Steven Richard Humphries, age 67, of Covington, died May 31, 2026, at his residence. He was born August 24, 1958, and was preceded in death by his parents, the late Estus Cleveland Humphries, Jr. and Sylvia Jean Olley Newsome; a sister, Carol Farley. Steven was employed for many years at Norfolk Southern Railway Company as a Machinist. He was an avid sports fan who especially loved golf, University of Virginia athletics, and his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. Steven leaves to mourn his loss a son, Zach Humphries, and wife Elaina of Covington; a sister, Tracy Williams and husband, Glen of Jackson, New Jersey; two nephews, Christopher Newsome of Jackson, New Jersey, Ryan Farley and wife, Felicity of Crestview, Florida; a great-niece, Florence Farley; Kathy Humphries of Covington; a beloved grand dog, Baron; and numerous extended family members and friends. In keeping with Steven’s wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 2:00PM in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with Rev. Doug Hollenbeck officiating, assisted by Minister Kent Blevins. Interment will be made in Cedar Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends on June 6, 2026 at Arritt Funeral Home from 1:00 PM until service time. Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling arrangements for Mr. Humphries. The family suggest that memorial contributions be made to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426 instead of flowers. Condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Cynthia Kathryn Sawyer, 64, of Clifton Forge, died Monday, May 25, 2026 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke. She was born January 20, 1962 in Detroit, Michigan, a daughter of the late Thomas Sawyer, Sr. and Mary Kathryn Deering Sawyer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Sawyer, Jr. She worked for many years as an LPN, specializing in geriatric care and bringing comfort and kindness to her patients. In her personal time, she found joy in simple pleasures — caring for animals, coloring, making soap and candles, and playing Farmville. Above all, she cherished spending time with her grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her “Ladybug” and “Frog.” Survivors include her daughter, Lucinda Sawyer (Michael Riddle); grandchildren, Aeryn and Jacob; her sister, Elizabeth Sawyer, all of Clifton Forge; one brother, Kevin Sawyer of Rocky Mount; several nieces and nephews; and several more “adopted” sons and daughters. In keeping with her wishes, her body has been cremated. A private memorial service is planned for a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Friends wishing to send online condolences may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Jean Reid Broughman, formerly of Clifton Forge, transitioned peacefully to heaven on May 22, 2026, at Bridgewater Retirement Home in Bridgewater, Virginia. Jean was born in Covington, Virginia, in 1933 to Lovie and Lawrence Reid, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husbands, Philip Riley, Claude Wolfe, and Hansford “Tater” Broughman; her daughter-in-law, Libby Riley; and her grandson, Lucas Riley. In 2012, Jean moved to Harrisonburg, Virginia, to live with her daughter and remained close to the family she cherished so deeply. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Linda (Carl) Roy of Harrisonburg, Paul “Buzzy” Riley of Covington, and Charles Wolfe of Avignon, France, as well as her devoted stepdaughter, Robin Hall of Covington. Jean was a proud grandmother to Erin Augustine (Matthew) of Bedford, Celia Meade (Bryan Lewis) of Fincastle, Kylene (David) Smith of Salem, and Katie Long (Cody) of Longdale. She was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Annabelle Byrd, Tyler Meade, Reagan Meade, Callie Byrd, Brielle Smith, Kenzie Cline, and Cohen Long. Jean’s faith was the foundation of her life. She loved the Lord deeply and was a devoted member of Granbery United Methodist Church, Walton Memorial Methodist Church, and Epworth Methodist Church. During her time at Epworth, she faithfully served as church treasurer and found great joy in teaching and caring for young children. Jean will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, steadfast faith, and deep love for her family, friends, and caretakers at Bridgewater Retirement Home. Her gentle spirit touched many lives and will be dearly missed. In keeping with Jean’s wishes, her body has been cremated. A graveside memorial service will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Cedar Hill Cemetery with Pastor Robin Hall officiating. Family and friends are invited to a visitation at Arritt Funeral Home on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling arrangements for Ms. Broughman. Friends wishing to send online tributes