Direct Cremation Svcs of VA - Stephens City Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Catherine LaVonne Harris Perkinson, 90, of Maurertown, VA passed away peacefully on December 5, 2022 at home.Catherine was born in Warrenton, NC to Arthur Hill Harris and Mary Ball Harris on November 9, 1932. She loved to read, travel and be with friends.Catherine is survived by daughter, Joan L Brown and son in-law Gary S Brown of Maurertown, VA and grandson Tyler F. Brown of Manassas, VA. She is preceded in death by her husband Roy I. Perkinson.Grave side service will be held in Wise, NC. Date to be determined.

Obituary Preview: Darin “Scott” Newlin, 56, of Inwood, WV passed away at his home on Wednesday, November 16, 2022.Scott was born on December 10, 1965, in Winchester, VA, the son of James Newlin and Kenneth and Judy Everhart Ashby. Scott worked in the cable industry for over 25 years ending his career as a project manager for SKT Telecom Solutions. Much of his time outside of work was spent playing in bowling leagues and supporting his son’s bowling career. Scott also loved the outdoors where he hunted and fished. He recently became a chicken farmer and named his favorite chicken, Pat Hen’atar.He was full of love and loved intensely. His family and friends meant the world to him, and they admired his reliability and constant support. In June, he celebrated 33 years of marriage to his beloved wife. They enjoyed going on motorcycle rides, hosting get-togethers, and making memories with family.Scott was a member of the Martinsburg Church of Christ and Winchester Eagles Club #824. Scott is survived by his wife, Barbara Brown Newlin, children, Tarra Chadwick and RandyNewlin, grandchildren, Kayla, Alexis, KO, Kalub, Andora, and Josh, parents-in-law, Edward and Paulette Sigulinsky, siblings and “brother from another mother,” Michael E. and Cristy Newlin and Jr. Everhart, and nieces and nephews, Sara Newlin (Khristopher Payne), Michael Newlyn (Mary Francisco Newlyn), Mikah Newlin, and Heather Kerns Kelly (David Kelly).Preceding him in death are his parents and nephew, Jeffrey Kerns.Funeral service will be held at Martinsburg Church of Christ with Pastor Chris Butler on Saturday, November 26 at 2:00 in the afternoon. A meal will be held at the church following the service. Friends and family are invited to celebrate the beautiful life of Scott Newlin.

Obituary Preview: Everette “Wayne” Jenkins, 70, of Winchester, passed away surrounded by his immediate family on November 6, 2022.Music was an essential part of who Wayne was, and we hope he enjoys spending forever with his idols that have gone before him.Born on October 24, 1952, in Bourne, Massachusetts to Harry and Linda Jenkins. Wayne worked numerous years at General Electric before an injury forced him to take disability. He was an avid record collector and enjoyed all kinds of music, though locally, probably remembered for his love of COWJAZZ. Along with music Wayne was fond of traveling, history, and collecting.Wayne leaves behind his beloved sister, Pamela Plauger (Adam, his partner in crime), and three children, Jody Fricke (Greg), Jeremiah Jenkins (Sarah), and Dana Taylor (Gary Finniff). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Alyssa Fricke, Lucas & Meredith Jenkins, Danica, Duncan, & Declan Finniff, and his two nephews Kyle & Dylan Plauger.He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Joshua Jenkins. His children and family look forward to meeting all who remember Wayne at a celebration of life to be announced later. Memorial contributions in his name can be made to the Winchester SP

Obituary Preview: Tex Jennings Mullins Jr, 50 passed away on September 14, 2022 at his home in Martinsburg, WV. Tex was born in Manassas, VA on December 28, 1971 to Victoria E. Mullins and Tex J Mullins Sr.Tex graduated from Osbourn Park High School in Manassas, VA. He then went on to live and work in Northern Virginia for the majority of his life. In later years, Tex held a variety of jobs ranging from retail, to working in a lumber yard, or as a construction foreman. However, none of these jobs matched the passion, adventure, travel, and freedom that he found from an early age in his career as a truck driver.Tex “Buddy” Mullins; whether a father, son, brother, nephew, cousin, or friend… we can all agree that you were a giving, honest, and reliable man. If you gave someone your word, you meant it. You always had a smile on your face no matter what life threw at you. You had a love for fast cars, nice trucks, beautiful boats, your famous fatboy Harleys, horses, and most of all a love for your daughters. They will miss your fatherly advice, silly texts, crazy conversations, and cherish every moment spent with you. We are heartbroken that you are no longer with us, but we will carry you in our hearts forever and know that you are watching over us. We love you.Tex is survived by his daughters, Hannah Mullins, McKenzie Mullins, and Haley Mullins; Sisters, LaVeda Ray & (Vaughn Corbin), Pamela McCauley-Smith & (Kenneth Smith); Brothers, David & (Susan) Mullins, Lewis Shirley; Father, Tex Mullins Sr; Mother, Victoria Mullins-Shirley. Tex is also survived by two uncles and five aunts.

