DINWIDDIE- Students in a Dinwiddie High School chemistry class along with the teacher were injured in a classroom incident that is being called an explosion by some witnesses. Four
students were treated for injuries according to Din widdie officials, three of whom were taken to VCU Medical Center for further treatment. The teacher of the chemistry class was also treated at a local hospital. School officials cancelled all after-school activities af
ter the incident occurred on Wednesday, October 12th, and converted classes to vir tual learning on Thursday, October 13th.
Staff and students were evacuated from the high school after a fire alarm was pulled Wednesday morning when a demonstration in
the chemistry class went wrong. The incident is still under investigation by the Dinwiddie Sheriff’s Office and Dinwiddie Fire & EMS. LNN will continue to follow this story as more informa tion is made available.
BY CAROLYN DAY PRUETT LNNUSA.com
ETTRICK- On Thursday, October 6th, police were called to the Virginia State University campus for re port of gunfire.
VSU Police tweeted an alert at 1:17am on Octo ber 6th, stating that the campus was being placed on lockdown and telling students to “go indoors and stay indoors”. Around forty minutes later, a follow-up Tweet announced that two males had exchanged gun fire on the campus quad, both of whom fled the scene. By 3:30am, the joint efforts of campus police and Chesterfield County Police had cleared the scene, and students were told that the campus was no longer locked down and that there was no threat to the cam
HOPEWELL— The city’s Chief of Police, Antonio “A.J.” Starke, addressed both residents and city council members at a recent spe cial meeting on crime on September 28th. The chief began by introducing his platform, comprised of four priorities- or “The Four Ps”, as Starke has named them.
“The first one is ‘Preserva tion of Human Life’,” stated the police chief. “This is why we get up in the morning. This is why we put the uni form on… This is why we do what we do. It is because we care and we want to make a difference in the lives of others.”
The next priority, explained Starke, is “Protecting the Vulnerable.” The third pri ority is “Promoting Prob lem-solving Partnerships”. The chief explained that the third priority was the rea son for the special meeting, “because we recognize that we can’t do anything by ourselves.” He stated that as a police chief, the best plans, visions, and ideas may not be successful unless the community and law enforcement work as a team. Starke went on to describe the fourth priority, “Procur
ing Top Tier Talent,” which he stressed was extremely important because it was a priority to bring in quality, qualified recruits to the force and not lower the depart ment’s standards in order to fill desks.
After explaining the Four Ps, Starke added that if anything “wrong” came out of the meeting, or that if anyone felt that something could be done better, that since he was the police chief, it would be his responsibility.
“And, I accept that re sponsibility, fully,” assured Starke.
With that, he next pointed out three main goals for the
special meeting: 1) to review crime activity and trends in Hopewell, the region, and the nation; 2) to outline law enforcement approaches and strategy to protect citizens over the last 6-8 months ; and 3) to conduct a discussion with council and citizens and receive their feedback, ideas, and recom mendations.
From there, Starke raised the subject of an increase in violent crime. “If you watch the news, you will find that it’s not just the City of Hopewell, but there’s some thing in the water- the water that everyone is drinking,” he stated, adding that juve niles are playing a large part in Hopewell’s crime.
The chief explained one area in which Hopewell is bucking the trend; while there has been an increase in property crime, it was accompanied by a decrease in motor vehicle thefts. To combat those thefts, the department has increased patrols in the hotspot areas of the city from which many calls are received via a strat egy called “Crime Preven tion Overtime”. The CPO strategy augments scheduled staff by adding extra officers onto the force to specifical ly patrol those designated hotspots.
Another strategy being implemented in Hopewell,
called “Neighborhood Re set”, involves officers knocking on doors to discuss re cent crimes at different times of the day in the hopes that someone may have heard or seen something that could assist the investigation.
Starke also addressed the need to have strong rela tionships with federal law enforcement such as the ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco, and Fire arms) and the U.S. Marshals, as well as the Virginia State Police, who have assisted the Hopewell PD in its efforts.
The chief described an intelligence asset called the Street Crimes Unit that was
formed, a group of plainclothes officers in unmarked vehicles that can access areas to collect information and witness happenings that marked police cars and uniformed officers could not get so close to. The state police have also assisted in this aspect by bringing in their own special agents, also in plain-clothes, and additional equipment to Hopewell to team up with local officers.
He continued, saying that HPD with the combined ef forts of the ATF, state police, and U.S. Marshals, is coordinating with Prince George and Petersburg for crime reduction operations. “We’re doing this with our region
al partners because they’re experiencing the same thing we are,” said Starke, adding that criminals are traveling throughout different locali ties.
Community engagement is another aspect of crime prevention that the chief emphasized, with strategies ranging from social media information sharing to inter action with schools. “There’s really nothing we say ‘no’ to,” said Starke, pointing out that the department needs to gain the trust of the community, and that every police officer is a community engagement officer. “It’s a philosophy we’re endeared to across the board.”
Starke explained that the whole purpose was for his department to “get it right”, acknowledging that there are problems, especially with the uptick in violent and property crime, stressing that these are not just Hopewell problems, that the region, state, and nation are expe riencing similar conditions. He also emphasized the importance of the public and local leaders’ comments and suggestions.
“It’s going to take all of us… trusting each other, listening to each other… working as a team to move the needle forward,” said Starke.
BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com
HOPEWELL— The city hosted a career fair on Tuesday, October 11th at the Community Center, hoping to attract potential employ ees to fill city job vacancies. Numerous positions were and still are open for hiring in the police, fire and rescue, water renewal, recreation and parks, social services, and public works departments, as well as the treasurer’s office. Department representatives were on hand to conduct onthe-spot interviews.
The city’s Public Informa tion Officer Kemi Okeowo stated that the city is looking for any eligible applicants who want a job working for the City of Hopewell. “We have multiple positions available across many depart ments,” said the PIO. “We’ve had a great turn-out.” She continued, describing how many people wanted to learn about the different
Attendees of the Hopewell Career Fair.
departments and positions within them, leading to a large amount of public inter est.
Okeowo stated that a large portion of the focus was on the two departments that had the most unfilled posi tions: public works and the recreation and parks depart ment. “Those have the most positions open,” she stated, adding that there are many positions open in all the list ed departments.
Okeowo explained that the city will certainly have more hiring opportunities to come in the future, but, for now, the hiring event was a major stride towards filling the empty seats throughout the city.
Anyone seeking em
ployment with the City of Hopewell should visit the city’s website at www. hopewellva.gov/employ
ment-opportunities/. For questions, email: Info@ HopewellVA.gov.
HOPEWELL/PRINCE GEORGE
BY CHAI GALLAHUN LNNUSA.com
GEORGE— Former Hopewell News and the Progress Index’s Her ald-Post Editor Adrienne Wallace was honored at the annual Crime Solvers Rib Fest fundraiser on Thursday, October 6th at the Scott Park pavilion in Prince George.
The popular annual event was attended by a crowd of people, including law en forcement representatives from both Hopewell and Prince George, as well as other first responders.
While the food, a classic car show, and entertain ment drew the crowds, the main purpose of the event was to raise money for the Crime Solvers organiza tion’s efforts, as well as to honor Wallace for her superior support.
A certificate of apprecia tion read before the enthu siastic attendees described Wallace’s service on the Crime Solvers board for 10 years. She chaired the Rib Fest during her first year on the board, and was appointed Board President her second year. Wallace
also created a second annual fundraiser in the form of a “best of” cook ing competition to raise additional money for the Crime Solvers fund.
“Adrienne has worked tirelessly supporting the organization and her ded ication is unmatched and we are proud to name her our 2022 Honoree,” stated the announcer to excited applause and energetic whistles.
Flanked and surrounded by business owners and law enforcement from both communities, Wal lace said, smiling brightly, “Thank you all so much. I really appreciate this.”
COLONIAL HEIGHTSColonial Heights’s Antonia “Toni” Martin celebrated her 250th career win as Colonial Heights High School’s Girls Varsity Volleyball coach on October 4th.
“When I came to Colonial Heights I only came as a teacher. I wasn’t looking for a coaching position at all,” Martin said, clearly noting the irony of the interview. “They reached out to me and asked if I wanted to coach. And the rest is his tory.”
Martin started teaching straight out of college in an other school system. After four years there, she decided she was ready to move on to something new: teaching second grade in Colonial Heights.
“It was different than what I had been used to because it was a bigger school sys tem. As small as Colonial Heights is, it is still bigger than where I was previous ly,” she said with a laugh. Besides the adjustment to the bigger school system, Martin also had to adjust to Colonial Heights’ volleyball season.
At her previous school, the volleyball season did not start until November. Colonial Heights’ season begins in August. And, since
Martin started as the vol leyball coach the first sum mer she was hired, she has always had to juggle volley ball season with the chaos of restarting school after a three month break.
“I have learned to compart mentalize a lot of things,” she said. “When I am with six and seven year olds, my voice changes and the words I use change. Then when I get to the high school, I can use big words. And some times the words are too big so we have vocabulary lessons.”
Martin mentioned that she learns a lot from all of the kids in her life, wheth er they are students in her classroom, athletes on the volleyball court, or her two sons. She wears many hats and holds the young people in her life to a high standard
“No matter what group it is– my children, or the girls at the high school- my expectation is for them to do the best that they can do, whatever that looks like at that point in their lives.” Martin fully embraces her no-nonsense type of coach ing and tells her athletes early on that they are “big girls”, and they are going to have to learn to work things out maturely. She cares deeply about every child that enters her life.
“If I stop fussing or talking or redirecting you, then that is when I have given up on
you. That is when you need to worry.”
Martin said her girls played the biggest part in her record-breaking career win last week.
“I had debated telling my current players what was going on and what was com ing up, and I decided over the weekend prior that it was up to them. I told them, ‘It is what it is, this is where we are’,” she said. “They looked at me at practice the day before and said, ‘we got this’.”
The night was already a special event because the volleyball team was holding a fundraiser to raise money for Little Pink Houses of Hope and holding a pink out for breast cancer aware ness. Toni’s husband Chris Martin, a teacher at Colo nial Heights Middle School, invited Martin’s family and former players to come sup port the team as well.
Martin said the team had two main goals that night: to beat Dinwiddie and to raise money with the pink out.