may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Jackson Leigh Bennett, 18, passed away on May 21,2026, at Lewis Gale Alleghany Regional Hospital, leaving behind a heartbroken family and countless people who loved them deeply. Though their life was far too short, the love, laughter, and light they brought into this world will never be forgotten. Jackson had a beautiful spirit and was known for their kindness, smile, humor, strength, creativity, compassion. They touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know them. Jackson was preceded in death by late grandmothers, Leigh Bennett and Tammy Bennett. Jackson grew up in Fredericksburg, VA and Jackson graduated from Allegany High School in 2026; loving art, music, gaming, spending time with family and friends. They dreamed big, loved deeply, and had a way of making others feel special simply by being themselves. Their presence brought comfort, joy, and unforgettable memories that will forever be treasured. They are survived by their loving family, including Parents: Tara Bennett (David Burhenn) of Covington and Michael Bennett (Alexis Sawyer) of Fredericksburg, VA, Siblings: Elizabeth Richardson, Danni Bennett; a stepbrother, Daniel Frye; Step brother Remington Burhen: Maternal Grandparents: Boyd Richardson and Debra Richardson; Paternal Grandparents, Daniel Bennett, MM Uncles: Joshua Richardson and Frankie Richardson; along with many friends and relatives who will carry their memory in their hearts forever. Keeping with Jackson’s wishing, the body has been cremated. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Arritt Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, Virginia 24426. Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Mary Sue Huffman Fox, 85, of Covington, died Monday, May 19, 2026 at her residence. Mary Sue was born April 12, 1941, in Ronceverte, WV to the late Rachel Huffman. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Joe Fox; a daughter, Debbie Bartley; and two sisters. Survivors include her daughter, Diane Austin of Covington; two granddaughters, Kayla Maynard and Jessica Perdue; one grandson, Justin (Maggie) Perdue; four great-grandchildren; one brother; and two sisters. In keeping with her wishes, her body has been cremated. A memorial service is planned for a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Barbara Sue Miller Smith, 78, of Fincastle, Virginia, died Tuesday morning, May 12, 2026, at Berkshire Health & Rehabilitation Center in Vinton. She was born June 21, 1947, in Beckley, WV, the daughter of the late Leiton E. Miller II and Geraldine Smith. She attended CommUnity Church in Buchanan. Survivors include a daughter, Jill Brucene Smith of Roanoke, VA; three sisters, Cynthia Pauley of Moundsville, WV, Roberta Offenbacker of Chillicothe, OH, and Jannelle Miller of Beckley, WV; and two brothers, Leiton E. Miller III of Charleston, WV, and Dennis L. Miller of Beckley, WV. A graveside service will be held on May 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Alleghany Memorial Park with Rev. Bill Gilliland officiating, The family will receive friends before the service from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Arritt’s Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Alleghany Memorial Park. Arritt Funeral home is in charge of arrangements. The family will receive friends before the service from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Arritt’s Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Johnny Allen Rogers, age 61, of Low Moor, passed away, Sunday, May 3, 2026 at the Lewis Gale Alleghany Hospital in Low Moor. He was born June 3, 1964 in Alleghany County; and is survived by his wife Valerie Rogers of Low Moor; his children Wesley Rogers and wife Ashley of Michigan, Miranda Malcom Shannon of Covington, Savannah Malcom and fiancé Phillip McCoy of Low Moor; Hanna Malcom and Christopher Rogers of Low Moor; along with his nine grandchildren, Jonathan Rogers, Jace Rogers, Jonah Rogers, Cason Shannon, Esme Shannon, Sebastian Shannon, Emmani Shannon, Ca’hiem McCoy. Also left to mourn his loss are his siblings, Gary Rogers and wife Tammy of Clifton Forge, Marsha Rogers and fiancé Ralph Loan of Low Moor, Rocky Rogers of Richmond, Christy Huggins of South Carolina; many nieces and nephews; a close friend Matt Depriest. Johnny was reunited in death by his parents, the late Bertha Bassett Rogers and Curts Rogers; his brother David Rogers; two sisters, Laura Rogers Carico (Sugar), Scarlett Rogers (Angie); numerous other family members; his best friends, Charles Moore (Sweet Pea) and Thomas Williams (Tommy). He enjoyed the outdoors and especially fishing. He will be remembered for the love he shared with his family and friends. His memory will be etched in the hearts of all who knew him forever. