Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel

12/21/2025

12/20/2025

Christine Lillian Spencer Snead departed to her Heavenly home peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 while surrounded by her loving family. She was in the care of the Hospice House in Charlottesville, VA., following a brief stay at UVA Medical Center.
Christine (Chris) was born in Nelson County on February 17, 1930. She was the daughter of Hattie and Dora Spencer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers Harry, Frank and Larry, two sisters, Mary and Clara, and her beloved husband of 61 years, Ralph Snead. She is survived by the loves of her life: her son Donnie Snead (Margie), daughter Brenda Fleming (Ander), three grandsons: Chad Bradley, Michael Snead (Katie), and Daniel Snead (Sara), three great-grandsons: Zayden Bradley, Noah Snead and Kai Snead, and two great-granddaughters: Arin Snead and Peyton Bradley. Additionally, she is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Chris’ greatest joy in life was her family, for whom she created a warm, welcoming haven of love. Her home was always open to visits from family and friends. Chris made friends easily and then showered them with love as if they were family.
Chris enjoyed gardening, reading, shopping with her daughter, trips to the Outer Banks and, in her final years, watching reruns of the Waltons on TV.
Soon after the death of Ralph in 2011, Brenda and Ander graciously welcomed Chris into their home where she was lovingly cared for until the time of her death. The entire family wishes to acknowledge a debt of gratitude to them for their exceptional care and for their loving sacrifices.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Calvary Baptist Church in Lovingston, Virginia. The service will take place at 2:00 p.m. and the family will receive friends beginning one hour prior to the service. Pastor Tyler Lucas and Rev. John Campbell will lead the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Calvary Baptist Church Children’s Ministry.
Family and friends may sign her virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com
Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).

12/18/2025

Betty Lou Bryant, 66, of Shipman, VA passed away on December 17, 2025 at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital.
Betty Lou was born on December 6, 1959 to the late Harry Joe and Wartadford (Taddy Lou) Browning Bryant.
Betty Lou graduated from Nelson County High School and continued a career she dearly loved for 45 years as the library assistant and computer lab assistant and worked closely with her beloved friend, Tracey Clark. She was a member of Shipman Baptist Church.
She loved spending time with her beloved cousins, Hope Pappas and Donna Fitzgerald. She considered their children Tiffany Pannell and Cameron Fitzgerald as her own children, since she did not have children of her own.
She is survived by her cousins, Hope Pappas (Mike) and Donna Fitzgerald; their children, Tiffany Pannell (Gabe Davis) and her boys, Tyson and Zayn Stark; and Cameron Fitzgerald (Annah) and Cameron’s son Brayden Fitzgerald.
A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025 at Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel in Lovingston with Pastor John P. Campbell and Rev. Dr. Michael Fitzgerald officiating.
Interment will follow in the Craigtown Cemetery in Shipman.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Betty Lou’s memory to Shipman Baptist Church.
Family and friends may sign her virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com
Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).

12/17/2025

Virginia Bryant Newberry of Denton, MD passed away December 12, 2025 at The Residence at Eden Green with her loving daughter's by her side. She was 92.

Born on July 29, 1933 in Rockfish, VA, she was the daughter of the late Cleveland and Bertha Bryant.

Virginia married Arthur Raymond Newberry, Jr. on December 28, 1951 and were together 72 years until his passing in 2024.

Virginia loved to go fishing and camping at Lake Nelson, Virginia. She was an avid bowler and enjoyed putting together puzzles. Virginia was a remarkable seamstress and loved to sew quilts. With Virginia's love of the outdoors, she loved to plant flowers and vegetables every year. Her favorite shrub was the azalea bush. Virginia loved country music and reading books.

Virginia is survived by her children: Michael Newberry (Carla) of Winter Garden, Florida, Sandra Dehn (Jeff) of Millington, Maryland and Julie Harris (Steve) of Preston, Maryland; daughter-in-law Kim Newberry of Grand Junction, Colorado; her closest grandchildren: Joanne Newberry, John Bennett, Brian Laws, Brockman Harris, Annie Walls ; and several great-grandchildren including Madelyn Grace Laws.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers and sisters, her husband Arthur, and her son, David Newberry.

All services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Family and friends may sign her virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com