“The record was tertiary, if anything, but it became a really big thing.” Aside from winning the match and earning Martin the record of 250 career wins, the team raised over $1,000 for Little Pink Houses of Hope.
“The girls were the biggest part,” Martin said. She also expresses gratitude for her
husband, the amazing as sistant coaches she has had over the years, the collab orative coaching with the boys’ volleyball team, and the former players who have helped her train athletes alongside her.
“I’ve had a lot of help. …
It’s nice to have extra eyes,” she said. “And they’re eyes that I trust because I trained them.”
The volleyball coach normally doesn’t like being in the spotlight, but she knows this record was a huge milestone in her career as a coach.
“It’s a big deal. It’s a lot of matches. It’s a lot of nights. One thing that I have tried to express through ev erything is that it doesn’t incorporate all the nights that were not wins. So, 21 seasons of 20 matches at a time. That’s a lot of nights, a lot of games, and a lot of kids that I worked with.”
As far as what comes next, Martin says she can only en vision one thing left to do: retire. She wants to remain in Colonial Heights, raise her family, and keep break ing records.
HOPEWELL— On Tuesday, October 11th, Executive Di rector Heather Lyne unveiled the Hopewell Downtown Part nership’s strategy for econom ic development for the city and expanded on the concerns of downtown business owners expressed in a previous coun cil meeting.
Lyne stated that the goal of the Downtown Partnership (HDP)- a 501(c)(3) nonprof it that partners with local government, businesses, and community at large- is to develop and implement a pro gram for a “healthy, vibrant, and prosperous central down town district”.
She explained that to help meet that goal, HDP has teamed up with a nation al group called Main Street America, a preservation-based organization employing holistic and incremental movement to increase jobs, tax value per acre, economic impact, and communal wealth and public services to create a “more bankable Hopewell”.
The HDP “Vision for the Fu ture”, explained Lyne, is about making downtown Hopewell a safe and thriving market that offers a variety of retail shop ping and entertainment for residents and visitors. People visiting the district should see “appealing gateway design and functional way-finding signage that creates a welcom ing environment and provides
easy access to Hopewell’s historical features.” This also includes providing a range of quality housing options to suit those who desire a place where they can live, work, and play, including easy access to the Appomattox Riverfront and area trail systems amongst many other outdoor recre ational activities.
In essence, HDP seeks to make downtown Hopewell a significant and attractive desti nation within the region.
Lyne described their four-step strategic plan to accomplish those goals. The first step, Design, includes more alleyway and bike racks, streetscape planning, and urban greening.
Second is Promotions through street festivals, the farmers market, tourism projects, and downtown branding. Next is Economic Vitality, including rehab financing, community business pitch competitions, and small-scale development bootcamp for entrepreneurs.
Finally, Organization: the for mation of an advisory board, volunteer recruitment, fund raising, messaging, and annual reporting of results.
The concerns about vagran cy and crime voiced by local business owners at a recent council meeting also play a role in the future of down town, an issue which Lyne did not simply brush over. “Public safety is a concern,” stated Lyne. “And business owners have a right to be concerned.”
She said that a meeting of service providers was called to
HDP Executive Director Heather Lyne addresses city council members on Tuesday, October 11th.
explore funding for a possible year-round homeless shel ter, as well as creating not only more jobs for people in
Hopewell, but also higher-pay ing jobs, citing a connection between “public safety and people without housing”.
PRINCE GEORGE- On October 13, 2022, at approximately 10:41am, the Prince George County Police Department responded to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of West Quak er Road and Wells Station Road. Officers determined that a Toyota Camry, a four-
door sedan, was traveling northbound on West Quak er Road when it collided with a tractor-trailer trav eling eastbound on Wells Station road.
The driver of the Camry, identified as Kristina Bou zidoune, age 37, of Prince George County suffered fatal injuries in the crash; she was pronounced deceased at the scene. The passenger, a minor child in a properly
secured car seat, sustained no apparent injuries. The child was transported to Southside Regional Medical Center for evaluation. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured.
This investigation is ongo ing. Anyone that witnessed this incident, or anyone with information related to the crash, is requested to contact the Prince George Police Department at (804) 733-2773.
PETERSBURG- Hospital ity Management students at Virginia State Univer sity will soon have a local opportunity for practical work experience. During its homecoming weekend cel ebrations, VSU announced a new partnership with
Retro Hospitality of Rich mond through the Hotel Petersburg. The partnership will provide Department of Hospitality Management students the chance to aug ment theoretical learning in the classroom with handson practice at the soon-tobe-opened hotel.
Dr. Robert Corley, III, Interim Dean of the VSU
College of Agriculture and Vice Provost for Academic and Student Affairs, empha sized the critical importance of learning “both inside and outside of the classroom” for the college’s students. Department Chair Dr. Berkita Bradford also ex pressed excitement for the new partnership and the opportunity for students
to “hone their skills in a professional work environ ment” and “develop valu able industry connections”.
According to VSU, the partnership will benefit VSU students and will also positively impact the local community and economy.
The Disciplinary Committee of the Board of the Petersburg City Public Schools will hold special meetings on October 17 and 18, 2022, at 5:30 p.m., in the school division’s administration building at 255 South Boulevard East to convene closed sessions pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(2) of the Code of Virginia to address student disciplinary matters.
The Board of the Petersburg City Public Schools will hold a Regular Meeting on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, in the Petersburg High School cafeteria at 6:00 p.m, 3101 Johnson Road, Petersburg, VA. A closed session will be convened at 5:00 p.m., pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) of the Code of Virginia. The meeting will be open to the public, and a ZOOM webinar link to the Regular Meeting will be made available on the Petersburg City Public Schools website at www.petersburg.k12.va.us.
LYNCHBURG- Earlier this month, the Youngkin administration unveiled Virginia’s 2022 Energy Plan; the plan takes an approach to Virginia’s energy future that the administration describes as “all of the above”. The new plan will utilize all available forms of energy, including nuclear, natural gas, renewables, and new energy sources.
Governor Youngkin explained his take
on the Commonwealth’s energy needs, saying, “A growing Virginia must have reliable, affordable, and clean energy for Virginia’s families and businesses. We need to shift to realistic and dynamic plans.” The Governor emphasized that Virginia’s demand for energy is expanding, and the 2022 Energy Plan calls for increasing nuclear power in the state with the goal of Virginia becoming the world’s leading nuclear innovation hub.
STAFF
RICHMOND- Late last week, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that Virginia has awarded almost half a million dollars in grant funding that will support the Commonwealth’s local economies.
The Virginia Main Street Program has awarded sixteen communities a total of $257,000 to revitalize historic commercial districts, expand small businesses, and bolster local economies through new technology and marketing strategies. The Main Street grants are broken down into three categories. Downtown Invest ment Grants will be used for funding completed projects, seed funding for
new projects, and gap funding. Com munity Vitality Grants are awarded to communities developing their Main Street programs in order to revitalize their downtowns. Financial Feasibility Grants promote small-scale develop
ment with funding for the repurpos ing of unused upper floor space in significant derelict buildings. In addition to the Main Street fund ing, Virginia awarded $180,000 in Community Business Launch grants.
The CBL program provides funding for training entrepreneurs and holding business plan competitions in order to promote small business and economic development. With a mission to fill vacant storefronts with community-based businesses and startups, CBL programs train entrepreneurs in business planning practices. Out of six applicants, three communities were selected to receive 2023 CBL funding: Lynchburg, Nel son County, and Waynesboro.
Virginia’s Community Business Launch program was recently recog nized with a 2022 Gold Excellence Award from the International Eco nomic Development Council in the category of Entrepreneurship.
Christopher Earl Effler, 22 years old of the 6400 block of Tranquility Lane, Sutherland, Virginia was arrested on October 2, 2022 for driving on a revoked license and larceny.
Delita D. Clements, 40 years old of the 26000 block of West Washington Street, Petersburg, Virginia was arrested on October 2, 2022 for assault and battery.
Christopher Lee Cairnes, 33 years old of the 13000 block of Old White Oak Road, Dewitt, Virginia was arrested on October 3, 2022 for trespassing.
Charles Howard Cairnes, 40 years old of the 14000 block of Keelers Mill Road, Dewitt, Virginia was arrested on October 3, 2022 for two counts of trespassing and larceny.
James Sonny Cairnes, 76 years old of the 17000 block of Boydton Plank Road, Dewitt, Virginia was arrested on October 3, 2022 for two counts of trespassing.
Raymond Randolph Mason, III., 26 years old of the 3700 block of East Autumn Drive, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on October 3, 2022 for three counts of manufacturing, selling, giving, distributing, or possessing with intent to manufacture, sell, give, or distribute a controlled substance or an imitation controlled substance and three counts of transporting a controlled substance in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
David Scott Harvard, 39 years old of the 16000 block of Courthouse Road, Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on October 3, 2022 for two counts of domestic assault, larceny, destruction of property, violation of a protective order, attempt to shoot, stab, etc., with the intent to main, kill, abuse and neglect of children and duty of driver to stop etc., in event of accident involving injury or death or damage to attended property.
Sue Ellen Karen Norm, 31 years old of the 100 block of Green Acres Avenue, Richmond, and Virginia was arrested on October 5, 2022 for abuse and neglect of children.
Crystal Marie Queen, 38 years old of the 13000 block of Spain Drive, North Dinwiddie, Virginia was arrested on October 5, 2022 for destruction of property and use of profane, threating, or indecent language over public airways or by other methods.
ON 10/06/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 400 BLK OF W RANDOLPH RD FOR A REPORTED ASSAULT. UNKNOWN OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS, HITTING VICTIM AND CAUSING NON-LIFE THREATENING INJURIES.
ON 10/05/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2300 BLK OF WAKEFIELD ST FOR A REPORTED BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED RESIDENCE BY BREAKING REAR DOOR GLASS AND STOLE CASH FROM SAFE AND RIFLE.
ON 10/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 900 BLK OF W BROADWAY FOR A REPORTED VANDALISM. KNOWN OFFENDER BROKE RESIDENTIAL WINDOW AND ENTERED RESIDENCE. NOTHING STOLEN.
ON 10/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 200 BLK OF HUMMEL ROSS RD FOR A REPORTED FRAUD. KNOWN OFFENDER PROVIDED A COUNTERFEIT MONEY ORDER FOR SERVICES.
