Alton Wesley Prillaman1,2,3

M, b. November 27, 1922, d. December 15, 1996
FatherJohn Tyler Prillaman4,1,5,6,7,8,9,10 b. May 18, 1897, d. December 29, 1975
MotherElvada Esther Conner4,1,5,6,7,8,9,10 b. September 26, 1897, d. April 12, 1990
     His Social Security Number was 230-12-7525.11 Alton Wesley Prillaman was buried at Restvale Cemetery, Rt. 221, Check, Floyd Co., Virginia.2,3 He was born on November 27, 1922 at Copper Hill, Floyd Co., Virginia.11,1 He married Pauline M. Davis, daughter of James Davis and Nannie Bowman, on December 21, 1951.1,3 Alton Wesley Prillaman died on December 15, 1996 at Lynchburg, Virginia, at age 74.11,2,3 He PRILLIMAN, Alton Wesley, 74, of Lynchburg, and formerly of Copper Hill, passed away Sunday, December 15, 1996, at his home. He is survived by his wife, Pauline D. Prilliman of Lynchburg; two sons, Alton Wesley Prilliman II, Delray Beach, Fla., James T. Prilliman, Jacksonville, Fla; three daughters, Martha Gosnell, Lynchburg, Mary Prilliman, Wilmington, N.C., Melissa Prilliman, Lynchburg; two brothers, John L. Prilliman, Quinton, D. Q. Prilliman, Orlando, Fla; one sister, Virginia Carmack, Roanoke; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Wednesday, December 18, 1996, at 1 p.m. at Gardner Funeral Home with Rev. Carter Sloan and Rev. Charley Harvin officiating. Interment will follow in Restvale Cemetery, Copper Hill. Friends may call Tuesday at Gardner Funeral Home, Floyd, where the family will be from 6 to 8 p.m on December 19, 1996.2

Census Records

1930Dwelling 134, District 11, Locust Grove, Floyd Co., Virginia5
1940Dwelling 140, District 32-14, Locust Grove, Floyd Co., Virginia8

Family

Pauline M. Davis
Marriage*Alton Wesley Prillaman married Pauline M. Davis, daughter of James Davis and Nannie Bowman, on December 21, 1951.1,3 
Children

Citations

  1. [S297] Ellen Stanley Rogers & Norris Prillaman Miller, The Prillaman Family, Descendants of Jacob Prillaman.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Alton Wesley Prillaman obituary in the Dec 19, 1996 edition.
  3. [S104] Billy and Juanita Grice, Cemeteries in Floyd County.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Elvada Conner Prillaman obituary in the Apr 14, 1990 edition.
  5. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  6. [S116] Floyd Press, From the Leila Aleia Prillaman obituary in an undated edition.
  7. [S116] Floyd Press, From the John Tyler Prillaman obituary in the Jan 1, 1976 edition.
  8. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  9. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Virginia Alice Prillaman Carmack obituary in the Feb 5, 2017 edition.
  10. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the John Lennis Prillaman obituary in the Jan 21, 2018 edition.
  11. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.

Judith "Judy" Thomas1,2

F, b. April 20, 1819, d. May 28, 1919
     Judith "Judy" Thomas married James Agee, son of Joshua Agee and Sarah Brammer.1 Judith "Judy" Thomas was buried at Agee Cemetery, left off Rt. 615 at County Line Church and cemetery, Floyd Co., Virginia.3 Her married name was Agee. She was born on April 20, 1819 at Patrick Co., Virginia.3,2 She died on May 28, 1919 at Little River, Floyd Co., Virginia, at age 100.2

Census Records

1890Little River, Floyd Co., Virginia4

Family

James Agee b. January 7, 1823, d. September 22, 1892
Marriage*Judith "Judy" Thomas married James Agee, son of Joshua Agee and Sarah Brammer.1 
Child

Citations

  1. [S400] Russell E. Fisher & Jill Fisher Bass, Notes on the Family of Joshua "Bird" Agee.
  2. [S1033] Unknown name of person, Virginia Department of Health Death Certificate, From the Judith Agee death certificate.
  3. [S1259] Ruth G. Hale, Agee Cemetery, Floyd Co., VA.
  4. [S131] Virginia Court House abbreviated copy on file at Floyd Co., 1890 United States Federal Census.
  5. [S16] Floyd Co., Virginia Court House, Book 3, Floyd Co., Virginia Marriage Records.

Rosa Eugene Sears1,2

F, b. April 11, 1904, d. March 30, 1999
FatherJohn Henry Sears3,1,4,5,6,7 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer3,1,2,4,5,6,7 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     Rosa Eugene Sears was buried at Sherwood Burial Park, 1045 Lynchburg Turnpike, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.4 Her Social Security Number was 226-01-6569.8 She married Clarence Gager Mowles.4 Rosa Eugene Sears married Sidney Earl Houff.4 Her married name was Mowles. Her married name was Houff. Rosa Eugene Sears was born on April 11, 1904 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.8,4 She died on March 30, 1999 at Roanoke, Virginia, at age 94.8,4 She HOUFF, Rosa Sears, 94, of Brandon Oaks Nursing Home, died Tuesday, March 30, 1999. Mrs. Houff was a native of Salem, and the daughter of the late John Henry and Minnie Palmer Sears. She was preceded in death by husbands, Clarence Gager Mowles and Sydney Earl Houff; stepson, Robert Earl Houff; brother, John Sears; and sisters, Kathie Furrey, Madie Sisson, Gladys Cole. Survivors include step-son and wife, James Lee and Mary Houff, of Champaign, Ill; sister, Mrs. Laura Kesler, of Salem; and brothers, Merriman Sears, of Salem, Ammon Sears, of Stuart. Also surviving are several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, Sue Bledsloe, Betty Pritchard, and Minnie Chewning; nephews, Leo Kelsler, Don Cole, Bobby Cole, Lewis Cole and Merriman Cole. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday, April 1, 1999, at 2 p.m. in the Chapel of John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home with Rev. Ed Woodard and Rev. Clyde Carter officiating. Interment Sherwood. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Oak Grove Church of The Brethren, Salem. The family will receive friends, Wednesday, March 31, 6 to 9 p.m. at John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home. on March 31, 1999.4

Census Records

1910Dwelling 2, District 133, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia3
1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia1
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia2
1940Dwelling 69, District 81-27, South Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia9

Occupation

1930Rayon mill inspector2
1940Rayon mill reeler9

Family 1

Sidney Earl Houff b. January 25, 1897, d. October 30, 1964
Marriage*Rosa Eugene Sears married Sidney Earl Houff.4 

Family 2

Clarence Gager Mowles b. May 31, 1887, d. February 12, 1949
Marriage*Rosa Eugene Sears married Clarence Gager Mowles.4 

Citations

  1. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  2. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  3. [S205] National Archives and Records Administration, 1910 United States Federal Census.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  6. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  7. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  8. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.
  9. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.

