Kenneth Wells of Taylor, Michigan, Michael Wells of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Bobby Dean Wells of Shelby, Ohio; one daughter, Cheryl Neeley of Prestonsburg; and one brother, Arthur Tibbs of Cleveland, Ohio; nine grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one son, Larry Douglas Wells. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, March 14, at 11 a.m., at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg, with Rev. Garfield Potter officiating. Interment will be in the Government Relocation Cemetery, at Auxier. Carter Funeral Home is serving the Wells family.

Gary Kilgore

Age, 52, of Hippo, died Tuesday, March 11, 2003, at Our Lady of the Way Hospital, Martin. Born June 9, 1950, in Garrett, he was the son of the late Harley William and Clida Collins Kilgore. He was a self-employed heavy equipment operator and was a member of Rock Fork Regular Baptist Church at Garrett. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Griffey Kilgore. Other survivors include one son, Larry Dwayne Kilgore of Shelby, Ohio; three brothers, Jimmy Kilgore of Gunlock, and Allen Kilgore and Harold Dean Kilgore, both of Hippo; several nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Craig Edwin Kilgore and Larry Gene Kilgore. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, March 14, at 1 p.m., at the Rock Fork Regular Baptist Church at Garrett, with Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemane Gardens at Prestonsburg, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is at the church.

Hazel Robinson

Age 87, of Martin, passed away Monday, March 10, 2003, at the Salyersville Health Care Center. She was born April 15, 1915, in Hindman, the daughter of the late Ambrose Taylor and Sela Boggs Taylor. She was a retired cook for the Floyd County School System. Survivors include one daughter, Florine Dingus Arnett, of Madisonville; seven grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Arthur Dingus, and her second husband, Robert Langford Robin-son, and one son, Bill “Crush” Dingus. Funeral services were conducted Thursday, March 13, at noon, at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Clergyman Lori Vannucci officiating. Burial was in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel. Visitation was at the funeral home. Pallbearers: Don Osborne, Merle Osborne, Charles Dingus, Jim Arnett, Rob Arnett and Steve Osborne.

Wednesday, March 12, 2003

Ida Stumbo Williams

Age, 92, of Prestonsburg, died Saturday, March 8, 2003, at the St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington. Born April 24, 1910, in Salisbury, she was the daughter of the late William and Artie Salisbury Stumbo. She was a retired school teacher for Salisbury Elementary School, and was a member of the Trimble Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, at Water Gap. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oakley Williams. Survivors include three daughters, Jane W. Pack of Prestonsburg, Jean Crabbe of Lexington, and Frances Bates of Booneville; nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by six brothers, Charles Stumbo, Perry Stumbo, James Arthur Stumbo, Harry Stumbo, Joe Kendall Stumbo, and Walter Stumbo; eight sisters, Arizonia Clifton, Caldonia Conn, See Carroll, Monnie Muncey, Maude Hall, Violia Allen, Bertha Stumbo, and Minnie Stumbo. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 11, at 11 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, with Johnnie Ross and Shawn Blair officiating. Burial was in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home.  Visitation was at the funeral home. Active pallbearers: Matthew Morton, Christopher Chaffin, Don Camron Pack, James Arthur Pack, Jason Pack, Russell Music, Anthony Howell, and Jamie Fitzpatrick.

Hazel Robinson

Age 87, of Martin, passed away Monday, March 10, 2003, at the Salyersville Health Care Center. She was born April 15, 1915, in Hindman, the daughter of the late Ambrose Taylor and Sela Boggs Taylor. She was a retired cook for the Floyd County School System. Survivors include one daughter, Florine Dingus Arnett, of Madisonville; seven grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Arthur Dingus, and her second husband, Robert Langford, and one son, Bill “Crush” Dingus. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, March 13, at noon, at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Clergyman Lori Vannucci officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel. Visitation will be after noon, Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Elisha (J. J.) Hall

