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Obituaries

The Blossom Box

Garrett and Beverly Lee, Owners

Kim Horner, Manager of the Blossom  Box

Your loved one never leaves our care. We own and operate GFH Crematory, Inc in Big Stone Gap. We are the Exclusive Providers for Wise and Lee Co.

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Gilliam Funeral Home will honor all pre-need contracts from other funeral establishments. 

Joyce Ann Horne

Joyce Ann Horne

July 9, 2026


Wise, VA - With profound sadness and loving remembrance, Joyce Ann Horne, entered into the presence of her Lord on July 9, 2026, at the age of 90. She was a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, treasured great-grandmother, and proud great-great-grandmother whose life was a beautiful example of faith, love, and selfless devotion.
Joyce was born on January 13, 1936. Throughout her life, she was known for her unwavering love for her family. She found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved, creating a home filled with kindness and laughter.
She was a member of the Wise Baptist Church.
Joyce had a lifelong love of reading. She could often be found with a good book in hand, delighting in stories that inspired, educated, and brought her peace. She appreciated the quiet moments that reading provided and shared her love of learning with those around her.
Above all else, Joyce treasured her family. She was the loving and devoted wife of William Carl Horne Sr., sharing a lifetime of love, commitment, and cherished memories together. As a mother, she provided endless encouragement to her children, always placing their happiness and well-being before her own.
Nothing brought Joyce greater happiness than her grandchildren and the generations that followed. She treasured every visit, and filled their lives with love and unforgettable memories.
Joyce is survived by her devoted husband, William Carl Horne Sr.; her loving children, Patricia Caldwell and husband Ernest, and William Carl Horne Jr. and wife Rebecca; her cherished grandchildren, Brandi Harris, Georgia Horne, and Liam Horne; her beloved great-grandchildren, Coy Roop and wife Sadra, and Cayse Roop; and her precious great-great-grandchild, Emerson Roop.
She will be remembered for her gentle smile and quiet strength. Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and the values she instilled will continue to guide them for generations to come.
Although her family mourns her passing, they find peace in knowing she has been welcomed into her eternal home. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love a gift that will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life honoring Joyce will be held at a later date. The family will announce the details when arrangements have been finalized.
"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23
Joyce's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered prayers, love, and support during this difficult time. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Horne family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Sallyann Dunton

Sallyann Dunton

July 9, 2026

Big Stone Gap, VA -Sallyann Dunton (Haynes) passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026 at home.
Sally was born in Gardner, Massachusetts on April 7th, 1945 to Eino and Sylvia Haynes. She attended Oakmont High School in Westminster, Massachusetts. She was employed at Naukeag Hospital for many years, and worked as medical transcriptionist in later life. She was a congregant of Christ Episcopal Church in Big Stone Gap, VA, as well as the current vice president of her local chapter of AARP, a volunteer and member of the Auxiliary at Lonesome Pine Hospital, a member of the Kingsport Senior Center, a volunteer and member of Friends of the Museum, a board member of Appalachian Cultural Arts Center, and a member and longtime supporter of Pro Art.
Sally was preceded in death by her parents, Eino and Sylvia Haynes; her brother, William Heikkila; her brother-in-law, Don Poole; and her beloved son, Edwin Cowan Dunton III.
She is survived by her daughter, Dr. Theresa Dunton DC; her granddaughter, Mollie McGonagill and son-in-law, Brent Sloan, her granddaughter, Maeve McGonagill and partner, Austin Falin, her granddaughter, Millie McGonagill and partner, Michael Rothgaber, her grandson, Liam McGonagill and partner, Abi Charlebois; her sister, Nancy Poole-Beaudoin and brother-in-law Richard Beaudoin; her niece, Jennifer Freo and her niece’s sons, Kalen and Seth Flanders; her nephew, Nathan Poole; and her constant feline companion, Little Buddy.
Sally was a loving mother and grandmother, and a friend to all who knew her. She was affectionately called “Grammy” by many. She left a positive impact on her community and her loss will be deeply felt by all who were lucky enough to know and love her.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026 from 1:00pm-3:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave W., in Big Stone Gap, VA. The service will follow at 4:00pm at Christ Episcopal Church, 106 Clinton Ave., E, also in Big Stone Gap, VA with The Reverend Ray Moore officiating. The family requests colorful and/or floral attire be worn in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Sally’s name may be made to Donate Life America (donatelife.net), or the Southwest Virginia Museum (P.O. Box 142, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219).
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve Mrs. Dunton’s family.
To view the obituary and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Tracy Camden