Obituary Preview: Ben Allen Browning, 64 passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday August 19, 2022 with his loving family by his side. Ben was born on April 20, 1958 to the late Paul & Jimmie Sue Browning.Ben is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Browning. Son, Jeffrey & (Allison) Browning. Grandchildren, Conor, Nora & Maeve Browning. Sister, Kathy & (Jodie) Foster. Brother, Steve & (Erin) Browning. Sister in Laws, Terri Chitwood, Susie & (Steve) Mitchell. Mother in Law, Virginia McCulloch. Nieces, Kari & (Tim)Longman, Kylie Foster, Jessica & (Eric) Smith, Jennifer & (Brian) Raschella & Melisa & (Scott) White. Nephews, U.S. Marine Captain Jacob Foster, U.S.Marine Captains Joshua & (Amber) Foster, Jeremy & (Emily) Eanes, Joshua & (Amber) Eanes, and Tony & (Beth) Mitchell.Ben retired from Mondelez International in 2020.A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 Saturday October 8, 2022 at the Browning Home. The Family request in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Prevent Cancer Foundation 333 John Carlyle St. Suite 635 Alexandria, Va. 22314

Obituary Preview: David Franklin Weaver, 73, of Maurertown, Virginia, passed away Monday, August 8, 2022, at his home among family.Dave, David, or “Fat-Cat” to many friends and workmates, was born in 1949, in Elkins West Virginia, the son of Creighton O. “Pete” Weaver and Etta Virginia Miles Weaver Stadel.He grew up in Elkins and attended High School in Elkins and Clarksburg, WV. He joined the United States Navy in 1967 and served his country in the Vietnam war. After leaving the Navy in 1971 he came home to WV where he met and married the love of his life, Coralou Wilson. Dave became an over the road truck driver as his profession and drove for multiple companies that took him across the country and especially around Virginia where he made many good friends. Dave and Cora raised their family in Wardensville, WV and eventually made a new home across the mountain in Maurertown. To say he was an outgoing individual would be a huge understatement. A big story teller with a big personality, lots of people knew and enjoyed the company of “Fat Cat.” From an early age, he had a love of motorcycles which he shared with family and many friends. He liked to hunt and fish and enjoy the woods and trails in old jeeps. He had a passion for history and took part in re-enactments for a number of years. He enjoyed going out to breakfast or lunch at little diners and dives, but wherever he went, practical jokes were almost always on the menu. He loved his family and his animals. Many furry friends had a better life by living in the Weaver house.Surviving with his wife Coralou are his son, Michael Weaver and wife, Nina, of Garner, North Carolina, daughter Amanda Weaver Reinhardt and husband, Brian Reinhardt, of Raleigh, North Carolina, and granddaughters, Julia and Lauren Weaver. A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, Aug 20 at Maurertown Brethren Church, 24916 Old Valley Pike (Rte 11), Maurertown, VA 22644

Obituary Preview: On Wednesday, July 13, 2022, Joseph Albert “Joe” Carper, 78, left the place he loved the most on this earth, his home in Middletown, Virginia, to move to his heavenly home.Joe was born on December 14, 1943 in Middletown, Virginia to the late Norman Edgar and Montrue Virginia Orndorff Carper. He was a self-employed builder and general contractor, contributing his talents to town projects and hurricane rebuilding efforts.Joe served the town he loved in several capacities over the years: as a town council member, as zoning administrator, and as a member of the maintenance department. He was a proud member of the Middletown Volunteer Fire Department for 60 years, joining right after he graduated from James Wood High School in 1962. He was a member of Reliance UM Church, where he was a charter member of the UMM. He was also a member of the Strasburg Moose Lodge 403.Surviving is his wife of 59 years, Judy Ratchford Carper; his daughters, Jeanette “Nettie” Schurtz, and her husband, Bernard, of Middletown, Julie Kerns, and Jolene “Josie” Madagan, and her husband, Hal, all of Winchester; nine grandchildren, Sara Lewis (Devon), Rachel Kindall (Cord), Andy Schurtz (Casey), Ben Schurtz (Rosa), Aaron Kerns (Kayla), Howie Madagan, Haden Madagan, Harrison Madagan, and Hartley Madagan; three great-grandchildren, Noah Schurtz, Grace Lewis, and Nathaniel Kindall; three sisters, Esther Cole, Rachel Seal, and Sharon Daily; and three brothers, Danny Carper, Randy Carper, and Denny Carper. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jimmy Carper and Johnny Carper.There was nothing Joe loved more than his family. He was his grandchildren’s biggest fan, and you could often find him cheering them on at every ball game, concert, or event. It was always a special treat for his grandchildren to go for a ride with Joe, whether it was in his ’63 Chevy, on one of his tractors, his snowmobile, his truck or his golf cart. It was a bonus if he sang George, Merle, or Hank while he was driving.Joe was adored by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but they never called him grandpa – he was simply ‘Joe.’ But Joe was more than just a name – it was the representation of integrity, work ethic, sense of humor, character, generosity, and strong devotion to family.A celebration of life will be held at a later date.Memorial contributions may be made to Middletown Volunteer Fire & Rescue, P. O. Box 111, Middletown, VA 22645, or Blue Ridge Hospice 333 W. Cork Street, Suite 405, Winchester, VA 22601.

