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Burch-Messier Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 317 W Main Street, Bedford, VA (2026)

01/13/2026

Roger Ernest Schneider, 91, of Bedford, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026. He was born in East Orange, NJ on September 19, 1934 a son of the late Ernest Wilhelm Schneider and Anna Lundberg Schneider.
He was a proud Air Force veteran. Roger loved wood working and he was a master wood crafter. He was a retired teacher and he loved his family.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Dawn Savannah Schneider; children, Carrie Collin, Donna Anufriyev (Aleksey); grandchildren, Alexander Anufriyev, Natalie Anufriyev, Michael Anufriyev; and brother, Stanley Schneider (Katherine).
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Longwood Avenue Baptist Church with Pastor Ross Gilfillen officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 12 noon. Burial will follow in Greenwood cemetery with Air Force military honors.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/13/2026

James Wilson Dennis, 86, of Bedford County, Virginia passed away Sunday, January 11, 2026. Born in Narrows, Virginia on May 15, 1939, he was the son of the late Edith and Ray Neely. James was preceded in death by his brothers, Carl Lyle Neely and Tom Dennis. He was a veteran serving in the United States Army.
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 60 years, Mary Linda (Lamb) Dennis; his daughter, Christine Dennis Anderson and husband, Matthew Anderson of Lakeland, Tennessee; three grandchildren, Hayley Kincheloe and husband, Christian; Hannah Franklin and husband Lucas; and Luke Anderson; three great-grandchildren, Jude and Ezra Kincheloe and Westley Franklin. He is also survived by his sisters, Carol Ballard and Patricia Walker, and by his brother, Allen Neely, along with several nieces and nephews.
James was a comedian, storyteller, hunter, outdoorsman, protector, provider, veteran and a man of great faith.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/12/2026

John N. Bradley, Jr. passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the age of 78, after a two-week stay at Lynchburg General Hospital. John was the son of John N. “Jack” Bradley, Sr. and Mildred Bradley (née McCullough). He lived in Bedford, VA for his first sixteen years, before moving to Northern Virginia when his mother accepted a position with Fairfax County Public Schools.
John worked as an employee at IBM for twenty-five years before taking an early retirement. After that, he continued working with IBM on a contractual basis, as well as beginning to work with sound engineering and installation, a business that evolved out of volunteer work he did for the church he attended at the time.
After attending college in New Mexico, and living in Centreville, Virginia; Rochester, Minnesota; and Marietta and Roswell in Georgia. John returned to his hometown of Bedford, Virginia in
2007. John was an active member of his local and church communities wherever he found himself
throughout his life. He was on the Board of Directors at the Sedalia Center, and did construction
work for Habitat for Humanity, until medical issues and treatment slowed him down in late
2019. He nonetheless continued volunteering at his church (Word of Life in Bedford) doing
audio engineering and being active in the community.
John is survived by his son John Bradley, and daughter Teresa Bradley, his sister Suzannah
Kuhns, his dear friend Mary Lee Nance, as well as several cousins, nephews and nieces of
various removes. He was well loved and will leave a perceptible empty space in his community.
A memorial service is planned for John on the afternoon of Saturday, January 31, at 2:00 pm at
Word Of Life church in Bedford, Virginia. Word of Life church is located at 912 Burks Hill Road,
Bedford, VA 24523.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/10/2026

Allen Wayne Hartless, known to many as “Sugarbear” of Buena Vista, Va passed away on January 7, 2026 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He is preceded in death by his daddy and mama, Thomas and Mildred Hartless, his sister, Bonnie, his brother, Gary Allen, and a special nephew, Will Allen.

Left to cherish his memory and miss him tremendously are his son, Joshua Hartless and wife, Kristi and his daughter, Ashley White and husband, Joey; a brother, Joseph L. Hartless and wife, Susan and a sister in law, Carol Allen. 7 grandchildren, Kaden Forren, Kameron Tomlinson (Logan), Jordan White, Jaedyn White, Elijah White, Grayson White, and Adalyn White. Nephews, Joe Hartless, Jr. (Bridget) and Seth Allen; Niece, Jennifer Pattison (Kevin); Several great nieces and great nephews. Special friends who he loved dearly and considered family include Ronnie Green, Roy “Cotton” Sorrels, Timmy Hartless, and the many friends up on “The Creek”.

