Botetourt Funeral Home

01/20/2026

Sherry Sloan Nelson

Sherry Sloan Nelson, 62, of Buchanan, passed away Monday, January 19, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald “Jerry” Russ Nelson; and parents, Melvin and Mildred Sloan.

She grew up in Buchanan and graduated from James River High School in 1981. Sherry made many friends during her time working at Copper Top and Jerry’s. She was also a familiar face at what used to be Barry’s Exxon.

Sherry loved spending time with her family, enjoyed listening to bluegrass music, and dancing with her husband, Jerry.

Left to cherish Sherry’s memory are her daughter, Kristin Sloan; step children, Jesse Nelson, Amanda Nelson (Chris Mayo); grandchildren, Kade Nelson, Colton and Daxton Mayo; sister, Vickie and Roy Linkenhoker; nieces and nephews, Brent and Jennifer Linkenhoker; great nieces, Morgan, Madison, and Melaina; cousins, Becky and Joel Chambers, and Jamie Broughman; and special fur babies, Hemi, Harley, and George.

A celebration of life service will be held Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 11 am in the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home, with Scottie Campbell officiating. The family will receive friends an hour before the service. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

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01/14/2026

David "Tommy" Wheeler

David Thomas "Tommy" Wheeler, 78, passed away peacefully in the early morning of January, 13, 2026.

A lifelong lover of racing, Tommy approached life with energy, adventure, and heart. Now, the checkered flag has waved - he has finished his race.

Born and raised in Buchanan, Virginia, Tommy was a steadfast husband, devoted father, and adoring grandfather. He was known by many as the go-to mechanic - the one who could diagnose and fix just about anything with an engine. If it had wheels, chances are Tommy had tinkered with it, raced it, or was already figuring out how to make it run better. His mechanical aptitude was remarkable, but it was his curiosity and determination that truly set him apart.

Tommy loved the outdoors and lived life at full throttle. He found joy in tending his garden, hiking, trips to the beach, and giving back through litter pick-up efforts. Known for his mischievous sense of humor and signature sneaky grin, those closest to him caught fleeting glimpses of it even as his health declined.

He was preceded in death by Howard and Danie Wheeler; sister, Martha Snuffer; brothers, Lynwood Wheeler, Curtis Wheeler, and Mike Wheeler; and brothers-in-law, Punk Broughman and Dickie Montgomery.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Vicky Wheeler; daughter, Amy Wheeler of Wi******er; son-in-law, David Loughran; and grandson, Keegan, who will forever carry his spirit forward. He is also survived by his brother, Bob (Carla) Wheeler of Salem, Oregon; brother-in-law, John (Carolyn) Montgomery of Salem, Virginia; sisters-in-law, Sylvia (Willard) Flora, Phyllis (Warren) Wertz of Roanoke, Kay Broughman of Buchanan, and Joyce Montgomery of Buena Vista; and numerous nieces and nephews. Special friends include Billy and Becky Booze, Phyllis and Randy Kingery, and Hedda and Ken St. Clair. Those wishing to make a contribution, please consider the American Stroke Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or Virginia Presbyterian Church, PO Box 328, Buchanan, VA 24066.

A celebration of life service will be communicated & held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

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01/13/2026

Peggy Painter Camper Davis

Peggy Davis, a long-time resident of Fincastle, Virginia, died January 8, 2026, at Spring Oak at Bedford-The Elks Home. Peggy was born October 19th, 1935, in Fincastle to parents Viola Wiek and Hunter Monroe Painter. She was a graduate of Fincastle High School and later earned an Associate of Arts Degree from Virginia Western Community College.

Peggy’s career included Branch Manager of the Bank of Fincastle, On-Air Reviewer of theater and arts for WDBJ Radio in Roanoke, Director of the Congressional District Office of U.S. Representative James Olin, and later a liaison for FEMA.