Obituary Preview: David "Dave" Paul Earman, 59, of Bunker Hill, WV passed away unexpectedly and answered God's call to be with Jesus on June 30" 2022. Born June 17th, 1963 in Winchester, Virginia, he is the son of the late Paulman S. Earman andJanet Webster Corbin.He is survived by his mother, Janet Webster Corbin of Martinsburg, WV, stepfather, William. G. Ballinger Ill and wife, Josie of Winchester, VA. Two sisters, Deanna Johnson and husband Tony of Bunker Hill, Bibi Combs and husband, Pete of Inwood. Two brothers, William G. Ballinger II of Martinsburg, Mark Ballinger and wife Rhonda of Martinsburg. Many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends. David officially graduated from Musselman High School in 1982. He enlisted in the US Navy in November of 1980 and started active duty August 1981. He completed his boot camp training at the Naval Station in Great Lakes, Illinois. From there he was stationed in Orlando, Florida and afterwards Norfolk, Virginia.He received numerous certifications in electricity and electronics and was commended in writing for attaining the highest scholastic average in his class while completing the Electronics Course. After leaving the Navy he went on to be a very talented carpenter for many years of his life. Disassembling and rebuilding old log cabins was one of his favorite projects although he mastered many areas of the contruction business. He loved working outside with his hands. Later on in life, David attended Kanawha Valley Community and technical College in Charleston, WV where he obtained a certificate to be an Addictions Specialist. During his time in college and after his graduation from that program he worked at Highland Hospital in Charleston, WV in the Behavioral and Mental Health Department. This was a place that David himself had received treatment for his alcohol addiction. He was impressed with the program personally and love the staff there. He had always wanted to help others with their addictions especially since he was well aware of the challenges and the pain from his own experience. David was a free spirit and loved to travel and experience new places and people. He never wanted to stay in one place for too long. He loved adventure, nature and the freedom to wander. He enjoyed the great outdoors and pitched a tent to camp quite often over the years. He really did not like living his life in the traditional sense and typically didn’t which caused contention with family at times. He was very competitive and athletic especially in his younger years. While attending elementary and middle school he ran track, competed in field day with much succes.He played football in high school at Hedgesville High and would just throw the football casually with friends and family. He always enjoyed shooting basketball and throwing a Frisbee for fun too. Bike riding and hiking was two of his special interests most of his life. Riding motorcycles and dirt bikes were a big part of his growing up in Pine Grove, VA. He enjoyed reading books of all kinds but his favorites were nonfiction. He enjoyed learning about the world around him and reading was the next best thing to traveling. He also kept his mind sharp by working word puzzles. He loved to read his Bible,daily devotionals, Our Daily Bread and Everyday prayers. David had a big heart and was a loving, trusting, giving(if he had it to give)and peaceful person when he was sober. He had a big personality and was very much a people person most of the time. He did value his alone time especially as he got older. He never met a stranger and could talk to anyone about anything. If he was having a great day then he wanted you to do the same! He had an ability to feel things much deeper than most people. He was very intuitive and could sense when others needed help in some way. He was always willing to help another person and believed it was his calling. He had a pastor tell him he had the Holy Spirit which attracted others to him. He understood what it felt like to need help and didn't want his fellow friend to feel alone like he had so many times in his past when he was fighting depression and addiction. David had a strong belief in God and his close connection to him had helped him through some very dark and difficult times in his life. He attended many different churches and went to AA meetings at some of those same churches. He read his Bible and daily devotionals often. He shared the word of God with many including his family and friends. He was so excited about his Lord and wanted to share the word of God with others. David loved and cared about his family and friends very deeply. Due to his alcohol addiction, it was not always easy for him to convey this as often or as much as he would have liked to. He prayed for his family and friends oftenand wanted the best for them. David's most important accomplishment in life was not the education he received or the many different jobs he worked over the years. It was finding and knowing God so that he would eventually leave this world and live his new life eternally with Jesus Christ, his savior. He knew he would never find anything on this earth to compare and was comfortable in his faith and beliefs. He always reminded us to talk to God and follow him so that we could all be together again someday. He was known to end most conversations by speaking, writing or texting, "Peace and Love." Please join our family for a celebration of David's Life service and gathering on Sunday, September 18th at the Poor House Farm Park in Martinsburg, WV. We willl be set up at the Rotary Pavillion and will receive guests from 1pm-5pm or later. The service will start at 2pm. We will provide food and drinks and you are welcome to bring a special dish or dessert if you like. Wearing tiedye in David’s memory would be great!Please bring any pictures, letters, notes that you would like to share. We encourage family and friends to share stories and good memories so we can fully celebrate David’s life here on earth. Contact Deanna Johnson @304-229-0841 via call or text to confirm you will be attending David's service. Memorial Contributions can be made in David's memory to the Immanuel's House 713 Buxton St. Martinsburg, WV 2S401.

Obituary Preview: A beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Clara Ann Cole, passed away at her home surrounded by family. Clara Ann is best remembered as the “neighborhood mom”, a fountain of knowledge, a family historian, and the caretaker of important records. She was a joyous communicator and loved keeping in touch with everyone. She spent most of her days scrapbooking , loving her cats, catching up with friends and family sharing stories, be it current events or reminiscing the past, watching old movies and enjoying vanilla shakes with her cousin Darrell McDonald. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed. May she rest easy in the arms of the Lord until we meet again in Heaven. Pre-deceased by her parents Frank and Clara Dotson and survived by her daughters Rachel and Becky, grandchildren and great-grandchildren Candace, Frankie, Robert, Joey, Elias and Thatcher. Son in-law’s and grandson in-law’s Walter, Matt, and Colton.