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Arritt Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Gene Ayers officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling his arrangements. Friends wishing to send tributes to the family may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Carl Payton Keyser, Jr., 33, of Clifton Forge died Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Chippenham Hospital in Richmond. He was born September 6, 1992 in Alleghany County, a son of Carl P. Keyser, Sr. and Stacey Doyle Nuckles. Carl loved the outdoors and all things sports. He was an avid Houston Rockets fan. He was a former employee of Hammond-Mitchell in Covington. Survivors include his mother, Stacey Doyle Nuckles of Clifton Forge; his father, Carl P. (Crissy) Keyser, Sr. of Staunton; one daughter, Adeline Keyser; a son, Robert Keyser; his siblings, Corey (Angie) Doyle Kayla (Ian Santiago) Keyser, Alex (Dakota Ayers) Keyser, and Cody Nuckles, grandmother Viginia Doyle, all of Covington; Steven Redmon and Sam Redmon, who were raised as brothers; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins including Tracey Doyle and Matthew Lindsay, both of Covington; and the mother of his children, Sarah Arrington of Hot Springs. In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A private memorial service is being planned for a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Friends wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Curtis Brown Bowles, Sr., age 74, of Covington, died Friday, April 24, 2026, at his residence. He was born June 8, 1951, in Alleghany County, to his mother and father, the late Noah Brown Bowles, Sr. and Evelyn Ward Bowles. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Noah Brown Bowles, Jr.; one sister, Shirley Law; and one nephew, Richard Law. Curtis had a real passion for Ford Mustangs and loved working on cars. He was happiest outdoors and truly enjoyed the simple things in life. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He also had a wide circle of friends who shared his love of cars, and many happy hours were spent together in the garage working on projects and swapping stories. Surviving to mourn his loss are three children, Jenny (Greg) Taylor, Curtis Bowles, Jr., Shelly Fridley all of Covington; ten grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; a lifelong companion, Sharon Kirk; his very good friend, Billy Craft; numerous nieces and nephews and many other family members. A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026 at 2:00PM in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with Rev. Bill Gillilland officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 6-7PM at Arritt Funeral Home. Interment will be on Friday following the funeral at the Lonestar Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Tyler Canterbury, Austin Parr, Dakota Parr, Conner Parr, Billy Craft, Lonnie Givens, Tyler Griffith, Jamie Griffith. Arritt Funeral Home has been entrusted with Mr. Bowles arrangements. Friends wishing to send tributes online to the family may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Bobby Joe Gill, 65, of Covington, died Friday, April 17, 2026 at his residence. He was born April 8, 1961 in White Sulphur Springs, WV, a son of the late Julian Gill and Hilda Grace Bates. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Kim Gill; two brother Jamie Gill, Billy Gill his twin and a grandson, Zane Hassell. Bobby worked for many years as a painting contractor throughout the state. He was an avid NASCAR and Washington Commanders fan. Survivors include four daughters, Kayla Gill of Hopewell, Nicole (Robert) Hassell-Lane of Kill Devil Hills, NC, Patricia Gill of Laplata, MD, and Lydia (Devin) Ward of Georgia; grandchildren, Cannon, Grace, Abigail, Wilder, and Colton; two brothers, Keith Byer and Arlan Bates, Jr, both of Covington; and several nieces and nephews. In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A private service will be held at a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Friends wishing to send condolences may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Samantha Kay Stanley, age 49, of Covington, died Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at her residence. She was born November 10, 1976, in South Carolina, a daughter of the late Marilyn Sue Coleman Howarth (Alan Howarth) and Richard Carlyle Strickland (Gail Morrison) of Goldsboro, North Carolina. Samantha was feisty, but once you got to know her, she revealed a deeply soft-hearted and caring nature. She loved her daughter and her entire family fiercely. Though she could be guarded at first, those closest to her knew the strength of her devotion. Caring for her nieces and nephews was one of the greatest joys of her life. In addition to her