ON 10/03/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2200 BLK OF LYNCHBURG ST FOR A REPORTED STALKING. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS FOUND TO BE WANTED AND IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTIC EQUIPMENT AND WAS ARRESTED.
ON 10/08/2022, POLICE ATTEMPTED A TRAFFIC STOP IN THE 400 BLK OF WESTHILL DR FOR A STOLEN VEHICLE. VEHICLE DID NOT STOP AND CRASHED. OCCUPANTS FLED ON FOOT AND WERE APPREHENDED. ONE OCCUPANT WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF NARCOTICS AND WAS ARRESTED.
ON 10/05/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO HEADQUARTERS FOR A REPORTED FRAUD THAT OCCURRED IN THE 100 BLK OF N 5TH AVE. KNOWN OFFENDER STOLE AND FRAUDULENTLY USED DEBIT CARD.
ON 10/09/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 300 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FOR A REPORTED SHOPLIFTING. KNOWN OFFENDER STOLE CLOTHING FROM BUSINESS AND WAS ARRESTED.
ON 10/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 3500 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FOR A REPORTED LARCENY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE UNLOCKED AND RUNNING VEHICLE FROM OUTSIDE OF RESIDENCE. VEHICLE OBSERVED ON ROAD AND FOUND CRASHED, MISSING SEVERAL ITEMS.
ON 10/09/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 3900 BLK OF OAKLAWN BLVD FOR A REPORTED ROBBERY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED STORE, CAME BEHIND COUNTER, DEMANDED CASH, STOLE CASH AND PHONES AND FLED.
ON 10/06/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1500 BLK OF HUNTINGTON CT FOR A REPORTED VANDALISM. UNKNOWN OFFENDER BROKE RESIDENTIAL WINDOWS.
ON 10/07/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO E BROADWAY AND E RANDOLPH RD FOR A REPORTED DRIVER IMPEDING TRAFFIC. DRIVER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF AN ILLEGAL FIREARM AND WAS ARRESTED.
ON 10/09/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 3300 BLK OF WARSAW AVE FOR REPORTED SHOTS FIRED. UNKNOWN OFFENDER FIRED SHOTS. NO DAMAGES OR INJURIES REPORTED.
202209260003
Vandalism
ON 09/26/2022, OFFICERS
RESPONDED TO THE 8100 BLK OF WAGNER WAY FOR A VANDALISM. UNKNOWN OFFENDER DEFACED A COUNTY SIGN.
202209260005
Larceny-Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts
ON 09/26/2022, POLICE
RESPONDED TO THE 500 BLK OF FOLAR TRAIL FOR A REPORT OF LARCENY FROM A MOTOR VEHICLE. UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE THE VICTIM’S RADIO FROM UNLOCKED PARKED VEHICLE.
202209260006
Drug/Narcotic Violations, Drug Equipment Violations, False Id to Law Enforcement ON 09/26/2022, POLICE CONDUCTED A TRAFFIC STOP IN THE 4900 BLK OF OAKLAWN BOULEVARD. PASSENGER WAS FOUND TO BE IN POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL NARCOTICS AFTER ATTEMPTING TO PROVIDE FALSE ID TO LEO. ARREST MADE.
202209260007
Larceny-Theft from Motor Vehicle ON 09/26/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO 7200 SPARROW STREET IN REFERENCE TO A LARCENY FROM VEHICLE. UNKNOWN OFFENDER ENTERED VICTIM’S VEHICLE AND TOOK A BALLISTIC VEST.
202209280001
Assault-Intimidation ON 09/28/2022, POLICE RECEIVED A CITIZEN OBTAINED WARRANT FOR AN ASSAULT THAT OCCURRED IN THE 9800 BLK OF CENTENNIAL ROAD. KNOWN OFFENDER IDENTIFIED.
202209300002
Extortion/Blackmail ON 09/30/2022, OFFICERS
RESPONDED TO THE 11800 BLK OF PUMPHOUSE ROAD FOR REPORTS OF EXTORTION. UNKNOWN OFFENDER THREATENED VICTIM ONLINE IN EXCHANGE FOR MONEY.
202209300006 Overdose, Drug/Narcotic Violations ON 09/30/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 3900 BLK OF COURTLAND ROAD IN REFERENCE TO AN OVERDOSE.
202210010001
Assault-Simple ON 10/01/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 2200 BLK OF CHEMIN ROAD IN REFERENCE TO A DOMESTIC ASSAULT. KNOWN OFFENDER IDENTIFIED AS ASSAULTING VICTIM. ARREST MADE.
202210020002
Larceny-Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts ON 10/02/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 12600 BLK OF PRINCE GEORGE DRIVE IN REFERENCE TO A REPORTED LARCENY OF MOTOR VEHICLE PARTS. THE INVESTIGATION REVEALED THAT AN UNKNOWN OFFENDER STOLE A CATALYTIC CONVERTER OFF THE VICTIM’S VEHICLE.
202210020005
Burglary/Breaking and Entering ON 10/02/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 8500 BLK OF WREN STREET IN REFERENCE TO A BURGLARY. UNKNOWN OFFENDER FORCED ENTRY INTO A RESIDENCE AND STOLE A PURSE.
Drug/Narcotic Violations
ON 10/02/2022, POLICE RESPONDED TO THE 1700 BLK OF TEMPLE PKWY FOR A NARCOTICS VIOLATION. KNOWN OFFENDER WAS TRANSPORTED TO A HOSPITAL FACILITY FOR TREATMENT FROM ANOTHER JURISDICTION FOLLOWING AN OVERDOSE. NARCOTICS WERE LOCATED ON THE OFFENDER.
ARMS SR
GEORGE, VA
ID TO LE POSSESSION OF SCHEDULE I, II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE
SMALLWOOD
PRINCE GEORGE, VA
& BATTERY -FAMILY MEMBER
GEORGE COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT
HIGHLIGHTS
GEORGE COUNTY
DAMAGE
ACCIDENT PROPERTY DAMAGE
VEHICLE
VESSEL
POSSIBLE
DRIVING
MALFUNCTION
| October 10, 2022
This week, the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers program needs your help with locating the following two fugitives:
For more fugitives, visit our website crimesolvers.net and hit the most wanted tab.
If you have seen one of these most wanted fugitives, call Crime Solvers (804) 748-0660, or use the p3Tips mobile app. We guarantee you will remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward up to $5,000.
You can like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ CrimesolversCCH.
I am Det. Baldwin with the Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers and these are your Fugitives of the Week.
Lois Aba Yankah is wanted for fail to appear on felony charge and obtaining money by false pretenses. Yankah, 38, is a 5-foot-4inch-tall black female who weighs 100 lbs. Yankah has brown eyes and black hair.
Luis Fernando Landaverde-Urias is wanted for indecent liberties with child less than 13 years old x 2 and carnal knowledge x 2. Landaverde-Urias, 18, is a 5-foot-7inch-tall Hispanic male who weighs 140 lbs. Landaverde-Urias has brown eyes and brown hair.
“Take the Time to Solve the Crime.”
On Sept. 1, 2022, unknown parties broke into several vehicles at Roslyn Landing at 265 Charles Dimmock Parkway in Colonial Heights and stole items along with cash and credit/debit cards. At approximately 10:42 a.m., several of the stolen credit cards were used at Sam’s Club at 735 Southpark Boulevard in Colonial Heights. A total of four suspects were involved; they worked in pairs at separate times and made over $4,000 in purchases. All four suspects left in an unknown tan- or gold-colored, four-door SUV.
The Chesterfield County/Colonial Heights Crime Solvers program has released photos related to this case. To see them, visit our Facebook page or our website at crimesolvers.net and hit the “Crime of the Week” button.
If you can help solve this crime, or have information about any unsolved crime and/or wanted person in Chesterfield County or Colonial Heights, call Crime Solvers at (804) 748-0660 or use the P3-Tips mobile app. We guarantee you will remain anonymous and could receive a cash reward up to $5,000.
You can like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @CrimesolversCCH.
I am Det. Baldwin with the Chesterfield County/ Colonial Heights Crime Solvers, and this is your crime of the week.
the Time to Solve the Crime.”
How do we heat and cool our homes? How do we keep businesses open and producing products and providing jobs? These are the questions that should be on everyone’s mind as the elections approach.
In the course of the last week, we have seen the difference between Gover nor Youngkin’s ideas about our energy needs and how that compares to President Biden’s ideas. Recently, economists have quanti
fied the cost of President Biden’s actions over the last year. “The U.S. would be producing between 2 and 3 million more barrels of oil a day and between 20 and 25 more billion cubic feet of natural gas under the Trump policies,” states the report, which was published by the Committee to Un leash Prosperity. According to that study, “the reduced production of crude oil and natural gas translates into an economic loss — or tax on the American economy — of roughly $100 billion a year.”
The President likes to claim that we are produc ing almost as much as we were producing prior to him coming into office. The facts
tell a different story. A story that consumers can see at the gas pump and will again see when their heating oil or natural gas tanks are filled. The President and his folks continue to demonize production in this country. Recently, the Saudis turned their back on him and his foreign policies. This has left him begging Venezuela to produce more oil. He does this all in the name of saving the planet. He seems un aware that Saudi Arabia and Venezuela are on the same planet as us.
The result is that business es are trying to operate within their means. They cannot, however, absorb the costs in raw materials and transportation costs
into their business and out to their markets. This has resulted in shortages of many commodities while groceries have risen by over 13% in the last year.
Governor Youngkin sees the insanity of what is hap pening in Washington and the irresponsible legislation that was enacted into law in the last two years in Virginia while Governor Northam was in office.
Youngkin has adopted the policy of former Governor Bob McDonnell who used the term ‘all of the above’ in reference to our energy needs. ‘All of the above’ referred to the concept of harnessing every source of energy and let the free mar
Name,
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A free press is founded on News by the people – For the people!
Tammy Richards Business Manager
ket set the direction that we need to go. He encouraged the development of solar, wind, nuclear, and fossil fuels. During his term, Vir ginia made great strides in shifting from coal to much cleaner natural gas.
The equation changed when Governor Northam bought into the concept that all fossil fuels were equal and they should all be phased out. He accepted the simplistic idea that all of our power could come from solar and wind. Meanwhile, he joined the ‘woke’ crowd
in believing that all vehicles should be plugged into an already challenged electric power grid.