Obituary Preview: David Jackson Brown, 75, of Stanley, Virginia passed away peacefully at his home on June 28, 2022.David was born November 11, 1946 in Sperryville, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sarah and William Brown and two brothers, J.W. Brown and Joseph Brown and a sister, Nancy Brown.He is survived by his wife, Margaret "Kathy" Brown of Stanley, VA; a son, Jason Erickson Brown of Front Royal, VA; a daughter, Brandy Noel Brown of Luray, VA; two grandsons, his beloved Aunt, Aileen Johnson; and several cousins, niece's and nephew's.He served in Vietnam for two tours and was a active member of the VFW of Luray, Virginia.He loved his animals and family with a passion. Enjoyed fishing, yard saling and collecting antiques. He loved getting a rise out of people but had a heart of gold and loved making people laugh.A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Interment will be at Culpeper National Cemetery.Final arrangements were handled by Direct Cremation Services of Stephens City, Virginia

Obituary Preview: Alice “Pat” Nofsinger, 94 of Wardensville, WV, formerly of Strasburg, VA, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, at Winchester Medical Center on June 18, 2022. Alice was born in PFALZ Gollheim, West Germany in 1928. She was predeceased by her husband Donnie Nofsinger in whom she married in Germany in 1958. She is survived by her daughter Donna Bockey and husband Brad in which Alice made her home with for the past 8 years. She is also survived by her daughter Gloria Kibler of Virginia. She loved all her Grandchildren, Krystle Kibler of Arizona, Brandon Bockey and Wife Erin of Virginia, Ashley Bockey and Gary of North Carolina, and Danielle Bockey of Virginia. She was also blessed with Great Grandchildren, Hayden, Levi, Karlee, Mackenzie and Olivia. Alice was a talented seamstress, loved to crochet, was a fabulous cook, and enjoyed doing word puzzles and playing bingo. She was a member of the American Legion in Strasburg, VA for many years.Alice was able to live her remaining years, happy and enjoyed every day that was given to her. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her and her cat Sissy Girl.Alice was in great care of Direct Cremation Services of Virginia in Stephens City, VA where her final wish to be cremated was fulfilled. Her final resting place will be at Panorama Memorial Gardens in Strasburg, VA. Where she will be put to rest with her beloved husband Donnie in a private ceremony.

Obituary Preview: Mark Andrew Spangler, 61, of Waynesfield, Ohio, passed away on June 18, 2022, in Winchester, Virginia. Mark was born in Brecksville, Ohio to Wayne and Betty Spangler on June 25, 1960. He graduated high school in Waynesfield, Ohio at Waynesfield-Goshen High School in 1978. Mark went on to earn a degree in fine arts from Ohio Northern University. He worked in sales and marketing, graphic design, the airline industry, and financial services. Mark deeply loved his family and spending time together at our cabin in the woods of West Virginia. He valued his friendships, made and kept, from various chapters in his life. Mark enjoyed discussing ideas, creating and consuming art and design, following business news, watching college football, especially The Ohio State Buckeyes, and fishing. Mark is survived by his wife Debbie, daughters Amelia and Kamryn, brother Steve (Ann), parents Wayne and Betty, nephew Mason (Louisa) and niece Maggie. Services will be held privately. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to family, friends, coworkers and the community of First Presbyterian Church of Winchester, VA for their endless love, support and prayers.

Obituary Preview: Eugene Ronald Kinder passed away at his home in Front Royal, on June 10, 2022. Gene was born on February, 2, 1942 to the late Everett & Virginia (Sigmon) Kinder in Julian, West Vriginia. He was predeceased by 3 brothers Buddy Kinder, Roger Kinder and Steve Kinder. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years Geraldine Cox Kinder. He is also survived by a son, Dale Kinder of Front Royal, Virginia, a son John Kinder of Las Vegas, Nevada, and a stepdaughter Rhonda Barr. He is also survived by many loving grandchildren. Gene was retired from the United States Postal Service. He was a United States Navy Veteran, having served honorably during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was a loving pet owner, and his dogs were part of his family.

Obituary Preview: Charles Andrew Chapman, 50, of Winchester, VA, passed away on May, 26th, 2022. He is survived by his son, Leif Alexander Chapman; sister, Lisa Elaine Taggart (Brian) and their daughter's Delaney and Lucille; and mother, Carol Chapman.

Obituary Preview: Sharon Louise HarrisApril 27, 1965 - May 20, 2022 Sharon Louise Harris, 57, of Dale City, VA, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2022 at her daughter, Candace Barnett’s home in Strasburg, VA.Sharon Louise Harris (Madagan) was born in Washington, DC on April 27, 1965. She attended Gar-Field Senior High School and graduated in 1984. She worked as a Child Care Provider in her home for more than three decades. Sharon enjoyed loving and caring for all of her ‘kids’. The children and parents she served loved Sharon as if she were family. Sharon cared deeply for her children, grandchildren, and large extended family. She was always first to offer help and love. Sharon was known for her infectious laugh and her big smile, which could light up a room. Sharon loved NASCAR, 80’s Rock, and keeping a meticulous household. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother (Omi), sister, aunt and friend. Sharon is survived by her brothers; Michael and Thomas Madagan and her sisters Tara, Lori, Tracy, Kelly and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her pride and joy; her two daughters, Tamara Buddington of Woodbridge, VA, and Candace Barnett (J Preston Barnett) of Strasburg, VA; and her son Robert Buddington (Brooke Buddington) of Fredericksburg, VA; her grandsons Airman Bryson Mason, Colton Mason, J Ethan Barnett, and Robert Buddington, jr.; her granddaughters Cadance Barnett, Annabelle Buddington, and Cierra Morris; and goddaughter Sloan Sheehan. She is preceded in death by her beloved father Robert E. Buddington [1940 - 1990], ex-husband Russell Buddington [1964 - 2011], and partner Martin (Moose) Munoz [1964 - 2021].

