Big Stone Gap, VA – Skylar Scott “Ole Skeeter” McMahan, 18, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025. Born in Greenville, SC, he lived most of his life in Big Stone Gap. He attended Union High School. He was a former employee at Mullican Lumber. Skylar loved his family and was a high-spirited young man. He loved music and even wrote lyrics on the side. One of his favorite Christian songs was “Let Me Tell You About My Jesus”. He knew how to make a mundane day brighter for others around him. He attended Imboden Community Church and Faith Rock Church. His favorite saying was “how much money do you think I will have in two months”?
He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Lamar Scott; his adoptive father, Kenneth McMahan and his grandfather, Roy Reece.
Skylar is survived by his mother, Crystal Mullins (fiance’, Anthony Wade) of Big Stone Gap; his adoptive mother, Hilda McMahan of Big Stone Gap; his siblings, Trey McMahan (Dee) of Appalachia, VA, Aidan Hafemeister of Big Stone Gap, VA, Devin Person of Appalachia, VA, Jayce McAfee of Big Stone Gap, VA, Riley Gregory of Easley, SC, Nyia McMahan of Big Stone Gap, VA, Haley Pilgrim of Easley, SC and Bean Pilgrim of Easley, SC; his grandparents, Lamar Scott of Greenville, SC, Titus Mullins (Judith) of Chatsworth, GA, Debra Wilson of Greenwood, SC and Nanna Reece of Big Stone Gap, VA; his niece, Skye Mahaffey; uncle, Curt Mullins (Jessica); surviving great aunts and great uncles; and his fiance’, Airyanna Mullins.
The family will receive friends on Monday, February 24, 2025 from 5:00-7:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. The funeral service will begin at 7:00pm with Pastor Russell Herron officiating.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00am Tuesday, February 25, 2025 in American Legion Cemetery, Big Stone Gap, VA. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers. Family and friends are asked to meet at Gilliam Funeral Home at 9:20am to travel in procession to the cemetery.
The family requests donations be made to Gilliam Funeral Home, P. O. Box 886, Big Stone Gap, VA or at the funeral home office.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Skylar McMahan.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Pennington Gap, VA – Willie Ray Lane, 84 passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025 at Lee Health and Rehabilitation in Pennington Gap, VA. Born in Exeter, Willie lived most of his life in Stonega, VA. He worked for Pak-Mor Manufacturing. He was a Christian.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Faye Hylton Lane; his parents, Willie and Ora Alma (Whetsel) Lane; son-in-law, Chris Terry; and several siblings.
Willie is survived by his daughters, Alma Terry of Big Stone Gap, VA and Karen Sutton (Fred) of Fairfax, VA; two grandchildren, Daniel Sutton (Dondra) and Christie Sutton; two great grandchildren, Sarah Sutton and Samantha Sutton; his siblings, Jimmy Lane of Dover, DE and Frances “Pauline” Horton of Clinchport, VA and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February, 26, 2025 from 11:00am – 1:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W. Big Stone Gap, VA.
Graveside service will follow at 1:30 pm at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens, 5650 Powell Valley Road, Big Stone Gap, VA with Lowell “Cotton” Gardner officiating.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Lane family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Big Stone Gap, Va.-Margie Evelyn Neeley, 82, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Heritage Hall Healthcare in Big Stone Gap, Va.
Along with her late husband, James, they owned and operated Neeley’s Upholstery Shop for many years. She was of Baptist faith. Evelyn lived for being with her children and grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Neeley; her parents, Curtis and Ruby (Creech) Williams; and two brothers, Kenneth Williams and Ernie Williams.
Surviving are her daughter, Carol Cox of Wise, Va.; son, James Darrell Neeley (Frances) of Big Stone Gap; three grandchildren, Shannon Cox (Jennifer) of Norton, Va., Trevor Cox of Wise, Va. and Lora Mays (Anthony) of Norton, Va.; great grandchild, Kyley Cox; siblings, Reca Mullins of Coeburn, Va., Chester Williams, Della Winegar and Deanna Long, all of Kingsport, Tn.; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 12:00pm – 2:00 pm Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave., W., Big Stone Gap, Va. The service will follow at 2:00pm with Pastor Jim Wells officiating.
Burial will follow at the Robinette Family Cemetery in Powell Valley.