Governor Youngkin under stands that using renew able sources for our power needs is a noble idea. He also understands that going from the current 15% of our need to 100% cannot occur in a short timeframe, particularly if one adds electric cars to the equation.
Suppose when another hurricane hits, we have only electric vehicles. A Gover nor orders an evacuation
and all vehicles head away from the path of the storm. In all probability, there will be traffic jams. Those jams could be made more com plex if batteries lose power and die in the middle of the highway. How do you charge thousands of cars caught up in this type of situation?
Should the cars be lucky enough to avoid the jams, at most, a refueling will need to be made a couple of hundred miles away. If this still leaves them in the path of the storm, will there even be enough re-charging stations to handle a large
number of vehicles before the storm closes down the power grid?
Governor Youngkin’s plan would return us to energy sanity. He understands that many steps must be taken if we want to have a reli able energy supply, a clean environment, and business es that can provide jobs for citizens.
His plan is a wiser direction for Virginia.
We love to hear from you. You can reach us at Sen. Ruff@verizon.net, 434374-5129, or P.O. Box 332, Clarksville, VA 23927.
assets.
Robert Leroy Higgins, owner of precious metals dealer Argent Asset Group and the First State Deposi tory (FSD) in Delaware, is in hot water with the Com modities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
The agency accuses Hig gins and his companies of misappropriating $7 million dollars in assets of over 200 clients through what is described as a “fraudulent silver leasing program.”
Regulators thus announced last week they are pursuing a civil enforcement action against Higgins and his companies. And a U.S. Dis trict court judge froze their
According to the CFTC’s press release, “The defen dants misappropriated other client assets and misled and deceived those clients when they attempted to withdraw their assets or transfer them to another depository.
“In addition, the de fendants lied about the insurance coverage FSD maintained and failed to adequately insure its cli ents’ assets despite representations and guarantees it made to the contrary.”
The CFTC “seeks restitu tion, disgorgement, civil monetary penalties, perma nent trading and registra tion bans, and a permanent injunction against further violations of the Commod ity Exchange Act (CEA) and CFTC regulations, as charged.”
The allegations are serious and so are the proposed penalties. The courts will decide whether Higgins, Argent Asset Group, and First State Depository are liable – and if they are, what damages he’ll face. If Hig gins and his companies are ultimately found liable for cheating silver investors, they will certainly deserve what they get.
If only the CFTC were as tough on Wall Street banks.
Unfortunately for Higgins, he is apparently not as well connected as JPMorgan Chase and other behemoths whose traders have been rigging markets and swin dling clients in a variety of ways for decades.
Despite being ordered to pay damages in the billions of dollars, no major bank has been subject to a “per manent trading and regis tration ban.”
None have been signifi cantly crippled by monetary penalties when regulators bothered to assess any fines at all.
The CFTC famously spent 5 years “investigating” price rigging in the precious met als markets and managed to find no actionable claims. That investigation was shown to be a farce when the Department of Justice got involved years later – finding serious crimes
during the exact same peri od of time.
It turned out the evidence of ongoing criminal behavior was overwhelming. The banks involved, including JPMorgan and Deutsche Bank, pleaded guilty.
However, the DOJ also stopped short of a trading ban -- or fines big enough to really hurt.
Serious enforcement ap pears reserved for alleged crooks who are small-time in comparison. This situa tion may provide another anecdote about regulatory capture and the two-tiered system of justice.
About the Author: Clint Siegner is a Director at Money Metals Exchange, a precious metals dealer recently named “Best in the USA” by an independent global ratings group. A graduate of Linfield College in Oregon, Siegner puts his experience in business management along with his passion for personal liberty, limited government, and honest money into the development of Money Met als’ brand and reach. This includes writing extensively on the bullion markets and their intersection with poli cy and world affairs.
After a long day in the classroom or at the office, it’s tough to top bringing the family together with a home-cooked meal. When evenings are busy with homework and activities, however, there might be lit tle time left for complicated dishes.
Take those schedules on with a menu of delicious recipes that require 30
minutes or less so you can focus on celebrating the day’s accomplishments with loved ones. These simple yet flavorful ideas from Milk Means More call for limited instructions, less equipment and shorter ingredients lists fueled by dairy favorites that provide much-needed nutri ents to recharge the entire family.
Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn Sauce feature the sharp yet bal
anced taste of mustard and cracked black peppercorns as an easy way to dress up pork chops. When pasta night comes around, Pasta with Yogurt Sauce provides a quick, creamy Middle Eastern solution.
This Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce recipe gets its robust fla vor from sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes and enhanced with luscious halfand-half. For a tasty twist on
Taco Tuesday, you can play “beat the clock” with Roast ed Chicken and Zucchini Tostadas by crisping corn tortillas under the broiler then topping them with a tangy yogurt spread, cum in-seasoned chicken, veggies and shredded cheese. Turn your hectic week nights into cause for cele bration with more quick and easy recipe ideas at Milk MeansMore.org.
In bowl, whisk milk, mustard, peppercorns and flour. Set aside.
2. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of chops with salt.
3. In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops 3-4 minutes, or until
browned. Turn and cook 3-4 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of chops reads 145 F. Transfer chops to serving platter. Loosely cover with foil to keep warm.
4. Add garlic to drippings in skillet. Cook 15 seconds. Stir in broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until most liquid evaporates. Stir
in milk mixture and any accumu lated juices from cooked pork. Cook and stir until just boiling. Immediately remove from heat and spoon sauce over chops.
5. Serve with noodles or rice, if desired. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
reduced-sodium chicken broth
noodles or rice (optional)
•
fresh parsley (optional)
Heat oven to broil.
2. Line large baking sheet or 18-by-13-by-1-inch baking pan with foil. Arrange tortillas in single layer on pan. Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cook ing spray. Broil about 5 inches
from heat 4-6 minutes, or until beginning to brown on one side. Remove from broiler. Carefully turn tortillas over.
3. In medium bowl, stir yogurt, 1 teaspoon lime juice and garlic powder. Set aside. In another bowl, toss chicken, tomato, zuc chini, remaining lime juice, olive
street taco-size corn tortillas
cooking spray
plain Greek yogurt
lime juice, divided
garlic powder
or chopped
chicken breast
seeded and chopped tomato
oil, cumin and cayenne pepper. 4. Spread yogurt mixture on unbrowned sides of tortillas. Top with chicken mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil about 5 inches from heat 2-3 minutes, or until hot and cheese melts. Serve immediately.
chopped zucchini
olive oil
teaspoon ground cumin
teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
ounces)
cheese
Monterey
December 12, 1986 - October 11, 2022
Arica Joyce Kest ner-Pegram, passed away, October 11, 2022. She is survived by her husband, Anthony J. Pegram and her children, that were the light of her life, Anthony, Tatianna, Adrianna and Andreo. Ar ica was also survived by her mother, Thelma Kestner; father, Coy Kestner (Kathy); sister, Tonya Kestner; brother, Jason Lespier (Britta ny); and nieces Starr and Bella Lespier. The family will receive friends at J.T. Morriss & Son - Hopewell Chapel, 820 W Broadway Avenue on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, from 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the chapel on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Bermuda Memorial Park, 1901 Bermuda Hundred Rd, Chester, VA 23836. Online condolences may be conveyed to the family at www.jtmorriss. com.
November 7, 1946 - October 10, 2022
Carolyn Lee Schlimme, 75, of Chesterfield, VA, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2022. Born in Easton, MD, she was the daugh ter of the late
Ralph James Martin; and was also preceded in death by her husband, Albert Charles Schlimme III; a son, Todd Andrew Schlimme; a brother, Kenneth Martin; and her beloved dog, Petey Pie.
Carolyn and Al relocated to Chester, VA in 1980 when Al was transferred due to his job. Carolyn was active in Junior Womens Club for many years. She was a stay at home mom who did child care out of her home. She returned to Maryland in 2003 where she cared for her 2 grand nephews, Brandon and Josh for many years. Six years ago, she returned to Chester, VA to be with her family and friends. Carolyn loved to travel and loved the beach. Myrtle Beach was her favorite place.
March 13, 1930 - October 9, 2022
Frances Lee Gilmer, 92, of Chester, passed away on Sunday, October 9, 2022. Born in Greensville County, VA, she was the daughter of the late John Roy Gray and Frances Virginia Irby Gray. She was also pre ceded in death by her sisters, Winifred Stocks, Carolyn Norment, and Shirley Miller. She is survived by her daughters, Lori Hare (Rick) and Lisa Boyd; son, Charles B. Williams; granddaughter, Loren Taylor Gantt (Travis); and great-grandsons, Sawyer Gantt and Sut ton Gantt.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at Sunset Me morial Park. Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to an animal shel ter or rescue of your choice. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
Mrs. Schlimme is survived by her daughter, Carla Schlimme; one son, Albert Schlimme IV and wife, Amanda; her mother, Sheila Martin; three grandchildren, Nicholas Simmons, Alexis and Alicia Schlimme; one great-grand son, Mason Wilkins; four siblings, Tim, Barbara, Ronald (Nancy) and Donna (Kevin); and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 16, 2022 at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Fu neral Home. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, October 17, 2022 at Gardens of Faith Memorial Gardens, 5598 Trumps Mill Road, Baltimore MD, 21206. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to your local ASPCA in memory of Carolyn Schlimme. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
Mr. Manuel Berri os departed this life on October 8, 2022 at Spring Oak Assisted Living, Petersburg. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilk ersonsince1874.com.
May 29, 1951 - October 10, 2022
Crystal Gayle Forehand, 71, of Disputanta, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2022. She was raised in Colonial Heights, Virginia, and was the daughter of the late Roy Campbell and Ernestine Crawford Campbell. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Earl Forehand, Sr.; and a son, Thomas Earl Forehand, Jr. She is survived by her children, Timothy Forehand (Adrienne) and Tammy Ruiz (Kev in); grandchildren, Tyler Ruiz (Brittanie), Cameron Ruiz, Nathan Ruiz, and Haleigh Forehand.