father, survivors include her daughter, Sarah Michelle Stanley; a sister, Christine (Ricky) Thompson of Covington; a brother, James Alan Howarth of Longs, South Carolina; one step-sister, Melanie Matthews; a step-brother, Matt Matthews; several nieces, nephews, and cousins including Luca, Chandler, Jaxton, Jaycen, Joseph, Timothy and Cody. In keeping with her wishes her body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends wishing to send tributes may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Tammie Simmons Hubbard, 59, of Covington, died Monday, April 13, 2026 at LewisGale Medical Center in Salem. She was born October 17, 1966 in Alleghany County, a daughter of William “Sonny” Simmons of Covington and the late Nancy Scott Simmons. Tammie cherished spending time with family and friends, taking leisurely car rides, and listening to her favorite music. In addition to her father, she is survived by a daughter, Jessica Hubbard; one granddaughter, Alexus Williams; a great-granddaughter, Charlotte Williams; one brother, Dale Simmons, all of Covington; and several nieces. In accordance with her wishes, her body has been cremated. A private memorial service is being planned for a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Ralph Lewis Anderson, affectionally known as “Pie”, passed away April 11, 2026 at LewisGale Alleghany Hospital in Low Moor. He was born November 9, 1939, in Oriskany, Virginia, a son of the late Max and Ruth Bowers Anderson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Arlene (Sam) Anderson, Charles (Carol) Anderson, Boyd (Carol) Anderson, Lenwood (Judy) Anderson, and Mont Ray (Jewel) Anderson. Pie loved collecting coins, stamps, and model cars. He enjoyed researching genealogy and had a particular fondness for radishes and fried taters. For many years, he worked as a newspaper printer, skillfully setting type in the classic Standard and Pronto styles that were once staples of the industry. He served his country in the U.S. Army. Survivors include several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great nephews, along with dear family friend, Harold Clark. In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 18, 2026 in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with the Rev. Bill Gilliland officiating. The family will receive their friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be made in Cedar Hill Cemetery. Arritt Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. The family would like to thank Connections Plus Hospice for all the wonderful care they provided and to Pie’s neighbors that helped look out for him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorial contributions in his name be made to: Connections Plus Healthcare & Hospice, 537 Main St., Clifton Forge, VA 24422. Friends wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Carl Jacob Bogar, Sr., 88, of 5901 Bens Run Road, passed away at his residence on Friday, April 10, 2026. Mr. Bogar was born on September 29, 1937, in Alleghany County to the late Jacob and Lillian Wright Bogar. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty Tucker Bogar; three sisters, Goldie Tucker, Jeanette Bess, and Marlene Wolfe; a very special son, Harry Tucker Jr. “Pedro”; and a daughter, Janie Tucker Brookman. Mr. Bogar retired after 38 years of service with Bartlett Tree Experts and Wilson Tree Company. He is survived by four sisters, Arlene Shinault and husband Ted, Judy Clark and husband David, Robin Gillispie and husband Bobby, and Wanda Fridley; two brothers, Jeff Bogar and wife Wanda, and Clifford Bogar; three sons, Carl "Chubby" Bogar Jr., Randy Bogar and wife Brenda, and Stephen “Dinky” Bogar and wife Tammy; and four daughters, Cathy Walton, Myrtle Castillo, Evelyn Tucker, and Sally Broughman and husband Raymond. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Carl also leaves behind special friends, Paul Fridley, Rocky Hicks, and Keith and Nancy Hicks. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with Mrs. Laura Snead officiating. The family will receive their friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the funeral home. Interment will take place in the Tucker-Switzer Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Jessica Dawson, Jay Dawson, Justin Bailey, Carl Tucker, Bobby Broughman, Little Raymond Broughman. The family would like to extend a special thank you to hospice nurse Kristen Bennett for her compassionate care and support. Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Dallas Dewey Bates, age 76, of Covington, died Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Staunton Post Acute and Rehabilitation Center, surrounded by his family. He was born in Winston Salem, NC, and was preceded in death by his parents, the late Dallas A. Bates and Emma (Pettyjohn) Bates. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a son, Jason Bates; two brothers and three sisters. Dallas served his country in the National Guard and was employed with ALSCO Linen Company for 39 years. He loved working out in his yard, watching old westerns that carried him out west. He loved the Atlanta Braves and the Washington Commanders, and found peace on the banks of the Jackson River and in sunsets at Edisto Island, SC— more than anything, he loved his pets, his cup of coffee, and his family. He leaves to mourn his loss a daughter, Sarah Helen (John Grimshaw) Bates of Yorktown, three sons, Matthew (Lori) Bates of Winston Salem, NC, Anthony (Tara) Bates of Boone, NC, Andrew (Katrina) Bates of Covington; seven grandchildren; a brother, Kenneth (Young) Bates of Woodbridge, a sister, Donna (Steve) Brown of Winston Salem, NC; and his former spouse and friend of many years, Debra L. Bates of Covington. In keeping with his wishes his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be planned for a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of Mr. Bates arrangements. Friends wishing to send condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Rita Guth Lee, age 82, of Covington, died Friday, April 3, 2026, at the Woodlands Health and Rehab Center in Clifton Forge. She was born April 5, 1943, in Covington, and was preceded in death by her parents, the late Garnet C. Guth and Alma Humphries Guth; her husband, Robert W. Lee in 1999; her sister, Wanda Jean Guth. Rita was an avid reader, thoroughly enjoyed crocheting and being outside working in her garden. Her last occupation was managing the Virginia Welcome Center where it was always a pleasure to greet the travelers. She leaves to mourn her loss, a son, Robert (Deirdre) Lee, Jr. of Daleville; two daughters, Christy (Tim) Kimberlin of Covington, Angie (David) Hurt of Clifton Forge; five grandchildren, Brandon Lee, Quincy Edwards, Andrea Buchanan, Ashley Wolfe, Kristen Lee; nine great children; a brother, Randy Furlong of Covington; a brother-in-law, Gene and his wife, Vicki Lee of Covington; Aunt Amelia Dressler of Covington; numerous other family members. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 1:00PM at the Cedar Hill Cemetery with Rev. Bill Gilliand and Doug Hollenbeck presiding. The family will receive friends in the Arritt Funeral Home Chapel from 11:30AM - 12:30 PM prior to the graveside service. Arritt Funeral Home have been entrusted with handling all of the arrangements for Ms. Lee. Rita’s family takes this opportunity to thank the Woodland’s staff, Crystal Jack, Amanda Robinson with Connections Plus for the care and compassion you have shown our loved one during this difficult time. We suggest that memorial contributions be made to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426 or the Woodlands Health and Rehab Center Activity Fund, 1000 Fairview Avenue, Clifton Forge, VA 24422 in Rita Guth Lee’s memory. Friends wishing to send tributes online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com

Betty Lou Christian Linkenhoker, age 91, of Covington, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026 at the Woodlands Health and Rehab Center in Clifton Forge. Born on April 12, 1934, in Keaster, West Virginia, Betty was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a woman of deep faith. She was a lifelong member of the Brethen faith, which guided her life with quiet strength, kindness, and compassion as she faithfully served her church community. She taught Sunday school at Grace Brethen Church for 30 years, a role she held close to her heart and took great pride in. Her kindness, patience, and deep faith left a lasting impact on the many lives she touched through her teachings. Betty shared 71 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, James “Jim” Linkenhoker; they built a life centered on family, love, and unwavering commitment. She was a dedicated mother to her son, James “Jamie” Linkenhoker and wife Meta, found great joy in her role as grandmother to Ashton (Adam) Watts, Tara (Chris) Linkenhoker, and Brette (Richard) Linkenhoker, as well as several great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters. A visitation will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026 at 2:00 – 3:00PM at Arritt Funeral Home. A Memorial service will be held at a later date. Betty will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her devotion to her family, and the love she shared so freely with everyone. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of her arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Michael Haven Persinger, age 60, of Covington, died Monday, March 23, 2026, at his residence. He was born May 4, 1965, in Alleghany County, a son of Marvin and Mae Ailstock Persinger of Cloverdale. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife of thirty- eight years, Lisa Kemper Persinger of Covington; a daughter, Megan (Evan) Nicely of Covington; a son, Adam Persinger of Lexington; one granddaughter, Ella Rose Nicely; a sister, Susan Howell of Daleville; his mother and father-in-law, Lewis “Butch” and Lana Kemper of Covington; a niece, Bailey Howell; and numerous other family members. Mike was a faithful member of Temple Baptist Church. He served as vice-president of Dawn Warehousing, as chairman of the board at Highlands Community Bank, and as a member of both the former Lions Club and Hot Springs Rotary Club. In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Arritt Funeral Home with Rev. Billy Price officiating. The family will receive their friends following the service at the funeral home. Arritt Funeral Home in charge of Mr. Persinger’s arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Michael Haven Persinger’s name to the Alleghany Humane Society, 9313 Rich Patch Road, Covington, VA 24426. Friends wishing to send tributes online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Richard Charles Smith, Jr., 56, of Covington, died Sunday, March 22, 2026 at his residence. He was born August 23, 1969 in New Jersey, a son of the late Richard Smith, Sr. and Barbara Ann Spalding Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Greg Smith. Rich worked for many years as an extruding machine operator. In his spare time, he was passionate about automobiles in all forms—whether it was watching NASCAR and Formula 1 races, competing in slot car racing, or cheering on his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt. Above all, he was a caring and supportive son and brother, always ready to lend a hand, look out for his family, and put others first. Survivors include his brother, Chris Smith and his wife, Emily, of Covington; his nieces and nephew, Kiersten Smith, Charlotte Smith, Lillian Smith, Julia Smith, and Christopher Smith. In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A private memorial service is planned for a later date. Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends wishing to post condolences for the family may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com.

Dianne Lynn (Ross) Huckle, 76, of Covington, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, surrounded by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, resilience, and deep love for those she held close. Dianne was born on April 30, 1949, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Jack Ross and Ruth (West Ross) Ewell. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Robert Lee Huckle Sr.; her brother, Darrell Ross; her sisters, Sharon Collins and Karen Ayala; her son, Fred Allen; and her grandsons, Trebor Huckle and Rocky Lawson. Dianne was the cherished wife of Robert Lee Huckle Sr., whom she married on January 4, 2002. Together, they shared 22 wonderful years filled with laughter, companionship, simple joys, and multiple eyerolls over the years. She treasured their time spent exploring the countryside—often sparked by Bob’s familiar words, “Let’s go for a ride.” Whether fishing, sitting on the porch, or simply enjoying life side by side, those moments meant everything to her. She is survived by her half-sisters Patty Jones and Peggy Weaver; her children, Rainey Stevens and Tommy Stevens (Nancy); and her stepchildren, Robert Bradley Barnett (Racheal), Robert Lee Huckle Jr., Lynnetta Working (Preston), Bobbi Robinson, and Billi McNeill (Brad). Dianne also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Chayse Lawson, Bella Crowther, David Davila, Matthew Allen, Austen, Isaac, and Basil Working, Amanda Robinson (Craig), Sammi Hyatt (Chad), Toby Huckle, Kylie Helton (Josh), Jase McClintock (Shaina), Brett McNeill (Nyela), Cole McClintock (Maddie), Chase Blaine, Stevanna Trenkamp, Bobby, Dalton Huckle (Katie), Hailey Huckle, Syler and Gavin Gonzales, and Mayleigh and Wesley Barnett, along with 24 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Dianne will be remembered for her loving heart, her unwavering dedication to family, and the quiet strength that carried her through life. She was, in every sense, a survivor. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love and legacy will continue to live on in all who knew her. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her nieces—Arlene Ford, Dawn Collins, and Jennifer Hilty—who lovingly cared for her in her final months. They also wish to thank her nephew, Danny Ayala, who was a constant source of conversation, guidance, and support. In accordance with Dianne’s wishes, she will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Arritt Funeral Home. Friends wishing to share condolences online may do so at arrittfuneralhome.com