Family members will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve Mrs. Neeley’s family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Norton, Va.-Glenwood Eugene Sensabaugh, Sr. was born on November 28, 1949, in Russell County, Virginia, to Claude Western Barron and Virginia Sensabaugh. Glenwood ran his final race & transitioned into the loving arms of God on February 19, 2025. He spent his early years in Dante, Virginia, before settling in Norton, Virginia, where he built a life centered on love, family, and community.
On May 1, 1975, Glenwood married the love of his life, Freda Priscilla Keys, in Wise, Virginia. Together, they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage until Freda’s passing on December 29, 2023. Their bond was one of unwavering love and devotion, creating a strong foundation for their children and grandchildren.
Glenwood and Freda raised 8 children: Glenwood E. Sensabaugh Jr. "Boo" (Faetina), and Reginald Jermaine Sensabaugh "Reggie" (Tara), Billy “Yogi” Miles, Clarence “Leroy” Miles (Jackie), Valerie Brown (Darryl), Eva Miles (Frank Mitchell), Otis “Odie” Miles, and Meschelle Miles. Glenwood was also a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, cherishing the time spent with his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and fulfillment to his life.
Glenwood was a hardworking and devoted provider, a member of Lost Creek Ministries, graduate and supporter of John I. Burton athletics for decades, and enjoyed preparing home cooked meals for his family. His legacy of hard work and determination continues to inspire those who knew & loved him.
Glenwood found joy in spending time with & passing down knowledge to his family. He was known for his quiet wisdom and warm presence.
Glenwood was a loving brother to Vickie Sensabaugh and Belva Sensabaugh, John Alvin Etter, and Elmer Jerome Etter. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Freda Priscilla Sensabaugh, parents, Claude Barron and Virginia Sensabaugh, sister, Ruth Loretta Sensabaugh, and brother, James Western Sensabaugh.
A memorial service honoring the life of Glenwood Eugene Sensabaugh, Sr. will be scheduled at a later date.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Sensabaugh family.
To view the obituary and offer a condolence, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Keokee, VA – Gary L. Richardson, 78, went to be with the Lord on February 6, 2025. Born in Tennessee, he lived most of his life in Keokee, VA. He worked for the former Fraley’s, Inc. as a surface miner. He loved watching baseball, especially the Atlanta Braves. Spending time with his family was Gary’s biggest joy. They attended Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Conda & Hazel Richardson; his brother, Bill Bailey; his daughter, Vanessa Randolph and his nephew, Scott Richardson.
Gary is survived by his wife of 54 years, Lois Richardson; his daughter, Nicole Proffitt (Gene) of Church Hill, TN; his grandchildren, Tiffany Lawson (Adrian) of Wise, VA, Melanie Moore (Corey) of Church Hill, TN and Robbie Randolph (Hannah) of Pennington Gap, VA; his great-grandchildren, Briann, Bentley, Sadie, Owen and Weston; his brother, Ronald Richardson (Willie) of Keokee, VA and several other extended family members.
The family will receive friends 11:00am – 1:00pm Monday, February 10, 2025, at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave., W. Big Stone Gap, VA.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA with Pastor Bill Hughes officiating.
Graveside services will follow at Lee Memorial Gardens, Woodway, VA. Family members and friends will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral home is honored to serve the Richardson Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Big Stone Gap, VA – Roger Dale McKinney, 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, January 31, 2025. He was born November 6, 1944 to Brown and Hazel McKinney. He was a 1963 graduate of Gilbert High School in Gilbert, WV and served his country in the U.S. Army. Roger was the owner/operator of Roger Trucking LLC for over 40 years.
He was preceded in death by his father, Brown McKinney; his brother, Ralph McKinney and his sister, Patty Chandler.
Roger is survived by his wife of 56 years, Janice McKinney; their children, Brian McKinney (Kristi), Brad McKinney, Brandi Light and Pam (Steven) Mullins; their grandchildren, Kaeli McKinney, Gracy McKinney, Taylor McKinney, Stralley McKinney, Bella Bascopé and Marissa, Jacob, Mia and Jackson Mullins; his mother, Hazel McKinney; his brothers, Eddie McKinney (Beverly) and Terry McKinney (Cathy); his sister-in-law, Deanna McKinney and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 12:00noon-1:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W, Big Stone Gap, VA. The funeral service will begin at 1:00pm with Pastor James Holcomb officiating.