Crystal enjoyed traveling to the beach and working in her garden. She will forever be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She is loved and will be dearly missed.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 14, 2022, at Appomattox Cemetery, Hopewell. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
July 27, 1965 - October 8, 2022
Donald Lee Chenault, 57, of South Chesterfield, VA, passed away Saturday, October 8, 2022. He was a former employee of Allen Corpora tion of America
for over 20 years. He is preceded in death by his mother, Lena “Betty” Barricks Chenault. His is survived by his father, Jerry Chenault; brother, Jason Chenault (Teri); three nieces, Gabriella, Johanna, and Lillian Chenault; uncle, Lawrence Stark; aunt, Jane Kitchel; cousins, Ann Poythress (Ron), Melinda Martin (Steve), Sharon Partee (Michael), Brian Kitchel (Barbara), and Matthew Kitchel. A Celebration of Life will be held on October, 15, 2022, at 11:00am, at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Follwing the service, there will be a reception at 15930 Happy Hill Rd., Chester, VA 23836. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #284 in memory of Mr. Chenault. Private interment at Sunset Memorial Park, Chester, VA. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
July 6, 1941 - October 8, 2022
Thomas Neil Paint er, 81, of Ches terfield, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2022. Born in Richmond, he was the son of the late, Thomas L. Painter and Lillie Elliott Painter. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patsy Parks Painter; granddaughter, Sarah Anders; infant brother, Garland Painter; and daughter-in-law, Rhon da Anders. He is survived by his children, Kelly Nauyok (Rick), Todd Anders (Jennifer), Craig An ders, Corey Painter (Jamie), and Jodi Justice (Lane); 10 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchil dren; sister, Virginia “Ginger” Weikal; and brother, William “Ellis” Painter (Lynda). Thomas proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force and was a Vietnam Veteran. He retired as MSGT after many years of service. He then went on to work as a firefighter at Fort Lee, also retiring after many years. He enjoyed going boating, tinkering in his shed, fishing, and was an aviation enthusiast. He was known to be a father to many people. He was a selfless and humble man. Thomas is loved and will be dearly missed. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 17, 2022, at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
May 3, 1937 - October 8, 2022
Thelma A. Ratliff, 85, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2022, with family at her side, following her year-long battle with cancer. Born May 3, 1937, in Mercer County, West Virginia, she was the eldest daughter of the late, Kenna Orval Amick and Thressie Lilly Amick. She was preceded in death by four of her siblings, James Lilly, Paul Amick, Thressie June Amick, and Coleen Belcher, and is survived by two of her siblings, Pat Amick (Melba) and Kathy Matherly (Jarrell). She is also survived by her children, Terri Batton (Mark), Marty Rat liff (Lisa), Bobby Ratliff (Kim), and Lolli Morris (Harry). She was blessed to have five grand children, Nikki Jackson (Daniel), Adam Jackson (Jessica), Sydnee Jackson (Alex), Jacklyn Atkins (Kyle), and Krista Ratliff; and three great-grandchildren, Izaiah, Samaya, and Lincoln. Her extended family consisted of many nieces and nephews, several of whom she helped mentor and raise through the years, including but not limited to, Rusty Wells and Jeff Ratliff; and her brother-in-law, Charlie Belcher; all of whom only strengthened her love of family. Her ex-husband, J.C. Ratliff also held a special place in her heart.
Thelma went by several (nick)names, some of her family, including parents and siblings, called her by her middle name, Athleen or “Thleen;” many called her “Amy”; grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew her as “Mamaw,” “Mum,” and “Mumsy;” and her adult children coined the name “Three Cent” because she always liked to throw in more than two cents when it came to opinions or advice.
Thelma graduated early from high school and attended Concord College in Mercer County, West Virginia, where she earned a teaching degree in math and biology. She taught school for a couple of years but found her true calling in social work. Her career spanned over 35 years in that field, and she had been retired for over 20 years. She loved people and loved helping people from all walks of life. She was a great cook and enjoyed cooking for family and friends, as well as just spending time with her family and friends. She especially adored her grandchil dren and great-grandchildren. She also loved to play scrabble and watch golf. She was and is loved by many and will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home and will be officiated by her brother, Pat Amick, and brother-in-law, Charlie Belcher. Following the service, the family will receive friends and family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be donated to Hopewell’s Food Pantry at 903 W. City Point Road, Hopewell, VA 23860 or The Clothing Place at 201 E. Broadway, Hopewell, VA 23860. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorris.com.
July
Melvin “Doug” Brown, 72, passed on Thursday, October 6, 2022, in the comfort of his home, following a long illness. He leaves his loving wife of 12 years, Wanda Brown; siblings, Shirley, and husband, Bill, Opal Moore, David, and his wife, Margaret, Perry, and his wife, Penny; along with nephews and nieces. He was proceeded in death by his moth er, Beulah Mae Brown; and his father, Melvin Eugene Brown. He attended the New Apostolic Church in Hopewell, VA. He worked at Park 500/Altria for 30 years before retiring as a multi-craft mechanic. He was a certified welder along with being an EMT. In his youth Doug was a member of the Boy Scouts. He enjoyed many sports including golf, fishing, hunting, water skiing and snow skiing. He was an avid scuba diver, drove his race car at Southside Speedway (along with other tracks) and was an IFR Pilot. Doug was a member of the America Legion, the Hopewell Moose Lodge, and the Eagles Club in Petersburg. “He was a man of many talents and left no stone unturned.”
There will be a Celebration of Life Service at the J.T. Morris & Son Funeral Home - Chester Chapel, Thursday, October 13, 2022, at 6pm, with visitation from 5pm-6pm. 3050 West Hundred Road Chester, VA 23831. In lieu of flowers donations to Alzheimer’s Association or a Charity of choice. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
August 28, 1962 - October 6, 2022
Jonathan Win throp Springfield, 60, of Chester field, VA, passed away on October 6, 2022. He is preceded in death by his mother, Joann Ellington Springfield.
Jonathan was a parts manager for Colonial Trucking for may years. He enjoyed fishing with his daughter, loved his Harley motorcy cle and his dog, Sandy. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Springfield (Luis Hernandez); father, Claude Springfield; brother, David Springfield (Val erie) and niece, Courtney Springfield. All services will be private. The family is being served by the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
December 23, 1951 - October 4, 2022
Samuel Eugene Miller, 70, of Prince George VA, passed away on Tuesday, October 4, 2022. Born in Bluefield, West Vir ginia, he was pre ceded in death by his parents Cleveland B. Miller and Mary K. Miller, of Bluefield, West Virginia. Waiting at Heaven’s Gates with her arms wide open, was his loving wife, Zona Theresa Miller. He is survived by his son, Robert Miller, of Hopewell, VA; daughters and sons-in-law, Tonya and Dohne James, of Hopewell, VA, and Sandra and David Garrett, of Prince George, VA; grandchildren, Victoria, Desiree, Alexus, Jake, Theresa, Mckenzie, Gabriel, Zona, and Dorian. Also survived by his two brothers, James and Judy Miller, of Augusta, GA, and Johnny and Ruth Miller, of Vinton, VA; three sisters, Mandy, Melody, and Melena, of VA.
Carlos Alberto Alarcon, 76, of North Plainfield, New Jersey, passed away on Monday, October 10, 2022. He was born on May 1, 1946, in Bogota, Colombia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Emma Hernandez and his brother, Alvaro Alarcon.
July 10, 1946 - October 9, 2022
Flora “Teta” M. Perkinson, 76, of Colonial Heights, passed away on Sunday, October 9th, 2022. Born on July 10, 1946 in Ly ons, New York, she was the daughter of the late Howard Edward and Gene Wilkinson Marshall. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph “Joe” Daniel Perkin son and brother, Benjamin Scott Marshall. She is survived by her son, Kenneth “Scott” Perkinson (Kristen); daughter, Jennifer P. Pickral (Mike); and sister Mary Elizabeth Marshall. Funeral Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Condolences may be registered at www.eal vinsmall.com.
Sam loved his country, he was a Vietnam Veteran who served from 1969-1972. He was exposed to agent orange, causing several health issues throughout his life. He was a member of the VFW Post 637 and American Legion. He loved spending time with his family, as well as, playing bingo or the slot machines. Services will be held Sunday, October 16, 2022, at 2:00pm, at J.T. Morris & Son Funeral Home, in Hopewell, Virginia. Following his memorial service you are welcome to join us at the VFW, in Hopewell, Virginia for food and fellowship. Condolences may be registered at www. jtmorriss.com.
Mr. James H. Scott of Cameron, NC, departed this life on October 12, 2022 at his residence. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874. com.
He was a loving husband, father, grandfa ther and friend. His love was greatly felt by his family, friends, and anyone he met. He was a dedicated soccer fan who loved danc ing and listening to Tangos. His passion for life was contagious. We will forever miss his presence, charm, humor, and wit. Our mem ories with him will live on as his soul does. May his vessel lie in peace, and may he be gracefully received in heaven with love and light. Until we meet again.. We love you. He is survived by his loving wife, Elsa Rosario Rodriguez; two daughters, Libby Southgate (Keith) and Emma Chevere (Da vid Walker); two sons, Juan Carlos Alar con (Alexandra Cotto) and Henry Alarcon (Nancy Rodriguez); stepsons, Luis Beltran (Adriana), John Beltran, Carlos E. Beltran; grandchildren, Stephany, Kyra, Luisito, Monica, Keith, Julian, Destine, Arianna, Daniel, Gaby, Kaleb, Cristian, Nancy, Nico las, Julian, Adrianita, and Calvin; and niec es and nephews, Anthony, Libi, Olga, Maria, Alberto, and William.
A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, 17111 Jefferson David Highway S. Chesterfield, Virginia 23834. Interment will follow in St. Ann Catholic Church Cemetery, 3320 Beechwood Avenue, Chester, Virginia 23831.
March 17, 1924 - October 10, 2022
Mrs. Frances Moore Johnson departed this life on October 10, 2022 at Annan dale Healthcare Center, Annandale. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establish ment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.
November 28, 1938 - October 10, 2022
Russell Paige ‘Sugar’ Sheffield Smelley, 83, of Chesterfield passed away on Monday, October 10, 2022. ‘Sugar’ Smelley was born in Petersburg, Virginia in 1938 to Louis and Hazel Sheffield. The sixth of seven children, she made the front porch of her house her playground with her constant companion being her younger brother Curtis. The Colonial Heights neigh borhood was her adventure land and Colonial Heights Baptist church services were her refuge.
