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Burch-Messier Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 317 W Main Street, Bedford, VA (2025)

11/13/2025

Tonya Joy Terry, 53, formerly of Harrisonburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 9, 2025. She was born on December 8, 1971, in Bedford, Virginia.
Tonya dedicated her life to caring for others, spending the majority of her career at the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community in Harrisonburg. Her compassion and devotion to her residents were unmatched—she treated each one as if they were part of her own family. Her kindness, patience, and gentle spirit touched countless lives throughout her years of service.
Tonya’s love for animals, especially her cats, was one of her greatest joys. Even during her final months, she spoke often of them and made sure they continued to receive the same love and care she always gave them. Her beloved cats—Taffy, Bumper, and Sunny—were graciously taken in by Humane Animal Partners of Wilmington, Delaware, who have provided them with safe and loving care. In gratitude for their kindness, the family asks that donations be made in Tonya’s memory to this organization, in honor of her lifelong love for animals. Please use the link provided below to make your donation. https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E195176&id=107
Tonya is survived by her loving parents, Mickey and Wanda St.Clair Hensley of Bedford; her brothers, Bo Terry (Brooke), Tony Moon (Katrina), Jimmy Terry (Christina), and Chris Terry (Krista); her sister, Hailey Terry; and many cherished nieces and nephews—including her beloved niece, Grace Terry, with whom she shared a very special bond. She is also survived by her uncles, James St.Clair, Steven St.Clair, Michael St.Clair; and aunt, Robin Terry Purvis.
She is also lovingly remembered by her longtime friends, Melissa Worrell Payne, Jeff Wood, Jenny Boxler, Sharon Wright and Priscilla Rodeffer, whose steadfast friendship brought her much laughter, comfort, and joy throughout the years. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and coworkers.
Tonya’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her—for her unwavering kindness, her resounding laughter, and the deep love she shared so freely with both people and animals.
A celebration of Tonya’s life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

11/12/2025

Marvin N. Suter III (Flash), 71, of Bedford, Virginia, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on November 7, 2025. He was born on November 27, 1953, to the late Virginia S. Suter and Marvin N. Suter Jr.
Marvin was a devoted father, grandfather, and dedicated truck driver who took great pride in caring for his family. He was a proud member of The Sons of Confederate Veterans and found joy in the open road, his truck, and collecting trinkets that reminded him of his many travels.
He is survived by Roberta Suter; his sons, Nicholas Suter (Carissa) and Mark Suter (Carly); his cherished grandchildren, Daniel (Leah), Abigail, Connor, Colton, Rhett, and Ellie; his dear longtime friends Mike (Catman) and Sharon Graham; and his two sisters.
Marvin’s love, strength, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut Street, Bedford. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

11/08/2025

David Bruce Hunter, of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital’s Cardiothoracic ICU with family by his side. Bruce is leaving behind a legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, and devotion to family. Born in Lynchburg, VA, on December 24, 1947, to David Jett Hunter and Annie Eleanor Morrill Hunter, Bruce graduated from E.C. Glass in 1965. He began his career as a police officer in Petersburg and Prince George, VA. Then joining Meredith Burda in followed by R. R. Donnelley, retiring in 1993 after 24 years of service as their Human Resources Manager. Bruce was also a dedicated entrepreneur, owning and operating several businesses in Virginia and North Carolina, including Karen’s Corner, Mr. Suds Carwash, and Mystic Carpet Outlet.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Judith Hunter Terry. He is survived by his siblings: Barry Hunter (wife Bev) of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Diane Hunter Clark (husband Bob) of Mexico.
Bruce’s legacy continues through his three children: Quentin Hunter (wife Rachel) of Haughton, LA; A. Cole Hunter (wife Anna) of Kernersville, NC; and Brandy Hunter-Biehl (husband Sean) of Rocky Mount, NC. He was blessed with eight grandchildren: Jessica Britt of VA, Chelsea Britt Whitehurst (husband Adam) of NC, Krista Hunter of VA, Cameron Hunter of SC, Hannah Hunter Russell (husband Nathan) of FL, and Adam Hunter of LA, Samuel Biehl of NC and Ray Cox of LA; and two great grandchildren, Kalani Britt of VA and Liam Cox of LA.
Bruce will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will be forever treasured.
The family would like to offer a special thanks the entire staff for the personalized care given to Bruce during his time in the Cardiothoracic ICU.
A private Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date by the children.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Centra’s Rosemary and George Dawson Inn in Bruce Hunter’s memory.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

11/08/2025

Shirley Long McDaniel, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, in Bedford, Virginia. Born in Christiansburg, she was the beloved daughter of William Barnett Long, a World War I veteran who served in the Company B, 163rd Infantry, and Virginia Florence (Walters) Long. She was the cherished granddaughter of Jeremiah Myers Walters and Cora Belle Early.