Age, 19, of Drift, died Thursday, March 6, 2003, at the Stumbo Hollow, at Drift. Born April 25, 1983, in Martin, he was the son of Clinis Hall of Drift, and Rita Hall of Hi Hat. He was a coal miner. He is survived by his wife, Tina Johnson Hall. Survivors, in addition to his wife and parents, include his maternal grandparents, Ralph and Claudette Hall of Hi Hat; two brothers, Joshua Hall of Martin, and Isaiah Hall of Drift; and a sister, Emily Judith Hall of Drift. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Johnny and Armina Hall. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 10, at noon, at the Drift Pentecostal Church, at Drift, with Ralph Hall and Glenn Hayes officiating. Burial was in the Newman Cemetery at Hi Hat, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the church.

Troy “Duke” McKenzie

Age, 88, of Spradlin Street, Auxier, died Friday, March 7, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center. Born on February 2, 1915, in Johnson County, he was the son of the late James Troy McKenzie and Ida Stevens McKenzie. He was a former coal miner, employed by Princess Elkhorn Coal Co., at David, and Island Creek Coal Company at Salisbury; a charter member of UMWA, and a 50-year member of East Point Masonic Lodge No. 657. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Irma Marshall McKenzie of Auxier. Other survivors include one son, William Duke McKenzie of Little Rock, Arkansas; two daughters, Judith Porter (Noah) of Chillicothe, Ohio, and Martha Thompson (Oscar W. III, M.D.) of Pikeville; seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert Troy McKenzie. Funeral services were conducted Sunday, March 9, at 2 p.m., at the Carter Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg, with Rev. Bobby Joe Spencer, Calvin Setser and David Powers officiating. Interment was at Gethsemane Gardens, Prestonsburg. Carter Funeral Home is serving the McKenzie Family. Pallbearers: Mack Porter, Tom Porter, Bob Porter, Dan Wells, Evan Justice, Clyde Tackett, Tony Griffith, and Michael Porter.

Laura Hunt Akers

Age, 90, of Stanville, died Friday, March 7, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg. Born December 6, 1912, in Floyd County, she was the daughter of the late John B. and Sarah Lewis Hunt. She was a retired restaurant cook, and a member of the Mare Creek Freewill Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Everett Akers. Survivors include one son, Rex R. Ross of East Point; two brothers, Harve Hunt of Tram, and George Hunt of Mare Creek; three sisters, Ruby Hunt of Lavonia, Michigan, and Callie Cecil and Ocie Pelphrey, both of Clearwater, Florida; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Roland Hunt, John Hunt and Thomas Jay Hunt; and a sister, Eulivene Gunnels. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 10, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Jack Hunt officiating. Burial was in the Davidson Memorial Gardens at Ivel, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Gary Edward Crum

Age, 59, of Prestonsburg, died Sunday, March 9, 2003, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center, Prestonsburg. Born August 15, 1943, in Floyd County, he was the son of the late Andrew and Elworth Well Crum. He was a disabled truck driver. Survivors include four daughters, Tammy Carol Glassman of South Bend, Indiana, Pamela Lynn Hensley of Indiana, Sherri Ciesielski of New Carsile, Indiana; one brother, Charles Keith Crum of Powell, Ohio; two sisters, Carol Crum (Kenneth) DeRossett and Andrea Crum (Payne Jr.) Blanton of Prestonsburg; six grandchildren, two nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Veerble Hackworth of Prestonsburg. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one infant daughter, and one brother, George Roy Crum. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 11, at 10 a.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, with Garfield Potter officiating. Burial was in the Wright-Crum Cemetery, at Cliff, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Ishmael Shepherd