Peggy’s community and spiritual life was centered around The Fincastle Presbyterian Church. Starting with her parents, the church has been the cornerstone of her family for nearly a century. Peggy was a life-long member where she served as a trustee and President of the Presbyterian Women’s Group. Peggy was also one of the original members of Historic Fincastle Incorporated, and one of the original signers of the Articles of Incorporation. In addition, she was Chairman and Publicity Director for the Fincastle Festival. She served as President of the Big Spring Garden Club and was on the Board of Directors of Valley Beautiful Incorporated. She also loved volunteering at Center-in-the-Square History Museum and The Taubman Museum of Art.

Peggy loved all sports and she was particularly fond of attending sporting events at James River and Lord Botetourt High Schools. She was an avid golfer and member of the Botetourt Country Club. She served as President of the Botetourt County Women’s Golf Association. She also served on the Board of Directors of the Roanoke Valley Women’s Golf Association. She was involved with the Roanoke Valley Hall of Fame Scholarship Program in an effort to inspire young people to play the game. Peggy’s other interests included travel, theater, art, the Garth Newel Music Center, Mah Jongg, and playing Bridge.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Viola and Hunter Painter, sister, Pat Simmons and her husband, Bill, as well as her daughter, Carol Snyder Brenner. She was preceded in death by first husband, Clemer Camper, and second husband, Paxton Davis. She was also preceded in death by niece, Monty Leitch and nephew, Willie Simmons and his wife, Brenda.

Peggy is survived by daughters Cathy Goad (Mike) of Fincastle, Clemmer Ann Allen (Bobby) of Forest, Connie Peters (Randy) of Salem, Oregon, and son Joe Camper (Chad) of West Lafayette, Indiana. She is survived by niece Patsy Dickerson (David) and family, and son-in-law Alan Brenner and family. Peggy was the loving grandmother known as “Granny” to McKinley Tucker (Jared), Kyle Allen (Meredith), Morgan Goad (Sarah), Hannah Allen (Michael), Andrew Snyder (Hannah), Benton Snyder (Val), Austin Peters (Julie), and her beloved great-grandchildren. She is also survived by step-children Keith Blouin, Anne Coleman, Pete Davis, and their families. Peggy also cherished her enduring friendships throughout her lifetime.

Peggy will be buried in the family plot at Godwin Cemetery in Fincastle. A service will take place during the summer of 2026. Our family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Spring Oak at Bedford-The Elks Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fincastle Presbyterian Church Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 144, Fincastle, Virginia, 24090.

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12/31/2025

Stephen Grigg

Stephen Grigg, 73, of Buchanan, passed away Monday morning, December 29, 2025, after an 8-month battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Stephen Hendricks Grigg was born on October 4, 1952, in Washington, D.C., to Elijah Hendricks and Minnie Russell Grigg (both now deceased).

Steve was raised in Falls Church, VA, where he left after graduating from George Mason High School to attend Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA. After the draft pulled him out of college, Steve joined the United States Marines. He went through boot camp in San Diego and then served his enlistment working with computers at Quantico, VA.

After the Marines, Steve returned to graduate from Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences with a bachelor's degree in Horticulture, specializing in Landscape Design. After college and a few different jobs in the green industry, Steve and his wife, Juanita Malone Grigg, started Grigg Design, Inc., a landscape design/build company in Manassas Park, VA (Northern Virginia Area).

Grigg Design, Inc. grew and became a successful landscape design firm for 34 years. During that time, Steve was involved with many industry-related groups, most notably the Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association (VNLA), serving in an executive capacity for several years, including one year as President.

During his active years in the business and continuing after retirement in 2019, Steve returned to lend his time and expertise to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences as a way of giving back. He served for 15 years as a member of the Dean's Leadership Council, right up until his diagnosis forced him to resign.

After retirement, Steve and Juanita moved to Buchanan, VA, in 2021, where Steve realized his dream of returning to the mountains and living in a small town. He was able to enjoy fishing, hiking, shooting sports, hunting, and "puttering" in his gardens.