Clarence Gager Mowles1,2

M, b. May 31, 1887, d. February 12, 1949
     Clarence Gager Mowles married Rosa Eugene Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer.3 Clarence Gager Mowles was born on May 31, 1887 at Roanoke Co., Virginia.1,2 He died on February 12, 1949 at age 61.

Census Records

1940Dwelling 69, District 81-27, South Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia4

Occupation

1940Truck driver4

Family

Rosa Eugene Sears b. April 11, 1904, d. March 30, 1999
Marriage*Clarence Gager Mowles married Rosa Eugene Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer.3 

Citations

  1. [S533] National Archives and Records Administration, World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards, 1917-18.
  2. [S1253] Selective Service System United States, U.S. World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  4. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.

Sidney Earl Houff1,2,3,4

M, b. January 25, 1897, d. October 30, 1964
     Sidney Earl Houff married Rosa Eugene Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer.1 Sidney Earl Houff was buried at Pleasant View Lutheran Church Cemetery, Verona, Augusta Co., Virginia.4 He was born on January 25, 1897 at Fishersville, Augusta Co., Virginia.2,3,4 He died on October 30, 1964 at Virginia at age 67.4

Family

Rosa Eugene Sears b. April 11, 1904, d. March 30, 1999
Marriage*He married Rosa Eugene Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer.1 

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  2. [S533] National Archives and Records Administration, World War I Selective Service System Draft Registration Cards, 1917-18.
  3. [S1253] Selective Service System United States, U.S. World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942.
  4. [S5104] Pleasant View Lutheran Church Cemetery, Augusta Co., VA, online http://www.findagrave.com/

John Whitsell Sears1,2,3,4,5

M, b. February 14, 1912, d. June 13, 1956
FatherJohn Henry Sears1,6,3,7,8 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer1,2,6,3,7,8,4 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     John Whitsell Sears was born on February 14, 1912 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.5 He died on June 13, 1956 at age 44.5

Census Records

1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia1
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia2
1940Dwelling 361, District 81-17, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia4

Occupation

1930Railway clerk2
1940Railroad electrician4

Citations

  1. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  2. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  4. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  5. [S4166] Cole Family Tree, online http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/48572787/person/20135151409
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  7. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  8. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.

Katie Elizabeth Sears1

F, b. February 16, 1914, d. February 23, 1958
FatherJohn Henry Sears2,3,1,4,5 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer2,6,3,1,4,5,7 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     Her married name was Thompson.8 Katie Elizabeth Sears married Unknown Furey.3,1,4,9 Katie Elizabeth Sears married Robert Calvin Thompson.8 Her married name was Furey. Katie Elizabeth Sears was born on February 16, 1914 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.8 She died on February 23, 1958 at Cleveland, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, at age 44.9

Census Records

1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia2
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia6
1940Dwelling 361, District 81-17, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia7

Family 1

Robert Calvin Thompson b. September 17, 1880, d. June 5, 1968
Marriage*Katie Elizabeth Sears married Robert Calvin Thompson.8 

Family 2

Unknown Furey
Marriage*Katie Elizabeth Sears married Unknown Furey.3,1,4,9 

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  2. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  4. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  6. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  7. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  8. [S4166] Cole Family Tree, online http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/48572787/person/20135151409
  9. [S857] Ohio Department of Health, Ohio Deaths, 1908-1932, 1938-2018.

Madie J. Sears1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8

F, b. February 13, 1910, d. August 25, 1993
FatherJohn Henry Sears5,9,1,2,4,6,7 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer5,9,1,10,2,4,6,7 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     Her Social Security Number was 228-01-9327.11 Madie J. Sears was buried at Sherwood Burial Park, 1045 Lynchburg Turnpike, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.3,5 She was born on February 13, 1910 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.11 She married Alfred Kimber Sisson, son of John Haden Sisson and Cora Jane Miles, in 1943.3 As of 1943,her married name was Sisson. Madie J. Sears died on August 25, 1993 at Roanoke, Virginia, at age 83.5,11,3 She SISSON, Madie Sears, 83, passed away early Wednesday, August 25, 1993, in a local hospital. She was the widow of Alfred K. Sisson, a lifelong resident of Salem, and a member of Salem Presbyterian Church. Survivors include two sisters, Rosa S. Houff of Roanoke, Laura S. Kesler of Salem; two brothers, Merriman Sears of Salem and Ammon Sears of Stuart. Funeral service will be conducted from Oakey's North Chapel 11 a.m. Friday, August 27, with the Rev. Dr. O. Leighton Culler, Pastor of Salem Presbyterian Church, officiating. Interment will follow in Sherwood Burial Park. Friends may call Oakey's North Chapel on Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. on August 26, 1993.3

Census Records

1910Dwelling 2, District 133, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia9
1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia1
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia10
1940Dwelling 361, District 81-17, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia8

Family

Alfred Kimber Sisson b. August 18, 1903, d. September 2, 1987
Marriage*Madie J. Sears married Alfred Kimber Sisson, son of John Haden Sisson and Cora Jane Miles, in 1943.3 

Citations

  1. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Madie Sears Sisson obituary in the Aug 26, 1993 edition.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  5. [S18] James R. & Sebert L. Sisson, Descendants of the Ludlow B. Sisson Family, Third Edition.
  6. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  7. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  8. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  9. [S205] National Archives and Records Administration, 1910 United States Federal Census.
  10. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  11. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.