Age, 74, of Hueysville, died Friday, March 7, at his residence. Born May 4, 1928, in Hueysville, he was the son of the late Press and Lula Shepherd. He was a retired coal miner, and a member of the Lakeville Old Regular Baptist Church, in Magoffin County. Survivors include six sons, Owen Shepherd, Jeffery Shepherd, David Shepherd, Bryon Shepherd, Roger Dale Shepherd, and Eric Ron Shepherd, all of Hueysville; three daughters, Priscilla Sparkman and Sherry Lewis, both of Hueysville, and Phyllis Shepherd of Grand Rapids, Michigan; two brothers, Denver Dean Shepherd and Eugene Shepherd, both of Hueysville; five sisters, Shelby Conley, Thelma Sue Hicks, Maxine Shepherd, and Juanita Prater, all of Hueysville, and Barbara Vanderpool of Kendalville, Indiana; 13 grandchildren, Marvin Dwayne Sparkman, Paul Vernon Sparkman, Jessica Sparkman, Thomas Barrett Lewis, James Michael Lewis, Avala Faye Shepherd, Steven Wayne Shepherd, Zachary Shepherd, Benjamin Shepherd, Devon Lee Shepherd, Joshua Lewis Shepherd, Justin Kyle Shepherd and Brett Matthew Shepherd, and seven great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Ishmael Ray Shepherd, and three sisters, Myrtle Shepherd, Betty Lou Prater, and Kanie Sparkman. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 10, at 11 a.m., at the Saltlick United Community Baptist Church at Hueysville, with Bethel Bolen, Willie Collins, Carlos Beverly and Harold Clemons officiating. Burial was in the Shepherd Family Cemetery at Hueysville, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the funeral home, on Saturday; and Sunday, at the church, where nightly services were held at 7 p.m.

Lillian Margaret Fultz

Age 90, of Leesburg, Florida, formerly of Floyd County, widow of Frank Fultz, passed away, Saturday, March 8, 2003, at the Avante at Leesburg, Florida. She was born September 24, 1912, in Boons Camp, the daughter of the late Lewis Sammons and Sally Music Sammons. She was a former secretary, and was a member of the Church of Christ, Leesburg, Florida. Survivors include one daughter, Wanda Clevinger of Leesburg, Florida; one brother, John P. Sammons of Martin; two sisters, Ada Mollett of Meally, and Ruby Hughes of East Point; four grandchildren, Dwayne Fultz, David Fultz, Keith Clevinger, and Karen Rickey; six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral services for Lillian Margaret Fultz will be conducted Thursday, March 13, at 10:30 a.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, Martin, with Clergyman Greg Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, at Ivel, under the professional care of Hall Funeral Home. Visitation is after 4 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Viola Bates

Age, 87, of Kite, died Friday, March 7, at the Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Hospital. Born January 24, 1916, in Knott County, she was the daughter of the late Tilden and Martha Hall Bates. She was a homemaker. Survivors include a son, Billy Ray Thornsberry of Jenkins; two daughters, Irene Hall and Dixie Hall, both of Kite; a sister, Zella Johnson of Kite; six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one son, Harold Gene Thornsberry; five brothers, Garland Bates, Maryland Bates, Leonard Bates, Harrison Bates, and Farris Bates; and four sisters, Mary Bates, Aggie Bates, Sybrina Bates and Eunice Bates; and two grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 11, at 11 a.m., at the Rebecca Old Regular Baptist Church in Kite, with Roger Hicks, Curtie Hall, Cat Harris, and others, officiating. Burial was in the Harrison Hall Cemetery at Kite, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Hindman. Visitation was at the church.

Wednesday, March 5, 2003

Hillard “Skeeter” Cecil

Age 65, of Stanville, the husband of Georgean Sarah Sellards Cecil, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2003, at the Highlands Regional Medical Center. Born February 12, 1937, in Harold, he was the son of the late Bert and Bessie Martin Cecil. He was a retired heavy equipment operator. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include three sons, Jackie Cecil of Stanville, Hillard Cecil Jr., of Georgetown, and William Dean Cecil of Portland, Tennessee; one daughter, Rusha Miles of Bardstown; four brothers, Richard Cecil of Sundusky, Ohio, Howard Cecil of Springhill, Florida, and Charles Cecil and Mike Cecil, both of Sevierville, Tennessee; three sisters, Rhoda Springstead of Sandusky, Ohio, Jody Cummings of Gulfport, Mississippi, and Maudie May of Allen; three grandchildren, Courtney Miles, Kristen Miles and Hillary Alison Cecil. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Andrew Cecil. Funeral services were held Monday, March 3, at 1 p.m., at the Hall Funeral Home Chapel, in Martin, with Belmont Johnson, Doug Lewis, and Sonny Boyd officiating. Burial was in the Davidson Memorial Gardens, in Ivel, under direction of Hall Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Herbert Rex Osborne

