1. McDowell Co, WV; Death Registry; Vol #__(1967); Browns Creek District; WV Archives Web Site.
Earl Whistlehunt; age 57; born 2 Feb 1910 at Cranes Nest, VA; married; miner; living at Roderfield,
WV; son of Emmett and Priscilla (Tipton) Whistlehunt; died 26 Mar 1967 in Grace Hospital, Welch,
WV from matastatic carcinoma of lungs; buried 29 Mar 1967 in Iaeger Memorial Cemetery,
Roderfield, WV.
1. US Public Records Index; Ancestry.com Web Site.
Curtis E. Whistlehunt; born 3 Oct 1940; living at P.O. Box 283, Roderfield, WV 24881 in 1993
2. "Bluefield Daily Telegraph"; Bluefield, WV; 3 Jul 2009; Newspaper Obit.
"Curtis Eugene Whistlehunt, age 68, of Denver, N.C., formerly of Roderfield and Hensley, W.Va., died Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke, Va. Born October 3, 1940, in Big Stone Gap, Va., he was the son of the late Earl and Mae Nichols Whistlehunt. He was a resident of Denver the past 20 years. He was a retired coal miner and was affiliated with the Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by, in addition to his parents, two brothers, Odell Whistlehunt, Earl Whistlehunt, Jr.; one sister, Cora Lee Short; and one son, Melvin Eugene Whistlehunt. Survivors include his wife, Brenda Lusk Whistlehunt of Denver, N.C.; two daughters, Sherry Wyatt and Salina Dishman both of Denver, N.C.; one son, Curtis G. Whistlehunt of Denver, N.C.; five sisters, Gaynell Stacey, Veola Nierman, Thelma Jean Riffe, Ruby Shirley all of Denver, N.C. and Maxie Rose of Roderfield; seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, July 3, 2009 at 1 p.m. from the Fanning Funeral Home Chapel in Welch with Speaker Bittle Steele officiating. Burial will follow at Iaeger Memorial Cemetery in Roderfield..."
3. FindAGrave.com Web Site; Iaeger Memorial Cemetery, Roderfield, McDowell Co, WV. submitted by
B. Walls; 9 Dec 2013.
Curtis Eugene Wistlehunt; born 3 Oct 1940; died 1 Jul 2009; buried here; double headstone photo shown
with wife, Brenda Lusk.
1. US Public Records Index; Ancestry.com Web Site.
Brenda A. Whistlehunt; born 1 Jan 1944; living at PO Box 785, Denver, NC 28037 in 1993.
3. FindAGrave.com Web Site; Iaeger Memorial Cemetery, Roderfield, McDowell Co, WV. submitted by
J. Spencer; 16 Oct 2016.
Brenda Alberta Luck Whistlehunt; born 26 Mar 1944; died 15 Oct 2016; buried here; double headstone photo
shown with husband, Curtis Eugene Whistlehunt in Memorial # 121471060; (without death date) personal
photo and obit posted;
"Brenda Alberta Lusk Whistlehunt, age 72, of Newton passed away Saturday, October 15, 2016 at Catawba Regional Hospice. She was born March 26, 1944 in Wise, Virginia to the late Estel and Kathryne Fruia Lusk. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband Curtis E. Whistlehunt, son Melvin E. Whistlehunt and grandson Robert Wyatt II."Brenda is survived by numerous family members. She will be loved and missed by each and every one of them.
The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, October 17, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Burke Mortuary Chapel in Maiden"Burial will be in Iaeger Memorial Cemetery in Roderfield, WV on Tuesday, October 18, 2016."
1. US Public Records Index; Ancestry.com Web Site.
Curtis G. Whistlehunt; born 14 Jan 1980; living at6408 Bentwood Lane, Denver, NC 28037 in 1995.
1. McDowell Co, WV; Marriage Records; Vol #__(1916); Page 331; WV Archives Web Site.
Fred Sexton; age 31; born in Grayson Co, VA; single; mine foreman; living at Dearing, WV;
son of Charles and Nannie; married on 29 Jan 1916 at Welch, WV; Ruth Culbertson; age 21;
born in Boyd Co, KY; single; daughter of Nathan and Jane.
1. McDowell Co, WV; Marriage Records; Vol #__(1916); Page 331; WV Archives Web Site.
Fred Sexton; age 31; born in Grayson Co, VA; single; mine foreman; living at Dearing, WV;
son of Charles and Nannie; married on 29 Jan 1916 at Welch, WV; Ruth Culbertson; age 21;
born in Boyd Co, KY; single; daughter of Nathan and Jane.
1. 1950 Census, Wyoming Co, WV; Huff Creek; taken 3 Apr 1950; Sheet Number 5; Dwelling #34.