Alfred Kimber Sisson

M, b. August 18, 1903, d. September 2, 1987
FatherJohn Haden Sisson1,2 b. October 30, 1864, d. January 4, 1948
MotherCora Jane Miles1,2 b. October 6, 1867, d. April 26, 1945
     His Social Security Number was 226-01-4376.3 Alfred Kimber Sisson was buried at Sherwood Burial Park, 1045 Lynchburg Turnpike, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.1 He was born on August 18, 1903 at Floyd Co., Virginia.3,1 He married Madie J. Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer, in 1943.4 Alfred Kimber Sisson died on September 2, 1987 at age 84.1

Occupation

Mechanic and uniform salesman1

Family

Madie J. Sears b. February 13, 1910, d. August 25, 1993
Marriage*Alfred Kimber Sisson married Madie J. Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer, in 1943.4 

Citations

  1. [S18] James R. & Sebert L. Sisson, Descendants of the Ludlow B. Sisson Family, Third Edition.
  2. [S349] Erma C. Sowers, A Report on the Descendants of Henry Iddings and Abigail Richardson.
  3. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Madie Sears Sisson obituary in the Aug 26, 1993 edition.

Gladys Nellie Sears1,2,3

F, b. January 13, 1908, d. December 26, 1966
FatherJohn Henry Sears4,5,6,1,7,2 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer4,5,8,6,1,7,2 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     Gladys Nellie Sears was born on January 13, 1908 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.3 As of December, 1930,her married name was Cole.3 She married Thomas Marvin Cole in December, 1930.3,9 Gladys Nellie Sears died on December 26, 1966 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia, at age 58.3

Census Records

1910Dwelling 2, District 133, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia4
1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia5
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia8
1940Dwelling 79, District 119-10, Roanoke, Virginia10

Occupation

1930Rayon mill inspector8

Family

Thomas Marvin Cole b. December 17, 1904, d. August 28, 1961
Marriage*Gladys Nellie Sears married Thomas Marvin Cole in December, 1930.3,9 
Children

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  3. [S4166] Cole Family Tree, online http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/48572787/person/20135151409
  4. [S205] National Archives and Records Administration, 1910 United States Federal Census.
  5. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  7. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  8. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  9. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Wesley Cole obituary in the Mar 12, 2014 edition.
  10. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  11. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Louis Eugene Cole obituary in the Oct 30, 2013 edition.
  12. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Pritchard obituary in the Mar 8, 2007 edition.

Virginia Alice "Jenny" Prillaman1,2,3,4

F, b. September 30, 1924, d. February 3, 2017
FatherJohn Tyler Prillaman5,1,6,7,3,8,4,9 b. May 18, 1897, d. December 29, 1975
MotherElvada Esther Conner5,1,6,7,3,8,4,9 b. September 26, 1897, d. April 12, 1990
     Virginia Alice "Jenny" Prillaman was born on September 30, 1924 at Floyd Co., Virginia.1 She married Frank Freeman Carmack Sr. on February 14, 1948 at Check, Floyd Co., Virginia.5,1,6,2,4 As of February 14, 1948,her married name was Carmack. Virginia Alice "Jenny" Prillaman died on February 3, 2017 at Virginia at age 92.4 She CARMACK, Virginia Alice Prillaman September 30, 1924 February 3, 2017. Virginia Alice Prillaman (Jenny) Carmack, 93, of Roanoke, Va., went to be with the Lord and her beloved husband on Friday, February 3, 2017. Jenny was born in Floyd County, Va., in 1924. She graduated from Jefferson High School in Roanoke and this is where she met Frank, her one true love, whom she married on Valentine's Day in 1948. She went on to become a Registered Nurse and helped many in the Roanoke Valley, including friends and family. Jenny was well known at Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday school and was well known by all the ladies in her Circle. She will always be remembered for all her generosity and love towards others. Jenny was predeceased by her husband, Frank F. Carmack Sr; father and mother, Tyler and Elvada Prillaman; her three brothers, Alton, Don and Thornton Prillaman; her sister, Leliah Prillaman; and grandson, Brandon Oberleitner, who died serving our country. She is survived by one brother, John L. Prillaman; her children, F. Freeman Carmack Jr., and Jean Ann Carmack Elliott and her husband, Robert C. Elliott Jr. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Christopher Sieger and his wife, Ashley, Andrew Carmack, Grace Carmack and Lawrence Oberleitner; along with five great-grandchildren, Austin, Caleb, Houstan, Fate and Bayleigh. Jean Elliott wishes to thank Our Lady of the Valley for all their care, kindness and compassion they showed her mother over the last nine and one half years. Everyone there touched her life and I hope she in turn touched theirs. I also would like to thank Gentle Shepherd Hospice who showed my mother with their kindheartedness, gentleness and humanity what love truly is. You were always there when you were needed or even there just with a smile. God bless to everyone who touched my mother's heart. A service celebrating her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel with Pastor Dan Freeland officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 1 until 2 p.m. at the funeral home. on February 5, 2017.4

Census Records

1930Dwelling 134, District 11, Locust Grove, Floyd Co., Virginia7
1940Dwelling 140, District 32-14, Locust Grove, Floyd Co., Virginia8

Family

Frank Freeman Carmack Sr. b. December 15, 1924, d. July 2, 2007
Marriage*Virginia Alice "Jenny" Prillaman married Frank Freeman Carmack Sr. on February 14, 1948 at Check, Floyd Co., Virginia.5,1,6,2,4 
Children
  • Frank Freeman Carmack Jr.1,10,4
  • Jean Ann Carmack1,10,4

Citations

  1. [S297] Ellen Stanley Rogers & Norris Prillaman Miller, The Prillaman Family, Descendants of Jacob Prillaman.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Wilma M. Prillaman obituary in the Jan 5, 2000 edition.
  3. [S116] Floyd Press, From the Leila Aleia Prillaman obituary in an undated edition.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Virginia Alice Prillaman Carmack obituary in the Feb 5, 2017 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Elvada Conner Prillaman obituary in the Apr 14, 1990 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Donald Quinn Prillaman obituary in the Nov 26, 2004 edition.
  7. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  8. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  9. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the John Lennis Prillaman obituary in the Jan 21, 2018 edition.
  10. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Frank Freeman Carmack, Sr., obituary in the Jul 3, 2007 edition.