On June 6, 1954, two teenagers eloped and became Mr. and Mrs. Carleton Smelley. This was a surprise event to the family and dire predictions were made about the chances for it enduring. 46 years later, Bud and Sugar were separated by Bud’s unforeseen death, but they had endured to create a devoted marriage in which they prospered and grew. They raised three boys, Russell, Mark and Jeff. With a coopera tive family approach, each of the boys graduated from Prince George High School. Each earned a college degree. Each had fruitful employment. They also provided great joy to ‘Bud’ and ‘Sugar’ as grandchildren were born. Amy and Katie born to Mark and Sue. Jacob, Ben and Samantha born to Jeff and Angela. Alyssa and Travis born to Russell and Allison. Amy and Steve Birdsong gifted them with great grandchildren Jack and Finn, Katie and Taylor Morgan had Chase and Brooks and Jake and Alexis Smelley brought Connor.
Sugar had a strong business acumen which helped her and Bud build a successful car dealership in Chesterfield County known as Carleton Motors. With Bud in sales and Sug ar managing the finances, they advanced far from their modest beginnings as a teenage married couple. Their devotion to one another was exhibited in their trust of one another in handling the myriad of tasks necessary to be a small business owner. Their many re peat customers felt comfortable with the family atmosphere in their country house style office building. Sugar was able to keep the business going for three years after Bud’s death but realized that the loss of Bud was a matter to be grieved rather than worked through at the office.
Sugar and Bud were longtime residents of Prince George County near Carson and attended Shiloh Baptist Church. They moved to Chesterfield County in the 1990’s and continued as members of Matoaca Baptist Church. Bud’s absence in her life was challenging for Sugar. They had been constant companions and she missed the assurance of his devotion. Her passing on October 10, 2022 brought her to the arms of Jesus and the joy of seeing Bud once again. Her strength and perse verance saw her through life challenges. Her peace and comfort are now found in her heavenly home.
Sugar is survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren except for granddaughter Alyssa Smelley who passed in July 2006.
A service of remembrance will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Gary’s United Methodist Church, 13501 Sunnybrook Road, Petersburg, VA 23805. All are invited to celebrate her life and share a story in the Service or at the reception imme diately following at the church fellowship hall. Interment will be held at a later date in Southlawn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, gifts to Lewy Body Dementia Association would be appropriate, www. lbda.org. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Condolences may be regis tered at www.ealvinsmall.com.
December 27, 1956 - October 9, 2022
Almon Birt, 65, of N. Dinwiddie, VA, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, October 9, 2022. Dayton was currently serving as the Bishop & CEO of Redemp tion Ministries in Prince George, VA. In his early ministry, Dayton served as associate pastor under the mentorship of his father, Rev. Almon Birt, while also starting a Christian School and daycare in Greensburg, PA. In 1984, he chose to move to Virginia Beach to attend CBN University, now Regent University, where he earned a master’s degree. During that time, he also served as Christian Educa tion Director at Norview PHC, later named Living Word Church, in Norfolk, VA, where he later became senior pastor for twelve years. In 1998, he was elected to serve as the Conference Christian Education Director in which he served until 2007. He was then elected to serve in the current role as Bishop. Dayton was a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, but more than anything, he loved spend ing time with his family, and ministering to others. He never met a stranger and always found the best in everyone.
Dayton is preceded in death by his mother Lillian Marie (Janzen) Birt and an infant sister, Caroll Marie Birt.
Dayton is survived by his loving and devot ed wife of 42 years, Lynn Lakin Birt; three daughters, Carrie Poole and husband, Matt, Kristin Stone and husband, Sam, and Katy Yeatts and husband, Alex; grandchildren, Ainsley, Kaydence, Paisley, Sawyer and Lorelei; father, Rev. Almon Birt and his wife, Kathy; siblings, Darrell Birt and wife, Lisa, Debbie Prohaska and husband, Bill, Dawn Rose and husband, Scott; along with several nieces and nephews.
October 8, 2022
Mr. Kevin McKenzie, of Petersburg, departed this life Saturday, Oc tober 8th, at the Southside Regional Medical Center., Petersburg. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Petersburg Chap el of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., 804.732.7841. www.
A celebration of life service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 14, 2022 at Abundant Life Church, 6500 Middle Road, Prince George, Virginia 23875, during which a live video stream of the service will be available for viewing online at www. ealvinsmall.com/obituary/Dayton-Birt. Inter ment will be private. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thurs day night, October 13, 2022 at Abundant Life Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests supporting a passion of Dayton’s, Redemption Ministries Summer Youth Camps, www.redemptionministries.com or by calling (804) 862-9201 for assistance. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes, 2033 Boulevard. Online con dolences may be registered at www.ealvins mall.com.
Jonathan “Doug las” Smith, 73, of Disputanta, crossed over to the Lord to be with his family and pets on October 8, 2022 after passing away in the home he built. His wife and daughter were at his side. He was born in Richmond on July 3, 1949 to the late Donald Linwood and Lo retta Cottrell Smith and was also preceded in death by his son, Jonathan Todd Smith. His early years were spent in the construc tion contracting business and he worked as Project Manager at Hankins and Anderson from 1982 until retirement in 2011. He was a member of The Sons of the American Legion and had lifetime hunting and fishing memberships. He also enjoyed traveling in ternationally in search of trophy game and fish. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife, Bev erly Bzdek Smith; daughter, Amanda Blair Starke and his son-in-law Brent; son, Scott Douglas Smith; grandsons, Jonathan, Cash, and Waylon; brothers, Keith and Patrick and their spouses; and sisters, Linda and Teresa. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Merchant’s Hope Memorial Gardens, 11302 Merchants Hope Road, Hopewell, Virginia 23860. This will be followed by a gathering at Burrowsville Ruritan Club, 17410 James River Drive, Disputanta, Virginia 23842. The family will receive guests from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, October 14, 2022 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Bou levard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.
February 29, 1928 - October 7, 2022
Laura Williams
Bass, 94, of Co lonial Heights, passed away October 7, 2022. She was a nurse for many years at Petersburg General Hospital and retired from Central State Hospital in 1982. She was preceded in death by her father and moth er, Thomas Williams and Grace L. Crowder; her husband, Billy N. Bass, sons, B. Michael Bass and Mark Vincent Bass; sisters, Frances Wolfrey, Mary Hellmers, and Ann Talbott; and dogs, Toby, Max, and Zocco. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra B. Watkins (Dan); daughter-in-law, Eileen Bass; granddaugh ters, Laura Jones (Marshall) and Jennifer Freeman (Brian); grandson, Matthew Bass (Ashley); great-grandchildren, Caleb Lee (Jas mine), Ethan and Emily Bankoski, and Kyler, Bennett, and Chase Bass; great-great-grand children, Isaiah and Noa Lee; special nephew, Mark Talbott; numerous other nieces and nephews; and dog, Jeter. Per the family’s wish es, there will be a private family graveside ser vice at Blandford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please pay respects by making donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org/ donate) or to the SPCA. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory 2033 Boulevard Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834.
Tatum, 79, of Colonial Heights, wife of Thomas E. “Ed” Tatum, died October 6, 2022. She was a longtime member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church where she served on many committees over the years. She was a school secretary at Tussing Elementary School for nearly 25 years before retiring in 2000. She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Clarence A. “Jake” Allgood and Estelle King Chandler; and siblings, Herbert Allgood and Marie Brown. She is survived by her husband, Ed; children, Thomas E. “Tom” Tatum III (Lori) and Michael P. “Mike” Tatum Sr. (Tamara); grandchildren, Catherine A. Tatum-Hirsh (Justin), Megan E. Tatum Miller (Ben), Michael P. Tatum Jr., and Madelyn D. Tatum; great-grandson, Walter Hirsh; brothers, Clarence Allgood (Alta) and Woodrow Chandler (Joan); sisters, Myrtle Hooper (Junior) and Frances Bishop; brotherin-law, Jerry F. Tatum (Lois); sister-in-law, Dot Allgood; and numerous nieces and nephews. Family visitation will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 9, 2022 at the Colo nial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colo nial Heights, Virginia 23834. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 10, 2022 at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 3110 Greenwood Ave., Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834 with Reverend Mike Burchard officiat ing. Private interment will take place at South lawn Memorial Park. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.
March 20, 1964 - October 6, 2022
Johnny Milton Capps, Jr., 58, of Disputanta, Virginia went to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 6, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny Sr. and Carolyn Capps; and baby sister, Cheree Capps. Johnny is survived by his beautiful wife, Tina Capps; his three girls, Shannon, April (Chad), and Courtnee; his grand babies Grayson, Lillian, and Adalyn; and his siblings, Chris Capps (Suzanne), Allyson Bowling, and Belinda Nichols (LC); many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; and many other family and friends. There was nothing in this world more important to Johnny than his family and he made sure everyone that surrounded him knew how special and loved they were. Johnny enjoyed spending his good days fishing as often as he could. He loved taking vacations with his family but he most enjoyed his unplanned getaways with his loving wife. We will welcome family and friends for visitation this Monday, Oc tober 10, 2022 at 2pm followed by a memorial service at 3pm at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834. Details for a Celebration of Life will be posted soon.
