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WHEEradio AM-1370 and at whee.net. Serving Martinsville, Henry County, and the surrounding area.

Severe storms possible on ThursdayStrong-to-severe storms with damaging winds are possible on Thursday. Expect increased...
06/17/2026

Severe storms possible on Thursday

Strong-to-severe storms with damaging winds are possible on Thursday. Expect increased cloud cover tonight and breezy conditions on Thursday, which could increase the risk of wildfires. Partly cloudy tonight, breezy, with a low of 68 and wind gusts up to 21 mph. Thursday will be partly sunny and hot with a high of 92, wind gusts up to 28 mph, and a 60% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy tomorrow night with a low of 67 and a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Ronnie Dale Earles, 69, of Axton, Virginia, entered his eternal rest Monday, June 15, 2026. He was born on June 15, 1957...
06/17/2026

Ronnie Dale Earles, 69, of Axton, Virginia, entered his eternal rest Monday, June 15, 2026. He was born on June 15, 1957, Ronnie was the son of the late George Leslie Earles and Ernestine Helen Flippen Earles.

Ronnie retired from the Virginia Department of Transportation after 36 years of faithful service, where he served as a Supervisor and earned the respect and admiration of those who worked alongside him.

Ronnie loved Jesus and anytime the church doors were open he was there. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time in his shop where he could "tinker" with just about anything, working on projects and fixing things. He enjoyed being on his tractor, working outdoors, and spending time in God's creation. One of his greatest joys was flat footing with his beloved wife, JoAnne. Ronnie never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He also had a deep appreciation for bluegrass music and enjoyed listening to the songs and sounds that brought him comfort and happiness throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving wife, JoAnne Haley Earles; his daughters, Anita Carter (Bruce), Rhonda East (Bobby), and Lori Coleman (Wes); his son, Brian Lawson (Bren); his stepmother, Diane Walden Earles; his sisters, Janice Spencer and Leslie Calhoun (Samuel); his brothers, Kenny Earles (Fran), J.T. Earles, Teddy Earles (Lily); eight grandchildren, Dakota Carter, Jenna Carawan (Drew), Dylan Lawson (Brooke), Sierra Sloan (Dustin), Malen East, Kelsey East, Isaiah Coleman, and Linsey Coleman; five great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Wright Funeral Service Martinsville Chapel with Pastor Mark Redd officiating. Interment will follow in the Earles Family Cemetery, 273 Collins Road, Axton, Virginia 24054. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice, Mailing address: 240 Commonwealth Blvd. West Unit 602-B Martinsville, Virginia, whose dedicated staff provided exceptional care and comfort during Ronnie's final days.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.

Donna Gillespe Zimmerman, 68, of Martinsville, Virginia, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2026. She was born in Roanoke, V...
06/17/2026

Donna Gillespe Zimmerman, 68, of Martinsville, Virginia, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2026. She was born in Roanoke, Virginia, on June 9, 1968, to the late Edward Lawson and Dorothy Atkinson.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Jean Donahue; and brother, Edward “Mike” Gillespe.

Donna attended Evangel Foursquare Church in Vinton, Virginia and Faith Tabernacle Pentecostal Church. She worked over twenty years as a veterinarian’s assistant, a fulfilling job where she poured her heart and soul into the animals she cared for. Donna loved music and camping; she had a way of making others comfortable, even when she was “talking junk.”

She is survived by her husband, Darby Lewis; daughter, Crystal Madison; sons, Michael M. Zimmerman, Jr., Jeremiah Zimmerman; sister, Sherry Moore (Mike); 11 grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Although services will be private, the family extends their sincere appreciation for the love and kindness that has been shown during their time of grief.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.

Louis Edward Powell, 85, of Virginia Beach, VA passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Sentara Virginia Beach General ...
06/17/2026

Louis Edward Powell, 85, of Virginia Beach, VA passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital. He was born on March 28, 1941, in Virginia to the late Thomas Burton Powell, Sr., and Gladys Wells Powell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Marie Hill Powell; sister, Betty Whitlow; and his brother, Thomas Powell, Jr.