A descendant of the Early family of Virginia, Shirley inherited the southern strength and spirit of her mother Florence. Through family stories, the legacy of notable ancestors were preserved with the likes of Confederate General Jubal Anderson Early, whose nickname was “Lee’s Bad Old Man” and was known for his fiery temper and aggressive battlefield tactics that played a key role in the 1864 Valley Campaign, leading daring raids into Maryland and threatening Washington, D.C. The Early family of Virginia left a lasting imprint on Virginia and the South, contributing to its military, political, and journalistic landscape. One of its members, Stephen Tyree Early, served as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s White House Press Secretary from 1933 to 1945, shaping presidential communications and journalistic relations. Their legacy has been documented in works such as The Family of Early, Which Settled Upon the Eastern Shore of Virginia, written by Ruth H. Early of Lynchburg, Virginia.

After graduating from Christiansburg High School, Shirley moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked as a clerk. She later returned home and married Donald L. McDaniel of Radford, Virginia, who preceded her in death. Together, they settled in Bedford, Virginia where Shirley lived for over five decades and raised three children: Don McDaniel, Carol Broesamle, and Rhonda Arthur (husband Tim Arthur). She was a devoted grandmother to Timothy Arthur, who carries forward her legacy.

Shirley was also preceded in death by her sisters Charlotte Linkous and Barbara Sumner. She is survived by her sister Lena Mae Smith, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the residents and staff of Bedford County Nursing Home for their compassionate care and friendship in Shirley’s final years and Centra Hospice.

A graveside service to honor Shirley’s life will take place at Spring Hill Cemetery in Lynchburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, November 11, at 2:00 PM.

Services are entrusted to Burch-Messier Funeral Home, 540-586-7360.

11/04/2025

Dr. David Arthur Gladwell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, & friend died on Friday, August 8, 2025 in the Northern Neck of Virginia where he had lived for the last year.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Brownie Beryl and Arthur Lee Gladwell and his sister, Nancy Gladwell Ritchie.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Beth); by his son, David Andrew (Drew) and his wife, Sarah and their daughter, Charlsie Wrenn Gladwell; and by his daughter, Lee Ann DeHart Gladwell Kontos and her husband, Gregory Edward Kontos and their children, Adelaide Marian and Samuel Kenneth.
Dave's idyllic childhood in Lewisburg, West Virginia was the beginning of a long and happy life. He went to Marshall University before enrolling at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN.
He had a successful Optometry practice in Bedford until his retirement in 2014. He was devoted to his patients.
As everyone in Bedford remembers, Dave was an avid fly fisherman and enjoyed that hobby with several friends for over forty years. With an interest in everything related to fishing, he collected antique fly rods, antique fishing tackle, and antique advertising for fishing tackle. He tied all of his own flies and when fishing he carried what he would need to match the hatch that day.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut Street, Bedford.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations may be made to the National D-Day Memorial.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

10/31/2025

Albert Lorent, 91, of Moneta passed away Sunday, October 26, 2025. He was born on June 12, 1934. He was the son of the late Walter Lorent and Bridget Pogorelski Lorent.
Albert was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a retired businessman and enjoyed fishing and volunteering at Lake Christian Ministries for over 27 years.
Albert was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Ulicki Lorent, and is survived by his son, Steven Lorent; daughters, Kathy O’Malley and husband Richard, Carol Lorent, Diane Whalen and husband Brian, and Susan Tuck. He will be missed and loved by his 15 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers a Memorial donation may be made to Lake Christian Ministries 13157 S. Old Moneta Road, Moneta, VA 24121.
A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Resurrection Catholic Church, 15353 Moneta Road, Moneta, VA 24121 with Father Nixon Negparanon celebrating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will immediately follow in the church cemetery.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-536-7360.