Tracy Camden

July 5, 2026

In Loving Memory of Tracy Camden Sr.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Tracy Camden Sr., who entered eternal rest on July 5, 2026, at the age of 67. Born on May 30, 1959, Tracy lived a life defined by hard work, resilience, loyalty, and an unwavering love for the people he held close.

Tracy shared his life with his beloved wife, Carol Camden, whose love and devotion were the foundation of their family. Together they built a lifetime of memories that will forever be cherished.

A proud truck driver, Tracy found more than just a career behind the wheel of a big rig—he found purpose. He loved the open road and took great pride in the work he did. Trucking wasn’t simply his job; it was a way of life, and he dedicated many years to the profession with determination and pride.

Tracy was preceded in death by his beloved son, Kurt Camden, whose memory remained forever in his heart.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Keisha Camden; Tracy Camden Jr. and his wife, Christine; Alex Camden and his wife, Michaela; Coty Camden; Bella Camden; and Darrin Camden. He also welcomed Jacqueline Risner and Shauna Defeo into the family as daughters-in-law and loved them as his own.

One of Tracy’s greatest joys was his family. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense pride. Whether through laughter, stories, advice, or simply spending time together, he created memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Those who knew Tracy will remember his strong work ethic, his straightforward nature, his sense of humor, and the love he showed to those closest to him. He believed family wasn’t defined solely by blood, but by love, loyalty, and the bonds built over a lifetime. His presence brought comfort, strength, and countless unforgettable moments to those fortunate enough to call him family or friend.

In accordance with Tracy’s wishes, he will be cremated. A private celebration of his life will be held among family at a later date to honor the memories they shared and the legacy he leaves behind.

Though he may be gone from our sight, Tracy’s spirit lives on in the stories told around the table, the miles traveled on open highways, and the hearts of all who loved him. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Tracy Camden.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Robert Lee Rollins

Robert Lee Rollins

July 4, 2026

Big Stone Gap, VA- Robert Lee Rollins, 76, passed away on July 4, 2026 at his home. He was a lifelong resident of Big Stone Gap. He was active in the Oak Grove Baptist Church Food Pantry and he loved helping others. He worked in construction most of his live and enjoyed mowing for the past 20 years. He was a Christian.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Terry and Ella Falin Rollins.
Robert is survived by his children, Robert, Jr., Mike and Lou, and his siblings, Estelle Rollins, George Rollins and Doris Barnett.
Final arrangements will be private.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Robert Rollins.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Jean Evelyn Messer

Jean Evelyn Messer

JULY 2, 2026

Big Stone Gap, VA- Jean Evelyn (Taylor) Messer was called home in the early morning of July 2, 2026 after 90 years of life.
She was a woman of incredible faith and practiced her faith daily. She was a quiet woman with a great sense of humor and often joked with her family. Jean devoted her life to God and her family. She loved to cook and can. She was an avid gardener and took great pride in taking care of the flowers around her home.
Jean was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband James “Jim” Conley Messer; a son Rocky Alan Messer; Her parents Glen and Myrtle Taylor; two brothers Robert Taylor and Donald Taylor
Jean is survived by her son Steve Messer and husband, Calvin Lockwood, of Greenville, SC; a daughter Lori Gilliam and husband, Martin Gilliam, of Big Stone Gap, VA; two granddaughters Allison Gilliam of Big Stone Gap, VA and Ashley Messer of Bristol; grandson Michael Messer and wife Marie of Church Hill, TN; two great grandsons Michael Messer, Jr of Maryland and Maverick Messer of Bristol; and a brother Dale Taylor and wife Ruble; Duffield, VA; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.
Jean requested no memorial or church service. Family and friends are asked to meet on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave, W., Big Stone Gap, VA, by 10:30am to go in procession to Powell Valley Memorial Gardens for a graveside song and prayer.
Memorial donations may be made to the Southwest Virginia Cancer Center, 671 Hwy 58E, Norton, VA 24273.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Messer family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Charlotte Atkins