Age, 76, of Ravenswood, West Virginia, passed away February 27, 2003, at his home in Ravenswood. Born April 22, 1926, in Martin, he was the son of the late C.H. Osborne and Goldia Gayhart Osborne. He attended Eastern Kentucky University and was a graduate of the University of Kentucky, B.A. He was a veteran of the 10th Armored Division, U.S. army, World War II, and was the owner/operator of WMOV Radio for more than 40 years. He was a member of the Ravenswood VFW Post 6669; the Masonic Fraternity, Ashton Lodge No. 12; Jackson Chapter No. 48, RAM; Dowell Commandery, 28, Knights Templar; and Nemesis Shrine in Parkersburg, West Virginia. He was a First Class Licensed Radio and Telephone Engineer. Following graduation from college, he built and operated radio stations WDOC and WPRT, in Prestonsburg. He received the Kentucky Colonel service award for his broadcasts of the 1957 Prestonsburg flood, and the 1958 school bus disaster. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Osborne of Ravenswood, West Virginia. Other survivors include one daughter, Kathy Osborne of Franklin; one sister, Hollie Wicker of Lexington; three aunts, Grace Osborne of Texas, Mildred Collins of Hindman, and Clova Collins of Lexington; one uncle, Lafayette Gayheart of Winchester; one cousin, Charlie Gearheart of Arizona; several cousins, nieces and nephews. Funeral services were conducted Sunday, March 2, at 2 p.m., at the Roush Funeral Home, Ravenswood, West Virginia, with Pastors Rick Perrine and Mark McComas officiating. Burial was in the Ravenswood Cemetery. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Annie Gail Ray

Age, 53, of Beaver, passed away Friday, February 28, 2003, at her residence. Born February 28, 1951, at Beaver, she was the daughter of the late Edgar and Pearl Reynolds Ray. She was a homemaker. She is survived by four brothers, Gary Lee, Danny Keith, Jimmy Dean and Edgar Allen Ray, all of Beaver; three sisters, Lucille G., Linda Kay, and Dylene Ray, all of Beaver; and two nephews, Joshua Dean and Nathanial Dustin Ray; and a sister-in-law, Glenda Ray. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Roger Lee and Alasha Ray; and one sister, Cherle Nann Ray. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 3, at 11 a.m., at the Samaria Regular Baptist Church, at Teaberry, with Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial was in the Joe Reynolds Cemetery, at Beaver, under direction of Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation was at the church. Pallbearers: Eugene Reynolds, Vernon Gill, Joseph Mullins, Donald Ray Newsome, Ricky Henson and Ronald Reynolds. Honorary pallbearers: Joshua Dean Ray and Nathaniel Dustin Ray.

Ethel Mullins Hall

Age 77, of Topmost, wife of Lawrence Hall, passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2003, at the McDowell Appalachian Regional Medical Center. She was born December 5, 1925, in Knott County, the daughter of the late Ervin Mullins and Alva Johnson Mullins. In addition to her husband, she is survived by three sons, Laramie Hall and Lawrence Hall Jr., both of Topmost, and Brent Hall of Willoughby, Ohio; two daughters, Yolanda Hall Breeding of Carleton, Michigan, and Scarlet Hall Huttner of Valley City, Ohio; eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services for Ethel Mullins Hall will be conducted Friday, March 7, at 10 a.m., at the Providence Regular Baptist Church, at Topmost, with Old Regular Baptist ministers officiating. Burial will follow in the Hall Family Cemetery, at Topmost, under the professional care of the Hall Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is after 2 p.m., Wednesday, at the church, with nightly services at 6:30 p.m.