Co-workers knew him by Allen, some knew him as Wayne, and many called him Sugarbear. He devoted his life to raising his 2 children who he loved more than anything else in the world. His most cherished title was Daddy and years later would become Poppie. He never met a stranger and no matter who you were, he always greeted you with a smile. He had the biggest, kindest, most tender heart, and he was full of patience. He loved his family and friends unconditionally and would give the shirt off of his back to anyone. He enjoyed riding up Irish Creek, watching NASCAR and westerns, playing his guitar, and became quite the gardener over the years. His stories were larger than life and his hugs are irreplaceable. He will be missed by so many and all of the memories we have of him will be cherished forever. We take comfort in knowing that he will greet us one day in Heaven and we will rejoice for eternity. A Celebration of his Life is being planned and will be announced at a later time. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford.

01/09/2026

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of Rebecca Sue Tucker, age 28, of Rustburg, VA. Rebecca passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, January 6, 2026 in her home. She is the daughter of Kathy Hensley and Robert Tucker.
Becky was a Sweet Soul with a Big heart and gentle smile. Animals always made her smile. She enjoyed visiting new places, drawing, listening to music and singing.
"You are my Heart in human form, my greatest blessing and the brightest star in my sky; forever grateful for the gift of you, My dearest girl."
There will be no funeral service. Sympathy cards may be mailed to Kathy Hensley P.O. Box 156, Rustburg, VA. 24588
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/09/2026

After a lifetime spent casting lines and in deer stands, Mark Brian Barber, 57, of Bedford, laid down his rod and bow on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born the youngest of three to Harry E. Barber and Martha L. Barber on July 28, 1968 in Danbury, Connecticut. At age six, he and the family moved from Ridgefield, CT to Virginia where Mark attended Brookville schools.
Mark discovered his passion for hunting and fishing at a young age – showing natural talent that earned him the nickname “The Fish Whisperer.” He was the guy you would find on Smith Mountain Lake before sunrise and at sunset with a rod and joke in hand. No one knew the lake’s honey holes better, and he enjoyed participating in various striped bass competitions as a local. Mark’s larger-than-life personality was impossible to miss, but could easily be seen (and heard!) whenever the Hokies or Vikings took the field.
Beyond his love of the outdoors, nothing meant more to Mark than time with his daughter and being a “Papa” to his granddaughter.
Mark is survived by his mother, Martha; daughter, Amber E. Almond (Nick); granddaughter and the light of his life, Sadie; brother, Scott E. Barber; sister, Wendy A. Cash; cousins; nieces and nephews; treasured buddies; and his puppy, Shiloh. He was predeceased by his father, Harry.
A floating celebration of life will be held from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Elon Ruritan Club, 2120 Elon Rd. Madison Heights VA 24572.
In memory of Mark, we invite you to honor his passion for the outdoors by making donations to the Hunters for the Hungry.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/08/2026

Albert Daniel "Danny" Perdue of Forest Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, January 06, 2026, at the age of 77- still young at heart.
Danny was born December 06,1948 and spent his life doing things his own way.
Danny worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard and loved living in Hampton, Virginia. Later, he moved back to Lynchburg, working at Montague Betts and eventually retiring from Central Fidelity Bank.
Danny was preceded in death by his parents, George Emory Perdue and Dorothy Wright Perdue Noel. He also was preceded in death by his son, Travis Perdue (Rugg); and his niece, Tanya Brooks Campbell.
Danny is survived by his sons, Shawn Cole and wife Tanya, Mike Goff and his wife Stephanie; sisters, Carol Owen Beasley and her husband David, Betty Jones and her husband Phil Jones.
Danny took great pride in his sons and loved nothing more than spending time with them and sharing the memories of fun moments and celebrations.
He often bragged on his sons: Shawn has talents in both business and in medical fields. He is rumored to be an amazing football coach. Travis possessed incredible talents, he designed some of the coolest vehicles and was known for having the most impressive tow trucks in Lynchburg, Virginia. Mike has artistic talents with creativity & originality making him one of the best tattoo artists around.
He was especially proud of his role as "Pops"and "PaPa" and wanted to spend time with each one of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Danny never really grew up- and everyone who knew him knows that was one of his best qualities. He loves Virginia Beach, he loved his family and his friends, he loved enjoying life.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Bethany Methodist Church, 1720 Bethany Church Circle Forest, Virginia. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories and celebrate a life well enjoyed.
We like to imagine Danny now, driving around Virginia Beach, windows down, wind in his hair, smiling and enjoying every moment- just the way he lived.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/07/2026