Charlotte Atkins

July 1, 2026

Derby, Va - Charlotte Atkins, 92, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. She was a lifelong resident of Derby, VA, but lived her last 2 ½ years at Preston Place Assisted Living in Kingsport, TN. She was a devoted and faithful servant of Jesus Christ. She was a faithful member of Derby Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Lee Atkins; daughter, Kathy Kennedy; granddaughter, Leigh Ann Kennedy Bolinskey; grandson, Travis Atkins and son-in-law, Gary Kennedy.
Charlotte is survived by her daughters, Susan Horton of Big Stone Gap, VA and Cindy Leedy & husband Patrick of Kingsport, TN; four grandchildren, Adam Kennedy, Ryan Leedy, Courtney Ragan and Chad Leedy; thirteen great-grandchildren, Tanner Kennedy, Colton Kennedy, Addison Kennedy, Kyla Leedy, Easton Leedy, Harper Leedy, Isaiah Leedy, Holston Leedy, Jackson Leedy, Hadley Ragan, Shepherd Ragan, Brycen Bolinskey and Jasmine Bolinskey; several nieces and nephews, and special friends, Louise Garrison and Colleen Cox. A special thanks to the entire staff of Preston Place for their exceptional care and love for her.
The family will receive friends on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:00pm.
The graveside service will follow at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens, 5650 Powell Valley Road, Big Stone Gap, VA
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Atkins family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Robin Gaye Dotson

Robin Gaye Dotson

July 1, 2026

Wise, VA – Robin Gaye Dotson, 67, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Norton Community Hospital, Norton, VA. She was born in Tucson, AZ, but lived most of her life in Wise, VA. She was a nurse at Heritage Hall Healthcare in Wise, VA for most of her career. She had most recently worked for PTI Transportation Co. She loved genealogy, sewing, making jewelry and Monopoly. Robin was of the Latter-day Saint faith, and was a loving mother, daughter, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Patrick and Betty Jane Eckrel Miller.
Robin is survived by her children, Brandy Mechel Church of Big Stone Gap, VA, Robert Patrick Honeycutt of Wise, VA and Casey Dotson of Wise, VA; grandchildren, Kala Meshell Moore (Alexandria) and Jasmine-Lynn Honeycutt and one great-grandson, Raylynn Jay Sexton.
Final arrangements will be private.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Robin Dotson.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

James E. "Poss" Bolling

James E. "Poss" Bolling

June 25, 2026

James Edward “Poss” Bolling, 81, of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, passed away on June 25, 2026, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, after a valiant battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
James was born in Appalachia, Virginia, to Edward and Stella Bolling on September 2, 1944. He grew up in Appalachia and Big Stone Gap, where he graduated from Powell Valley High School in 1962. He received the nickname “Poss” when he was chosen next-to-last for a pick-up baseball game in elementary school, and the team captain said, “I’ll take that little ‘un that looks like a possum.” He wasn’t wild about the nickname, but it stuck.
Poss attended the University of Kentucky, where he played football from 1962 to 1965. He later completed his bachelor’s degree at Clinch Valley College and earned a master’s degree at Union College. In 1966, James joined the United States Air Force and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in 1970.
James married the love of his life, Nancy Bouton Bolling, on June 25, 1972. He worked as a coal miner before beginning a career in public education that would be the calling that shaped his life.
In 1974, he began teaching at Powell Valley High School and earned his most beloved nickname, “Coach,” working with student athletes in sports including football and wrestling. In 1982, he coached the Powell Valley Viking football team to victory in the Virginia High School League state championship. Poss worked as the assistant principal at Powell Valley and later at Appalachia High School before retiring as director of secondary education of the Wise County school system in 2002.
Poss was deeply rooted in his faith and humbly served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at East Stone Gap Baptist. He enjoyed fishing, dogs, golf, and working in his garden. But few things brought him as much joy as telling tales with his beloved friends and family.
James leaves behind his cherished wife, Nancy Bolling; his son Ben Bolling and son-in-law Jon Cochran. He is also survived by his siblings Dan Bolling and Cheryl Bryington, along with many beloved extended family members and precious friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Stella Bolling.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Mountain Empire Older Citizens’ Children’s Services, P. O. Box 888, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
The family will receive friends 11:00AM- 1:00PM on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 1:00PM with Dr. Lonnie Brooks officiating. Burial will follow at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens, 5650 Powell Valley Rd, Big Stone Gap, VA.
Pallbearers will be Earl Jackson, Brian Jackson, Wayne McKinney, Troy Chandler, Brian Hughes, and John Snodgrass. The Coach asked that all former students and football players be recognized as honorary pallbearers.
Coach Bolling will be remembered for his profound love for his family, friends, and community. His legacy endures through his students and the lives he touched through service.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of James Bolling. To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit Gilliam Funeral Home's website or Facebook page.