Listed as Jesse Riffe; age 8; born in WV; in household of father, Arthur Riffe.
2. Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014; Ancestry.com Website.
"Name: Jessie Riffe
Gender: Male
Race: White
Age: 19
Birth Date: abt 1944
Marriage Registration Place: Russell, Virginia, USA
Marriage Date: 10 Aug 1963
Marriage Place: Lebanon, Virginia, USA
Father: Arthur Riffe
Mother: Tressia Cline
Spouse: Thelma Whistlehunt
Certificate Number: 1963026741"
3. Fanning Funeral Home; Iaeger, WV; Posted Obit.
"Jesse J. Riffe (JJ), a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2023, at the age of 79, surrounded by his cherished loved ones. He was born on May 6, 1944, in Wyoming County, West Virginia. His journey through life was marked by strength, love, commitment, and unwavering dedication to his family and community."At a young age, Jesse moved in with his grandmother, Pearl Riffe, a decision that set the course for his life's remarkable journey. It was during this time that he crossed paths with his childhood friend, Odell Whistlehunt, a fateful meeting that would eventually lead him to the love of his life, Thelma Jean Whistlehunt Riffe (TJ). Jesse and TJ's love story began to unfold, and on August 10th, 1964, they embarked on their shared journey in marriage, celebrating 59 years of joy, partnership, and unwavering companionship. Together, Jesse and TJ raised four beautiful daughters, who became the center of their world and the source of immeasurable pride and happiness. Their family bond was unbreakable, and the love they shared created a legacy of warmth and togetherness that will continue to resonate through generations.
"Jesse's professional journey was marked by hard work and dedication. He spent years as a coal miner for U.S. Steel, where his tireless efforts contributed to the energy and progress of the nation. Additionally, his skilled hands were put to work as a welder in Maryland, a role that allowed him to craft ships that carried hopeful immigrants from Ellis Island to the vibrant heart of New York. His hands not only built ships but also built bridges between cultures and generations.
"Beyond his work, Jesse's faith was an essential part of his life. He was a devoted member of The Church of Christ in Newton, North Carolina, where he found solace, guidance, and a sense of community. His commitment to his faith served as a guiding light for his family and friends, exemplifying his values of compassion, kindness, and humility.
"Jesse's life was one of love, dedication, and resilience. His legacy will forever be carried on by his loving daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the vibrant life he lived and the enduring impact he had on those fortunate enough to know him. Though Jesse's physical presence may have departed, his spirit will live on in the memories, stories, and the love that continues to thrive in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he find eternal peace in the embrace of his Creator.
"He was Preceded in death by his loving wife, Thelma Jean Whistlehunt Riffe; his two sisters: Virginia Kitchen and Carol Clegg; Great-Granddaughter, Aurora Cowgill and his Childhood friend Odell Whistlehunt.
"He leaves behind and will be deeply missed by his daughters: Lyneita Riffe of Lincolnton, North Carolina, Melody Adkins and Husband Hank of Lincolnton, North Carolina, Dreama Mills and husband Avery of Galion, Ohio, and Beverly Reedy and husband, Joey of Denver, North Carolina; His brothers Jerry Cline of San Diego, California, Eugene Riffe and Wife Dee of Denver, North Carolina and Roger Blankenship; and his Grandchildren Jesse (Francesca) Adkins, Charley (David) Currier, Jerica (Kevin) Heuple, Jacob Reedy, Joseph Reedy, Elliana Riffe, Ashleigh (David Cowgill) of Galion, Ohio, and Alyssa Mills of Galion, Ohio; and his great grandchildren Isaac, Gracie, Brayden Adkins, Lainey Currier.
"Funeral Services will be conducted Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 11 o’clock at Fanning Funeral Home Chapel in Welch, WV Friends may visit with the family Saturday, August 19, 2023, from 10:00 AM until the time of services. The burial will be held at Iaeger Memorial Cemetery in Roderfield, WV. Pallbearers will be Jesse's friends and family.
"Fanning Funeral Home of Welch is serving the family.
"Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.fanningfuneralhomes.com."
1. Virginia, U.S., Marriage Records, 1936-2014; Ancestry.com Website.
"Name: Thelma Whistlehunt
Gender: Female
Race: White
Age: 16
Birth Date: abt 1947
Marriage Registration Place: Russell, Virginia, USA
Marriage Date: 10 Aug 1963
Marriage Place: Lebanon, Virginia, USA
Father: Earl Whistlehunt
Mother: Mae Nickel
Spouse: Jessie Riffe
Certificate Number: 1963026741"
2. Fanning Funeral Home; Iaeger, WV; Posted Obit.
"On Friday, June 24, 2022, Thelma (TJ) Whistlehunt Riffe, loving wife and mother of 4 daughters, passed away at the age of 75."TJ was born on December 31, 1946, in Marytown, West Virginia to the late Earl and Mae Nichols Whistlehunt. She was a hairdresser for all her working life and then retired with her husband of 59 years, Jesse Riffe. TJ was a faithful member of The Church of Christ in Newton, North Carolina.