Willie T. (Bill) Foley

Age 88, of Prestonsburg, passed away Sunday, March 2, 2003, at his residence, following an extended illness. He was born October 16, 1914, in Martin County, a son of the late Wallace and Maudie (Fraley) Foley. He was a retired miner, an Electrolux sales rep. and the owner of Foley’s Restaurant; he was a veteran of World War II, a Master Mason, a member of East Point Lodge No. 657, at East Point. He is survived by his wife, Pauline (Napier) Foley. Other survivors include one son, Paul Foley of Prestonsburg; three daughters, Billie Wireman and husband, Bob; Betty Derossett and husband, Paul, all of Prestonsburg; and Sara Smith and husband, Robert, of Portsmouth, Ohio; eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Masonic rites were conducted Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, March 5, at 1 p.m., at the Burke Funeral Home Chapel, Prestonsburg, with Rev. Arnold Turner, Rev. Paul Aikin, and Rev. Jennings West officiating. Burial will be in the Foley Cemetery, at Auxier, under the direction of Burke Funeral Home.

Helen June Hunter Skillings

Age, 69, of Norcross, Georgia, formerly of Floyd County, died Friday, February 28, 2003, at the Peachtree Christian Hospice, Delute, Georgia. Born March 4, 1933, in Floyd County, she was the daughter of the late Columbus Compton and Minnie Bell Hunter Shelton; her step-father, was the late Harry Shelton. She was a homemaker. She is survived by her husband, Danny C. Skillings. Other survivors include one son, Stephen A. Adams of Norcross, Georgia; a half-sister, Jackie Compton of Michigan. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Sherry Lynn Adams, and Crystal Adams; one brother, Bill Hunter. Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, March 4, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin, with Pete Grigsby officiating. Burial was in the Martin Cemetery, at Martin, under direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Charles Raleigh Nelson

Age, 27, of Pikeville, died Wednesday, February 26, 2003, at his residence at Pikeville, following a brief illness. Born March 12, 1975, in Floyd County, he was son of Don Nelson and Louise Slone Nelson of Prestonsburg. He was a student of Osteopathic Medicine at Pikeville College. He is survived by his wife, Terri McCall Reynolds Nelson. In addition to his parents, and wife, he is survived by three brothers, Donald Grant Nelson of Paintsville, and Frank Douglas Nelson and Jimmy Lee Nelson, both of Prestonsburg; three sisters, Tamera Lynn Bartley of Prestonsburg, Sheila Ann Collins of Auxier, and Barbara Hook of Pikeville. Funeral services were conducted Sunday, March 2, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Johnnie R. Ross and Fred Klatka officiating. Burial was in the Gethsemane Gardens at Prestonsburg, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to “The Baby Nelson Foundation” at Taylor County Bank, P.O. Box 200, Campbellsville, Ky. 42719, (Phone, 270-465-4196). Active pallbearers: John Mattox, Matt Hale, Matthew Stephenson, Ryan Russell, Tucker Basham and Andrew Stephenson. Honorary pallbearers: Matthew Nelson, Brian Collins, Greg Stevens and Tim Hastings.

Crit Martin

Age, 76, of Hunter, died Thursday, February 27, 2003, at the Pikeville Methodist Hospital. Born September 1, 1926, in Floyd County, he was the son of the late Arthur and Beulah Hayes Martin. He was a retired coal miner. He is survived by his wife, Syltana McKinney Martin. Other survivors include three sons, David Allen Martin and Arthur Dean Martin, both of Printer, and Billy Keith Martin of Martin; two daughters, Glenda Sue Newsome of Printer, and Alicia Howad of Garrett; four brothers, Creed Martin, Tandy Martin and Wendell Martin, all of Printer, and Joe David Martin of Peebles, Ohio; four sisters, Dot Belecher of Drift, Nora Martin of Printer, Bonnie Martin of Columbus, Ohio, and Pet Conn of Martin; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Grace Martin and Sadie Halbert. Funeral services were conducted Monday, March 3, at 1 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Ted Shannon officiating. Burial was in the Crit Martin Cemetery at Printer, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home.