Obituary Preview: Howard Mott Willis, Jr., 80, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2022. He was born January 10, 1942 in Washington, DC to the late Howard M. Willis, Sr. and Virginia S. Willis. He is survived by his children, Mark Julian and his wife, Kelly, of Germantown, MD; his daughter, Heather Swart and her husband, Ike, of Leesburg, VA, and his son, Ryan Willis and his wife, Tara, of Leesburg, VA; his grandchildren, Kristen St. Louis, Katie Julian, Garrett Julian, Abbie Swart and Jeremy Willis. He is also survived by his sister Nancy Rich and her husband, Jim, of Willoughby, OH; four great-grandchildren, three nieces and one nephew. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret E. Willis. Howard was raised in Chevy Chase, MD and graduated from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School in 1961. In the late 1960’s, while working for American Oil Company, he relocated to Leesburg, VA where he first began his volunteer career with the Loudoun County Rescue Squad. He volunteered with the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company for over 20 years; as a longtime volunteer, there were always good stories to be told. He enjoyed portraying Santa on the LVFC Santa firetruck rides through the Leesburg neighborhoods during the first few years of its inception. Howard became a police officer with the Leesburg Police Department in the early 1970’s before going into business as co-owner of Village Bakery and American Caterers. He continued to work in a part time capacity with the police department until 1980 when he was elected to the Leesburg Town Council. He went on to own Village Vittles, which he expanded into Howard’s, Just Good Food. Howard worked for the Loudoun Chapter of the American Red Cross doing transportation and was deployed for disaster relief in several states during his time there. While working for the Red Cross, he also owned Sweet T’s Ice Cream and Deli in Purcellville. Howard was also a lifelong devoted fan of the Washington Redskins. Even in recent years, he never lost his faith in them and continued to wear a knit beanie that he purchased at RFK stadium in the early 1960’s. He eventually made his home in Chincoteague, VA, where he enjoyed semi-retirement, driving a tour bus for the Museum of Chincoteague and a school bus for the local elementary schools. In the years he lived on the Eastern Shore, he would return to Leesburg each year to cater the Lions Club fundraiser dinner up until 2020. He had a fantastic sense of humor and was never one to miss an opportunity for a sarcastic comment. Howard had an incredible love for people and never met a stranger. Please join in his Celebration of Life on June 25, 2022 at 1pm at the Leesburg Volunteer Fire Company, 215 Loudoun Street, SW, Leesburg, VA 20175.

Obituary Preview: Deborah (Debbie) Kay Birdsong, 58, of Augusta, WV, went home to be with our Lord and Savior on May 11, 2022 at Winchester Medical Center. A celebration of life service will be held at Zoar Baptist Church on Saturday May 14th at 2:00 PM, at 3939 Ford Hill Rd, Augusta, WV 26704. Casual dress is encouraged.Debbie was born in Winchester, VA to William and Peggy Smallwood on January 29, 1964. She worked as a server for many years. She enjoyed cooking, crocheting, listening to music, being outdoors, playing with her cats, and spending time with her granddaughter. Debbie is survived by her son, Dana of Orlando, Florida, daughter, Dina of Lynchburg, Virginia, daughter, Sara of Winchester, Virginia, granddaughter Lyra, and siblings, Jimmy, Tammy, and Doug. She is preceded in death by her husband, Tim, and her parents, William, and Peggy.

