Carter's Funeral Home

02/16/2026

02/16/2026

02/16/2026

02/16/2026

02/16/2026

Elnora Burrell (affectionately known as Nor) was born on September 20, 1927, to Howard and Mabel Smith in Clarksville, Mecklenburg County, Virginia. She was raised in a lively and loving household with ten siblings-one of two girls among nine boys-a family dynamic that reflected the warmth and joy that followed her throughout her life.

Elnora received he education through the Mecklenburg Public School System and later attended the Thyne Institute, where she studied cosmetology alongside her beloved cousin, Bette Yuille, who also worked with her professionally.

In April 1948, Elnora married the love of her life, Willie Lee Burrell. Their union was blessed with two children, Alfreda and Larry. Seeking greater opportunities, the family relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where one of her brothers resided. There, Elnora and Willie built a nurturing home.

Elnora enjoyed a successful career in upscale retail, beginning at Nan Duskin and later retiring from Bloomingdale’s. Known for her creativity and impeccable attention to detail, she specialized in elegant package design, serving elite clientele with grace and excellence. She found joy in gardening and took great pride in her floral arrangements. Elnora was immaculate in all she did and maintained a pristine home that warmly welcomed family and friends.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Alfreda, whom she treated dearly; and her loving niece and great-nephew, Diane and Keian Wilson; her sisters-in-law, Cora Bea and Marion; her grandchildren, Tahyeeka, Hasina, Rajaee, and Ahmad; her great-grandchildren, Tryon, Sophia, Tariq, Amin, Bria, and Mia; and her great-great-grandchildren, Skylar, Byshyr, and Nasiraha, along with a host of other loving relatives and dear friends.

Elnora: A lady of good manners, well groomed, soft spoken, respectable, classy, virtuous
woman, humble and dignified.

A funeral service for Mrs. Elnora Smith Burrell was held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the
Rocky Mount Baptist Church, Skipwith, Virginia. Reverend Dennis King delivered the Message of Comfort.

Carter’s Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

02/03/2026

Our mom, Darlene Stroble Walker, 83, better known as “Aunt Darlene” and “A Praying Woman”, who had a love for Lincoln Cadillacs, passed away from this life to be with the Lord on January 18, 2026, at George Washington University Hospital surrounded by her three daughters and granddaughter. She had just returned home from her brother-in-law, Karl Pearson's funeral.

Born on October 27, 1942, in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, to the late Sarah E. and James F. Stroble, she was the oldest daughter of ten children; her sister, Shirley May Fowlkes, and brothers, Charlie M. and Paul E. Stroble preceded her in death.

Darlene lived her life in faith, trusting in the Lord wholeheartedly. She would often quote one of her favorite bible scriptures from Psalm 91, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the most high will rest in the shadow of the Almighty" and sing “Praise Is What I Do!” Her walk with Jesus Christ guided her decisions and showed others how to love unconditionally. Though firm in her convictions, it demonstrated her genuine desire to see you grow and flourish in your relationship with the heavenly father.

She attended church at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at an early age with family under the leadership of Reverend McPhee and received her education at Old West End School in the community of Skipwith, Virginia.

She was first employed as a seamstress for the shirt factory in Chase City, VA. She also had her first child, a son, Jerome Stroble. During that time, and although deeply valued in her roots, she knew it was time for a change. She decided to transition from the country lifestyle to a new city located in Germantown, Philadelphia, PA to live there for several years with her Aunt Jessie.

She then moved to Alexandria, VA and continue building her family and had her second child, Sonji Sands, while being employed as a cashier at the Fannie Mae Candy store inside the Ronald Regan Washington National Airport, formerly named Washington National Airport and managed other part-time employees (at NASA & GEICO) before her final move to Washington, DC.

There she started a new chapter with her surviving husband, Fred, embracing identical twin girls, Yolanda and Rolanda. She continued her career at NASA and ultimately retired from GEICO in Bethesda, Maryland as a line cook after several years of dedication.

Her love for God and people inspired her to join the Soul Saving Center Church of God; also knows as little brick church on the corner filled with the Holy Ghost located in Northwest, DC, just three streets from Howard University where she was later ordained by the late reverend Beauty D. Hines as minister to preach and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

She always had a stylish wardrobe, a full tank of gas, the King James Version bible in her hand, feet to the pedal, and prayer warrior and sister, Emmalene Pearson, in the passenger seat. Together, they took her ministry beyond the sanctuary as they traveled like Jesus did to spread faith, compassion, and truth to all who would listen even occasionally at the shopping malls (preferably Macy's, Stein Mart, Belk and Dillard's) to acquire a few new blessings we call clothing.