Thomas Marvin Cole1

M, b. December 17, 1904, d. August 28, 1961
     Thomas Marvin Cole was born on December 17, 1904 at Grayson Co., Virginia.1 He married Gladys Nellie Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer, in December, 1930.1,2 Thomas Marvin Cole died on August 28, 1961 at Virginia at age 56.1

Census Records

1940Dwelling 79, District 119-10, Roanoke, Virginia3

Occupation

1940Truck driver3

Family

Gladys Nellie Sears b. January 13, 1908, d. December 26, 1966
Marriage*Thomas Marvin Cole married Gladys Nellie Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer, in December, 1930.1,2 
Children

Citations

  1. [S4166] Cole Family Tree, online http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/48572787/person/20135151409
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Wesley Cole obituary in the Mar 12, 2014 edition.
  3. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Louis Eugene Cole obituary in the Oct 30, 2013 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Pritchard obituary in the Mar 8, 2007 edition.

Laura Pitzer Sears1

F, b. October 22, 1905, d. December 22, 2009
FatherJohn Henry Sears2,3,4,1,5,6,7 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer2,3,4,1,5,6,7,8 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     Laura Pitzer Sears was buried at Sherwood Burial Park, 1045 Lynchburg Turnpike, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.7 She was born on October 22, 1905 at Virginia.2,5 As of June 22, 1926,her married name was Kesler.5 She married Doctor Hatcher Kesler on June 22, 1926.9,5,7,8 Laura Pitzer Sears Laura Kesler celebrates her 103rd Christmas. Laura Sears Kesler of Salem will celebrate her 103rd Christmas this year and is looking forward to her 104th. Laura Sears Kesler remembers more than 100 Christmases. This year she's celebrating her 103rd Christmas, and looking forward to her 104th. The Salem native turned 103 on Oct. 22. Although she doesn't cook a big meal any more, she used to pull out all the stops, her grandchildren remembered. "My grandmother always cooked Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. Her favorite dishes were chestnut dressing which she made from scratch, and corn pudding. She would get the chestnuts from the tree that was in my great-grandmother's yard. She lived behind my grandmother," said granddaughter Joy Chappell, who lives in Seaford, Va. Mrs. Kesler, who is a member of Oak Grove Church of the Brethren, credits faith in God as her secret to longevity. With the help of a magnifying glass, she reads her Bible and devotions every day. She enjoys visits from her many friends and family members, who include her three surviving grandchildren, Chappell, Rodney Kesler and Christy Cleary. A fourth grandchild, Larry Kesler, is deceased. She also has three great-grandchildren, Matthew Kesler, Tanya Hicks and Sarah Bergeron. In 1960, Mrs. Kesler and her husband, Hatcher, built their final home with the help of family and their new neighbors, Charlie and Guida Lefler, who are still a big part of her life today. She was the second child of Minnie Palmer and John Henry Sears, and had eight brothers and sisters. Only one of her brothers, Ammon Sears, is still living, and resides in Stuart. Her other siblings were Rosa Houff, Daniel Sears, Gladys Cole, Madie Sisson, John Sears, Katie Furrey and Merriman Sears. She also had half-brothers and sisters, 12 total. They were Alice, Samuel, John, Robert, Emma, Thomas, George, Matilda, James, Enos, Callie and David. Laura Sears attended the old Salem High School, and afterwards, started working at the Salem Pants Factory as a seamstress. After a year she went to work for American Viscose Corp. While her family was living on Pennsylvania Avenue in Salem, her aunt introduced her to D. Hatcher Kesler, her granddaughter Joy recalled, who was driving the street car. They were married on June 22, 1926. When he died in 1999, they had been married for more than 72 years. On May 14, 1927, Mrs. Kesler gave birth to her only child, Leo, who is now deceased. After he started school, she went back to work at American Viscose until 1957 when the plant closed. The following year she took up china painting and taught until 1996. Students traveled to her home from as far as Staunton and Martinsville to take lessons from her. She traveled to Atlanta, Oklahoma City, Detroit, Dallas, just to name a few locations, to share her talent with others while attending china painting conventions throughout the nation. Mrs. Kesler was a member of the International China Painting Teachers' Association for more than 37 years, and continued painting for herself and others until 1998 when she starting losing her eyesight to macular degeneration. – Meg Hibbert
on December 17, 2008.5 She died on December 22, 2009 at Virginia at age 104.7 She Our beloved grandmother, Laura Sears Kesler, of Salem, peacefully passed into the loving arms of the Lord on Tuesday, December 22, 2009. Born in 1905, she was the second child to the late Minnie Palmer and John Henry Sears. She is preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, D. Hatcher Kesler; a son, Leo E. Kesler; two grandsons, Larry M. Kesler and J. Frank Chappell; brothers and sisters, Rosa Houff, Daniel Sears, Gladys Cole, Madie Sisson, John Sears, Katie Furrey, Merriman Sears and Ammon Sears; and 12 half brothers and sisters. Laura was a life long resident of Salem, attending Salem High School and was employed by American Viscose Corporation. In 1958 Laura embarked on what would become one of the hallmarks of her life: china painting, even becoming an educator of the skill. A remarkable woman who devoted her life to her family and faith, she was a member of Oak Grove Church of the Brethren. She is survived by her loving grandchildren, Rodney Kesler and his wife, Peggy, of Check, Va., who unselfishly cared for her throughout the past year, Christina Cleary and her husband, Bill, of Newport News, Va., and Joy Chappell, of Seaford, Va; greatgrandchildren, Matthew Kesler and his wife, Anitra, and Tanya Hicks and her husband, Derrick, all of Check, Va., Sarah Cleary, of Minneapolis, Minn., Mia Downing and her husband, Jake, and David Chappell and his wife, Alexis, all of Newport News, Va; and great-great-grandchildren, Macie and Kendall Downing and AloraDannon Chappell, all of Newport News, Va. Laura is also survived by special friends, Charlie and Guida Lefler, who compassionately provided the help to enable Laura to live as independent a life as possible in her home until last year; and special friend, Audrey Bowers. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. on Monday, December 28, 2009, at John M. Oakey and Sons Funeral Home, Salem, Va., with graveside services immediately following at Sherwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, December 27, 2009, at the funeral home. The family would like to express their gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice for all of their special care and assistance. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Good Samaritan Hospice, 125 Arrowhead Trail, Suite E, Christiansburg, Va. 24073 or Oak Grove Church of the Brethren, 2138 McVitty Road, SW, Roanoke, Va. The vast landscape of Laura's life has undoubtedly provided many influencing and everlasting moments for those in her life. Her 104 years are infused with an atomic significance that makes them all feel bigger. Words, in fact, are of little help in expressing the infinite impact of her enriched life, her exhilarating inspiration, and her spectacular wisdom. She is truly a recognizable symbol of endurance, resilience, and grace. The Kesler family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son, Salem, Va., 540-389-5441. on December 25, 2009.7