Obituary Preview: Ilse Auguste Stronzik Larkin, 92, of Columbia Furnace, VA, passed away on May 9, 2022 at her home surrounded by family. Born on March 11, 1930 in Wronin, Germany, Ilse was the daughter of Roman Leo Stronzik and Marie Hedwig Saeftel. Ilse is survived by her children Craig Larkin and Silvia Larkin Huth (Edward); and two beloved grandchildren - Marissa and Eric Huth. She is survived by her siblings Irmgard Gehensel, Gerda Barry, Manfred Stronzik, Roland Stronzik (Traudel), Wulf Stronzik (Cherie), Siglinde Kharad, and Lexi Molitor (Peter). She is also survived by her sister-in-law Judy Larkin Carter and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Everett Robert Larkin, and her sister, Inge Dobeck. Ilse came to the United States in 1960 at the age of 30. After meeting and then marrying Everett in northern Virginia, she became a United States citizen in 1967. In 1971 they moved to Columbia Furnace to run Larkin’s Grocery which they owned until 1990. After Everett died in 1993 Ilse volunteered for over 20 years at Shenandoah County Memorial hospital. She was an avid bowler and was still bowling twice weekly at the age of 90. She was a longtime member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Woodstock. She loved knitting and donated dozens of sweaters and hats to World Vision’s Knit for Kids program. She was always very supportive of her kids and their interests and volunteered as an assistant Girl Scout leader. Ilse will be remembered as a loving and caring wife, mother, and Oma. Her family was the joy of her life. She was funny, generous, caring, and an eternal optimist. She was a lover of dark chocolate and coffee. She loved babies and children and would often hand out dollar bills to children she saw in the grocery store. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Jeffrey Edward Kerns of Cross Junction, Va., unexpectedly passed away on April 24, 2022, in Winchester, Va. He had celebrated his 32nd birthday only days before.Jeffrey was born in Winchester, Va., to Jeffrey W. Kerns of Cross Junction, Va., and his mother, Brenda R. Kerns of Bunker Hill, W.Va. Jeffrey graduated high school from Mountain View Christian Academy in 2008. Jeffrey received his certification in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning from Valley College in 2016. Most recently, Jeffrey was working with No Limit Communications. Jeffrey was an athlete and a true competitor at heart. He loved basketball starting at an early age and was a huge fan of professional wrestling. From online videogames to traditional lawn and backyard sports, Jeffrey would play them all. Among his favorite games was cornhole, and he considered himself a true king of the cornhole boards. Jeffrey had a real soft spot for friends and family. He could be so generous and kindhearted and felt nothing less than adoration for his grandparents. A fascination with technology and natural resourcefulness shaped his belief that anyone with access to Google could be the smartest person in the room. Jeffrey is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Charles and Carolyn Kerns of Cross Junction, Va.He is survived by his parents, Jeffery W. Kerns and Brenda R. Kerns, his sister, Heather K. Kelly, her husband, David, their children, Lucas, Caitlyn, Ian, and Zachary, aunt Kate Holthaus of Cross Junction Va. maternal grandparents, Edward and Paulette Sigulinsky, his aunt and uncle, Barbara and Scott Newlin; and his cousin, Randy, whom Jeffrey saw as a brother.A private service for family and close friends will be held at 106 Hyde Ct. in Stephens City, Va., from 2 to 3 PM on Wednesday, May 4, 2022.

Obituary Preview: James William Hutton, 69, of Hamilton VA died April 23, 2022, at Cornwall Hospital of heart failure.James was born in Marion, VA on Aug 15, 1952, to the late William Harold and Mary Lousie Hutton. He was a farmer’s son. James followed in his father’s footsteps to become a farmer, which he loved doing until the day he passed away. James was married to his wife, Bonnie Sue Hutton for 50 years. James loved his family the most, nothing would stop him from attending a family gathering. He was proud of all his children, who made great lives for themselves. His grandkids and great grands were his pride and job, he always had goodies for them ready when he would visit with them. James loved woodworking and left many treasures for his wife and children to remember him by. James was always tinkering; you could always find him in his shed behind the house or in his shop.James was survived by his wife, Bonnie Sue Hutton, his four children: Christina Marie Gray (Jeff), James William Hutton Jr. (Mandy), Crystal Sue Young (David), and Courtland Star Hutton (Kevin), his 10 grandkids; Tamara Marie Shanholtz, Brad Allan Poland (Ally), Kendall Alexis Gray, William Case Hutton, Caleb Thomas Hutton, Avery Dawn Hutton, Cayden James Hutton, Logan Palmer Welfel, Dustin Michael Young, and Charlie Hutton, and his great grandkids; Skylee Marie Shanholtz, Kamden Dewayne Shanholtz, Madisyn Opal Shanholtz, and one on the way.In addition to his parents James was preceded in death by his brother Paul and Danny. James was also survived by his siblings: Robert (Barbara), Violet (Dennis) Follo, Barbara (Boyd) Parks, Manuel, Donald (Debbie), Ronald Hutton, Sally (Leonard) Reno, and Clara (Ricky) Crider and numerous nieces and nephews.