Her faith journey didn't end on the road, neither in God's sanctuary, she shared it within her community. She discipled and uplifted whomever she met through prayer, or by silently serving. She always made time for those around her. Her life was a true testament of faith, humility, and devotion.

She found joy in life's simple and beautiful moments traveling on family bus trips planned by our Aunt Emmalene Pearson, that included visiting Cedar Point, OH; Six Flags in New Jersey and many other places. She also frequently traveled to Myrtle Beach, SC to pray and feel God's peace in the sounds of the ocean waves. Traveling brought her great excitement and exposure to new experiences which she constantly enjoyed sharing those stories and memories as part of this life's treasures.

Darlene's passion for creativity gave her joy in sewing beautiful clothing, nurturing plants, and caring for cats. These passions were not just hobbies, they were expressions of her generous and caring spirit.

In her final days, she remained a devoted and active member of the First Baptist Church of Deanwood located in Washington, D.C., led by Bishop Reverend Dr. Keith J. Martin, fully living by faith until the very end.

We are so blessed to have had a mother that had been our mentor, teacher, supporter, aspiration, inspiration, encourager, and most importantly, best friend. You will forever be in our hearts, but to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Rest in peace, Mom.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Fred Lewis Walker; for children, Jerome Stroble, Sonji Delphine Sands, Yolanda Walker, Rolanda Walker; six brothers and sisters, James F. Stroble Jr., Joyce M. Reed (Charles), Lula A Boyd, Jerry L. Stroble (Brenda), Reana J. House (Donald), Emmalene Pearson; five grandchildren, (Raquan, Shelmeka, Davon, De'Angelo and Damien), five great grandchildren (Quincy, Adonnis, De' Angelo, Jr., Haley and Arielle) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

A graveside service was held for Mrs. Walker on Friday, January 30, 2026 at the Pulliam Family Private Cemetery, Boydton, VA. Elder Charles D. Allen delivered the eulogy.

Carter's Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

01/20/2026

With profound sadness we say goodbye to Karl, whose vibrant spirit has left a void in the lives of so many people. Karl Anthony Pearson was born on September 11, 1958 to his parents, Thomas and Juanita Pearson, who preceded him in death. He departed this life on the evening of January 8, 2026 at the Southern Maryland Hospital in Clinton, Maryland.

Karl was raised in Alexandria, Virginia and attended church at Mount Jezreel in Alexandria, Virginia. He attended T.C. Williams High School. Following his graduation, Karl pursued classes in Early Childhood Education at Northern Community College and later continued his studies at Old Dominion University. Karl embraced the curriculum and was actively engaged in workshops. He also received numerous accolades for
his contribution to education and mental health.

For numerous years, Karl worked at T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia as well as the Department of Recreation also in Alexandria, Virginia. He possessed an extraordinary passion and talent for teaching and discipline along with a remarkable ability to connect with teachers, students, and children.

The next chapter in Karl’s life began when he discovered a dream that he could truly claim as his own, Emmalene, the love of his life. They were married. There were moments when it felt as though they were teetering on the edge, while navigating life challenges after 44 years. Oftentimes Karl would say to Emmalene, “Don’t build your life around people’s opinion.” He also told her to “never take pride in herself for any negative comments towards her.”

Karl also had a passion for sports, particularly the football teams, Washington Commanders and at time the Baltimore Ravens. In basketball, Karl supported Georgetown, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards, LA Clippers and LA Lakers.

During Karl’s leisure time, he and Emmalene explored both domestic and international destinations. This included remarkable places such as, Paris France and Geneva, Switzerland. For several years, the family journeyed on the Nation Coach Bus Line and explored numerous cities with the family.

Karl leaves behind his devoted wife; his godchild whom he cherished, Rayquan; his brothers: Thomas, Jr., Darryl and Mich; one sister, Caryln; numerous nieces and nephews; one aunt, Auntie Geneva; six brothers-in-law; six sisters-in-law; and a host of friends including, the wonderful Hunter family, the Harris family, Hargrove family, the Tate family, Mr. Ford and the school board in Alexandria, Virginia.

In addition to his parents, Karl was preceded in death by one sister, Doria Jean.

Funeral service was held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Boydton, VA., with the Elder Charles D. Allen delivering the eulogy.