Mr. Powell served in the National Guard and spent his career as an electrician with E.I. DuPont until his retirement. After retiring from E. I. DuPont, he worked as a courier for Carter Bank & Trust. He attended First Baptist Church of Martinsville, with his wife, Dorothy.

He is survived by his daughters, Joanna Powell Michel, and Janis Powell Foster (Richard); sisters, Ruth McClain, Glenda Powell, and Sharon Powell; grandchildren, Michael Carlo Michel, III, and Cole Ryan Foster.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Martinsville. Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Martinsville with Rev. Dr. Mike Hatfield officiating. Burial will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery.

Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory is serving the Powell family.

Lowell Conrad Turman, 83, of Stuart, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his fa...
06/17/2026

Lowell Conrad Turman, 83, of Stuart, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Carroll County, Virginia, to the late Garfield Turman and Evelyn Puckett Turman, Lowell lived a life marked by hard work, kindness, service, and devotion to those he loved. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and carried the values of duty, humility, and integrity throughout his life.

Raised in a large family alongside five sisters and four brothers, Lowell learned early the importance of family, responsibility, and helping others. Those values remained at the center of his life.

A lifelong farmer and gardener, Lowell found joy in working the land. Whether tending his garden, caring for his farm, or helping a neighbor in need, he was happiest outdoors with his hands busy and his heart full. He took pride in providing for his family and sharing the fruits of his labor with others.

Lowell was also a talented woodworker who enjoyed creating with his hands and sharing his craftsmanship with family and friends. He took great pleasure in collecting coins and was always eager to share the stories, history, and treasures he had gathered over the years. His hobbies reflected his appreciation for patience, tradition, and the simple joys of life.

More than anything, Lowell loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a cherished grandfather whose steady presence, wisdom, and gentle nature touched generations. Known for his deep kindness and willingness to help anyone, he cared deeply for others and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Lowell is survived by his beloved wife, Sue Turman, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and faith. He is also survived by his three children, Kenneth Turman (Cheri), Susan Taylor (Scott), and Jason Turman (Mandy).

He was a proud grandfather to Faith (Zack), Matysan, Christian (Chloe), Morghan, Mackenzie, Matthew, Bryson, and Caydon, all of whom brought him tremendous joy and pride.

His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the land he cared for, and the countless acts of kindness he shared throughout his life. His gentle spirit, strong work ethic, and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Moody Funeral Service, Stuart, VA. Officiants, David Richardson and Wayne Moore. Interment immediately after at Bluemont Presbyterian Church, Hillsville, VA. Military rites will be provided by the Patrick County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bluemont Presbyterian Church Cemetery Fund, 2406 Excelsior School Road, Laurel Fork, VA 24352.

Moody Funeral Services is in charge.

Mrs. Frances Joyce Belcher, age 96 of Stuart, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, June 14, 2026. She was born ...
06/17/2026

Mrs. Frances Joyce Belcher, age 96 of Stuart, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, June 14, 2026. She was born in Stokes County, NC on May 11, 1930 to the late Frank Joyce and Sarah Yarbough Joyce. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Clay Belcher; one daughter, Margie Setliff; two sisters, Mattie Joyce and Lizzy Joyce; five brothers, Junior Joyce, Richard Joyce, Elijah Joyce, Belisha Yarbough, and Bill Joyce.

Mrs. Belcher was a member of Buffalo Ridge Pentecostal Church. She retired from Bassett Furniture. She loved gardening, tending to her flowers, spending time with friends and cooking for her family.

Mrs. Belcher is survived by two daughters, Dorothy Haden (Lonnie) of Stuart and Penny Lawson (Odell) of Stuart; one son, Lane Belcher (Janie) of Eden, NC, ten grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and seven great-great grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Brenda Belcher, Dorothy Belcher, and Erma Adams.

Funeral service for Mrs. Belcher will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Buffalo Ridge Pentecostal Holiness Church with Pastor Doug Shuff, Jr. and Pastor Kenneth Terry officiating. Burial will follow in Jacks Creek Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Moody Funeral Services is in charge.