Obituary Preview: Allan Russell Davis, our dad, had an incredible life. Born in the nation’s capital, he traveled around the US with his father, Joe, who worked for the interior department. Joe took incredible photos on these trips, and we treasure them to this day. We can’t speak for our dad, but we suspect his lifelong love of the outdoors and photography rose out of this experience, and we hear that his mother, Evelyn, a person we will always associate with prim, proper, and whatever the opposite of “bare feet” is, actually climbed a tree on one of these trips. Joe died when Allan was twelve. The event qualified him as an orphan, and he was accepted to attend The Milton Hershey School in Hershey Pennsylvania.The stories we’ve heard of dad’s time at the school mostly involved waking early before the sun rose to milk cows - milk they not only used in the boys’ homes, but also for the nearby chocolate factory. Allan met our mom, Flora, shortly after she moved to DC from the Dominican Republic, and had met a small group of childhood friends of Dad. Those friends highly talked about Dad and Mom was very happy to finally meet him when he came to visit from his home in Tulsa, OK. At some point, dad decided he was going to marry mom, and told their mutual friends as much. Through long distance mail and phone calls they became best friends, and the friendship developed in love. While dad very understandably didn’t talk about Vietnam frequently, he did share a few anecdotes about driving a forklift one day and Vietnamese fire hitting base on another. He spoke fondly of the local townspeople and about the men he served alongside. Like other accomplishments in his life, dad was proud to be able to serve for his country, but he never let the experience, or the fact that he was a veteran, completely or solely define him. Mom and dad married in May of 1973. They lived together in a house in Maryland that Joe had started building before he passed away. Together they worked to fix up and expand the house, and the house still stands to this day in Wheaton. In 1979, they moved together to Ocala, FL, so dad could further his career as a telemetry engineer for Microdyne Corp, a NASA subcontractor. Allison was born a few years later in 1981, and Amanda, in 1984. To this day, we don’t fully understand the technical aspects of what dad did at Microdyne, but we know he helped establish reliable communication between ground control and the space shuttles. His work with the company tied us inextricably to the space coast, and as children we frequently drove out to watch the launches, or paused what we were doing to listen for the sonic booms from their return. Dad frequently mused about the clarity of the monitors they had, saying “they’re so clear you can see the lizards jump off the rockets at takeoff” - a particularly advanced feat for the technology of the mid 80s and early 90s. Dad spent our childhood years working hard to provide for our family. While he had many of his own interests, we were always his priority and nothing was done without our best interest in mind. He spent much of his mental energy making sure our lives were filled with love and enriching experiences. Together with our mom, he planned months-long road trips to every major national park, making sure to visit as many states along the way as possible. He took us to visit his cousin, and our favorite aunt on his side, Irene, in Minnesota, where he helped us dig for worms to hook on strings to fish for crawdads, and to Colorado to see Rabbit Ears Pass, a landmark he remembered from his childhood. He laughed along as we made jokes about the seemingly omnipresent Snake River. His eyes lit up with palpable amazement when we visited Porcelain Basin in Yellowstone, and again when we saw a giant wild bison calmly grazing in the camping space adjacent to ours. We all laughed when we pretended to be frozen on the snow-white sands of Great Sand Dunes National Monument in Colorado and again when Amanda, Allison, and our cousin Laura slipped and fell into the frigid mouth of the Mississippi during a comical domino chain of events. Then quickly made sure we were dried and warmed. Back in Florida, he and our mom planned frequent camping trips and boating excursions, letting us swim in the cool waters of natural springs despite their (very reasonable) fears of alligators. Together they showed us Florida’s incredible historic remnants (Spanish forts, Seminole canoes still submerged underwater) and all of the natural elements they could identify; every plant had a name we needed to know, as did most fish, most insects, and all mammals. It was important we knew the difference between a key deer and a white tail. Together, they showed us how to jump on a bog and feel the reverberations under our feet, and how to tell which wild blackberries were the best for topping the campfire pancakes that dad would make back at the campground. On several occasions, they woke us in the middle of the night and drove us to open fields, still in our pajamas, so we could watch meteor storms or passing comets from the roof of our station wagon. If we weren’t camping or boating, our parents strongly encouraged us to be outdoors. Bicycling, roller skating, climbing trees, digging in the dirt, and swimming til our hands were prunes were all encouraged. They taught us to appreciate and respect all wildlife, including the anoles that overran our yard, the occasional garter snakes that slithered through, and all the caterpillars, frogs, and toads that called our backyard home. Through all of our road trips, camping weekends, and backyard adventures, dad always had two accessories; a black suede cowboy hat that he picked up on one of our trips in Montana, and a trusty camera. Usually the camera was a video camera, and so we’re all blessed to have large chunks of our life together memorialized in video. During the off-season, when brief cold fronts made it too chilly to be outdoors reliably, dad practiced and performed as a concert cellist with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. Dad always reminded us to listen for the “horse” at the end of “Sleigh Ride” during the Symphony’s Christmas performance. Occasionally, dad would acquiesce to our demands of a trio performance at home, with us playing piano duets, and him graciously anticipating our keyboard stumbles to play along in unison on his cello. In 2002, dad had his first heart attack. We didn’t know it until many years later, but that heart attack cost him 80% of his heart. He kept the severity of it from us, and all we knew was that there were some new changes – a new diet, no heavy lifting, no intense exercise. We also knew it pushed him to walk every day. Dad was declared “disabled” in 2011, officially making him a disabled veteran. He also declared his official retirement in that same year, and turned his attention to fixing up cars. He had worked on a pit crew in the 1960s and that experience along with his seemingly natural gift as a mechanical tinkerer, lent well to his new hobby. His particular interest was Corvette convertibles, and at various points he owned three of them, including his pride and joy, a 2003 50th anniversary edition Corvette convertible. He spent many hours “playing” with their engines and was proud that he could take them apart, put them back together with fewer parts, and they’d run even better than before. In the ten-odd years that he owned his cars, none of them ever set wheel in a mechanic shop, and every one of them ran perfectly. He eventually added a Norton motorcycle to his collection of vehicles, though sadly was only able to ride it once before another major heart event. In 2016, on a roadtrip with our mom through the Pacific Northwest, something changed. Dad suddenly found himself with little energy, needing to rest for long periods of time, was lethargic, and increasingly confused. Upon their return to Florida and after many visits to the VA hospital in Gainesville, it was determined that another vascular event had furthered dad’s disability and that he was showing early signs of vascular dementia. While the new developments didn’t fully incapacitate him, it did mean he was unable to ride his motorcycle again, and eventually was not allowed to drive at all. After selling his beloved corvettes, motorcycle, and RV, he and our mother (with lots of coaxing) moved to a beautiful condo in a tall building in Northern Virginia. Their 7th floor sunroom was a fantastic vantage point to watch airplanes taking off and landing at the nearby airport, and dad preferred that form of entertainment over many others, which he increasingly found too tiring or irritating. Though he wasn’t fully “himself” during these years, he still made an impression as a kind, caring, and gentle soul on his neighbors and anyone he met. His first and only grandson was born in 2018, and they enjoyed frequent visits and video calls together. Allan Russell Davis is survived by his wife of nearly 49 years, Flora Sanchez Davis. By his daughters Allison and Amanda Davis, and his son-in-law Jay Grewal. He is also survived by his grandson Jasper Russell Grewal, who shares his middle name. He is deeply adored, respected, loved, and missed dearly.