11/13/2025

Clarence Atkinson of Skipwith, Virginia was born to the late Thomas Jefferson Beattie and Dessie Mae Beattie, on July 23rd, 1947, and entered eternal rest on November 11th, 2025.

He graduated from West End High School and joined the Army to serve our country where he was honorably discharged as a Sergent receiving a Purple Heart for his bravery in the Vietnam War. Clarence went on to become a Brick Mason for over 40 years.

Clarence joined the Rocky Mount Baptist Church at an early age where he later became a Deacon, a Sunday School teacher and a member of the Rocky Mount Male Chorus. Clarence not only supported his church, he also attended many churches in the surrounding community.

In addition to his parents, Clarence is preceded in death by nine brothers, Curtis and Freddie Atkinson, Homer Wilson, Johnny Drye, Quincy, Larry, Leroy, John Henry, Freddy Lee, and Buddy Beattie; and seven sisters; Virginia Jackson, Hellen Royster, Earline Barnes, Mildred Bugg, Mollie, Fannie, and Charity Stephens.

He leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Rebecca Atkinson; three children, Tresser (Willie) Henderson from Roanoke, Va, Sabrina Atkinson, and Clarence Atkinson of Chase City, Va; eight grandchildren; Bryona, Zakiya, Kizmet, Jada, Jocque, Tikai, and Elijah; and seven great-grandchildren.

A Special Thanks to his grandson, Jamil Roberts,who stepped in and became a pillar of unwaveringstrength, demonstrating selflessness, patience, and compassion as he became a devoted caregiver to his grandfather.

He also leaves behind one sister, Shirley (Joseph) Parker of Lynchburg, VA., one brother, Timothy (Priscilla) Beattie of Henderson, NC; and a host of relatives and friends.

Clarence always put God first, wearing the armor of faith and trusting that God made all the difference. He was a true Gladiator to the very end.

A viewing will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 1:00PM to 4:00PM at Carter’s Funeral Home.

Service for Deacon Clarence Atkinson will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11:00AM at the Rocky Mount Baptist Church. Reverend Dennis King will deliver the eulogy.

Carter’s Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

10/23/2025

Deacon Frank Thomas Gooch, Jr. 83, of Skipwith, entered eternal rest on October 18, 2025, at the Twin Lakes Rehabilitation and Nursing, South Hill, Va. Frank (Buck) Gooch, Jr., was born on June 8, 1942, to the late Frank and Emma Gooch. Frank was raised and educated in Mecklenburg County. He graduated from West End High School laying a foundation for a life rooted in family, faith and community. He was an employee of Burlington Industries where he worked until his retirement.

From an early age, Frank was a devoted member of St Luke Baptist Church, where he joined as a young boy. Frank’s involvement at St Luke’s continued faithfully until his health declined and illness made attending church services no longer possible. Deacon Gooch served as a church Deacon for twenty years. He was devoted to his church, he displayed loyalty, honor and was committed to serving his church community.

Deacon Gooch was proceeded in death by his parents, three siblings: Lucy Belle Bigger, Lottie C. Lowe, and Robert Lee Gooch. He is survived by his brother, Victor Roscoe Gooch, Sister-in Law Caroline Gooch, Gloster Mississippi, four nieces; Mildred Banks (Tony), Trayce Bigger, Valerie Bigger (Perry), Nicola Lowe; two nephews William Bigger, Jr. (Alisa), Joseph Lowe (Erica). As well as a host of great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends to cherish his memory.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the St. Luke Baptist Church from 11:00AM-12:45PM. Service will be held at 1:00PM. Reverend John Joyner, Pastor will deliver the message.

The family is deeply grateful to the staff at Twin Lakes Rehabilitation and Nursing for the kindness and care given to Frank during his final years. We would also like to thank the staff at Amedisys Hospice for being compassionate, supportive and giving Frank comfort and dignity during his final days.

Arrangements by Carter's Funeral Home.

10/23/2025

Sterling Johnson Morse was born in Boydton,
Mecklenburg County, Virginia on October 4, 1934 to the late John Columbus and Anna Belle Morse. He departed this life on Friday, October 17, 2025 at his niece's home.

Sterling attended schools in Mecklenburg County, Virginia. He married Mary Bell Pulliam who preceded him in death. He also was preceded in death his daughter, Sonja Morse Terrell; seven brothers and five sisters.

As a young man, he moved to New Jersey for work. He worked for Singer Company for fifteen years and at Georgia King Village as a plumber and carpenter.