20, 1956 - October 2, 2022
Labor Day, 2022—Old Mission Peninsula winery overlooking Lake Michigan. Cathy Jane Learnard, of Rich mond VA, passed away at 6PM on October 2, 2022, at age 66, having been born on July 20, 1956. Cathy was always proud that Neil Armstrong selected her birthday for the astronaut’s first moon landing. Cathy grew up in Colonial Heights, VA, and attended The College of William and Mary in Virginia despite being told by a Colonial Heights High School counselor that W&M would be too difficult for her and she should apply to an easier elementary education college like Martha Washington. Anyone who tried to tell Cathy what she should do, or couldn’t do, had a fight on their hands; her dad taught her that she could do whatever she wanted and not to take lip from anyone. After graduating from W&M, Cathy wondered if she should return to CHHS and ask the counselor to read the Latin text on her W&M diploma. Cathy was a lively woman. Her first love was her daughter Dawn, adopted in Hubei Province, China, after Cathy exerted determined will and energy to overcome an arduous process of bureaucratic hurdles. Dawn was the “apple of her eye” from preschool thru elementary and intermediate school at Luther Memorial School, and high school at St. Gertrude’s in Richmond, capped off with Dawn’s education at Ohio University’s nurs ing school. Cathy’s second love was theater, especially the Fort Lee Playhouse and the Festival of the Arts in Byrd Park where Cathy worked behind the scenes, and occasionally acted. Cathy actively worked with the Nativity Pageant at the Carillon and Amahl and the Night Visitors at the Mosque Theater. Cathy was friends with those sharing her third loves; her two champion Samoyeds, Sasha and Lacey, whom she was proud to show in competitions and just cuddle at home. Her fourth love was a potpourri of museums, wineries, craft festivals, and football games—the Dennos Museum in Traverse City, Michigan, and the Smithsonian being favorites. Finally, her husband, David Karns, whom she waited a long time to meet at an American Marketing Association lunch in Richmond was Cathy’s fifth love. They married on October 8, 1994, following Cathy’s precise instructions to the officiating pastor (David’s beloved Uncle Bill) about how the ceremony would be conducted (including having her mom sing the Lord’s Prayer). Cathy’s wedding was sched uled to occur during the Michigan-Michigan State football game. A rollicking reception at Mayfield Cottage in Colonial Heights was timed to celebrate both the joyous wedding and the Wolverines’ inevitable victory. During their marriage Cathy and David enjoyed many trips to museums, and wineries. And, to Ann Arbor for Michigan Wolverine football and the extended Wolverine family, which she joined with fervor. Cathy, extrovert and upbeat, was truly the Yang to David’s Yin. Cathy was born July 20, 1956, in Petersburg, VA, to Joyce (née Orcutt) and Ralph Learnard. Ralph worked for the U.S. Post Office at various locations near Colonial Heights; Joyce worked in the Colonial Heights Public Library. After graduating from W&M, Cathy taught first-grade for several years, but then realized that elementary school teaching was not adequately financially remunerative around 1990. Cathy returned to W&M to earn a Master’s in Business Administration and entered the world of banking as Vice President working with Community Rein vestment Act (CRA) regulations. Unfortunately, her first Richmond bank was bought by a larger bank with its own CRA office; her second Richmond bank was also bought by a larger out-of-state bank. Cathy became a Vice President for CRA in yet another Virginia headquartered bank, Jefferson Federal Bank. Jefferson was bought by a North Carolina Bank, Wachovia. Cathy tired of the game of musical banks and joined the Virginia Department of Education, Office of Student Assessment, opining that the Commonwealth of Virginia was unlikely to be bought by North Carolina! As usual, Cathy was correct, and North Carolina did not buy Virginia. Cathy suffered progressive complications from Multiple Sclerosis during the last decade of the 24 years she worked for the Department of Education; ultimately, her body gave up. She lived life fully, even with her MS. Cathy is survived by her daughter, Dawn; mother, Joyce Learnard of Colonial Heights; husband of 28 years, David Karns; stepson, Paul Karns of Somerville, MA, Step granddaughter, Anna Karns of Bar Harbor, ME; and several Orcutt and Turner cousins. Cathy was predeceased by her father, Ralph Learnard. Cathy is also survived by her Ginter Place friends over the last eight years, and friends and acquaintances everywhere whose lives she brightened. As a former VDOE colleague and GP friend said, “Cathy was always so friendly and cheerful, and she made VDOE a much more pleas ant place.” Other Ginter Place residents said, “Cathy was a vibrant, caring and valued member of Ginter Place.” “Cathy was such a kind person. One of the ‘good people’ in this world. And our lives were made richer because of her presence.” Cathy can be memorial ized with donations to the Muscarelle Museum of Art, the Dennos Museum Center, or the Theater Company at Fort Lee. A celebration of Cathy’s life will be held at a future date.
July 5, 1948 - October 5, 2022
Mr. Edward R. Hardy, Jr. of Chester, Virginia departed this life on October 5, 2022 at his residence. He married Carol S. Hardy on July 7, 1973, who preceded him in death.
Edward retired from the Railroad Services. He was an avid music lover, an advocate for Civil Rights and he was a car lover. Edward had a great love for his family and friends.
Edward is survived by his three sons, Clifford Hardy, Camron Spratley and DaQuann Spratley; one niece Dr. Stephanie R. Rushin and his nephew, Dr. Sean R. Rushin; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A public viewing for Mr. Hardy will be held Wednesday, October 12, 2022 from 5:00 - 6:00 PM at the funeral establish ment. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911.
August 26, 1955 - October 10, 2022
On Monday, October 10, 2022, Claude Allen Ha zelwood of Peters burg, VA entered eternal rest. He was the 8th child of nine children born on August 26, 1955 to the late Stanley and Rebecca Hazelwood.
Claude was retired from the Virginia State University Facilities and Grounds Department. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Jimmie A. Uzzle, Stanley R. Hazelwood, Jr., Leon Hazelwood, Linwood J. Hazelwood and Ernest E. Hazelwood; and son, Adonis Hazelwood.
Claude is survived by: his loving wife of twenty-two years, Sylvia Hazelwood; chil dren, Linwood Hazelwood and Siterra Hazel wood; three grandchildren; siblings, Lewis Hazelwood (Lavern) of Framingham, MA, Alice Najjar (John) of Mattapan, MA and Charlotte Robertson (Rodney); aunt, Joyce Scott of Petersburg, VA; father-in-law, Er nest Brown; brother-in-law, Lorenzo Clark; sisters-in-law, Teresa Roberts (Stacey) and Allison Hardy (Russell); devoted friends, Clifford Neal, Joseph Giles, Len Lassiter and Robert Clark (Shirley); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the most High will rest in the shadow of the Al mighty.” - Psalms 91:1
Special thanks is extended to the Staff of JenCare Senior Medical Center, Colonial Heights, VA for your care and support shown to our loved one.
Services will be held 2:00 P.M., Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Macedonia Taberna cle Ministries, 3615 E. River Road, South Chesterfield, VA, Bishop Stacey M. Roberts, Pastor, Rev. Norman Davis, eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.
Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook or YouTube page.
Jean Branch departed this life on October 8, 2022. She was born Jean Alfreda Roselyn Walton on September 24, 1936. Jean attended and graduated from the Petersburg Public School System. She was employed with Blue Ridge (Imperial Reading) Textile Company as a seamstress in Petersburg, VA. Later in life she worked as an aide at a local daycare center in Omaha, NE where she lived from 1967 until 2018 before returning to Peters burg, VA.
Jean married Staff Sgt. William Branch of Petersburg in June of 1963 and became a military wife and mother. They were married for 47 years and raised two daughters and was a loving grandmother of two and great grandmother of four. “Mrs. Branch”, as she was affectionately known to many in her North Omaha community, was a devoted friend and neighbor. She loved sewing and tending to her flower garden. She also was a certified notary public and was the neighborhood babysitter. She even sold homemade popsicles to the neighborhood kids. She was loved and respected by all who knew her and though “spunky” by nature, you couldn’t have known a more kindhearted person.
Jean was preceded in death by her husband, William R. Branch; parents, John and Estelle Walton; brothers, John Walton, Jr. and Calvin Walton, Sr.; sisters, Shirley Walton Williams and Dorothea Walton Heath; and brothers-in-law, Raymond Williams, Orlando Heath, Sr., and Mckinley Tyler.
She is survived by: her daughters, Tegra Branch and Desiree Branch; grandchildren, Michael Edward Giles (Brandi) and Chisa Branch; great grandchildren, TreVyohn Wil liams-Giles, TiYahn Williams-Giles, Michael Ellis Giles, and Madilyn Giles; sister, Fran cine Tyler of District Heights, MD; sisters-in-law, Marjorie Walton, Myrna Branch, Rose Bland-Lee (Rooservelt), Deloris Brown and Brenda Hill; brother-in-law, Calvin Branch; nieces, Palma Reed, Felicia Heath, Marvette Mckensie (Jerry), Karen Griffin and Sherelle Williams; nephews, Calvin Walton, Jr. (Theresa), Laurice Walton (Audrey), Orlando Heath, Jr. (Tanya) and Francois Heath (Karen); cousins, Bishop Steve Foreman (Olivia), Elder George Foreman (Brenda) and Paul Foreman (Annette); devoted friends, Cassandra CoreHolt (Kelvin) of Copperas, TX, Virginia Gardner and Gloria Jordan both of Omaha, NE and Allison Tucker of Petersburg, VA; devoted aide for many years, Gloria Mason; and a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends. Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Saturday, October 15, 2022 in the Chapel of J. M. Wilker son Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Diggs, Sr., eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 7328911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.
October 3, 2022
Mr. Tony Murray, of Petersburg, VA, departed this life on Mon day, October 3, 2022 at his residence.
The homegoing service for Mr. Tony Murray have been entrust ed to the caring staff of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA, 23803 (804) 732-7841.
Online condolences submitted to: www.blandfuneralhomes. com
October 16, 1933 - October 6, 2022
Mary Louise Waters Pegram of Petersburg, VA, age 89, passed away Thursday, October 6, 2022 of natural causes. She was born October 16, 1933 and was the daughter of the late Claude and Vera B. Waters. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph P. Pegram; brother, Curtis Waters; grandparents, Levi and Anna Waters; uncles, Artis, Wallace and Willie Waters; and aunts, Mamie, Idella, Elsie Peterson, Linnie Maryland and Lillian Spearman.
Left to cherish her memories are her five children, Donald Wa ters (Doris) of Rocky Mount, NC, Jacqueline McBride (Herrington) of Chesterfield, VA, Gary Pegram (Vanessa) and Sharon Taylor (Gregory) both of Petersburg, VA and James Pegram (Anita) of Davenport, LA; eleven grandchildren, Yolanda, Donna Lynn, Luchana, Donald Jr, Bryan, Jessica, Alicia, Nathaniel, Christina, Jonathan and Janita; seventeen great grandchildren; numerous spiritual children whom she loved and cherished; her de voted friends of the Tri-Cities Prayer Vigil Ministry; and a host of cousins, other relatives and dear friends.