He maintained throughout his life that serving in the Marine Corps and his involvement with Virginia Tech were the building blocks for everything else he did. He lived his life by the mottos of those two institutions, Ut Prosium' for Virginia Tech (that I may serve) and 'Semper Fi' for the Marine Corps (always faithful).

Left to cherish Steve's memory are his wife of almost 50 years, Juanita (Malone); sister, Lynn R. Grigg; nephews, Elijah, Bly Mitchell, and Guthrie George; seven grand nieces and nephews; paternal uncle, James Grigg; and numerous cousins on both the paternal and maternal sides of his family.

Steve will be cremated, and his service will be announced by his family.

In lieu of flowers, Steve requested donations be made to the Virginia Tech Foundation in support of the Hahn Horticulture Garden. Information on how to donate can be found here: Support the HHG.

Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

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12/31/2025

Debra Sue Huffman

Debra “Debbie” Sue Huffman, 65, of Martinsville, passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Lee Huffman, Sr. and Rosalie Wanda Crawford Huffman; brother, Roy Lee Huffman, Jr.; and sisters, Connie Hiler and Cindy Huffman.

Debbie is survived by her daughter, Amanda Huffman, of Kansas City, MO; sons, Michael Montgomery, of North Carolina, and Andy Montgomery, of Charlottesville, VA; sister, Jean Rush, of Roanoke, VA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Eagle Rock Baptist Church Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

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12/27/2025

Kathryn Bush

Kathryn Louise Hinchee Bush, 96, of Troutville, passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Virginia. She was born February 5, 1929 in Weirton, West Virginia and was preceded in death by her parents, William "Bill" and Gladys Dogan Hinchee, and her husband of 67 years, John Rodney Bush. Kathryn was a long-time resident of Troutville and was a faithful servant of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

She leaves to mourn her loss, two sons, William Wesley Bush and John David Bush and his wife, Lisa; one granddaughter, Jenna Moran and her husband, Michael; one step-grandson, Chad Bostic of Roanoke; and two great-grandchildren, Cory Mitchell and Austyn Moran; a special adopted great-grandson, Chase Higgins, as well as several nieces and nephews, and many other friends and family members. A graveside service will be held at Trinity Cemetery on US 220 in Troutville on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 1:00 pm. Pallbearers will be Chad Bostic, David Bush, Wes Bush, Chase Higgins, Cory Mitchell, and Mike Moran. Special thanks to the Staff of Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital's Palliative Care team and the team of ladies that helped keep her home for the past year. The family request that memorials be made to the Fincastle Baptist Church or Colonial Baptist Church in Blue Ridge, Virginia. Arrangements were entrusted to the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com or 540-254-3000

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12/27/2025

Samuel Collins Barger, Jr.

Samuel “Sammy” Collins Barger, Jr., 73, of Eagle Rock, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 25, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel, Sr. and Claudine Teaford Barger.

He is survived by his wife, Glenda Anderson Barger; sons, Alan Barger, Spencer Barger, and Daniel (Casey Dudley) Barger; grandchildren, Haley and Tyler Woods, Gracey and Matthew Graham, Brooke Barger, Brandon Barger, Brian Barger, and Brittany Barger; great-grandchildren, Emma and Mason Woods; former spouse, Betty Jo Barger; sisters and brothers-in-law, Barbara and Hiram Austin, Shirley and Paul Higgins; brother, William “Billy” Barger; numerous nieces and nephews, and pet companion, Lacey.

Visitation will be held from 1-2pm with funeral services at 2pm Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Forest Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Jerry Marsh officiating. Interment will follow in church cemetery. Arrangements by the Eagle Rock Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.comor 540-884-2276.