Census Records

1910Dwelling 2, District 133, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia2
1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia3
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia10
1940Dwelling 361, District 81-17, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia8

Occupation

1930Rayon mill inspector10
1940Rayon mill reeler8

Family

Doctor Hatcher Kesler b. August 18, 1901, d. February 19, 1999
Marriage*Laura Pitzer Sears married Doctor Hatcher Kesler on June 22, 1926.9,5,7,8 
Child

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  2. [S205] National Archives and Records Administration, 1910 United States Federal Census.
  3. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  5. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Ammon Sears obituary in the Sep 14, 2009 edition.
  7. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  8. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  9. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Doctor Hatcher Kesler obituary in the Feb 20, 1999 edition.
  10. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  11. [S593] Daily Press, From the Leo Edgar Kesler obituary in the Apr 13, 2005 edition.
  12. [S5130] Virginia Department of Health, Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014.

Doctor Hatcher Kesler1,2

M, b. August 18, 1901, d. February 19, 1999
     His Social Security Number was 225-10-9038.3 Doctor Hatcher Kesler was buried at Sherwood Burial Park, 1045 Lynchburg Turnpike, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.1 He was born on August 18, 1901 at Virginia.3,4 He married Laura Pitzer Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer, on June 22, 1926.1,5,6,2 Doctor Hatcher Kesler died on February 19, 1999 at Virginia at age 97.3,1 He KESLER, Doctor Hatcher, 97, of Salem, died Friday, February 19, 1999. He was retired from Trailways Bus Co. and Keslers Work Shop. Surviving family include his wife of 72 years, Laura Sears Kesler; son, Leo E. Kesler and his wife Audrey of Newport News; grandchildren, Rodney Lynn Kesler and wife Peggy of Floyd, Christina Cleary and husband Bill of Newport News, Joylene Chappell and husband Frank of Seaford; great-grandchildren, Matthew and Tanya Kesler, Sarah Cleary; sister, Minnie Murray of Boones Mill; stepgrandchildren, Rebecca Turlington of Newport News, Michelle Poole of Newport News and Jeffrey Poole of Sparta, N. C; three stepgreat-grandchildren; special friends, Charlie and Guida Lefler; several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 22, 1999 at 2 p.m. at the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home Chapel, Salem, with the Rev. Edward Woodard officiating. Interment will follow in Sherwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday and Sunday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. on February 20, 1999.1

Census Records

1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., VirginiaDoctor and his family were enumerated in the household of his mother-in-law Minnie J. Sears4
1940Dwelling 361, District 81-17, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia2

Occupation

1930State railway bus driver4
1940Electric evaporation business worker2

Family

Laura Pitzer Sears b. October 22, 1905, d. December 22, 2009
Marriage*Doctor Hatcher Kesler married Laura Pitzer Sears, daughter of John Henry Sears and Minnie Jane Palmer, on June 22, 1926.1,5,6,2 
Child

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Doctor Hatcher Kesler obituary in the Feb 20, 1999 edition.
  2. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  3. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.
  4. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  5. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  7. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Shanks-Kesler wedding announcement in an undated edition.
  8. [S593] Daily Press, From the Leo Edgar Kesler obituary in the Apr 13, 2005 edition.
  9. [S5130] Virginia Department of Health, Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014.

Merriman Sears1,2,3,4,5,6

M, b. March 1, 1916, d. December 31, 2001
FatherJohn Henry Sears7,2,3,4,5,6 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer7,1,2,3,5,6,8 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     Merriman Sears was buried at Sherwood Burial Park, 1045 Lynchburg Turnpike, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.3 He was born on March 1, 1916 at Roanoke Co., Virginia.3 He died on December 31, 2001 at Roanoke, Virginia, at age 85.4,3 He SON OF CONFEDERATE SOLDIER COULDN'T BEAR TO PART WITH FAMILY HOMEPLACE By TAD DICKENS THE ROANOKE TIMES
Merriman Sears, a Salem man whose father fought in the Civil War, died Monday morning. He was 85. It's unlikely that Sears heard many of his father's war stories. John Henry Sears died when his 20th child was only 4, and relatives say few details survive of his time with the Confederate Army. The old cavalryman fathered 21 children by two wives, relatives said. John Sears was a 62-year-old widower and Minnie Palmer was 15 when she married him about the turn of the century. Fire claimed their ancestral home two years after the patriarch died, said Merriman Sears' niece Minnie Chewning. The widow and her nine surviving children came down from Sears Mountain in Roanoke County into Salem, where they scraped together a living. Whenever Merriman Sears "referred to his mother and those times, tears were in his eyes," said his friend Brent Riley. They all took odd jobs - "anything they could find to do" - with Merriman delivering papers on tired, flat feet because he couldn't afford a bicycle, said his cousin, Billy Palmer. "They brought all the money home to give it to their mother, to make ends meet," Palmer said. Merriman Sears later joined the Navy, where he spent several years before returning to the Roanoke Valley. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service, then Norfolk Southern, before retiring at 65, Palmer said. Sears lived on his own in a house on Apperson Drive until two years ago, when declining health forced him into a nursing home. He never married, but had been engaged for the past 25 years, Palmer said. Although the family had to leave the old homestead, Merriman Sears owned the property at the top of Sears Mountain. His father is buried there, under a marker provided by the Sons of Confederate Veterans. The spot is about 500 feet from where the house stood, above the Hidden Valley area. Visitors to the remote area have a panoramic view of the Roanoke Valley. Sears knew it was valuable, Palmer said. He entertained offers from some 20 developers as homes went up all around the 120-acre site. More than once, businessmen drew up contracts only to be rejected at the last minute. "There were just so many emotions there that he couldn't sell it," Palmer said. Two of Merriman Sears' siblings - Laura Kessler, 96, of Salem, and Ammon Sears, the youngest at 83, of Stuart - survive him. He will be buried in Salem. on January 1, 2002.4 He SEARS, Merriman, 85, of Salem, passed away Monday, December 31, 2001 in Lewis Gale Hospital. He was born in Roanoke County on March 1, 1916 the son of the late John Henry Sears and Minnie Palmer Sears. He was a graduate of Andrew Lewis High School, National Business College, served in the United States Navy during World War II, retired from Norfolk and Western Railroad's, Passenger-Coal-Ore Traffic Department with over 40 years service. He was a former member of the Salem Lions Club, and active member of the Salem Historical Society, and a member of Hidden Valley Country Club for over 50 years. He was a lifetime member of the Salem Presbyterian Church, where he was a former Deacon and Assistant Sunday School Superintendent. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Rosa Mowles Houff, Gladys Nellie Cole, Madie Sisson, Katie Elizabeth Furey; one brother, John W. Sears. Surviving are one sister, Laura Pitzer Kesler of Salem; one brother, Ammon Sears of Stuart; and special friend and caregiver, Charles W. Lefler of Salem. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 3, 2002 at 12 noon at the John M. Oakey & Son Salem Funeral Home with the Rev. Dean Lindsey officiating. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 2, 2002 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorials be made to the Salem Presbyterian Church or the Salem Historical Society. Arrangements by John M. Oakey & Son Salem Funeral Home. on January 2, 2002.3

