Burch-Messier Funeral Home and Cremation Service

Burch-Messier Funeral Home and Cremation Service Burch-Messier Funeral Home was founded in 2005 by Chris Burch and John Messier. Their passion for f

Bennie Franklin Wolford, 84, of Bedford, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his family...
06/01/2026

Bennie Franklin Wolford, 84, of Bedford, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Bedford on March 17, 1942 a son of the late Joseph Daniel Wolford and Alice Johnson Wolford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Myrtle Wolford; his daughter, Cathy Wolford Branch; and his brother, Clifton Eugene Wolford, Sr.
Bennie was a hard worker; his first job started at the age of 7 delivering papers on his bike before school. He had multiple jobs throughout the years and he retired as a foreman at Rubatex.
He was a very thoughtful, humble and kind person. Bennie had a great love for his family and friends. He lived life to its fullest, enjoying his trips and making others smile. Bennie went out of his way to make everyone feel special and give encouragement, even a stranger he met on the street. He was intentional about giving compliments to brighten your day.
He is survived by his three daughters, Teresa Wolford Overstreet (David), Vicky Jo Wolford, Tammy Wolford Overstreet (Paul); his grandchildren, Allison Overstreet St***za (James), Wendy Leigh Ruff, Carmen Overstreet Amos (Jeff), Taylor Franklin Overstreet (April); Hannah Catherine Overstreet (Tim), Austin Alan Overstreet (Nicki); his great-grandchildren, Hallie, Brayden, Abigail, Khloe, Natalie, Madison, Michael, Tristan, Conner, Jeralyn and Leland; his special sister, Jennie Gayle Wilson (Melvin) many nieces, nephews, family, neighbors and friends including special niece, Sylvia Wolford and special friends, Rev. Carlton Duck, Dr. Kurt Hubach and Pat Overstreet, Sr.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to CASA of Central Virginia, PO Box 11373 Lynchburg, VA 24506.
A Celebration of his Life will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 5, 2026 at Walnut Street Chapel with Rev. Carlton Duck officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday, June 4, 2026 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut Street, Bedford.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Robert Joseph Tucker, Sr. "Joe", age 65 of Evington, Va passed away on May 24, 2026. Born on January 22, 1961 in Lynchb...
05/28/2026

Robert Joseph Tucker, Sr. "Joe", age 65 of Evington, Va passed away on May 24, 2026. Born on January 22, 1961 in Lynchburg.
Joe spent his life deeply rooted in the community he loved.
Joe was the beloved son of Bobby Tucker and the late Mary Tucker of Evington, Virginia
He is survived by his father; his brothers, Aubrey Tucker of Evington, Raymond Tucker of Gretna; sister, Betty Emerson of Altavista; and his children, Kim Tucker of Lynchburg and Joe Tucker Jr. of Richmond; grandchildren, Devin, Kyra, Jase and Will; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, who brought him immense joy.
He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Tucker; his sister, Emily Little of Evington; and his daughter, Rebecca Sue Tucker of Rustburg.
Joe was a man of Faith and an active member of The First Baptist Church in Evington, VA. His unwavering belief in God guided him throughout his life and provided comfort to those around him. His church community held a special place in his heart.
Joe has a zest for life that was evident to all who knew him. He cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. He found peace and happiness in nature and he also had a passion for sports cheering enthusiastically for the Dallas Cowboys and enjoying the thrill of Nascar racing.
Known for his silly and goofy personality, Joe had a unique ability to bring laughter and light into any room.
He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need
Joe's memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends who were touched by his vibrant spirit. May the love he shared continue to inspire those who carry forward his legacy.
He will be Laid to Rest at the Tucker's cemetery at a date set to be announced.
In lieu of flowers those wishing to honor Joe's memory are encouraged to spend time with their loved ones or enjoy the beauty of the outdoors as he so often did.
We will always hold him close in our hearts.
Forever missed but never forgotten.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Nancy Kaye Salyer “also known to others as Katy, Nanny Kate, or KK”, 74, of Bedford, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026...
05/26/2026