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12/17/2025

Ossie Ripley Wheeler Williams

Ossie Ripley Wheeler Williams, 88, of Buchanan, passed away Monday, December 15, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Bill Wheeler and George Williams; parents, Lucian and Sallie Ripley; daughter, Doris Ann Denton; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. JW Welch; brothers, Robert and Sammy Ripley; and sister, Brenda Ripley.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Sue and Bobby Smith; Cynthia Law; and Lee Ann and Jason Wright; numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Eva Ripley; nephews, David (Denise), Michael, and Stephen (Cathy) Ripley; special friend, Donna Stevens; and loads of cousins.

Visitation will be held from 2-3pm with funeral services at 3pm on Friday, December 19, 2025 in the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home with Pastor Joe Woolridge officiating. Interment will follow in Lithia Baptist Church Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

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12/16/2025

Lawrence Toliver, Sr

Deacon Lawrence Edward Toliver, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend, peacefully answered his Savior's call on December 11, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born on December 9, 1937, in Fincastle, Virginia, to Edward and Bertha Burrell-Toliver, and was the youngest of eight children, all of whom preceded him in death.

Lawrence joined Lapsley Run Baptist Church early in life and later became a Deacon at First Baptist Church of Amsterdam. When that congregation merged with Cloverdale Baptist Church to form Spirit of Unity Baptist Church, he continued his faithful service there as a deacon.

He attended school at Academy Hill in Fincastle, Virginia. Upon graduation, Lawrence enlisted in the United States Army, serving a combined six years of active and reserve duty as an electric generator motor repairman. During his military service, he advanced rapidly from Private to Enlisted Rank 4. He completed basic training at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and was deployed on a tour in France. On January 14, 1960, he received an honorable early separation following overseas service.

On January 16, 1965, a day filled with hope and promise, Lawrence married his beloved wife, Jean Clarice Taylor. Together they built a home rooted in unconditional love, laughter, and steadfast support. They shared sixty years of marriage, walking through life side by side until his passing.

Lawrence's deep love for family extended into his professional life. As a manager at Howard Johnson's Restaurant, he employed and uplifted many families and friends, creating meaningful opportunities during a pivotal time for those he hired. He was an equity-minded, socially responsible, empowerment-driven leader, compassionate, inclusive, and committed to second chances. A mentorship-oriented manager and community-centered employer, Lawrence was a benevolent leader positioned by God to provide stability and opportunity for others, as well as for his own family. His spirit of generosity and provision became a foundation for many.

Those blessed to know Lawrence remember him as far more than a respected manager. He was also a devoted family documentarian who found joy in recording everyday moments and milestones. A keeper of memories, he intentionally captured the faces, voices, and laughter of those he loved. Nostalgic and sentimental, he understood the value of preserving moments for future generations.

Those left to cherish his memory and carry forward his legacy include his wife, Jean Clarice Toliver; five sons and three daughters-in-law: Vincent Coston (Saundra), Lawrence Toliver, Jr. (Cynthia), Michael Byrdsong, Elton Toliver (Hanna), and Gene Toliver; one daughter and son-in-law, Tanya Jones (Johnnie "Jay"); nine grandchildren: Evannie, Karryssa, Trey, Demetri "DJ," Alina, Aesia, Morgan, Alexander, and Xavier; two great-grandchildren, Lilly and Nathan; nephews: Richard, Douglas, Arnold, Stanley, Chris, Thomas, George, Michael, Charles and John Patterson; nieces: Jackie, Sharon, Tilly, Deborah, Edna, Martha, Audrey, Carrie and Eva; and a host of cousins, great and great great-nephews and nieces; one brother-in-law Alvin (Patricia) Smith; two sister-in-laws Patricia Brown and Esperanza (Peyton) Burrell; Special Nephews: James (Jimmy) Toliver, Orlando (Lee) Toliver and Kelvin Toliver; Special Friends: George "Wendy" Warren, The Clay brothers, Douglas Smith, Robert Johnson, John Blaney, and Robert "Bobby" Johnson

With deep gratitude, the family acknowledges Terry and Deborah Richie, whose friendship and steadfast support held a special place in Lawrence's life.