12/14/2025

Patricia Ann Pond, 77, better known as Trish, of Nellysford passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville.
She was born on December 27, 1947 in Plainfield, New Jersey, a daughter of the late Charles Schulek and Ann Runyon Schulek.
She was an avid master gardener with a special fondness for peonies. She also loved to work on dry-wall masonry projects. Her love for life was matched only by her love of cats and her passion for rescuing animals.
Trish, who had an Associate’s Degree from Southern Seminary, a Bachelor's Degree from Cornell University, and a Master’s Degree from The State University of New York, was employed by the Rockefeller Group as a Human Resource Executive.
After retiring in 1999, she and her husband, William moved from New York City to Virginia, where they worked side by side to build their mountaintop home in Nelson County. She could spend hours at her window, quietly admiring the breathtaking one-hundred-mile mountain view. They shared an unbelievable love during the years they were together in the home they had built as a couple.
Trish is survived by her husband, William A. Pond; her son, Benjamin Burkhart and his wife, Vivian, of California; her daughter, Rebecca Burkhart, of Maryland; two step-sons, Brian Pond and his fiancé, Tara Mulhal, of Massachusetts; and Jeffrey Pond and his wife, Nina, of New Jersey; and four grandchildren.
A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel in Lovingston with Pastor John Campbell officiating.
Interment will follow in the Jonesboro Cemetery in Roseland.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest that memorial contributions be made in Patricia’s memory to Almost Home Pet Adoption Center 29 Stagebridge Road, Lovingston VA 22949 or the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600 Doylestown, PA 18901.
Family and friends may sign her virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com
Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).

12/12/2025

Robert Fox, 77, of Faber passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at his residence.

He was born August 23, 1948 in Baltimore Maryland the son of the late Merral Albert Fox and Marian Marmer Fox.

Robert was an employee of Walmart in Charlottesville.

He is survived by his sister, Maxine Fox Lorence of Faber.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel in Lovingston with Pastor John Campbell officiating.

Family and friends may sign his virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).

Wells Sheffield Funeral Chapel provides complete funeral services in Lovingston, VA. Call us today for pre-planning or custom planning options

12/09/2025

Bobby Lee Williams age 82 of Shipman, VA passed away on December 6, 2025.

He was born on May 12, 1943 the son of the late Gilbert Williams and Bertie Louise Williams.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Walter Williams and James Williams, his sisters, Jane Fitzgerald and Joyce Ann Williams.

He was a life-long member of Bethel Church of the Brethren in Arrington, VA.

He is survived by his two daughters, Judith Williams and Wanda Quick; his grandsons, Jason Tinnell (Christy), Billy Lee Cash (Lauren), Justin Williams who he raised as his son (Candace), and Jesse Quick (Susan). His granddaughters, Christy Bowling (Randy) and Jessica Tinnell. Bobby Lee had 14 great grandchildren including a very special grandson who was his buddy, Adrian Sanchez; his brother, Bernard Williams (Evelyn) and one beloved faithful fur baby Popcorn.

In his younger years he was an avid softball player for Bethel Church of the Brethren, being one of the best short stop players ever.

He loved hunting and raising dogs.

He loved watching Justin race and riding to the racetrack with Brother Martin….his Bro. They visited many tracks following Justin's racing career. When he was no longer able to go, he always required a phone call afterwards so he knew where Justin finished.

Every afternoon he would go visit his brother Bernard and would say upon entering the door “well we made it another day”.

His favorite meal was a peanut butter sandwich and a homegrown tomato.

He cherished his family and always was there to support them.

He was loved by all. His smile and sense of humor was unmatched.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at Bethel Church of the Brethren in Arrington, VA with viewing of the body one hour prior to service with Pastor Dwayne Martin and Pastor Sam Light officiating.

Graveside service will follow in the church cemetery along with a fellowship meal in the church fellowship hall. All are invited to stay for the celebration of Bobby Lee Williams life.

Family and friends may sign his virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).

12/08/2025

Matthew Lindell White, Jr., 60 of Waynesboro, VA departed this life on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, VA.
He was preceded in death by his father, Matthew L. White, Sr.; his mother, the Reverend Mildred White; one brother, Robert Kennedy White; one son, Sean Jones.
He is survived by three sons; Brandon White, Matthew Jones, Tavis Harris; two daughters, Chelsea White and Cheyenne White. Four grandchildren, Amiya Johnson, Aubrey Banks, Tavis Harris, Jr., and Tavia Harris. He leaves to cherish his siblings, Michael White, Matrell Cordova, Macon Salisbury, special friend, Dana Brooks and a host of other relatives and friends.
A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at Mt. Eagle Baptist Church in Nellysford with Pastor Matthew Grooms officiating.
Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Family and friends may sign his virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com
Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434) 263-4097.

12/05/2025

Ruth Elizabeth “Simpson” White
Sunrise- March 22, 1933- Sunset- December 3, 2025

Ruth Elizabeth White was born in Huntington, NY on March 22, 1933, to the late James J. Simpson and Ruth A. Carll Simpson.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Robert E. White Sr., daughter, Rose Marie “Nelson” Pollard, son, William N. Howard III, grandson, Jamel “Dinkie” Pollard, granddaughter, Tamasia Pollard, brother, John “Jack” (Ella) Simpson, brother, James G. (Ellen E.) Simpson and her sister, Alice T. Simpson.

Ruth worked for UVA for 20 years where she retired, and she also worked for Nelson County School part-time. Ruth was a long-time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Ruth did volunteer work alongside her friends/church members on the Prison Ministry Team.