10/30/2025

Reverend James Everette Compton, Jr., 90, died peacefully in his sleep, at home, on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
Jimmy was born and raised in Richmond, VA. He was the son of James Everette Compton and Frances Elizabeth Frost, both from Richmond, VA. Jimmy graduated from John Marshall High School; attended and graduated from Lynchburg College, where he sang in the Lynchburg College Choir and was a member of the Track Team. He then attended and graduated from Lexington Theological Seminary in Lexington, Kentucky. Following Seminary, he served as Minister at multiple churches throughout Virginia, as well as Florida. He later served as Parish Life Minister and was ultimately elected Pastor Emeritus at Bedford Christian Church. Jimmy enjoyed singing in the Bedford Christian Church choir; watching the birds at the feeder; cooking; and especially working in the garden.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; his oldest sister, Barbara Pitts; daughter, Rhonda Roberts Cheek; grandson, Eric Nichols; son-in-law, Jimmy Taylor; and daughter-in-law, Nannette Compton.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Nancy Wooldrige Compton; his two sons, Everette Compton and Russ Compton; and two sisters, Frances Smith and Margaret Waymack, both of Richmond, VA.
Jimmy shared Nancy with her children, Gypsy Roberts Nichols, Bobby Roberts (Jan), Susan Roberts Taylor (Jimmy), Rhonda Roberts Cheek (Jeff) and Donna Roberts Sexton (Tim); 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 2 more yet to come.
During his many years of ministry (1957 – 2025) Jimmy touched many people, all of whom loved him and his way of making them feel special. In return, Jimmy and Nancy received many blessings and lots of love. He was a giving person and would help whenever and wherever help was needed.
Special love and gratitude to Jimmy’s “Buddy” and Caretaker, Rosa (“Macie”) Carson; and Westminster Canterbury Hospice.
Visitation will be 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, November 1, 2025 followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Bedford Christian Church, with Dr. Rev. David Walton officiating.
Suggest any donations be made to Bedford Christian Church Building Fund. 1928 Moneta Road, Bedford, VA 24523.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

10/28/2025

David Benjamin Scheffer, 78, of Goodview, died on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from pneumonia. He passed away peacefully and painlessly in the early morning.
David was born on September 7, 1947 and was the 4th of 6 children born to the late Benjamin and Mary Ellen Scheffer in Patterson, NJ. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Sara Ellen Scheffer; and three siblings, Sally Hemion, Raymond Scheffer, and Maryellen Durfee.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Verna Loraine Scheffer; son, David L. Scheffer; granddaughter, Skyla M. Chisom; sister, Candyce Scheffer; brother, Scott Scheffer; and many nieces and nephews.
David served in the United States Army National Guard Reserves in Tome River, NJ. He enjoyed being outdoors and loved fishing and camping. He also loved playing cards, ping pong, darts, and listening to music with family and friends and was always ready to have a good time. He was a great caring man and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He will be missed.
David requested no memorial services and would just like to be remembered with fondness and humor. His family will have a private celebration of life at a later date.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

10/21/2025

“Tata Bugg”
Taylor Brooke Viar, 26, of Lynchburg, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, October 16, 2025, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. She was the wonderful mom of two precious boys, Montana Lee Viar and Waylon Scott Dudley. She was the beloved daughter of Andrew L. Viar III and Christie W. Viar.
Born to her parents as a precious preemie, Taylor grew up to be an avid horse lover of all sizes and breeds. Prior to her illness, she spent her spare time riding her horse “Shadee” followed by mentoring and teaching others about horses. Some of her other hobbies included beach trips, rides on the parkway and celebrations with her family and friends, especially on birthdays and holidays. Fall was her favorite season as she loved all the pumpkins and all things pumpkin spice.
She was preceded in death by her grandfather’s, Hubert “Roger” Wilkes and Andrew L. Viar, Jr. In addition to her children and her parents, she leaves to cherish her memory her brother, Brookelyn Lee Viar; two amazing grandmothers, Sandra B. Wilkes and Kathryn P. Viar; her aunt and uncle, Greg & Michelle Wilkes; her “Aunt” Kym along with many special cousins and other family members.
Taylor shared part of her life with Trevor Dudley, whose presence marked an important chapter in her journey. Later, Taylor met the love of her life Brandon Mitchell. He loved and spoiled her endlessly and gave her a wonderfully normal life despite the battle she was fighting. He loved her unconditionally.
The family is so grateful for the doctors, nurses and staff at UVA who took care of Taylor over the last month giving her exceptional care while in the Neurological ICU.
A Celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Center Point Community Church with Rev. William Clark officiating. The church is located at 1177 Timber Ridge Road, Bedford, VA. 24523. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church and following the service at the home of Greg & Michelle Wilkes located at 105 Field Brook Place, Forest, Virginia 24551.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

