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Givens Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Woodrum Street, Pearisburg, VA (2026)

01/25/2026

Mark Wilbur Simmons, 75, of Pearisburg, VA passed away peacefully at his home on January 20, 2026. He was born in Radford, VA in 1950 to the late William G. Simmons and Ruth H. Simmons.

Mark was raised in Narrows, VA where he grew up with his 5 siblings whom he loved dearly and looked out for. He had a profound love for athletics and the Green Wave. He graduated from Narrows High School in 1968. He then attended college at Virginia Military Institute where he was an avid Rugby player and graduated in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. After college Mark enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served as a Computer Engineer with a rank of First Lieutenant. After his service he worked at Potomac Electric Power in Washington, DC for a year before returning home to begin his 48 years of dedicated work in construction for The William G. Simmons Company. Throughout those years he worked alongside many members of his family.

In his time away from work, Mark enjoyed spending time on his family farm, a place he deeply cherished. For many years he spent countless hours coaching youth sports in Giles County where he touched numerous lives. He was the biggest fan of his children and grandchildren and rarely missed an opportunity to attend a sporting event or activity that they were involved in. He was an avid collector of model trains, knives, and guns. He enjoyed vacationing with loved ones and spending time fishing on his boat with his wife Denise. He was a dedicated member of The Wilderness Lighthouse in Bland, VA and later Cornerstone Pentecostal Holiness in Narrows. He has many dear friends from both churches. He loved the Lord with all his heart and so loved to tell others about his faith. His biggest wish in life was for those he cared about to give their hearts to the Lord. In the last few months, he loved playing choo-choos with his grandson and playing fetch with his best dog Ginger.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents William and Ruth Simmons, father-in-law Kenneth Anderson and mother-in-law- Alene Anderson. He is survived by his wife of 47 years Denise Anderson Simmons, son Andrew (Jennifer) Simmons, daughters Brittany Simmons (Joe) and Olivia (Kyle) Yost. Grandchildren Abby, Kylee, Abigail, Summer, Isaac, Beckett, and a grandson due in March. Siblings John (Donna) Simmons, Bill Keith (Sarah) Simmons, Kevin Simmons, Jeanne (Kerry) Armentrout, and Merry Simmons. Sister-in-law Gina (Mike) Dalton, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Mark was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, and paw-paw. He never met a stranger and made friends everywhere he went. He never missed an opportunity to help those in need. Mark had the biggest personality, was so humorous and loved to laugh and carry on. He is loved beyond measure and painfully missed by his family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, February 7th at Cornerstone PH Church in Narrows. There will be a visitation from 2-4 pm, with a service immediately following.

Cornerstone PH Church, 809 College Street, Narrows, VA

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

01/22/2026

Lottie Anne Gusler Loving, 86, of Pearisburg, VA., went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Lottie was born on July 14, 1939, in Giles County, VA., and was a daughter of the late Lacy Cardell Gusler and Winnie Wilburn Gusler. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Alton Loving, son, C.A. Loving, daughter, Sharon Loving Blinsinger,

Lottie was a graduate of the Pearisburg High School Redevils. She worked at Wal-Mart for 28 years at different locations in Virginia.

She is survived by her son, David Loving (Sharon) of Pearisburg, 7 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, 2 brothers, Donnie Gusler (Betty) of Pearisburg, Paul Gusler of Pearisburg, 4 sisters, Kathleen Minnick of N.J., Gean Young (Curtis) of Pembroke, Connie McCroskey (Ernie) of Pearisburg, Mary Trenar of Pearisburg and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11am with Charles Henderson officiating in the Wilburn Valley Cemetery in Pearisburg, VA.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

01/19/2026

Anna Christine Hockenberger Abel, 86 of Bedford, VA., formerly of Pearisburg, VA., went to her heavenly home to see her husband on Friday, January 16, 2026. Anna was born on July 7, 1939, in Pittsburgh, PA and was a daughter of the late Harry Hansen Hockenberger and Dorothy Reithmueller Hockenberger. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her, husband of 53 years, Edward Ronald Abel, her brother, William Hockenberger and his wife, Lynn, her 2 brothers-in-law and their wives, Bruce Abel and his wife Helene and Glenn Abel and his wife Carol.

Anna grew up in Pittsburgh and after high school, attended Penn State University and was a Tri Delta, earning her B.S. in education in 1961. She married her lifelong partner, Edward Ronald Abel, in August, 1961. With her husband Ed playing professional baseball for the Chicago Cubs, then when he became a pilot in the Navy, they had multiple residences, before they settled in the Philadelphia area, having 3 children. They moved to Pearisburg, VA in 1981 where she and her husband were longtime members of the First United Methodist Church in Pearisburg. She was a substitute teacher for the Giles County School System. She enjoyed being an avid Bridge player and a square dancer. She loved being the family and town videographer and photographer. In her later years, her greatest love was playing with and spoiling her grandchildren.