Ruth was like a magnet; she met no stranger, and people who met her loved her instantly. Ruth enjoyed sitting outside, going for rides (whether in the car or slingshot motorcycle), playing Bingo and Solitaire. She loved watching Western Shows, but her favorite was “Rifle Man”. Ruth will be truly missed.

Ruth leaves behind her grandchildren, Kenneth Howard, Schlena Pollard, Stanley Earle (Angela), Shatese Howard, Shawn Earle (Tanisha), and Tomeka (Vernon Holsey) as well as a host of Great-Grand, Great-Great-Grands, Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.

I would like to give Special Thanks to those who have helped take care of Ruth throughout the years. A Big Special Thanks to 1st Care at Home Hospice.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Lovingston with Father Rogelio Abadano officiating.

Interment will follow in St. George Catholic Cemetery in Scottsville.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Family and friends may sign her virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com

Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovington (434) 263-4097.

11/23/2025

Don’t forget to mark your calendars! Our Community Remembrance Event will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 6pm at the Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, 828 Front Street, Lovingston, VA 22949.
Our families, friends and community are encouraged to join as we commemorate and celebrate the lives of all we have recently lost.
We know how difficult the holidays can be after the loss of a loved one, and we sincerely hope that you can join us to celebrate their memory this holiday season.
If you plan to attend, we ask that you please call us at 434-263-4097 or register at www.WellsSheffield.com under the resources tab in the Community Events section.

11/23/2025

On November 21, 2025, high on a mountain surrounded by family and friends, Thelma Frances Simpson departed for her heavenly walk with Jesus Christ.

Frances was born in Smoot, West Virginia, on September 30, 1936 to the late Claude and Elanore DeCatur. She is also predeceased by her husband of over 70 years, Silas “Billy” Simpson, and by two children, Jerry Wayne Simpson, and Barbara Sue Snead.
Frances and Billy were married October 4, 1952. There are two surviving children, Russ (Karen) and Curtis (Darla), and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and one sister, Margaret Ann Cooper of Troy, Virginia.

Over the course of her life, she had many jobs. She was a devoted wife and mother, exuding strength in body and mind. Along with her husband and children, she owned and operated Billy’s Fruit Stand for over 35 years. Frances and Billy also started a property rental business which is still ongoing.

Frances and Billy loved their vacation home in Colonial Beach, VA, where they fished on their boat in the Potomac sound, while watching sunrises and sunsets. No day would be complete without taking Chico, then Katie on a golf cart ride along the shores of Colonial Beach.

Over the course of her lifetime, Frances was known as a matriarch of Nelson County, offering wisdom, kindness, and life advice to all who came. She was a loving soul to all who met her.

The family would like to offer a special thanks to Roy Boone for his kindness in being with the family in a time of need. We would also like to thank the many doctors and nurses at the University of Virginia’s hospital, who offered compassionate care. In addition, we would like to thank Dr. Joe Hall, and Dr. Craig Slingluff, for their unwavering assistance navigating the day-to-day care and advice.

Funeral services will be held at Ridgecrest Baptist Church on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 with family greeting at 12 PM, followed by service at 1 PM with Pastor Tyler Lucas officiating with interment, following at the gravesite in Ridgecrest Baptist Church Cemetery. Special music will be performed by Gracelyn Bride.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to IronDogScar a nonprofit for UVA Cancer research benefiting Dr. Craig Slingluff, P.O. Box 145 Lovingston, Virginia 22949, or online at IronDogScar.org.

Family and friends may sign the virtual guestbook at www.wellssheffield.com.

Arrangements by Wells Sheffield Funeral Chapel Lovingston, VA (434) 263-4097.

11/21/2025

David Lee Miller, 80, died peacefully on Friday, November 7, 2025, in his home.
He was born on October 17, 1945, a son of the late John H and Anna E Miller of Schuyler, VA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Mark A. Miller.
Surviving are his siblings: John and wife, Mary Lynn of Copley OH; Daniel and wife, Tricia of Waxhaw NC; Rhoda of Crozet VA; Martha and husband, Dale Swartzentruber of Dallas NC; Paul and wife, Kimberly of Linville VA and Timothy and wife, Lisa of Schuyler VA.
David loved music and played piano by ear. He provided a strong bass voice in his younger years while singing with his family. For years he was a regular at Saunders Brothers where people loved to hear him perform gospel music. In the last 10+ years, he played piano regularly at his church, Woodland Baptist Church, including weekly chapel for the children's school. Along the way, he earned the nickname “The Piano Man of Nelson County.”
David enjoyed feeding and watching the birds as well as chance meetings with other woodland animals. He was a part of his church men’s group, who were like brothers to him.
He retired from Nelson County Public Schools where he worked in maintenance.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Woodland Baptist Church, 4434 Thomas Nelson Hwy, Arrington VA, on December 13, 2025, at 11 AM, with lunch and visitation following the service. Inurnment will be private with family.
Family and friends may sign his virtual guestbook at www.WellsSheffield.com
Arrangements by Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston (434-263-4097).