The graveside service will follow at Glencoe Cemetery, Big Stone Gap, VA. Family members will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral home is honored to serve the McKinney Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Big Stone Gap, VA – Carl Robert “Cannonball” Bishop, 75, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Bristol Regional Medical Center. He was born in Appalachia, VA and lived in Big Stone Gap most of his life. He was a proud U. S. Marine, having served in Vietnam. He was a coal miner with Westmoreland Coal Company with 25 years of service and a member of the U.M.W.A. He loved watching sports on TV and making his daily rounds to visit with family and friends. Robert’s family was his pride and joy, and he wouldn’t miss an opportunity to spend time with them. He was a Christian.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Jay and Violet Myrtle Adams Bishop; and his siblings, Cecil Jay Bishop, Jr. and Terry Jay Bishop
Robert is survived by his children, Chad Bishop (Mandy) of Big Stone Gap, VA, Greg Bishop (Angie) of Big Stone Gap, VA, Karla Bishop (Brian Prichard) of Somerset, KY and Doug Bishop (Christy) of Greeneville, TN; his siblings, Lois Thomas of Commercial Point, OH, Gloria Early of Sebastian, FL, Brenda Bishop of Big Stone Gap, VA and Larry “Cornbread” Bishop of Big Stone Gap, VA; his grandchildren, Brittany Hubbard (Brandon), Kristen Clark (Anthony), Brock Dishner, Kamron Bishop, Braxton Bishop (Hannah), Mia Bishop (Jordan Jones), Brook Robinette, Taylor Bishop, Makayla Shult (Dustin), Laci Bishop (Trey Robertson), Bailey McIntyre, Drake McIntyre, Maddox Bishop and Jaxen Bishop; his great grandchildren, Layla Clark, Ava Hubbard and Emberlyn Robertson and several nieces and nephews. Robert is also survived by his companion, Edna Sharon Congleton and her sons, Jason Congleton and Gary Congleton (Dawn). Robert had a special bond, over the years, with his U. S. Marine brothers.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 1, 2025 from 1:00-3:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. The service will begin at 3:00pm with Cotton Gardner officiating.
Military rites, by the U. S. Marine Corp. Honors Team and local V.F.W. and D.A.V., will precede the service.
Final arrangements will be private.
Gilliam Funeral home is honored to serve the Bishop Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Big Stone Gap, VA - Deretha Ann Baker, age 71, passed peacefully at home Sunday, January 26, 2025 surrounded by her family.
Deretha was a devout Christian of the Holiness faith. She was very proud of becoming a nurse, and she worked at Lonesome Pine Hospital, St Mary’s and for Home Health. She made many friends during her career and was known to make people laugh. After she retired she enjoyed spending time with her family and going to the lake with her husband John and their fur babies; Bell & Gismo.
She was the first-born daughter of the late Kermit & Virginia Adams. She was also preceded in death by her baby brother Christopher Adams and her sister-in-law Vera Adams.
Deretha is survived by her husband John C. Baker of 53 years (this Feb 12th); her three daughters, Dana (John) Snodgrass, Sherry (Keith) Davis, & April Baker; her grandchildren, Brandi Smith, Tori (Bobby) Lane, David Snodgrass & Abby Snodgrass, and her great grandchildren, Brentley Maggard, Liam Smith, Bexley Maggard, Hayven Lane, & Lanceston Lane.
She is also survived by her siblings, Ronald (Ann) Adams, Freddie Adams, Jackie (Kim) Adams, Gale (Linda) Adams, Sheila (Jimmy) Qualls, Melinda (Robert) Clark, and Cindy (Steve) Holmes and her brother-in-law Gerald Litton, all of Big Stone Gap, as well as a host of nieces, nephews & friends.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 from 5:00-7:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. The funeral service will begin at 7:00pm with Pastor Jimmy Qualls officiating.
Final arrangements will be private.
Gilliam Funeral home is honored to serve the Baker Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Coeburn, VA/Big Stone Gap, VA – Mary Ellen Thompson, 80, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Heritage Hall, Wise, VA.
Mary was a native of Coeburn and had lived in Big Stone Gap since 1970. She loved flower gardening and cats. She was dedicated to her family. She was a Christian, always giving of herself to the Lord.
She was preceded in death by her son, James Mullins; her parents, James and Lola (Bevins) Bates; her sister, Margaret Bates and her brother, Gerald Bates.