Donovan Wooldridge, age 75, of Huddleston, Virginia passed away on January 5, 2026. He was born on April 17, 1950, in Lynchburg, VA to the late Robert Donovan Wooldridge and Mildred Peters Wooldridge.
Donovan was a devoted husband, father, grandfather “Pawpaw” and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Thelma “Sis” Wooldridge and his four daughters Tammy McGuire (Calvin), Chessie Frye (Dale), Tanya Smeltz (David) and Amanda Wooldridge. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, DP Blair, Taylor Davis (Emory), Jacob McGuire, Nicholas Frye, Haley Owens (Dylan), Colby Smeltz, Blake Smeltz, Summer Smeltz (Joe) and Colton Frye.
Donovan was a proud great-grandfather to Silas Davis, Elizabeth Davis, Preston Davis, Georgia Owens and one great-grandchild on the way.
Donovan also had a special place in his heart for his 10 grand Geckos and one very special grand we**ie dog named Chloe.
In addition to his parents, Donovan was preceded in death by his sister, Wanda Murphy and his brother Malcom Wooldridge.
Donovan worked for many years at GE and Ericsson in Lynchburg, Virginia and then later retired from CommScope in Forest, VA. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing, riding ATV’s and most of all, spending time with his family who were the center of his life.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, starting at 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion on Greenview Drive in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Donovan will be remembered for his love of family, his strong work ethic, and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/07/2026

Brenda Sue Campbell Wimmer, 73, of Bedford, died Saturday, January 3, 2026 in Lynchburg General Hospital. She was born in Roanoke on September 2, 1952 a daughter of the late William Lewis Downs and Mary Christine Campbell Hurt.
She was a retired from Stop In in Bedford.
She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Richard L. Wimmer; her daughter, Debby Wimmer Bratton (Jan); two grandsons, Dakota Austin Wimmer and J.W. Bratton; two sisters and three brothers.
There will be no services and memorials may be made to any Humane Society or a Food Bank of your choice.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford.

01/05/2026

Ronnie Debroise Meador, 79, of Bedford, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026. He was born in Bedford County on July 10, 1946 a son of the late William Edward Meador and Gracie Williamson Meador Dooley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry E. Meador.
He was a United States Army Veteran serving from 1963-1965 in the Vietnam War. He was a welder with Commercial Steel. He loved Mustangs, working on vehicles and lawn mowers, and country music.
He is survived by his son, Jeffery Dooley (Sarah); granddaughter, Kailey Dooley (Justin); great-granddaughter, Oaklynn; three step-children, Tommy, Billy, Donna; two sisters, Shirley M. McBearye and Linda M. Johnson; friend, Sandra Bickford; special niece and nephews; and companion pet, Annie.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Holy Land Cemetery.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

01/02/2026

Elsie Laverne Bowyer Mitchell, age 66, of Bedford, passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at her home surrounded by her husband and children by her side. She was born on December 12, 1959 in Bedford County and she was the daughter of the late Hilary Marsh Bowyer and the late Earle Davenport Bowyer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sisters, Shirley Mae Bowyer and Esther Bowyer Ashley; brothers, Robert W. Bowyer and James R. Bowyer, Sr.; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Buddy Marshall Mitchell, Sr. and Sarah Lemon Mitchell; brothers-in-law, John Q. Whorley, Robert L. Ashley, Jr. and Jeffrey L. Mitchell.
She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She graduated from Otterburn Academy and was a retired social worker at Bedford County Social Services with 30 years of service.
She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Buddy Marshall Mitchell, Jr.; her sons, Buddy Marshall Mitchell, III (Ronell), Luther Marsh Mitchell (Megan); sister, Margaret Whorley; sisters-in-law, Michelle Tompkins (Darrell), Shelley Mitchell, Delores Bowyer and Carleen Bowyer as well as five grandchildren, Cadence, Colton, Leland, Reagan, Freyja; many nieces and nephews; and very special companion, Licky.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Centra Hospice for their care and support shown to their loved one.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at Nicopolis United Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. William Clark officiating. Family will receive friends one hour prior at the cemetery .
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Burch-Messier Funeral Home and Cremation Service

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Monday	9am - 4pm
Tuesday	9am - 4pm
Wednesday	9am - 4pm
Thursday	9am - 4pm
Friday	9am - 4pm