She is survived by 2 daughters, Jill A. Stump (Rowdy) of Pembroke, Wendy A. Burgess (Matt) of Apex, NC, son, Todd Abel of Evington, 6 grandchildren, Nikki Johnston (Rickie), Ryan Spicer (Karli), Ethan Burgess, Emerson Burgess, Logan Abel and Matthew Abel, 3 great grandchildren, Ave-Lee Johnston, Weston Spicer and Kallie Spicer, a brother-in-law, Lee Abel (Connie) of PA and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Givens Funeral Home from 5 - 6:30pm Friday, January 23, 2026. A Celebration of Life following at 6:30pm at the Givens Funeral Chapel in Pearisburg, VA.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Pearisburg, VA.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

01/15/2026

Martin Andre Rafferty, age 92, of Pearisburg, VA, died on January 13th, 2026, with his family by his side. Martin was born on June 24th, 1933, in Gardner, MA, to Emerson and Madeleine Rafferty. He received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Worchester Polytechnic University. Martin was a veteran of the United States Army. Martin began his professional life working for Esso (now Exxon) in New Jersey. His work took him all over the world, from Spain to Libya to Saudi Arabia. He was fortunate to be able to share those experiences with his family. Martin retired to Salisbury, NC in 1985 with his wife Maria Teresa and son Terry. He was active in Civitan, the Locke Volunteer Fire Department and as a practicing Professional Engineer. He also became a licensed motorcycle driver in his 60s and enjoyed touring with his wife, Terry and Terry’s friends. Martin loved his family, trains and working on construction projects.

Martin was preceded in death by his parents, wife Maria Teresa and children Michael, Kathleen and Phillip. He is survived by his children Patricia Douckas, Gardner, MA and Terrence (Jessie), Pearisburg, VA, six grandchildren and four great grandsons. He is also survived by his brother, Michael (Linda) Rafferty, sister-in-law Giovana Cortina and several nieces and nephews. Per Martin’s request, there will be no services

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

01/10/2026

Melinda Jane Blankenship Gusler, 59, of Pearisburg, VA., went to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at her home. Melinda was born on December 21, 1966, in Princeton, WV and was a daughter of the late Donald Whittaker and Linda Brown Blankenship.

Melinda was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She loved camping, fishing, riding side by sides and having dinner with friends and family. She never missed a bargain at yard sales or at goodwill. She was also a retired U.S. Mail Carrier.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Paul F. Gusler of Pearisburg, son, William L. Gusler (Christina) of Staffordsville, 2 step-children, Bobby Ray Gusler of Pearisburg, Paula Ann Smith of Pearisburg, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, 5 brothers, Dean, David, Bubby, Dwight and Joe. one sister, Vickie and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 6 – 8pm at Thessalia Church in (Sugar Run) Pearisburg, VA. with Charles Henderson officiating.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

01/01/2026

Peggy Lafon Lucas went to be with the Lord on January 1, 2026, on her 87th birthday. She passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, C. F. Lucas along with her parents, Houston and Lorine Lafon, and her four siblings.

Peggy graduated from Pearisburg High School in 1957. While a student, she worked at McLean Drug at their soda counter. After high school, she attended the Bluefield School of Business and was later employed by Leggett in Pearisburg.

Her greatest joy and accomplishment would be as a loving mom to her children and grandchildren. She leaves to cherish her memory, Rene Proco (Gary), Sandra Lucas, and Paul Lucas. Her blessings continued with grandchildren, Ryan Proco, Caitlyn Proco (fiancé Will Gilmore) Kyle Chafin (Beth), Elise Chafin (fiancé Justin Wohlfarth), Presley Lucas and Avery Lucas and two great-grandchildren, Stockton and Elly Chafin.

Peggy was a lifelong Christian and a member of Pearisburg First United Methodist Church. She was a faithful caregiver to many.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Carilion Giles Memorial and especially the amazing care given to her by the nurses and the social worker at Good Samaritan Hospice.

There will be a private family burial at Birchlawn Burial Park in Pearisburg. The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home, Pearisburg, VA.

01/01/2026

Celebration of Life for Our Beloved Father

It is with both sorrow for our loss and joy for his eternal reward that we announce the passing of Alfred Francis Katz Jr., of Pearisburg, Virginia, who passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 85. He left this world as he lived it—on his own terms. Alfred was a devoted member of his community and will be remembered for his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Born on April 27, 1940, in New York City, Alfred—known to family as Al or “Kit”—was the son of Alfred F. Katz Sr. and Geraldine Patricia O’Sullivan Katz. He was a graduate of Pace University and proudly served in the United States Army as a Military Police officer from 1959 to 1961. Alfred was a faithful member of Holy Family Catholic Church and retired from Celanese in 2002 after 26 years of dedicated service.

