J.F. Bell Funeral Home INC.

04/22/2026

In Loving Memory
Of

Jean Joel Patterson Hughes Fields
May 5, 1949 - April 14, 2026

After a life devoted to faith, family, and service to others, Mrs. Jean Joel Patterson Hughes Fields was peacefully called home by her Heavenly Father on April 14, 2026, at the University of Virginia Hospital, with her husband by her side. Her life was a shining example of love in action—steadfast, generous, and rooted deeply in faith.

Jean was the beloved wife of Mr. Lorenza Fields for 57 years; a devoted and nurturing mother to Donna Fields Scott and Joel “Shawnie Boo” Fields; and a proud and loving grandmother to Emmanuel “Honey Bear” Scott, Elishia “LeeLee” Scott, and D’Angelo “D” Gordon. She also leaves behind her treasured great-granddaughters, Ava Marie Herndon-Scott and Tahiri Randolph-Scott, who brought her immeasurable joy.

Born on May 5, 1949, at the University of Virginia Hospital, Jean, affectionately known as “Nuggie,” entered the world alongside her twin brother, James, bringing with them a beautiful harmony of life into the Hughes family. She was preceded in
death by her parents, James Russell Hughes, Sr. and Pauline Patterson Hughes, as well as her sister, Shirley Jordan.

In addition to her husband, two daughters, three grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters, Jean is survived by her eleven cherished siblings: James Hughes, Jr., Patricia Hughes, Clarence Hughes (Sabrina), Franklin Hughes (Veronica), Sarah Young (Jimmy), William Hughes (Ida), Betty Hawkins (Alfred), Rosetta Hughes, Annette Hughes (George), Harriet Forest (James), and Harry Hughes (Pam); two brothers-in-law Barry Fields and David Jordon; five sisters-in-law Shirlee Perlow (Lenny, deceased), Gloria Fields, Judy Clark (Melvin, deceased), Leslie Fields (Henry, deceased), and Kathleen Fields (David, deceased). She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will continue to carry her memory in their hearts.

Jean’s upbringing was shaped by the strong and loving influences of her parents and her grandmother, Sarah
Patterson, lovingly known as “Gamella.” From her father, she learned the value of hard work driven by love. From her mother, she received a legacy of kindness and compassion. And from her grandmother, she was grounded in faith—accepting Christ at a young age after being baptized in the Milton River, a moment that guided her life ever after.

She will lie in repose on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. and on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at J. F. Bell Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Union Run Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be extended to the family via the Tribute Wall or signing the guestbook at www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

04/20/2026

In Loving Memory
Of

Gloria Antoinette “Dodie” Smith Maupin
November 14, 1961 - April 8, 2026

Gloria Antoinette “Dodie” Smith Maupin, of Charlottesville, Virginia, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the University of Virginia Medical Center, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She was born in Charlottesville, Virginia, on November 14, 1961, to the late Ralph Frazier Smith Sr. and Shirley Ann Monroe Smith.

Dodie grew up in Charlottesville and attended Charlottesville City Schools. In 1978, she began her career at the University of Virginia Hospital, where she worked in Primary Care for 20 years before transferring to the Cancer Center, where she dedicated an additional 25 years. She retired in 2021 after 45 years of faithful service, serving as a Senior Scheduler.

Dodie loved life and the people around her. She enjoyed traveling, dancing, singing, cooking, and baking. She especially loved attending dance competitions and could often be found sitting front row, cheering on her granddaughters. She was a member of the social club Ladies of the 80’s. Dodie enjoyed spending time with family and friends and especially loved visiting her brothers in Texas. Above all, she cherished her family and had a special place in her heart for all seven of her granddaughters and her only great grandson.

At an early age, Dodie was baptized at Ebenezer Baptist Church. She sang in the youth choir and later served faithfully on the Love, Praise, and Worship Rehabilitation/ Nursing Home Ministry where she served as co-chair.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Mr. Avery Gary Sr.; her sister, Valerie Dudley, two nieces Michelle Dudley and Jaquline Smith.