Mary is survived by her children, Rebecca Ellison (Clayton “Skip”) of Newport, TN, Wesley Thompson (Annie-Pier) of Big Stone Gap, Darrel Mullins and Jeff Mullins; her siblings, Nancy Carol Wilkinson of Chilhowie, VA and Bobby Lee Bates of Coeburn, VA; her grandchildren, Jessica Wines (Brandon), Jonathan Bowman (Destiny) and Jacob Thompson; her great-grandchildren, Ty Wines and Lacey Bell Bowman; several nieces and nephews and the father of her children, Willard Harold Thompson.
Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 from 5:00-7:00pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. Funeral services will follow at 7:00pm with Rev. Tom Williams officiating.
Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 12:00noon at the Powell Valley Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, 5650 Powell Valley Road, Big Stone Gap, VA. Skip Ellison, Wesley Thompson, Jacob Thompson, Jonathan Bowman, Brandon Wines and Ty Wines will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral home is honored to serve the Thompson Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Norton, Va. - Nathan “Frank” Franklin Adams, 55, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Norton Community Hospital. Born in Macon, GA, he lived in middle Tennessee most of his life. He served his country in the U.S. Army. He was a manager for Title Max and he liked cooking, his pets, fishing and was a serious car enthusiast.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Cora Nita Adams.
Frank is survived by his wife, Alycia Adams and his father, Henry Franklin Adams of Macon, GA.
Final arrangements will be private.
Gilliam Funeral home is honored to serve the Adams Family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Big Stone Gap, Va.-Barbara Ann Gibson, born on July 9, 1938, in the mountains of Appalachia, passed away peacefully at her home in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, on January 10, 2025.
The cherished daughter of Marie and Charles Golden, Barbara brought warmth and laughter to all who knew her. She shared a loving marriage with Bailey Gibson and together they were blessed with their beloved daughter, Monique Gibson. After 25 years together, Barbara was widowed. In her later years, she found love and companionship once more with Ted Collins, whose steadfast presence enriched her life with comfort and care.
Barbara felt a special love with her stepson Michael Bailey Gibson and his wife Carolyn, as well as their daughter Elle Bailey, lovingly named in honor of Barbara’s late husband. Her life was further brightened by her Godson, Jonathan Hall, who lovingly called her “Momma B.” Their special bond brought Barbara immense pride and joy.
Barbara’s passion for dance blossomed into an extraordinary career spanning nearly five decades. Alongside her sister, Bettye Davis, she co-founded Barbette's School of Dance—a haven where countless students discovered confidence and artistry under Barbara’s inspiring guidance. Her dedication to teaching left an enduring legacy that shaped generations of dancers and fostered lifelong friendships.
A devoted member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Barbara also held fond memories of worship and friendship at East Stone Gap United Methodist Church.
Known for her gift of heartfelt conversation and infectious humor, Barbara had a remarkable ability to uplift others. Her laughter filled every gathering with warmth and left those around her with treasured memories.
Barbara Ann Gibson lived a life filled with grace, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing beauty in the world. Her memory will remain a source of solace and inspiration for all who loved her.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony is being planned by Monique Gibson along with Barbara’s adopted family Karen, Gary, and Jonathan Hall so that all who knew Barbara may gather to honor her remarkable memory. Details will be shared as plans are finalized. May Barbara’s legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all she touched.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Gibson family.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.

Big Stone Gap, VA – Hattie Regina Johnson, 70, went home in the arms of her savior after a courageous battle on Friday, January 10, 2025. She attended church at Appalachia Pentecostal Church. She loved to work puzzles, collect dolls and watch the Baltimore Orioles.
She was preceded in death by her father, Buster Johnson and mother, Helen Johnson; her brothers, Stanley Johnson, Wendell Johnson and Randy Johnson and her sisters, Ora Christian and Donna Johnson.
Regina is survived by her sisters, Sandra Campbell (Bob), Carrie Griffin, Shelia Clark (Norman), Betty Rhoten (Dave) and Patsy Stanton (Roger); her brother Jeff Johnson (Crystal) and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00pm on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W, Big Stone Gap, VA. Funeral services will begin at 7:00pm with Pastor Greg Sergent officiating.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the funeral home to leave in procession at 10:20am. Family members and friends will serve as pallbearers.
The family wishes to express a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at Holston Valley Medical Center for their special care of Regina.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Regina Johnson.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.