Nancy Kaye Salyer “also known to others as Katy, Nanny Kate, or KK”, 74, of Bedford, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026. She was born in Bedford, VA on June 14, 1951 a daughter of the late William Howard Salyer and Mary Jane Saunders Salyer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, David Lee Salyer; and son-in-law, Edward Lewis Overstreet, Jr.
She is survived by her daughter, Anita Ann Overstreet; son, Travis Wilton Radford; grandchildren, Kristopher Blake Radford, Austin Nicholas Radford, Joshua Michael Overstreet, Luchian Lee Radford-Williams; great-grandson, Rhett Walker Radford; brother, Joseph Martin Salyer and wife Barbara; sister-in-law, Marietta Mae Salyer; nieces, April Dawn Phillips, Summer Diane Salyer, Rebecca Lee Salyer, Kimberly Pearl Torres; nephew, Jimmy Lee Armel; and special friend, Bonnie Hartman.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff of Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center and Oakwood Manor for their care of Katy.
A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Friday, May 29, 2026 at Thaxton Baptist Church with Rev. Randy Krantz officiating. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 5:00 p.m. A private burial with family will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Bonnie Frances RakesOctober 29, 1923-May 14, 2026Bonnie, Fran, Mama, Grandma Nana…Known and loved by all who knew her.Gr...
05/22/2026

Bonnie Frances Rakes
October 29, 1923-May 14, 2026
Bonnie, Fran, Mama, Grandma Nana…Known and loved by all who knew her.
Greeted in Heaven by her husband, Heber, and her children that preceded her, as well as many other family members.
Born in Illinois, her family relocated to CA, where she met her soul mate. While living in San Francisco they received news that would literally change their destiny. The ocean air was deadly for one of their children. They bravely made a decision to relocate and change the destiny of their whole family. They attacked their new life on a dairy farm. No excuses, no complaints, just hard work and determination.
“She would do the dirtiest of dairy work, while at the same time being the daintiest of ladies.”
She worked on the farm, raised four children, and worked in the hospital. After retirement they moved to the city, but she wasn’t done yet. She worked part time at Rush. She refused to sit around and do nothing. After her husband’s death, she slowed down and moved to Virginia to live with her daughter, Karen. She went back to CA after a few years, before returning to Virginia two years ago.
We are beyond grateful to the staff at Bedford County Nursing home for the excellent care and love they gave her. We are also very thankful for the staff at Good Samaritan Hospice. They were there for our whole family and treated her with dignity and respect.
Bonnie loved and served Jesus Christ with her whole heart, and her greatest wish is to see all of us again one day, in Heaven.
Bonnie’s Celebration of Life will be at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Faith Fellowship, 217 W. Depot Street, Bedford. There will be a dinner following the service. All are welcome to attend.
Bonnie’s legacy includes 4 children, 12 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and 19 great-great grandchildren.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Daryl Layne “Tex” Stephens, 72, of Gladys, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026. He was born in Lynchburg, VA on February...
05/20/2026

Daryl Layne “Tex” Stephens, 72, of Gladys, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026. He was born in Lynchburg, VA on February 25, 1954 a son of the late Robert Stephens and Marjorie Rhodes Baker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his twin brother, David Stephens; and sister, Betty Rae Crist.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Virginia Davidson Stephens; daughters, Linda Rice and husband Billy, Tina Sprouse and husband David; son, Buddy Stephens and wife Melissa; grandchildren, Kendra Brown, Kara Eidson and husband Mark, Anthony Brown and wife Katie, Randy Sprouse, Dusty Sprouse and fiancée Maria, Tyler Stephens and wife Marie, John Tyler Roden; great-grandchildren, Ensley Brown, Sadie Eidson, Emberlyn Brown, Luke Eidson, Kourtney Sprouse, Ayden Sprouse, Dawson Sprouse, Bryson Collins, Ariana Collins; sister-in-law, Judy Stephens; and nephews, Brian Stephens and Lee Crist.
A Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Tree of Life Ministries, 2812 Greenview Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24502 with Pastor Mike Dodson officiating. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 6:00 p.m.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Monroe George Baldwin, Jr., 76, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026. Born on December 9, 1949, Monroe was the son of t...
05/19/2026