Census Records

1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia7
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia1
1940Dwelling 361, District 81-17, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia8

Occupation

1940Postal clerk8

Citations

  1. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson feature story in the Jan 1, 2002 edition.
  5. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  7. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  8. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.

Ammon Sears1,2,3,4,5,6,7

M, b. May 23, 1918, d. September 13, 2009
FatherJohn Henry Sears1,3,4,5,6,7 b. August 16, 1842, d. September 16, 1920
MotherMinnie Jane Palmer1,2,3,4,5,6,7 b. March 5, 1889, d. August 25, 1978
     His Social Security Number was 229-03-1566.8 Ammon Sears was born on May 23, 1918 at Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia.6,8 He married Geraldine Crawford circa 1939.6,9 Ammon Sears died on September 13, 2009 at Winston-Salem, Forsyth Co., North Carolina, at age 91.6,8 He Mr. Ammon Sears, 91, of Stuart, passed away Sunday morning, at N.C. Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, N.C. He was born on May 23, 1918, in Salem, Va., to the late John H. Sears and Minnie Wimmer Sears. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by a daughter, Carolyn Sears Dance; three brothers; and five sisters. Mr. Sears retired from Appalachian Power Company with 44 years service. He was a member of Stuart Presbyterian Church, was a past president and received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award with the Stuart Rotary club, charter president of the Patrick County Jaycees, president of the Patrick Henry Industrial Corp., actively volunteered with the Boy Scouts and was presented the Silver Beaver award and was the second person in Patrick County to receive this honor, was a staunch supporter of all local youth sports, and was an avid fisherman who loved the Outer Banks, N.C., almost as much as he loved Patrick County and it's people. Surviving are his wife of 70 years, Geraldine Crawford Sears, of the home; one daughter, Suzanne "Sue" Bledsoe, of Blackstone, Va; seven grandchildren, John, Suzanne, Elizabeth, Kelly, Scott, Mark, Stuart; nine greatgrandchildren; and one sister, Laura S. Kessler, of Roanoke, Va. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 15, 2009, at 2 p.m. at Stuart Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Bucky Hunsicker and the Rev. Jim Churchwell officiating. Burial will be private. The family will receive friends Monday night from 6 to 8 p.m. at Moody Funeral Home in Stuart. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Stuart Presbyterian Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 944, Stuart, Va. 24171. Online condolences may be sent to www.moodyfuneral services.com. on September 14, 2009.6

Census Records

1920Dwelling 339, District 124, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia1
1930Dwelling 246, District 10, Salem, Roanoke Co., Virginia2
1940Dwelling 306, District 45-8, Martinsville, Virginia10

Occupation

1940Meter reader10

Family

Geraldine Crawford b. January 10, 1919, d. March 26, 2011
Marriage*Ammon Sears married Geraldine Crawford circa 1939.6,9 
Children

Citations

  1. [S119] National Archives and Records Administration, 1920 United States Federal Census.
  2. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Sisson obituary in the Jan 2, 2002 edition.
  5. [S1001] Salem Times, From the Laura Kesler 103rd birthday announcement in the Dec 17, 2008 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Ammon Sears obituary in the Sep 14, 2009 edition.
  7. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Laura Sears Kesler obituary in the Dec 25, 2009 edition.
  8. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.
  9. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Geraldine Crawford Sears obituary in the Mar 27, 2011 edition.
  10. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  11. [S5223] Social Security Administration, U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007.
  12. [S5130] Virginia Department of Health, Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014.
  13. [S5149] Virginia Department of Health, Virginia, Death Records, 1912-2014.
  14. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Suzanne Sears Bledsoe obituary in the Mar 13, 2022 edition.