In 1997, he returned to his hometown, Boydton,
Virginia where he retired. With his wife, he joined the St. Taylor R.Z.U.A. Church. He served as a senior trustee and was loyal and dedicated in that position up until his death.

He was known to everyone as “Uncle Sterling.” He was a straightforward man and told you what was on his mind, in a “funny way.” He made everyone laugh just by his tone of voice.

He leaves behind three granddaughters; Ashley
Cheeks-Burleigh, Kimberly Cheeks, Kelly Cheeks; son-in-law, Thomas Terrell; nine great grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Richard Childs; cousin, Clara Stewart; a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Sterling lived by these words, for it was his testimony, “I have been young, and now an old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalm 37:25

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 at St. Taylor R.Z.U.A. Church from 11:00AM-12:50PM. Service will be held at 1:00PM with the Reverend Carnell Bagley, Pastor giving the eulogy.

Carter's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

10/15/2025

Diana Marie Ballard passed away on October 13, 2025 in Virginia at the age of 51 surrounded by her chosen family, including her safe place (Katie, Timmy, Layla, and Terri Wright) as well as her high school and life long best friend, Chris Mann.

Diana was born on July 11, 1974 to Russell Noel and Mary Cecile (McKinney) Males in Jackson, Mississippi. She was the youngest of seven.

After many years of hardship, Diana got her CDL in Mississippi. She started her driving career in 2017. That year, she gained a whole new family; her brothers and sisters of the highway. Diana drove from coast to coast, border to border. She took a lot of pride in her job as a commercial truck driver. After 8 years of driving, she ended her career at Bottomley Enterprises. After all those years of feeling stuck, she found a sense of purpose in her life.

Although her job meant a lot to her, Diana always said her greatest accomplishments were her girls, Christa and Michelle. She was so proud of the life accomplishments they made, whether it was career choice or motherhood. Diana thought she was too young to be a grandmother, but she warmed up to it pretty quickly. Hearing how her grandchildren were thriving brought a lot of joy to her. Hearing the giggles and laughter over the phone always brightened her day, no matter how bad it was. All she ever wanted was for her girls and grandbabies to be happy in life.

No matter where she went, she carried her family with her. It didn’t matter what happened between her and her siblings, she loved them through it all. That love eventually extended to her best friends she met while driving. One thing was for certain, Diana loved those near and dear to her with a fierceness unlike any other.

Diana is preceded in death by her parents Mary and Russell Males, first husband Chris Nash, brothers Dan Moody, Derrell Hollingsworth, and Chris Chrismond.

She is survived by her daughter Christa Stoliby and husband David of Stratford, Oklahoma; daughter Michelle Garner of Florence, Mississippi; grandchildren Graysen Stoliby, Fallon Klabunde, Delilah Stoliby, Lydia Stoliby; brother Rodney Moody of Richland, Mississippi; sisters Gail Garner of Florence, Mississippi, Mary Aycock of Brandon, Mississippi, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Rest in peace “Jax”, we’ve got the loads from here.

10/14/2025

Xavierx Christopher Carter entered eternal rest
October 4, 2025. He was born to Cynthia Aleander and Brian Carter on October 25, 2005.

He resided in Boydton, Virginia all of his childhood and later moved to Richmond, Virginia.

Xavierx received his education in the Mecklenburg County Public Schools. He had a love for football and played during his middle school days. He had a passion for riding dirt bikes and four wheelers. He found happiness in riding horses and working on the farm with his Uncle Gary.

He was preceded in death by: great grandmother, Ruby Carter; great grandfather, Roy Carter, Jr.; grandfather, Roy Carter, III; uncle, Brandon Carter; grandmother, Marian Carter; grandmother, Alice Alexander; grandma, Betty Harris; grandpa, Norfleet Alexander; uncle, Richard Alexander; Gary “Big G” Alexander and Marchella Alexander, Jr.

Xavierx leaves to cherish his memories to his mother, Cynthia Alexander; father, Brian Carter (Pamela); special friend, JoJo Ramos; brothers, Marchella (Tiffany) and Marquese; sisters, Avia (Xavierx’s Twin), Deserea, Marneshia (Eric), Tramechia; six nieces, nine nephews; aunts, Jean Hawkes, Helen Carter, Tori Nelson; uncle,
Timmy; special cousins, LaDonta Hawkes, Shannon Hawkes, Rodney Pittman; other relatives and friends.

A funeral service for Mr. Xavierx Christopher Carter was held on Sunday, October 12, 2025 at Carter's Funeral Home Chapel. Elder Kenyatta G. Evans delivered the eulogy.