Monroe George Baldwin, Jr., 76, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026. Born on December 9, 1949, Monroe was the son of the late Delores Mansfield Baldwin and Monroe George Baldwin, Sr. He graduated from Webster High School and attended the University of Wisconsin before earning a degree in Applied Science from CVCC in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1969.
A skilled craftsman with a strong work ethic and a passion for building, Monroe founded Baldwin Builders in 1977. Throughout his career, he built countless homes across Virginia and beyond, leaving behind a legacy of quality workmanship and dedication to his trade. In 1998, he joined Home Builders Institute, HBI, in Monroe, Virginia, where he remained until his retirement in 2025.
More than anything, Monroe treasured time spent with his family and grandchildren. Some of his happiest memories were made during trips to the cabin, attending the Maple Festival and the West Virginia State Fair, vacations at Surfside Beach, South Carolina, and his annual trips to Wisconsin to visit family and friends and enjoy cherished family reunions. He also found joy in the kitchen and was well known for his delicious barbecue, homemade breads, and especially his famous cinnamon rolls, which became a favorite tradition among family and friends.
PRECEDED IN DEATH
In addition to his parents, Monroe was preceded in death by his beloved son, Paul Thurmond Baldwin, and his sister, Betty Baldwin Tuttle.
SURVIVED BY
He is survived by his devoted partner, Lola Scruggs; his son, Monroe George Baldwin III and wife Kellie; six cherished grandchildren, Tristen (wife Casey), Sierra, Jessa, Lillie, Bella, and
Kaden; and his treasured great-granddaughter, Emmie Rayne.
He is also survived by his brother, Pete T. Baldwin and wife Cindy; his loving sister, Irene B. LeGrand; brother-in-law, David J. Tuttle; and his extended Wisconsin family, Sylvia Paulus and Sandy Staples. Monroe also leaves behind numerous beloved nieces and nephews, faithful friends Steve Skinner and Mike Miller, along with many other relatives, friends, and loved ones who will deeply miss him.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tri Le and the staff at UVA Hospital, Dr. Susannah Cooper, PA Autumn Green, and the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center for their compassionate care and support throughout Monroe’s illness. Special thanks are also extended to the Westminster at Home Palliative Care Team for the medical care, compassion, and hope they provided. Your kindness was a source of strength to Monroe and his family and will always be remembered.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Thelma Lafon Mayhew, 95, of Bedford, passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026. She was born in Montgomery County, VA on Aug...
05/15/2026

Thelma Lafon Mayhew, 95, of Bedford, passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026. She was born in Montgomery County, VA on August 20, 1930 a daughter of the late Clyde Alphonso Lafon and Bessie Smith Lafon. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Sheila Cutshaw; sister, Glenna Reed; and brother, Warren Lafon.
She was retired from Rubatex.
Thelma is survived by her daughter, Donna Caldwell; brother, Kenneth Lee Lafon; grandchildren, Sheri Rose (Russell), Tina Barker (Dale), Teresa Ashwell, Kelli Harvey; great-grandchildren, Holly Walters (Jake), Austin Mitchell, Haley Stinnette (Jordan), Dylan Mitchell, Rylee Buzzeo (Michael), Cameron Goff, Kendall Wilburn (Isaac), Noah Goff, Miranda Harvey, Mackenzie Tilley (Tyler); great-great-grandchildren, Lydia Byers, Layne Byers, Brayden Douglas, Harper Stinnette, Brooks Buzzeo, Lain Tilley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank Bedford County Nursing Home for the wonderful care Thelma received.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Church of the Great Shepherd Cemetery with Rev. Keith Floyd officiating. Family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., on Monday at Walnut Street Chapel, 1235 Walnut Street, Bedford.