Sandra L. Hobson of Laurencville, GA departed from this life on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at her residence.Courteous, effic...
06/17/2026

Sandra L. Hobson of Laurencville, GA departed from this life on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at her residence.

Courteous, efficient and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.

James Edgar Torrey III, passed away on Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Stanleytown Health & Rehabilitation after a decline in h...
06/17/2026

James Edgar Torrey III, passed away on Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Stanleytown Health & Rehabilitation after a decline in health.
Mr. Torrey was born on June 20, 1942 in Martinsville, Virginia to James Edgar Torrey, Jr. and Sammie Grace Armstrong Torrey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Vickie Torrey Stone. He retired from Dupont as a Supervisor. He collected antique cars, loved Motorcycles, enjoyed doing Cruise In’s and car shows where he earned many trophies. He was an avid outdoorsman loving hunting and fishing.

James is survived by two sons, Robert Edgar Torrey (Judy Franklin) and Brian Hackeney Torrey (Christi), three grandchildren, Ashley Boitnott (Zach), Bella Reed (Holden) and Briana Torrey, two great grandchildren, Lillian Boitnott and Ayla Reed. He is also survive by his special friend for the past twenty six years, Linda Johnson.

A Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Collins Funeral Home, 30 Riverside Hwy, Bassett, Virginia with a Memorial Service to follow at 12:00 PM with Pastor James Clifton officiating.

Collins Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Torrey family.

Robert “Bobby” Cruise, 79, of Bassett, Va., passed on June 15, 2026, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was born ...
06/17/2026

Robert “Bobby” Cruise, 79, of Bassett, Va., passed on June 15, 2026, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was born in Henry County on June 1, 1947, he was the son of the late Joe Henry Cruise and the late Nancy Dillon Cruise. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother William H. “Billy” Cruise.

He is survived by a sister Sylvia Bowden, (Husband) Leon Bowden, special niece Sandra Franklin, and several other nieces and nephews

Bobby loved talking about and working on race cars, in addition to race cars he liked to go bowling. He was able to get a score of 300. When it came to bowling, he travelled to surrounding bowling alleys.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00am, Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Henry Memorial Park with Pastor Barry Cundiff officiating.

Bassett Funeral Services is in charge.

Clara Still Turton, 87, of Bassett, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at Carilion Roanoke Hospital.Born...
06/17/2026

Clara Still Turton, 87, of Bassett, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at Carilion Roanoke Hospital.

Born to the late Jesse James Still and Clara Belle Wade Still, Clara lived a life filled with creativity, faith, love, and devotion to her family and community. She was preceded in death by the love of her life and devoted husband, Thomas C. Turton; her beloved son, Jeffrey Thomas Turton; her cherished grandson, James Curtis Murdock “JC”; and her brothers, Frank Still, Ralph Still, and Jimmy Still.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving daughter, Dana Murdock (Curtis); daughter-in-law Laura Wade Wright; her brother, John Still; her sister, Mary Kirbitz; her grandchildren, Amanda Walthall, Leah Wood, and Shawna Murdock; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Skyler Thomas Martin, Kasydie Lea McBride, Addison Paisley Bryant, and Liam John Curtis Murdock, whom she considered one of life’s greatest blessings. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Penny, along with many lifelong friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness and friendship.

Clara was a gifted artist and dedicated art teacher who inspired countless students throughout her career, encouraging many to pursue their own artistic journeys and become professional artists. Her passion for creativity was evident in everything she did. Whether she was painting, creating pottery, sewing, decorating for church events, designing beautiful celebrations, or crafting wedding cakes, Clara poured her heart and talent into every project.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She was a faithful attendee of Fort Trial Baptist Church and Stone Memorial Christian Church, where she shared her gifts and servant’s heart with others. Clara found joy in making every gathering beautiful and every person feel special. Her warm spirit, artistic talent, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered by all who knew her.

Though her family mourns her passing, they take comfort in knowing that Clara’s legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, the beauty she created, and the love she shared so freely. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

Bassett Funeral Service is honored to serve the Turton family.

Address

40 Franklin Street
Martinsville, VA
24112

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+12766329811

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