Obituary Preview: Gregory (Greg) Alan Fleming, 41, of Martinsburg, WV, passed away peacefully at home due to diabetic complications on March 2, 2022. Greg was born in Cleveland, Ohio on November 30, 1980. He enjoyed music, drawing, movies, video games, and spending time with family, especially his son. The family is going to miss Greg's random movie quotes and song lyrics. He loved to laugh, and he loved to make people laugh even more, whether it was a good prank or a good joke. Greg is preceded in death by his mom Anne (Annie) Marie Fleming; maternal grandfather Charles Fleming; aunt Mary Forrester; uncle Timothy Fleming; and cousin Rebecca Hamm. Greg is survived by his son, Kamdon Paul Fleming (mother Erica Clark) of Pearisburg, VA; sister Rachel Skeen (husband Buck) of Martinsburg, WV; maternal grandmother Janet Fleming of Reno, NV; aunt Carole Cardwell (husband Rex); aunt Virginia Fleming; uncle Larry Fleming; nephews Alexander and Lucas Skeen; cousins Bryan Forrester, Stacey Haltom, Kyle Cardwell, and Sara Astacio; special friend Veronica Garcia; and furry feline companion Dani.

Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the death of Andrew David Peele. Andrew was only 53 years old when he died suddenly and unexpectedly last Friday February 25, 2022. He lived in Lovettsville, VA and was born in Virginia Beach. Andrew was born on October 11, 1968. Andrew leaves behind three amazing sons; David (18 years old) and John and James (17 years old); and the boys’ mom, Denise Frye. He also leaves behind his only surviving sibling, his sister Kim Phillips. Kim is married to Steve Phillips. Andrew has a nephew, Kevin Phillips. Kevin’s wife is Eva. Andrew also has two great nephews, Evan and Steven Phillips, the children of Kevin and Eva. Andrew is predeceased by his parents, Ivey and Judith Peele along with his brother, Benjamin Peele. Andrew dedicated his life and career to law enforcement and serving his community and country. He began his civil servant career as a Police Officer in the 6th District of Washington D.C.. From there he moved to Federal Law Enforcement serving on the Supreme Court Police Force. After 9/11, he felt the call to serve his country in another capacity and applied for and was accepted into the Federal Air Marshal program at the Department of Homeland Security. He served his country well for nearly 20 years and was planning to retire this coming December. Andrew was a patriot who loved his country and his family. His boys were his pride and joy. He was passionate about shooting and marksmanship, he loved martial arts especially jujitsu. He always enjoyed hiking and camping and took the boys on a weekend camping trip around his birthday almost every year. He loved to travel and explore new places and things. A Memorial Service will be held for Andrew this Friday March 4, 2022 at 11:00am at Free Life Church in Leesburg, Va. 741 Miller Drive SESuite G2Leesburg, VA 20175

Obituary Preview: Frances Gau, the glamour girl who always longed to return to Annapolis, has died at age 87.Frances Xenia Gau, 87, of Ashburn, VA, passed away in her sleep on February 15, 2022 in Luray, VA.Frances was born in Baltimore, MD to Francis and Jean Lochboehler on February 1, 1935. She was a graduate of Annapolis High School and Towson Teacher’s College, and a young fashion model in local Annapolis publications. She spent many of her adult years living and traveling throughout Europe before settling down in Northern Virginia. She was a talented artist and writer, often contributing articles about her travels to lifestyle magazines. Her hobbies included puzzles, decorating, and entertaining, and she was a lover of animals big and small.She will be dearly missed for her outgoing personality, wit, flashy sense of style, and feather boas. She inspired many with her kindness, compassion, fun, and strong family values.Frances is survived by her son, Shane Gau and his wife, Anicia; daughter, Tatiana Platt and husband Campion; eight grandchildren, Ruby, Ashton, Holden & Scarlett Gau; Fox, Xenia, Rivoli, and Jeremy Platt. She was preceded in death by her parents.Frances wished to spend eternity on the water that was dear to her, so her ashes will be scattered by her children privately on the Chesapeake Bay.

Obituary Preview: Wilson, Jack D., Jr. of Richmond, VA passed away at home February 15, 2022. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack D. Wilson Sr.; sister, Jaqueline Page Dickenson; brother, Edward Wilson. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Linda Wilson; daughter, Megan Wilson; mother, Carol Wilson; brothers, William Wilson, Timothy Wilson, sister; Michaelen Kibler (Bobby).Jack: You are my love, my life, my everything; you are my soul mate. You are my knight in shining armor, my superman, my hero. Your warm heart, your laugh, your bright eyes and electric smile complete me. I will cherish our 29 years of memories forever. I will never say good-bye to you; for me it’s until we meet again my love. Love you always, Linda. Hug the one you are with today and cherish love always; it is so special. There will not be a service for Jack. In late spring there will be a celebration of his life.