The family will receive friends at Botetourt Funeral Home, 14920 Lee Highway, Buchanan, VA. 24066 on Friday December 19, 2025 from 6 to 8pm. Homegoing Services will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025 beginning at 12 Noon at the Spirit of Unity Baptist Church, 193 Updike Lane, Roanoke, Virginia 24019. Interment with Military Honors will be in Greenfield Cemetery. Online Condolences may be made at botetourtfh.com or 540-254-3000.

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12/12/2025

Mildred Sellers service update

A graveside service will be held at Haymakertown Cemetery on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 2 pm with Pastor Danny Barham officiating.

12/12/2025

Constance Wilmore

Constance "Connie" Irvine Wilmore, 76, of Buchanan, passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce Alfred Irvine and Peggy Ann Irvine; sisters, Linda Dabney and Virginia "Jenny" Hamilton.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Brian and Jessica Falls, and David and Stacey "Billie" Falls; grandchildren, Hannah, Lilly, Myles, Jessamyn, Ariana, Aydien, and Korben; sister, Shirley Painter (James); brother, Bruce Irvine, Jr.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial gathering will be held from 4-6pm Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Botetourt Funeral Home, Buchanan. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

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12/11/2025

David Calvano

David Jay Calvano, 67, passed away surrounded by love on December 10th, 2025. Born on December 6, 1958, in Orlando, Florida, David lived a life full of adventure, connection, and heart. Though he traveled the world and collected experiences from every corner of it, he always found his true home in Hollywood, Maryland.

David grew up as a waterman on the waters of the Patuxent River and the Gulf of Mexico, spending countless days alongside his brothers, sister, and lifelong friends. Those times on the water, filled with hard work, laughter, and camaraderie, shaped his character and instilled in him a deep appreciation for friendship, family, and the simple joys of life along the water, whether it's in Southern Maryland or Southwest Florida.

He spent many years traveling the world, working for the State Department, building connections, and experiencing cultures across the globe. The relationships he formed during these travels were treasured and enduring; he nurtured them throughout his life, keeping in touch and remaining a constant presence in the lives of the people he met abroad. Upon returning home, he dedicated his talents and expertise to Naval Air Systems Command and the Pentagon, leaving a lasting impact through his commitment and service.

He was a devoted and proud father to his children, Victoria Lynn Calvano, David Eric Calvano, his wife Samantha, as well as his loving stepson, Adam Patrick Duffy, who were the center of his world. His love for them was unwavering and unconditional and consistent through every season of life. Becoming a grandfather brought him even greater joy. He is survived by his beloved grandchildren: Oliver David Vrba, Ariana Maria Vrba, Bella Grace Moll, John Leone Calvano, and Jay-Thomas Carmine Calvano. To each of them, he offered the same boundless love, pride, and gentle encouragement. His face lit up at the mention of their names, and they were truly the light of his life.

He is further survived by his siblings: Stephen Mark Calvano and his wife Laura; Daryl Wayne Calvano and his wife Carol; and Karen Lynn Thompson and her husband Mendell. Also survived by his beloved aunt Marjorie Maddox-Horton. Family was the foundation of David's life, and he carried each of them close to his heart no matter what part of the world he was in. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Bruna, a loyal companion who brought him daily joy and comfort.

David will be remembered for the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him, with his friendship, his generosity, his compassion, and his unwavering support. He had a gift for making people feel seen and valued, for offering love without condition, and for bringing joy and laughter into every room he entered. His kindness, warmth, and genuine heart left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

He joins his mother, Anna Maddox-Calvano; his father, Ralph Calvano; and his beloved uncles, Sam Maddox, and John (Jack) Maddox, leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, and family that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He lived fully, loved deeply, and will be forever missed.

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