Thomas Donald "Don" Cole1,2,3,4

M, b. October 8, 1931, d. December 10, 2000
FatherThomas Marvin Cole1,3,5,4,6 b. December 17, 1904, d. August 28, 1961
MotherGladys Nellie Sears1,3,5,4,6 b. January 13, 1908, d. December 26, 1966
     His Social Security Number was 223-38-7340.7 Thomas Donald "Don" Cole married Joyce Weddle.2 Thomas Donald "Don" Cole was born on October 8, 1931 at Virginia.7 He married Helene Bouck in 1980.2,8 Thomas Donald "Don" Cole died on December 10, 2000 at South Carolina at age 69.7,9 He COLE, Thomas D., 69, of Roanoke, passed away Sunday, December 10, 2000. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Helene Cole of Roanoke; daughters, Cathy Hawkins of Roanoke, Connie Houston and her husband, Randy of Vinton; a stepdaughter, Sandra Dooley and her husband, Donald of Buchanan; stepson, Andrew Nevins and his wife, Mary of Hampton; a granddaughter, Kendra Houston of Vinton; and a stepgrandson, Harland Nevins of Hampton. He is also survived by his brothers, Bobby Cole and his wife, Betty of Morristown, Tenn., Louis Cole and his wife, Joyce of Botetourt, Meriman Cole and his wife, Cathy of California; sisters, Minnie Chewning and her husband, Bobby of Roanoke, and Betty Pritchard of Roanoke; several nieces and nephews; and a special puppy, Mitzi. A memorial service will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 12, 2000, at Oakey's Vinton Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements by Oakey's Vinton Chapel. on December 11, 2000.9

Census Records

1940Dwelling 79, District 119-10, Roanoke, Virginia3

Family 1

Joyce Weddle
Marriage*Thomas Donald "Don" Cole married Joyce Weddle.2 
Children
  • Cathy Cole9
  • Connie Cole9

Family 2

Helene Bouck b. 1939, d. January 13, 2007
Marriage*Thomas Donald "Don" Cole married Helene Bouck in 1980.2,8 

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  2. [S4166] Cole Family Tree, online http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/48572787/person/20135151409
  3. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Pritchard obituary in the Mar 8, 2007 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Louis Eugene Cole obituary in the Oct 30, 2013 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Wesley Cole obituary in the Mar 12, 2014 edition.
  7. [S9] Unknown subject, unknown file number, SSDI, U.S. Social Security Administrations Death Master File.
  8. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Helene Cole obituary in the Jan 17, 2007 edition.
  9. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Thomas D. Cole obituary in the Dec 11, 2000 edition.

Louis Eugene Cole1,2

M, b. circa 1935, d. October 12, 2013
FatherThomas Marvin Cole3,1,2,4,5 b. December 17, 1904, d. August 28, 1961
MotherGladys Nellie Sears3,1,2,4,5 b. January 13, 1908, d. December 26, 1966
     Louis Eugene Cole was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.2 He was born circa 1935 at Roanoke, Virginia.1,2 He married Joyce Givens circa 1953.2 Louis Eugene Cole died on October 12, 2013 at Fort Myers, Lee Co., Florida.2 He Louis Eugene Cole, 78, of N. Fort Myers, Fla., and formerly of Roanoke, Va., went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, October 12, 2013, after living a full and happy life. Louis was born in Roanoke, where he met his wife, Joyce while in Junior High School. He attended Jefferson High School before enlisting in the United States Navy. He rose to the rank of Master Chief before retiring with a career spanning 23 years. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. After retiring from the Navy, Louis resided in Waukegan, Ill., where he was plant manager of Chicago Boiler Company. After retiring from Chicago Boiler, Louis and Joyce moved back to their childhood home of Roanoke, Va., where they resided for many years before moving to N. Fort Myers, Fla., where the climate suited their lifestyle better. Louis loved to be out in the warm weather, where he enjoyed golf and lounging by the pool. But his most favorite times were when his family was all gathered together. Louis was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Gladys Cole; brother, Don Cole; and sister, Betty Pritchard. Louis is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Joyce (Givens) Cole; children, Cindy Whitecotton (Frank), Terri Hill (Glen), Vicky Grapel (Kenny), Katie Davis (Larry) and Louis (Butch) Cole Jr; grandchildren, David Hill, Danielle Schmitz, Rebecca Davis, Brandon Cole, Larissa Joma, Jessica Hassan, and Lance James; sister, Minnie K. Chewing; and brothers, Robert M. Cole and Wesley (Twiddles) Cole. Although Louis will be missed greatly by family and friends, many loving memories will remain forever. There will be a Celebration of Life at 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2013, at Oakey's North Chapel on Peters Creek Road. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the Celebration of Life. His ashes will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. on October 30, 2013.2

Census Records

1940Dwelling 79, District 119-10, Roanoke, Virginia1

Family

Joyce Givens
Marriage*Louis Eugene Cole married Joyce Givens circa 1953.2 
Children
  • Cindy Cole2
  • Terri Cole2
  • Katie Cole2
  • Louis Eugene "Butch" Cole Jr.2
  • Vicky L. Cole2

Citations

  1. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Louis Eugene Cole obituary in the Oct 30, 2013 edition.
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Pritchard obituary in the Mar 8, 2007 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Wesley Cole obituary in the Mar 12, 2014 edition.

Merriman Wesley "Wes" Cole1,2,3,4

M, b. October 29, 1940, d. February 21, 2014
FatherThomas Marvin Cole1,3,5,4 b. December 17, 1904, d. August 28, 1961
MotherGladys Nellie Sears1,3,5,4 b. January 13, 1908, d. December 26, 1966
     Merriman Wesley "Wes" Cole was born on October 29, 1940 at Roanoke, Virginia.6 He married Kathleen D. "Kathy" Smeltzer on July 21, 1962 at Fresno Co., California.7 Merriman Wesley "Wes" Cole died on February 21, 2014 at San Bruno, San Mateo Co., California, at age 73.4 He Merriman Wesley (Wes) Cole, (Twiddles), 73, of San Bruno, Calif., passed away February 21, 2014 in San Bruno. He was a son of Thomas M. and Gladys (Sears) Cole. He was preceded in death by brothers, Thomas D. Cole and Louis E. Cole (Joyce); and sister, Betty Cole Pritchard. Wes is survived by wife, Kathy; sons, David and Larry (Kris); daughter, Robin; grandsons, Wesley and Seth; granddaughter, Emily; brother, Bobby Cole (Betty) of Morristown, Tenn; sister, Minnie C. Chewning (Bobby) of Roanoke, Va; 15 nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Post 409 in San Bruno, California on March 16, 2014. on March 12, 2014.4

Family

Kathleen D. "Kathy" Smeltzer
Marriage*He married Kathleen D. "Kathy" Smeltzer on July 21, 1962 at Fresno Co., California.7 
Children
  • David Cole4
  • Larry Cole4
  • Robin Cole4

Citations

  1. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Sears Houff obituary in the Mar 31, 1999 edition.
  2. [S4166] Cole Family Tree, online http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/48572787/person/20135151409
  3. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Louis Eugene Cole obituary in the Oct 30, 2013 edition.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Merriman Wesley Cole obituary in the Mar 12, 2014 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Rosa Pritchard obituary in the Mar 8, 2007 edition.
  6. [S1235] Ancestry.com, U.S. Public Records Index, Volume 1.
  7. [S1450] Sacramento, California Department of Health Services, California Marriage Index, 1960-1985.