She leaves to cherish her memory three daughters: Candice Maupin (Steve), Courtney Maupin (David), and Carmen Gray; and one son, Calvin Maupin, all of Charlottesville, Virginia. She also leaves seven granddaughters: Jacobie Maupin (Corey), Janasia Maupin (Jordan), Jakia Maupin of Richmond, Virginia, Kaleigha Scott, Selena Williams, Calie Maupin, and Calise Johnson, all of Charlottesville, Virginia; and one great-grandson, Bryson Johnson. Dodie is also survived by her brothers: Jerome “Mike” Parson of Charlottesville, Virginia; Ralph “Boomer” and wife Anita Smith of Killeen TX; and Earl Smith of Harker Heights, Texas; one aunt, Doris Johnson of Denver, Colorado; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends; as well as several devoted friends, Carrie Woodson, Barbra Breckenridge, Cheryl Davis, and Doris “Gummy” Barbour. One special cousin Rochelle Nightengale. She also held a special place in her heart for her ex-husband, Calvin “Squirt” Maupin.

Viewing will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at J. F. Bell Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Ebenezer Baptist Church,113 6th St. NW, Charlottesville. Interment will follow at Lincoln Cemetery, 2820 Hydraulic Road, Charlottesville. She will lie in repose at the church from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be extended to the family on the Tribute Wall or by signing the guestbook via: www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

04/16/2026

In Loving Memory
Of
Nora Ellen Young
April 3, 1938 – April 12, 2026

Nora Ellen Young was born on April 3, 1938, to the late Emma Viola Jackson and Robert Jackson. She peacefully departed this life on April 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion to family.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leo F. Young Jr.; her daughter, Monica Jackson Johnson; and her siblings, Margaret C. Brown, Nelson L. Jackson and George Vest.

Nora leaves to cherish her memory her loving and devoted daughter and caregiver, Tanja Carter (Kendall) of Keswick, Virginia; a special daughter Dorothy Carter(Kevin), Allison Park PA., a devoted grandson, Orlando M. Jackson, Sr. (Glennis) of Richmond, Virginia; four great-grandchildren, Ciara, Orlando Jr., Kaiden, and Kayla; and two great-great-grandchildren, Cameron and Skylar. A sister Deborah Payne of Palmyra Va. A sister-in-law Thelma Jackson, Palmyra Va. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Nora dedicated over thirty years of service to the University of Virginia, where she worked faithfully in the Emergency Room before retiring. Her commitment to caring for others extended beyond her profession and into every aspect of her life.

She was a woman of deep faith who loved God first and her family second. She found joy in simple pleasures, especially playing Bid Whist, and treasured the time spent with those she loved.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregivers—Evelyn Mason, Sarah Mines, and Shurika Brown—whose compassion and dedication made it possible for Nora to remain in the comfort of her home. Special thanks are also extended to the University of Virginia at Home staff for their support and care.

She also leaves to cherish her memory her devoted friends, Becky Daniel, Ellen Desmond, Freda Feggans, Mary Greene, Elaine Green, and Barbara Hogan, whose love and friendship meant so much throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Arthritis Foundation in Nora’s honor.

Nora Ellen Young will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and unwavering love. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Services will be held at Evergreen Baptist Church in Palmyra, VA, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Viewing will take place at J.F. Bell Funeral Home Chapel ONLY on Friday from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.; there will be no viewing at the church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be extended to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

04/08/2026

In Loving Memory
Of
Gilmore Richard Underwood Jr.
September 20, 1950 - February 21, 2026

Gilmore Richard Underwood Jr., known affectionately as Richard was a man whose heart and spirit touched everyone he met. Born on September 20, 1950, in Charlotteville, Virginia, he was son of Gilmore Richard Underwood Sr. and Thelma Watson Underwood. Richard grew up surrounded by family and instilled with values of love, loyalty, and kindness that shaped his life.