Mother Pegram, as she was affectionately known, was an active member of Mount Olivet Baptist Church where she was introduced to the church at age seven and sang in the choir. She loved reading, encouraging people and was known as a prayer warrior. She will be fondly remembered for her work in Christ as Missionary, Evangelist, Teacher, Writer, Singer and Founder and Executive of the Tri-Cities Prayer Vigil Ministry since 1996. She also volunteered her ministry at Riverside Regional Jail for eight years, Chap lain at Southside Regional Medical Center, feeding the hungry and more importantly, Foster Mother to multiple children. She maintained a close relationship with her foster son, Simeon Gandy. She donated blood to the Red Cross on a regular basis for the past thirty-two years. Ultimately, she lived by faith as she followed Jesus and she lived a long and full life. She will be sorely missed.
Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at Mount Olivet Baptist Church, 800 Augusta Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Wesley K. Mclaughlin, Pastor, Minister James Pegram, eulogist. The interment to follow at Dinwiddie Memorial Park. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook or YouTube page.
September 30, 1981 - October 6, 2022
Delilah Shantè White, affection ately known as “Pootey”, departed this life on Thurs day, October 6, 2022. She was the youngest child born to Susie Mae Mallory and Larry
“Buffalo” Mallory on September 30, 1981 in Petersburg, VA.
Delilah received her education in the Peters burg Public School System. After gradu ating, she attended Old Dominion Univer sity Job Corp where she studied business clerical. Her hobbies and interests included: cooking, styling hair and she loved kids. Delilah enjoyed baking, making some of the craziest, yet tasty treats. She had a heart of gold and to know her was to love her. She was a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece and friend.
Delilah was preceded in death by her grand father, Wesley White; maternal grandpar ents, Bill McKey and Mary Davis; paternal grandparents, Elnora Smith and Calvin Melvin; two aunts, Lisa and Teresa White; uncle, Wesley White, Jr.; and her loving and devoted sister, Khalilah “Pokey” White who she loved unconditionally.
Delilah leaves to celebrate her life and cher ish her memories: her loving and devoted children, Ye’Kema Robinson and Khavelle White (Los), Antonio Taylor (Big Man), Ka mil Brooks (Lo) and Willow Green (William); loving grandsons, Judah Robinson and Da’Vinche Trent who both were her heart; her loving and devoted parents, Susie Mae Mallory and Larry “Buffalo” Mallory; loving and dearest grandmother, Alice White; loving niece and nephew, Ta’Quajah White and Amir Jones; loving aunts and uncles, Regina “Lil Bit” Williams (Don), Chardene Goode (Ike), Clarice Pulley, Michelle McKey, Joyce and Ronald Gordon, Thomas Watson, Sr. (Dale), Charles Watson, Lionell Watson, Edward Hurley, Johniffer McKey, Charles McKey, Sr. and Ricky McKey; loving best friend, Keonda Williams; and a host of lov ing cousins, other relatives and friends too numerous to name.
Services will be held 3:00 P.M., Saturday, October 15, 2022 in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Elder Juani ta Bowles, eulogist. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.
J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.
December 6, 1938 - October 3, 2022
Joyce Randolph Cosby, born December 6, 1938, entered eternal rest on Monday, October 3, 2022. She was the daughter of the late James Y. Randolph, Sr. and Catherine Cooley Randolph. Joyce was preceded in death by one brother, James Y. Randolph, Jr., two sisters, Jacqueline D. Randolph, Jean R. Miles, and nephew James Y. Randolph III.
At an early age, Joyce was baptized into the Shiloh Baptist Church family, and later joined Union Grove Baptist Church in Chesterfield, VA, where she served on the Anniversary Planning Committee, the Building Commit tee, and led the Children’s Story Time sharing stories and Bible education with the youth of the church.
Joyce was educated in the Petersburg Public School System, and graduated from Peabody High School, Class of 1956. She continued her education at Virginia State College, receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ele mentary Education in 1962, and a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education in 1971.
Joyce began her career in Early Childhood education at Bellevue Elementary School in Richmond, VA, and went on to become the coordinator, then Director of Head Start for Richmond Public Schools. In her thirty plus years as Director, Joyce was recognized by the Virginia Region III Head Start organization, and the Region III Department of Health and Human Services and the Administration for Children and Families Office of Head Start as being a top notch Director who operated a high quality early childhood program for disadvantaged preschool children and their families. Thousands of preschool children in Richmond, VA benefited from the Head Start program under her stellar leadership. Joyce is nationally known and highly respected in Head Start because of her innovation and lead ership in the Richmond Public Schools Head Start program. She regularly participated in numerous challenging Head Start reviews across the country offering her expertise, and mentoring skills.
Joyce was an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Petersburg Alumnae Chapter, The Queens, The Petersburg Symphony Wom en’s Committee, and The Retired Teachers Association.
Left to treasure Joyce’s memory and enduring spirit is her loving and devoted daughter, Karen Lynne Cosby of Rockville, MD; brother, Jerome W. Randolph (Sandra) of Mechanicsville, VA; sister-in-law Jeanne S. Randolph Clark of Richmond, VA; great aunt Mary Cooley of South Chesterfield, VA; three nieces, Javette R. Uddin (Mizar) of Queens, NY; Jill R. Watson (Thurston) of San Diego, CA; Terra J. Miles of South Chesterfield, VA; and one nephew, Gera S. Miles, Jr. (Rhea) of Grimesland, NC; cousins Margaret Randolph King, and Jennifer King Congleton of Washington, NC; Jacqueline S. Collins (Lawrence) of Mitchellville, MD; Gwendolyn Davis and Charlotte Dozier of Upper Marlboro, MD, along with four great nieces, four great nephews, and a host of close cousins and friends.
Special thanks to Garland Harris and Tracey H. Williams of South Chesterfield for all of their loving support, as well as all of the ladies that have provided assistance, laughter, friendship and support during the past year.
Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Monday, October 10, 2022 at Gillfield Baptist Church, 209 Perry Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. George W. C. Lyons, Jr., Pastor. Entombment to follow at Southlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 4:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M., Sunday, October 9, 2022, in the Chapel of J. M Wilkerson Funeral Establish ment, Inc., where the Omega Omega Service of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority will be accorded. The family request that masks be worn at both the family visitation and the funeral service. J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services and visita tion services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.
Our beloved, Viola Elizabeth Archer, was summoned by God on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 to a peaceful eternal rest. Born in Waverly, VA, March 17, 1947 to the late Warner Delk and Alease Adkins Delk.
She was the youngest of five, two preceded her in death, Joseph and Annie. At an early age, she accepted Christ as a member of First Baptist Church Waverly, VA.
In her later years, she moved her membership to Mount Olivet Baptist Church, Petersburg, where she attended until her health declined.
Left to cherish her memories: husband, Nelson S. Archer; children, Terri Taylor (George) of Waverly, Sonya Warren (Michael) of Jacksonville, NC, Willie King, Jr (Sara) of Chester, VA, Tammy Archer of Bowie, MD, and Latarsha Archer of Snellville, GA; two sisters, Rosa Shears (Joshua) of Williamsburg, VA, and Jeanette Minor of Petersburg,; two aunts, Carrie Gray of Waverly and Doris Adkins of Petersburg; eleven grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Brenda Spence (Elliott), of Maryland and Gloria Jackson of Petersburg; two brothers-in-law, George Archer of North Carolina and Bobby Archer of Richmond; numerous nieces and nephews, one devoted niece, Edith key; devoted friends, Loretta Majette (Gregory) of Petersburg and Joyce Miller of Maryland, and a host of cousins, other family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12 Noon, Monday, October 10, 2022 at Mount Olivet Baptist Church, 800 Augusta Ave., Petersburg, VA, with Rev. Jamison McLaughlin, eulogizing. Interment will follow in Dinwiddie Memorial Park, Dinwiddie, VA.
The funeral services for Mrs. Viola Archer have been entrusted to the caring professionals of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison St., Petersburg, VA., 23803 (804) 732-7841.
www.blandfuneralhomes.com.
September 8, 1935 - October 7, 2022
Ulysses Blanding, Sr., 87 years old, of 2330 Maclin Circle, Hopewell, Virginia, departed this life on October 7, 2022 at John Randolph Medical Center, Hopewell.
Ulysses Sr. was born on September 8, 1935 to the late Reverend James Blanding and First Lady Sarah Bland ing. Ulysses moved to Virginia from Halifax, North Carolina at an early age of 7. He attended the Old Academy School in Prince George County, Virginia.
Ulysses Sr. was preceded in death by 4 sisters and 6 brothers.
Ulysses was employed with the Virginia American Water Company for 47 years. Dr. Yi-Nan Chou, Cardiologist Specialist and Mrs. Chou have been a dear friend and like family for over 40 years.
Ulysses was baptized at Powell Creek Baptist Church at an early age and rededicated his life to God under the leadership of the late Reverend Dennis Blanding and now Reverend Robert Barnes. He served as a usher and trustee along with other capacities within the church ministries. He used God-given talent and his mother’s teaching to perfect his craft in all areas which God blessed him with the ability to excel.
Ulysses Sr. leaves to cherish his memories: a devoted wife, Rosa Blanding of 65 years; four sons, Randolph Bland, Charles Pettaway (Nan cy), Ulysses Blanding, Jr. (Late Peggy), Russell Blanding; four daughters, Doreatha Gaffney (James), Darlene Thompson (Jimmy), Ruby Blanding, Annette Davis, Atlanta, GA; fifteen grandchildren, Charles, Cory, Byrg Pettaway, Randy McCray, Kevin Bland, Lemar Gaffney, Tenitas Thompson, Uchelle Goode, Mechonisha Clark, Arsoni Whitaker, Tequila Rapp, Desmond Johnson, Dontae Johnson, Porchia Davis and Culvin Barringer; eight great-grandchildren; Sisters, Mary R. Peterson (Henry), Lossie Mae Williams; brother, George Lee Blanding; five sisters-in-law; two brothers-in-laws; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life home Going will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harrison Street, Petersburg, VA, with Rev. Robert Barnes eulogizing and Elder Dominic Holloway officiating.
Internment will follow in Mount Sinai Community Cemetery, 4547 Mount Sinai Road, Prince George, VA 23875.
The funeral services for Mr. Ulysses Blanding, Sr. have been entrusted to the caring professionals of Bland Funeral Homes, 137 Harri son Street, Petersburg, VA 23803 (804) 732-7841
Online condolences submitted to: www.blandfuneralhomes.com