Herbert Clifton Williams

Herbert Clifton Williams

June 26, 2026

Appalachia, VA – Herbert Clifton Williams, 88, passed away Friday, June 26, 2026 at his home.
A lifelong resident of Appalachia, VA, Herbert proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, having served in the Philippines and Japan. He was a truck driver for a majority of his life, both hauling coal and over-the-road. He loved to hunt and fish. He was a member of First Apostolic Church in Appalachia, VA, where he donated many hours to working on the building. He enjoyed worshipping the Lord with the other members and his family. Herbert was a loving husband, father, son and brother.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Virginia (Herron) Williams and siblings, Betty Cook, Gladys Heatherly and Boyd Williams.
Herbert is survived by his wife of 69 years, R. Nadine Williams; children, Chris Williams, Sr. (Dana) of Appalachia, VA, Anthony D. (Dawne) Williams of Appalachia, VA and Brian C. Williams of Melbourne, FL; sister, Carolyn Cox (Jimmy) of Big Stone Gap, VA; grandchildren, Christopher Williams, Jr., Wesley Williams and Whitley Williams; great-grandchildren, Gauge Williams and Camden Smith; several nieces, nephews and cousins, and a host of friends. The family would like to extend special thanks to Shawne Bishop for her love and friendship over the years.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 12:00-2:00 pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm with Pastor Johnny Aistrop officiating.
The graveside service will follow at American Legion Cemetery, 5015 Powell Valley Road, Big Stone Gap, VA. Dwayne Bishop, Wesley Williams, Steve Bowen, Gauge Williams, Paul Smith and David Bowen will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Williams family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Theresia Mae Hyatt

Theresia Mae Hyatt

June 17, 2026

Big Stone Gap, VA - Theresia Mae Hyatt, 73, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
She was a lifelong resident of Appalachia, VA and Big Stone Gap, VA. She obtained an associate degree from MECC in Water Treatment. She worked for the Commonwealth of Virginia in Wise County/Dickenson County, serving as Water Treatment Operator. She was a caregiver to many elderly, in the area, including Gladys Woodward, Arlene Sharpe, Ms. Riggs and Denver Shortt, among others. She loved her dog, “Buttercup.” She enjoyed riding motorcycles and visited Sturgis, SD. She was of the Baptist faith.
Theresia was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Hyatt, Jr.; daughter, Betty Lynn McGuire; parents, Bill Joe and Betty Jean (Grimes) Robinson; two brothers, Billy Joe Robinson, Jr. and Robert Wayne Robinson and one sister, Tammy Jean Eads
Surviving are her son, William McGuire, III (Linda) of Appalachia, VA and Charles David Anderson of Big Stone Gap, VA; siblings, Dianna “Bodie” Giles (Mark), of Big Stone Gap, VA and Pamela Lamb (Harold) of London, Ky; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Theresia is also survived by special people, who helped her whenever she needed and through her illness, granddaughter, Sydney Stapleton and cousin, Tina and Michael Joseph.
Theresia wishes was to be cremated, and a memorial service will be announced by the family at a later date.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Theresia Hyatt.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page