A proud graduate of Burley High School, Richard answered the call to serve his country, becoming a veteran of the United States Army. His time in the service reflected the courage, discipline, and steadfast character that would define him throughout his life. Following his military service, he dedicated many years to his work at Sperry Corporation, where his diligence, integrity, and commitment earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Richard's life was marked by his deep devotion to family. He is survived by his nieces Deborah Underwood-Eddins, Diane Underwood, and Donna Underwood; nephews Kerry Maurice Underwood (Kim) and Paul Herny Underwood; first cousins Dorita Merill; Eleanor Brown; Ann Carter; and Faustina Wilson; and numerous great and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Thelma Rushalean Underwood; his devoted second mother, Sarah "Muffy" Johnson-Hawkins; his niece Denise Underwood; a cousin Courtney Goodlowe; and his grandparents Louise Gilmore Watson and Howard Hunter Watson.

Those who knew Richard remember his warmth, generosity, and the joy he brought into every room. He had a special way of making people feel seen, whether through shared laughter, quiet conversations, or simple acts of kindness. He cherished his friends at the Downtown Post Office and City Hall and the countless kind people he met along the way, especially his kind friend Hope Banks, leaving lasting impressions that will not be forgotten.

Richard loved life's simple pleasures and took joy in the company of those around him. He carried a quiet strength and a gentle humor that brightened the lives of family, friends, and colleagues. He lived with integrity, gave generously, and approached every day with kindness.

A memorial service celebrating Richard's life will be held on April 10th, at 1:00 p.m., at Culpeper National Cemetery, 501 East Chandler Street, Culpeper, Va.

Richard's legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

03/27/2026

In Loving Memory
Of
Elmer Richard Lee
April 27, 1955 - March 23,2026

Elmer Richard Lee was born April 27, 1955, to the last Theoprous and Lucille Lee. On the morning of March 23, 2026, God looked down from Heaven and decided that Elmer had suffered long enough, God called Elmer to his side to suffer no more.

Elmer attended Albemarle County Schools and worked at Floor Fashions for a long time. His favorite football team was the Steelers and he loved playing pool. Elmer accepted Christ at an early age and baptized at New Hope Baptist Church.

Sisters Brenda and Lavern, Brother Richard Agee, Gerald, Thomas, Michael, and David Lee also preceded Elmer in death.

Elmer leaves to cherish two daughters, Yulonda Chambers and Kendal Barnett; eight grandkids; four sisters, Lois Lee of Philadelphia, PA, Janelle Lee and Rita Lee of Charlottesville, VA and Lisa Lee-Pilgram of Richmond, VA; one Uncle Morell Brown; one Aunt Annie Brown; and lots of other family members and friends that he talked about every day. Gary Yates and Bobbie Greenwalt were his best friends, and they went over and beyond for our brother Elmer. During his last days he was in the comfort of his daughter Kendal and his two nieces Ebony and Whitney Lee.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at J.F. Bell Funeral Home Chapel.
A repast will follow at 2911 Idlewood Drive.

We would like to thank everyone for their expressions of sympathy and condolences during Elmer’s passing.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home. Condolences may be extended to the family via

At J.F. Bell Funeral Home, we honor cherished memories with compassionate care. Discover heartfelt tributes that celebrate lives and legacies.

03/20/2026

In Loving Memory
of
Leroy “Sadie” Washington Jr.
December 18, 1960 – March 9, 2026

Sadie Washington, 65, of Charlottesville, Virginia, was born December 18, 1960 and passed away March 9, 2026, surrounded by family.

He was born in Charlottesville, Virginia to Leroy Washington Sr. and Mildred White Washington. Sadie was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.

Sadie was a ball of energy who enjoyed dancing, practicing yoga, and exploring spirituality through reading. As a devoted yogi, he took pride in his physique and in his ability to bend his body in ways most people could not. While he spent much of his life as a vegetarian, those close to him knew he had recently developed a love for a good burger.