John K. Ketwig, 78, of Bedford, died on Saturday, May 9, 2026. He is survived by his wife, Carolynn; daughters, Emily (...
05/12/2026

John K. Ketwig, 78, of Bedford, died on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
He is survived by his wife, Carolynn; daughters, Emily (Stephen) Preite and Thersa (Jason) Sarkissian; and grandsons, Cameron, Blake, and Jaxton.
John was an author, writer and speaker. John, a Vietnam Veteran, was dedicated in supporting Veteran's issues. He had a long career in the automotive industry. John was a lifetime member of VVAW.
John's wishes were to be cremated with no services.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

On May 5th, 2026, Patricia D Wise passed away after long suffering with dementia, and diabetes. She passed away quietly ...
05/11/2026

On May 5th, 2026, Patricia D Wise passed away after long suffering with dementia, and diabetes. She passed away quietly in her sleep.
All who knew her loved her radiant smile; she had a great laugh. Pat loved to laugh, loved music, singing along with her daughters, family time in her pool, Pat loved dancing and enjoying time out with her friends. Pat was a “Jill of all trades”, she could fix/repair anything she put her mind to, she was amazing!
She was born Karen Patricia Lukin, on November 16, 1944, on her Mother Frances’s birthday, a great gift for her father Sherwood too! She was the 6th of 7 children!
Pat, unfortunately, lost her eldest daughter, Sherry Jennings, in 2021, December, she is survived by her other daughters, Karen Powell, Kimberly Dowdy, husband Todd, and Crystal Daniels, we will miss her very much!
Pat has 6 Grandchildren with 8 Great grandchildren, Crystal Daniels, her daughter, Sophia, Reese Hight, his son and daughter, Mason & Trinity, Fallon Berryman, husband Wayne, their daughter, Peyton, Rhianna Powell, her sons, Ethan, Noah, Samuel, Megan Jennings, her son, Dylan and Shannon Cregger,
Mom, may you rest in peace; while enjoying seeing Sherry and all the family members you’ve lost through the years,
You will be missed, and you will be loved forever!
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

05/11/2026

Renée Wood Larsen, 78, passed away suddenly on May 3, 2026, in Lynchburg. Born and raised in Philadelphia, she carried the spirit, wit and resilience of her hometown with her throughout her life.
A proud alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, where she met her husband, Chris, Renée graduated in 1969 from the UPenn Dental Hygiene program. That education laid the foundation for a career she truly loved.
Following her husband’s graduation, the couple moved to his homeland of Canada, where she was warmly embraced by a new extended family. There, she built a home, raised her daughter and spent some of her happiest years - years filled with laughter, lively gatherings around the table, shared celebrations, countless adventures and lifelong friendships that remained dear to her heart. In 1993, she returned to settle in Virginia on a quiet tree-lined street she affectionately referred to as “Sleepy Hollow”, surrounded the best neighbors, in her charming Cape Cod.
Renée was never afraid of a journey, traveling the world and making the effort to visit friends and loved ones scattered far and wide across the United States.
In her professional life, she was deeply dedicated and exceptionally compassionate. Her patients - both in Virginia and north of the border - adored her, often following her from office to office over the years, a testament to the trust, warmth and care she gave. Though she spent decades enthusiastically peering into people’s mouths – something most of us would politely avoid – she made dental visits feel warm, personal and full of laughter.
Simply put, Renée was a wildly spirited, kind, unforgettable woman, and honestly, we would not have changed a thing about her. She loved fiercely, laughed loudly, spoke her mind without hesitation and made life far more interesting for everyone lucky enough to know her.
Left to remember and celebrate her are her former husband, Chris Larsen of Halifax, Canada; her cherished only-child, Erika, who was a constant source of pride, joy and love - and who she never missed an opportunity to drive a bit crazy; as well as many family members, dear friends, neighbors, work families and patients, all of whom have gone out of their way to share support, kind words, prayers, stories and condolences with Chris and Erika. We are deeply grateful for this outpouring of love, which has brought comfort beyond what words can fully express.
Plans for a celebration of life will be finalized soon - it’s proving a bit tricky, since it turns out someone this great didn’t leave us with a playbook for how to celebrate her properly.
Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.

Address

317 W Main Street
Bedford, VA
24523

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Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

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