Thelma Jane Dean Salyer

Thelma Jane Dean Salyer

June 16, 2026

`Thelma Jane Dean Salyer
February 4, 1934 – June 16, 2026

Thelma Jane Dean Salyer was called home to her Heavenly Father on June 16, 2026, after 92 beautiful years of grace-filled living. Born February 4, 1934, Thelma was a woman whose faith was the quiet, steady heartbeat behind everything she did — a light that never dimmed, even on the hardest days.
For 72 years, she walked hand in hand with the love of her life, Joe Belle Salyer. Their marriage was a testament to the kind of love that endures — rooted in faith, nurtured through seasons of joy and struggle, and deepened with every passing year. Together they built not just a home, but a legacy.
That legacy lives on in her eight beloved children: Joe Belle (Nancy) Salyer, Jr. , Rebecca (the late Terry) Powers, Tanya (Eric) McCrite, Randy (the late Donna) Salyer, Tim (Lisa) Salyer, Jane (Landon) Hunsucker, Anthony Salyer, and Angela (Tim) Cox. Thelma poured herself into each of them, and her love rippled outward through 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren — a family tree rooted in her faith and watered by her prayers.
She is also survived by her siblings, Betty (Don) Stewart and Jim Dean, as well as several nieces and a nephew, who shared in a lifetime of cherished memories.
Thelma actively and compassionately served as a member of The Church of the Good Shepherd, The Rebeccas, The Wise Garden Club, The Wise Senior Center, J.J. Kelly Band Booster Club, and The Red Hat Society. She was well known for her love of cooking and baking and her food donations throughout the Wise community.
Honoring her wishes, cremation has taken place. A private memorial service to celebrate Thelma’s life will be held later.
Thelma lived by the truth that love is the greatest calling of all, and she answered it every single day. Those who knew her carry pieces of her spirit within them — her warmth, her wisdom, and her unwavering belief that God’s goodness endures forever.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”
— Psalms 23:6

Andrea Lynn Corrigan

Andrea Lynn Corrigan

June 14, 2026

Andrea Lynn Corrigan, 54 of Big Stone Gap, VA (formerly of Hopewell, VA) was healed and made whole on June 14, 2026, surrounded by family who loved her with all their hearts.
Andrea was born January 20, 1972 at Fort Dix, New Jersey to parents George Corrigan and Christa (Corrigan) Stewart. Andrea traveled extensively through Europe as part of a military family. She attended Prince George HS in Prince George, VA. Andrea worked at several jobs but loved her job at a pet store most of all. She spent several years in quality control at Porex where she made many dear and special friends. Her later years were committed to caring for others, including her father who has Parkinson’s Disease and an elder Wise County gentleman who called her his “Skeens Ridge girl”. Those who knew Andrea frequently commented that she was “all heart”. She had a quiet manner but was tough as they come. She loved her family and her dog Trooper fiercely. She was beautiful inside and out.
Andrea is survived by her father George Corrigan (Sherry), brother Marc Corrigan, half-brother Gary Meadowcroft (Kathleen), half-brother Tony Provencher (Paula), half-sister Thea Johnson, many cousins and special friends.
She is preceded in death by her mother Christa Stewart and her step-father Glenn Stewart.
A memorial visitation service will be held at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave W, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 on July 18th from 2-4pm. Brother Robert Hill will lead a brief service at 3:30pm. Andrea will be cremated per her wishes and scattered somewhere along the OBX of NC. She was especially enchanted by the wild ponies of Carova.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity. Some of Andrea’s favorites were the St Joseph’s Indian School, the Corolla Wild Horse Fund or Sarcoma research. Andrea had Leiomyosarcoma, a very rare and aggressive form of cancer which at 1% of diagnosed cancers gets very few research dollars. Andrea would be blessed by you remembering her in this way, as would her family.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Corrigan family.

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