10/17/2025

James Leroy Parrish, 87, of Bedford, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2025. He was born in Bedford on July 29, 1938 a son of the late Trisha Parrish.
He loved bowling, playing baseball, playing rook, fishing and traveling.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Beth Milton Parrish; daughters, Teresa Witt (Eugene), Renee Meador (Tim), Penny Abbott (Mike); grandchildren, Shana Witt, Brian Witt, Brandon Mitchen (Carissa), Greg Meador (Chelsea), Jon Andrews, Sam Abbott (Kristin), Tiffany Clark, Jamie Giles (Cory), Cadence Clark, Bently Clark; sister, Kathy Mabe (Gerald); mother-in-law, Nancy Bryant (James); and ten great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m., on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut Street, with Rev. William Clark officiating. Burial will follow in Virginia Memorial Park. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

10/13/2025

Patricia Zamjohn “Patty” Lloyd, 68, of Bedford, died Friday, October 10, 2025. She was born in Schenectady, NY on March 17, 1957 a daughter of the late Richard Francis Zamjohn, Sr. and Beverly Ann Bissonette Zamjohn Terry. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her step-father, Robert Samuel Terry, first husband, Greg Gilhuly, and her brother, Richard Francis Zamjohn, Jr.; her nephew, Hunter Davis.
Patty was a retired Physician Assistant with Centra Health and was an active member of Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church. She loved golfing, motorcycle riding, pool time with the kids and was an avid gardener.
She is survived by her husband, John David Lloyd, two daughters, Andraya Barger (Michael) and Erin Compton (Bobby); step-children, David Lloyd (Jackie); grandchildren, Aeric Barger, Shirley Barger, Ada Compton, Nora Compton, Bobby Compton, Austin Lloyd and Alysa Lloyd; her sisters, Karen Cifala-Soper (John), Trina Dodge (Harry), Michelle Davis (Scott); many nieces and nephews.
A funeral mass will be celebrated 11:00 am on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church with Father Nixon Negparanon and Father Salvador Añonuevo celebrating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday evening at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

10/08/2025

Colonel (Ret.) John Bernard “Jack” Kuhn, 81, of Moneta, Virginia, was promoted to eternal life on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
Born in Lancaster, N.Y., Jack was the son of the late Karl and Dorothy (Weis) Kuhn. A proud graduate of St. Mary’s High School, Canisius College, the University of Buffalo Dental School and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Jack dedicated his life to service, family and faith.
He served 23 years of active duty in the U.S. Army as a dentist, with assignments throughout the states, in Germany and Panama. Following his military career, Jack continued his work in public health as a dentist for the Roanoke County Health Department.
Jack married his high school sweetheart, Mary Roskoz Kuhn, and together they shared 65 years of love, laughter and adventure. In addition to Mary, he is survived by their children, Michael Kuhn (Beverly Cranfill) of Indianapolis and Andie Gibson (Chris) of Moneta; his loyal dog, Rocky; and many cherished friends near and far. He was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Kuhn; and grandson, Benjamin Gibson.
Since retiring to Smith Mountain Lake in 1990, Jack had been a devoted member of Resurrection Catholic Church, where he served in multiple ministries, including bringing communion and companionship to residents of Runk & Pratt.
Jack embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved bowling, golf, boating, grilling, monthly poker games, twice-daily walks, roasting coffee, sipping wine, studying and playing trivia and—most of all—traveling with Mary. Together they explored dozens of countries on five continents and took an incredible 71 cruises, delighting in history, cuisine and culture wherever they went.
Jack will be remembered for his sharp wit, steadfast faith, boundless curiosity and enthusiasm for helping others. A Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Resurrection Catholic Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m., and a reception will follow in the fellowship hall. The service will be live streamed at facebook.com/ResurrectionCatholic.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Routt County Crisis Support, 2673 Jacob Circle #102, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 or mtyc.co/n9upuf.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Burch-Messier Funeral Home and Cremation Service

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