Alfred was actively involved in the Town of Pearisburg and took great pride in giving back. Over the years, he was active in the Chamber of Commerce, served as President of the Merchants Association, helped organize the town’s annual Festival Around Town, and participated in Relay for Life. His dedication and leadership played an important role in strengthening the sense of community in Pearisburg. During retirement, he taught classes at New River Community College in Dublin, Virginia, and remained busy with Lions Club events.

One of Alfred’s greatest passions was the Pearisburg Lions Club, which he dearly loved. He devoted countless hours of time and energy to the Lions Club and its mission of service, always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. He received numerous awards and accolades for his work, but he always felt the work itself was reward enough. Alfred and his wife Mary believed deeply in helping others.

In his free time, Alfred enjoyed cooking. In addition to his civic involvement, he also enjoyed acting with the Little Giles Theatre and found great joy in the performing arts. One of his proudest moments was appearing in the film Wish You Well, which was filmed in Giles County.

Alfred was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. One of his greatest joys was preparing delicious meals for his loved ones and upholding cherished family traditions. To his children, he was known for his wisdom, kindness, dedication, and wry humor. He always made time to talk—whether about cooking or simply to lend an ear and offer advice about work and life. He was affectionately known as “Opa” to his six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary J. Katz, and his brother, Michael K. Katz. He is survived by his brother Peter R. Katz (Donna Katz) of Brick Township, New Jersey.

His precious memory will forever be cherished by his children: Kenneth R. Katz (Donna T. Katz) of Goldbond, Virginia; Lisa K. Martin (David E. Martin) of Pearisburg, Virginia; and Frank J. Katz (Cordairo A. Whitworth) of Kernersville, North Carolina. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Karen K. Braiman (Alain Braiman), Danielle M. Collins (Chris Collins), Heather K. Ferrara (David Ferrara), Michele M. Eppling (Andrew Eppling), Kaitlyn K. Gueta (Alex Gueta), and Matthew R, Martin; and his great-grandchildren: Brantley and Vanessa Ferrara, Milo and Daisy Gueta, Elizabeth and Isabella Braiman, and Banks and Brewer Eppling. He is further survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who loved him deeply.

A Celebration of Al’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, VA., from 5 – 7pm. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to holy Family Catholic Church in care of Justice and Peace Committee Pearisburg in Alfred F. Katz, Jr.’s honor.

12/28/2025

Sylvia Louisa Woods, 90, of Roanoke, VA, formerly of Pembroke, VA., went to be with the Lord December 23, 2025. Sylvia was born on March 6th, 1935, in Baltimore, Maryland and was the daughter of the late Arthur and Louisa Sagel. She attended the University of Baltimore in the 1950s and then moved to Giles County when she married Jim Woods. She worked for over 20 years for Virginia Tech while raising her three boys. She loved animals, in particular cats, and was an avid cook. She also was a dedicated PBS enthusiast and always had the Television on WBRA-15.

Sylvia was also preceded in death by husband Jim Woods and one son, Craig William Woods. She is survived by 2 sons, Curtis and Christopher Woods, and a daughter in law, Elaine Woods, to whom she was a dear friend and daughter.

According to Sylvia’s wishes, there will be a private funeral service held at a later date.

Much Gratitude goes out to the Palliative Care Unit of Roanoke Memorial Hospital. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Giles County Animal Shelter.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

12/14/2025

Alice Gail Davis, 88, of Ripplemead, VA, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Gail was born in Enumclaw, WA on August 28, 1937. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter John Gentala and Alice Humbert Gentala, who now welcome her home.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, Russell Davis; her children JoAnn Doss (Stuart), Rusty Davis (Rhonda), and Barbara Davis (Charlie Webb); her cherished grandchildren Bryan Davis (Heather), Devon Frazier, and Brad Davis (Christy Gomez); and her seven great-grandchildren Katie Davis, Savannah Davis, Austin Davis, Ava Gomez, Sophia Gomez, Abigail Davis, and Andrew Davis. Gail also leaves behind her loving sister Joan Ames and brother Walter Gentala, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Gail was truly the heart of her family. She joyfully hosted countless family gatherings, holiday meals, and celebrations – always making sure everyone felt welcome, loved, and well-fed. Her warmth, kindness, and steady presence were felt by all who knew her.

A dedicated member of the Ingram Village United Methodist Church for more than 65 years, Gail lived her faith daily. She served as a Sunday school teacher and supported her church community with unwavering devotion.