Sadie felt most at home with his family. He spent a great deal of time with his aunts, cousins, and extended family, building memories and strengthening bonds that meant the world to him. He was always willing to ride and help whenever he was needed, showing up for others with generosity and love. To know Sadie was truly to love him.

Sadie was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy Washington Sr. and Mildred Washington, and his siblings Malcolm Washington, Jennifer Washington, and Valerie Washington.

He is survived by his brother, Gregory Washington of Charlottesville, Virginia, and his sister, Tiffinnie Phelps (Stanley) of Rockingham, Virginia. He also leaves behind a host of loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish his memory.

A celebration of life will be held at the Phoenix Event Center, 705 Dale Ave Suite F, Charlottesville, Virginia, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM on March 27, 2026.

Arrangements by J.F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

03/19/2026

In Loving Memory
of

Linda Diane Carey
August 28, 1956 – March 6, 2026

Linda Diane Carey departed this life on Friday, March 6, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia. She was born August 28, 1956, daughter of the late John E. Turner and Gracie Lee Gregory.

Linda was a woman of faith and dedicated to her family, friends, and church. Baptized at an early age as a member of Union Baptist Church in Scottsville, Virginia. She was later rededicated at Emmanuel Christian Center in Ruckersville, Virginia where she served as a deaconess for over 20 years.

Linda worked hard in various professions before settling in her career as a postal worker where she later retired. She was a devoted wife and mother. She had a natural, nurturing spirit, “Ms. Linda” she loved to be called never met a stranger. She opened her home and heart to all who were in need; her kindness knew no bounds. She was an amazing cook best known for her fried chicken. “Best fried chicken on this side of Mississippi.” As her husband would say. She loved to have a good time with lots of laughs, followed by great music, and even greater food.

In addition to her to her parents she was preceded in death by three brothers, George “Popeye” Turner, Gordan “Gigi” Turner, John “Bug” Turner, and one sister Barbara “Bonkey” Brown.

Linda is survived by her husband Thomas Carey Sr. Together they shared six children Yoshea M. Hill, Jessica M. Johnson, Quan Hill, Thomas E. Carey Jr., Aqiyla Spruill (Gregory Spruill), and the baby Sakiyna Z. Carey. Seven grandchildren Aneyssa Harris, Trenidi Johnson, Dalum Johnson, Dominica Carey, Janiya Johnson, Madeline Carey, August E. Spruill, and one great-grandchild Indigo Harris. One brother James W. Turner of Charlottesville VA, Four sisters Martha Jones of Keene, VA, Naasira El Abdullah Carter of Gordonsville, VA, Shirley Marie Bama of Baltimore MD, and Virginia (Richard) Geter of Charlottesville, VA. Two sisters in laws Sarah (Robert) Anthony of Orange, VA, and Marion Carey of Orange, VA.; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Emanuel Christian Center, 111 New Life Drive, Ruckersville, VA, with Bishop Michael V. Jackson, Sr. officiating. Interment will follow in Chestnut Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, 3510 Spotswood Trail, Barboursville, VA.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

03/17/2026

In Loving Memory
Of
Mary Etta Brown
April 2, 1967 - March 4, 2026

Mary Etta Brown, 58, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at UVA ICU surrounded by her siblings. She was born in Waynesboro, VA, but made Charlottesville, VA her home at age 13 and made many friends there. Mary Etta was a vibrate and happy person and lived life to its fullest.

She was preceded in death by parents, David L. Brown and Betty J. Richardson; a brother, James E. Blair; 3 aunts, Mary Daniels, Florence Miller, and Brenda Tutt; 4 uncles, Gordon Henderson, sr., John M. Blair, Jerry Payne, Frank Daniels; 3 cousins, Mary Henderson, Courtney Blair, and Frankie Daniels; grandparents, Percy Blair, Mary Blair, and Charles Graves, Sr.