Monday, March 3, 2003

Edward Hope King

Age, 74, formerly from Huntington, West Virginia, died at Saint Mary’s Medical Center on Wednesday, February 26, 2003. Born May 24, 1928, at St. Mary’s Hospital, he was the son of the late Thelma and Howard King of Huntington, and was a retired Controller for St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center. He is survived by his wife, Lolita Arnett King; three sons, Robert A. King and James St. King of Huntington, and Edward K. King of S. Charleston; two daughters, Carol R. Gibson of Barboursville, West Virginia, and Lois J. Dingess of Huntington; five grandchildren, Caitlin and Joshua King of Huntington, Lauren Gibson of Barboursville, Megan King of S. Charleston and Robert S. King of Las Vegas, Nevada. A grandson, Brian Matthew Gibson, of Huntington, preceded him in death in 1999. Mr. King had been Supervisor of General Accounting for ACF Industries, Huntington, and then was controller for St. Mary’s Medical Center until retirement after nearly 25 years employment. He was a President of the West Virginia Chapter of the Hospital Financial Management Association. He graduated from Huntington East High School, Mrs. Helen Deggan’s Tri State Business College and is a 1947 graduate of Marshall University. There will be no services or visitation. Tributes may be sent to Hospice of Huntington.

Eliza Taylor

Age, 51, of Prestons-burg, died Thursday, February 27, 2003, at Highlands Regional Medical Center, following a brief illness. Born September 6, 1951, in Prestonsburg, she was the daughter of the late Robie and Eukie Slone Johnson. She was a homemaker, and a member of the Big Lick Pentecostal Church, at Ivyton. She is survived by her husband, Charles (Pete) Taylor. Other survivors include two daughters, Robin Collins of Prestonsburg, and Patricia Meade of Ivel; four brothers, Robie Johnson Jr., John B. Johnson, Fred Johnson and Ricky Johnson, all of Prestonsburg; a half-brother, Jobie Johnson of Ohio; six sisters, Christine Watkins, Jewell Marsillett, Patricia Jones, and Eva Kay Johnson, all of Prestonsburg, Bobbie Chaffins of Garrett, and Linda Watkins of Salyersville; three half-sisters, Edith Allen of West Virginia, and Marie Hale and Mintha Johnson, both of Ohio; and five grandchildren, Elizabeth, Libby, Allie, Savannah and Marih. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Johnson, and a half-sister, Ethel Stapleton. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, March 2, at noon, at the Big Lick Pentecostal Church, at Ivyton, with Eugene Haney officiating. Burial will be in the Johnson Cemetery at Prestonsburg, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, Martin. Visitation is at the church.

Dona Thornsberry

Age, 86, of Raynham, Massachusetts, formerly of Wheelwright, died Wednesday, February 26, 2003, at the Life Care Center in Rayham, Massachusetts. Born September 28, 1916, in Kite, she was the daughter of the late Alamander and Lucy Mullins Thornsberry. She was a homemaker and a member of the Freewill Baptist Church at Wheelwright, and also attended Upper Burton Church of God. She was preceded in death by her husband, Landell Thornsberry. Survivors include three sons, Berlis Thornsberry of West Jefferson, Ohio, Carlie Thornsberry of Columbus, Ohio, and Earlis Thornsberry of Hazard; four daughters, Ruby Goble of Findlay, Ohio, Phyllis Baker of Marion, Ohio, Mildred Richardson of Norton, Virginia, and Melvaline Carvalho of Taunton, Massachusetts; two sisters, Bertha Watson and Clara Slone, both of Kite; 17 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, and husband, she was preceded in death by four brothers, Louis Thornsberry, Clarence Thornsberry, Estil Thornsberry, and Carson Thornsberry; and one sister, Minda Johnson. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, March 2, at 2 p.m., at the Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home in Martin, with Bill Combs officiating. Burial will be in the Buckingham Cemetery at Bevinsville, under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home. Visitation is at the funeral home.