Gail gave 32 years of service to Giles High School, where she became a familiar and trusted face to generations of students and faculty. She was also an enthusiastic member of the Ripplemead Friends Club and a proud supporter of Giles High School football. Gail loved arts and crafts, particularly crocheting. She crocheted hundreds of blankets, hats, scarves, and mittens, and often donated these items to assisted living and daycare facilities.

Energetic, personable, and endlessly compassionate, Gail never met a person she didn’t enjoy talking with. Her gift for conversation and her genuine love and interest in others created lasting friendships and brightened many lives.

Gail leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and faith. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all whose lives she touched.

Funeral services will be conducted Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:00am at the Givens Funeral Chapel in Pearisburg, VA, with Pastor Terri Gregory officiating with burial following in the Birchlawn Burial Park in Pearisburg. The family will receive friends at the Givens Funeral Home 1 hour before the service from 10 - 11am.

Memorial donations may be made to the Ingram Village United Methodist Church, 406 Gale Rd. Pearisburg, VA 24134

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

12/01/2025

Herman Douglas French, 84, of Pearisburg, VA., passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025. Herman was born on November 8, 1941, in Rich Creek, VA., and was a son of the late Stewart Douglas French and Virginia Burton French Carr. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Willa Dean Harless French, and a son, Douglas French.

Herman was a former employee of Carilion Giles Memorial Hospital in Pearisburg and was a member of the Rich Creek First United Methodist Church. Herman enjoyed restoring and showing old show cars, winning numerous awards and trophies at local and regional car shows. He also was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed Bluegrass music and old western movies.

He is survived by his stepdaughter, Ruth Ann Lytton, stepson, Tony B. Harry and brother, James Larry Carr and a special friend, Priscilla L. Cole.

Graveside services will be held, Friday, December 5, 2025, at 2pm at the Birchlawn Abbey in Pearisburg with the Rev. Clay Holt officiating with entombment to follow. The family will receive friends at the Abbey 1 hour before the service from 1 – 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Giles County Animal Shelter, 1 Taylor Ave. Pearisburg, VA 24134, gilescountyanimalshelter.com

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

12/01/2025

Vicki Lynn Merrix East, 64 of Pearisburg, VA, went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 28, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Vicki was born in Pearisburg, VA, and was a daughter of the late Tyler Grayson Merrix and Mary Elizabeth Clifton Merrix. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jeffery Wayne East, a brother, John Wayne Merix and a niece, Angela Bird Sutphin

Vicki was a 1980 graduate of Giles High School and attended New River Community Collage in Dublin. After school, Vicki devoted her life to taking care of her children, her entire family, and her precious granddaughter, Myracle whom she loved spending every minute she could with and was proud to be a loving grandmother. She was always happy, upbeat and was loved by everyone she met. Truly beautiful inside and out.

She is survived by 2 daughters, Shala Jade Martin, Sierra Shae “CiCi” East (fiancé Christlida Dalton), her beautiful granddaughter, Myracle Shae-Lynn all of Pearisburg, brother, Tyler Eugene Merix of Narrows, sister, Portia Gail Merrix Bird (David) of Dublin, 2 nephews, Davy Bird (Tammy) of Dublin, and their 2 children, Eric Bird (Tara) of Dublin, and their 2 children, Angela Bird Sutphin’s 4 children, her 2 lifelong “Besties,” Carol Warner Allen of Pearisburg, Elaine Kirk of Dublin and her little fur baby, “Tiny.”

As per Vicki’s wishes, she will be cremated, and a service will be held at a later time.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

11/23/2025

Mary Elizabeth Riggins Webb, 92 of Rich Creek, VA., went to be with the Lord on Thursday evening, November 20, 2025. Mary was born on April 15, 1933, in Bluefield, WV, and was a daughter of the late Luther Clinton Riggins, Sr. and Virginia Dooley Riggins. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, William Lee Crabtree, Jr. and her siblings, John, Paul, Luke, Dave, Louise, Joann, Alma.

Mary spent most of her life enjoying the simple love of music, family, and sports. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that was loved so very much. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her so much joy in her older years. Her face would light up whenever they were in the room. She spent the majority of her years playing the piano beautifully, whether for church or for family. She was an avid lover of football and racing and loved spending her Sundays watching either.

She is survived by her husband, James “Spider” Clinton Webb, her daughter, Sandra “Sandi” C. Conley of Dublin, 3 grandchildren, Eirin Kiser (Gary), Adam Crabtree, Anthony Crabtree and 2 great grandchildren, Kyra Kiser and Kaden Kiser.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, November 28, 2025. at 1pm at the Givens Funeral Chapel in Pearisburg with Charles Henderson officiating. The family will receive friends at Givens Funeral Home 1 hour before the service, from 12 – 1pm

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.

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