She was survived by 3 sisters, Jeanette B. Johnson (Gregory), Darlene B. Durrette, and Ramonda M. Brown; 2 brothers, David L. Blair, Sr., (Mary Ann), Jamie E. Brown (Amy); sister-in-law, Angela C. Blair; 5 aunts, Charlene Blair, Ann Smith (Bernard), Hilda Henderson, Cleo Johnson, Helen Hutchinson (Frank); 4 uncles, Charles Blair (Henrietta), Mike Blair (Shelly), Johnny Graves (Florence), Charles Graves, Jr., Bay Graves; a grandmother, Alice Graves; many nieces and nephews, cousins, great nieces and nephews, a special friends, George Gett and close friend Larmar Williams.

Her life will be celebrated in two memorial services.

The first memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, at J. F. Bell Funeral Home Chapel, 108 6th St. NW, Charlottesville, VA.

A second memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at St. James Baptist Church, 1094 Albemarle Ave., Waynesboro, VA.

The family would like to thank everyone for their sincerity, support and kindness in this time of our bereavement. Special thanks to J. F. Bell Funeral Home, Charlottesville, VA for their services.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

03/10/2026

In Loving Memory
of



Willa Brown Thomas
September 12, 1951 - February 27, 2026

Willa Brown Thomas was born on September 12, 1951, to the union of the late Edward C. Brown and Barbara Saunders Brown in Charlottesville, Virginia. At an early age Willa gave her life to Christ and looked forward to attending Sunday school with her siblings. Her faith was an integral part of her daily walk with Christ because she was a devout believer.

Willa received her formal education in Charlottesville public schools. She then attended Old Dominion University where she obtained a degree in Dental Hygiene. Willa moved to Milwaukee not long after completing her secondary education and was employed at the Indian Health Center where she was devoted to the Native American Community. She then moved on to work at Milwaukee Area Technical College as an instructor for both Dental Hygiene and Anatomy and Physiology until she retired. Education was truly her passion as she understood the importance of having a sound career and steering young adults on the path to success. It was something that she would later instill in her son, Ricardo, who had obtained his bachelor’s degree, Master’s, and his Ph.D.

Willa enjoyed spending time with her granddaughter Kathryn, who was no doubt the love of her life. If you knew Willa, you knew Kathryn. She was so proud of her and her many accomplishments. If you ever had a conversation with Willa, she would surely share Kathryn’s latest achievement with you. She would light up and smile at just the mention of Kathryn’s name. She was affectionately known to Kathryn as “Nana”. Willa also enjoyed tennis, another love of hers that she shared with her sister Edwina, as well as others. She would stay on the phone at times for hours just watching matches together.

Family was very important to her, she loved her brothers and sisters to life as well as her nieces and nephews. She had a special relationship with each one of them. She always talked about her family because it gave her so much joy.

She was preceded in death by her sisters; Jacqueline (Jackie) Saunders, Faustina (Tina) Brown, her brothers; Bernard (Billy) Brown and Thomas (Tommy) Brown.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Dr. Ricardo Thomas of Beaumont, TX, Granddaughter Kathryn Christina Thomas of Houston Texas; sisters, Edwina (We**ie) Wright (Gaithersburg, MD), Sandra (Sandy) Brown Clay (Silver Spring, MD), Joyce Brown-Jeffreys (Charlottesville, VA), her brothers; Reverend Chauncey E. Brown, (Gale Brown, Charlottesville, VA), Lorenzo (Renny) Brown, (Charlottesville, VA). One uncle; Howard O’neal Brown (North Carolina). A host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at J. F. Bell Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Zion Union Baptist Church, 1015 Preston Ave. Charlottesville. She will lie in repose at the church one hour prior to the services. Interment will follow in Riverview Cemetery.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com

03/07/2026

In Loving Memory
Of
Joseph Augustes Turner, Jr.
August 14, 1948 - March 3, 2026

Joseph Augustes Turner, Jr. passed away peacefully, on March 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, learning, and love for family. He was born on August 14, 1948, in Charlottesville, Virginia, at the University of Virginia Hospital to Joseph Augustus Turner, Sr. and Louella Whiting Turner.