Byrd Garland Cole1,2

M, b. July 30, 1804, d. October 22, 1896
FatherDavid Cole b. 1775, d. 1830
MotherRachel Thrash b. 1780, d. March 26, 1870
     Byrd Garland Cole was born on July 30, 1804 at Buncombe Co., North Carolina.2,3 He married Sarah Gudger circa 1824.2 Byrd Garland Cole married Frances Raines circa 1839.4 Byrd Garland Cole died on October 22, 1896 at Walker Co., Alabama, at age 92.3 He Byrd Cole, age 92 died at his home on Sipsey River, this county, on the 22 ultimate. He was born in Buncombe County, N.C. about the year 1804 where he grew to manhood and lived (there) until 33 years old, then moved to Walker County, located on the Sipsey River in the west end of this county where he lived for 60 years until the Invitable Summons. Death came to remove the Celestial Reward waiting all, who like him, prove faithful to the End. He was the perfect type of rugged honesty and integerity. He leaves a wife, many relatives and friends to mourn his departure. on November 4, 1896.3

Census Records

1840Walker Co., AlabamaThe enumeration reads 1 male under 5, 1 male 5-10, 1 male 10-15, 1 male 30-40, 2 females under 5, 2 females 10-15, and 1 female 30-405
1850Dwelling 233, District 12, Walker Co., Alabama4
1860Dwelling 613, Eastern Division, Walker Co., Alabama6

Occupation

1850Farmer4
1860Farmer6

Family 1

Sarah Gudger d. circa 1840
Marriage*Byrd Garland Cole married Sarah Gudger circa 1824.2 
Children

Family 2

Frances Raines b. circa 1823
Marriage*Byrd Garland Cole married Frances Raines circa 1839.4 
Children

Citations

  1. [S748] Janice Smyth, Newfound Baptist Church Cemetery, Leicester, Buncombe Co., NC.
  2. [S108] Jefferson Glass, "Cole Family," e-mail to Scott Schaffer, Jul 12, 2003.
  3. [S1056] Mountain Eagle News, From the Byrd Cole obituary in Nov 4, 1896 edition.
  4. [S153] National Archives and Records Administration, 1850 United States Federal Census.
  5. [S414] National Archives and Records Administration, 1840 United States Federal Census.
  6. [S301] National Archives and Records Administration, 1860 United States Federal Census.
  7. [S81] Janice Smyth, "Cole Family Researcher Janice Smyth," e-mail to Scott Schaffer, 2001-2005.

John Lennis Prillaman1,2,3,4

M, b. May 28, 1926, d. January 18, 2018
FatherJohn Tyler Prillaman5,1,6,7,8,9,10,3,11,4 b. May 18, 1897, d. December 29, 1975
MotherElvada Esther Conner5,1,6,7,8,9,10,3,11,4 b. September 26, 1897, d. April 12, 1990
     John Lennis Prillaman was born on May 28, 1926 at Copper Hill, Floyd Co., Virginia.1,3 He married Peggy Ann Wingate on October 21, 1950 at Roanoke, Virginia.1,2,3,4 John Lennis Prillaman died on January 18, 2018 at Virginia at age 91.4 He John Lennis Prillaman, 91, of Martinsville, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2018. He was the son of Elvada Conner and John Tyler Prillaman of Copper Hill, Va. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Wingate Prillaman; grandson, William David Malkiewicz; three brothers, Thornton, Alton, and Donald Prillaman; and two sisters, Lelah Allah Prillaman and Virginia Prillaman Carmack. He is survived by one son, and daughter-in-law, David and Barbara Prillaman of Front Royal, Va; one daughter, Deborah Prillaman of Martinsville, Va; a grandson and his wife, Rick and Pam Malkiewicz of Laplata, Md; and three great-grandchildren, Nick, Grace, and Ben. Family visitation will begin at 1 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 26, 2018 at Norris Funeral Services, Martinsville, Va. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Lung Association or the American Red Cross Disaster Fund. on January 21, 2018.4

Census Records

1930Dwelling 134, District 11, Locust Grove, Floyd Co., Virginia7
1940Dwelling 140, District 32-14, Locust Grove, Floyd Co., Virginia10

Family

Peggy Ann Wingate b. September 6, 1930, d. December 7, 2013
Marriage*John Lennis Prillaman married Peggy Ann Wingate on October 21, 1950 at Roanoke, Virginia.1,2,3,4 
Children
  • David Lennis Prillaman1,2,4,3
  • Deborah Ann Prillaman1,2,4

Citations

  1. [S297] Ellen Stanley Rogers & Norris Prillaman Miller, The Prillaman Family, Descendants of Jacob Prillaman.
  2. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Peggy Wingate Prillaman obituary in the Dec 10, 2013 edition.
  3. [S5130] Virginia Department of Health, Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014.
  4. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the John Lennis Prillaman obituary in the Jan 21, 2018 edition.
  5. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Elvada Conner Prillaman obituary in the Apr 14, 1990 edition.
  6. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Donald Quinn Prillaman obituary in the Nov 26, 2004 edition.
  7. [S118] National Archives and Records Administration, 1930 United States Federal Census.
  8. [S116] Floyd Press, From the Leila Aleia Prillaman obituary in an undated edition.
  9. [S116] Floyd Press, From the John Tyler Prillaman obituary in the Jan 1, 1976 edition.
  10. [S3353] National Archives and Records Administration, 1940 United States Federal Census.
  11. [S102] Roanoke Times, From the Virginia Alice Prillaman Carmack obituary in the Feb 5, 2017 edition.