Joseph (Jose) was the eldest of five siblings and grew up surrounded by family alongside his brother Jonathan and sisters Gwendolyn, Corlis, and Julia. From a young age, he was known for his intelligence, curiosity, and love of learning—qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

Shortly after graduating from high school, Joseph was drafted into military service. Following his service, he returned to his studies, earning an undergraduate degree from Virginia Union University and a master’s degree in counseling from Liberty University. Counseling became both his profession and his passion. Joseph had a gift for truly seeing and listening to others, offering wisdom, compassion, and guidance to those around him.

A lifelong learner and advocate for education, Joseph volunteered with the Boys & Girls Club to help improve literacy among youth. He also embraced a lifestyle centered on health and wellness, enjoying marathon running and holistic fitness. In his later years, he continued his commitment to serving others as an elder in his community and a volunteer at a local food pantry.

Joseph shared 53 years of marriage with the love of his life, Teresa LaVerne Randolph. Their relationship began with a blossoming romance, growing into a devoted partnership that supported and inspired one another throughout their lives. Teresa preceded him in death on February 16, 2024.

Together they were blessed with two children, Jewel Alexis Turner Walwyn and Joseph Augustes Turner III, who preceded him in death.

Joseph also found immense joy in his role as a grandfather to his beloved granddaughters, Addison and Laila. He cherished traveling and exploring the world with them, creating treasured memories through adventures that took them around the globe.

Joseph will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his commitment to helping others, and the deep love he had for his family.

He leaves behind his daughter, Jewel Turner Walwyn (Kenric); granddaughters, Addison and Laila; siblings, Jonathan Turner, Gwendolyn Turner Parker (Roger), Corlis Anderson, and Julia Andrews (Reggie); nephews Robert Johnson, Michael Anderson (Jen), and Stephen Johnson (Kyle); aunt, Katherine Mae Barbour Whiting; and many extended family members and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

A Memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Zion Union Baptist Church, 1015 Preston Ave. Charlottesville.

Interment will be private.

Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc., condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com.

03/03/2026

In Loving Memory
of

Thelma Redella (Fleming) West
March 16, 1928 - February 20, 2026

Thelma West was born on March 16, 1928, in Rose Hill, Virginia, to Mazzie Martin (Fleming) and George Fleming. She was the youngest daughter of seven children and grew up grounded in family, friends, and community, values she carried with her throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, all of her siblings, her beloved husband, Gordon West, and her son, Randolph Catlett.

Thelma was a devoted wife, mother, and matriarch. The heart of her family. She was the proud mother of three children: Geneva (West) Segar, Randolph Catlett, and Page West Hill. She leaves behind a legacy that spans generations, including nine grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She was the longest-living aunt to her nieces and nephews and great cousins, a cherished position she embraced with so much love and wisdom. In addition, she was a devoted Godmother to Elsie and Mary Frances, holding that role close to her heart.

A devoted member of Union Run Baptist Church for many years, Thelma served her church community as a Deaconess, a member of the Pastor’s Aid Committee, and in the Senior Choir.

For her entire working life, Thelma worked as a domestic worker, a role she carried with dignity, strength, and pride. Alongside her husband Gordon, she worked for many years at Keswick Country Club, a place she recalled as one of her fondest memories—not only for the work her and Gordon shared, but for the many friendships that were formed during that time

Thelma was loved beyond measure. She was a surrogate aunt, grandmother, and guiding presence to countless people who found comfort, care, and belonging in her presence. Her home and heart were always open, and her love extended far beyond bloodlines.

Her passing leaves a profound void in the lives of all who knew her. The impact of her life, her love, and her quiet strength will be felt for generations to come. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit, lessons, and legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.

The Family will receive friends on Thursday, March 5th, from 6:00 -7:00 p.m. at J. F. Bell Funeral Home, 108 6th St. NW, Charlottesville, VA.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm at The Phoenix, 705 Dale Ave. Suite F, Charlottesville, VA.
Arrangements by J. F. Bell Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be expressed to the family via www.jfbellfuneralservices.com