"In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters: Gaynell Stacy, Maxine Rose and Cora Lee Short; three brothers: Earl Whistlehunt, Jr., Curtis Eugene and Odell Whistlehunt; as well as great-granddaughter, Aurora Cowgill.
"TJ is survived by her husband, Jesse. Together they raised four daughters: Lyneita Riffe of Denver, North Carolina, Melody Adkins and husband, Hank of Lincolnton, North Carolina, Dreama Mills and husband, Avery of Galion, Ohio, and Beverly Reedy and husband, Joey of Denver, North Carolina; her sisters: Veola Nierman and Ruby Shirley; her grandchildren: Jesse (Francesca) Adkins, Charley (David) Currier, Jerica Adkins, Jacob Reedy, Joseph Reedy, Elliana Riffe, Ashleigh (David) Cowgill of Galion, Ohio, and Alyssa Mills of Rainbow City, Alabama; her great grandchildren: Isaac, Gracie, Brayden Adkins, Lainey Currier; and finally, her two special nieces: Sherry Whistlehunt Felts and Brenda Gay England.
"A funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM – Noon on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at Fanning Funeral Home in Welch, West Virginia officiated by Minister Noah Lester with visitation one hour prior at 11:00 AM for friends.
"Burial will follow at Iaeger Memorial Cemetery in Roderfield, West Virginia.
"Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.fanningfuneralhomes.com. "
1. 1940 Census, McDowell Co, WV; Browns Creek District; Mohegan; E.D. 24-37; taken on 4 Apr 1940
Page 747A; Image 7 of 35; Household #53.
Listed as Leonard Rose; age 2; born in WV; in household of father, Alfred Garland Rose.
2. Douglas Mortuary; Welch, WV; Posted Obit.
" Leonard Martin Rose, 78, of Roderfield went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 15, 2017 in Welch Community Hospital.
" Born June 25, 1938 in Mohegan he was the son of the late Alfred Rose and Margaret York Rose. He was a retired coalminer. He was a member of the Ark of Safety in Roderfield.
"In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sons, Ricky Allen Rose and Leonard “Wayne” Rose Sr.
"Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Maxie Whistlehunt Rose of the home; a son, Clinton Rose of Princeton; a daughter, Patricia Ann Rose of Roderfield; four brothers, Clifford, Darrell, Alan, and James Rose; seven sisters, Loretta, Jean, Hope, Wanda, Mary, Carol and Lois; and 5 grandchildren.
"Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the Ark of Safety in Roderfield with the Revs. Gene Ball and Danny Blackburn officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell...."
1. Douglas Mortuary, Welch, WV; Posted Obit.
"Maxie Whistlehunt Rose, 75, of Roderfield, passed away Thursday, November 28, 2019 at Bluefield Regional Medical Center in Bluefield, WV.
"Born September 12, 1944 in Welch, she was the daughter of the late May and Earl Whistlehunt. She was a homemaker and member of the Ark of Safety Church in Roderfield.
"In addition to her parents, Maxie is preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Martin Rose;and two sons, Dewayne Leonard Rose Sr. and Ricky Allen Rose.
"She is survived by two sons, Clinton Rose of Bluefield, WV and Leonard Dewayne (Bubby) Rose of Roderfield; one daughter, Patricia Ann Rose of Roderfield; three sisters, Thelma Riffe and husband Jessie and Veola Nierman and husband Charles all of Denver, NC and Ruby Shirley of Lincolnton, NC; eight grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren.
"Funeral services will be conducted Monday, December 2, 2019 at 12:00 Noon at the Ark of Safety Church in Roderfield. Burial will follow at the Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell.
"Friends may call at the church Monday from 11 am to 12 noon. Pallbearers will be friends and family.
"Douglas Mortuary in Welch is assisting the Rose family."
Leonard Dwayne "Wayne" Rose Sr
1. Douglas Mortuary; Welch, WV; Posted Obit.
"Leonard Dewayne “Wayne” Rose, Sr., 47, of Roderfield passed away Thursday, December 31, 2015 at his home.
"Born September 27, 1968 in Detroit, Michigan he was the son of Leonard M. Rose and Maxie Whistlehunt Rose of Roderfield. Before becoming disabled he was a factory worker in North Carolina. He attended the Ark of Safety in Roderfield.
"He was preceded in death by a brother, Ricky Allen Rose.
"In addition to his parents he is survived by a son, Leonard D. Rose, Jr. of Roderfield; two daughters, Samantha Mae Rose of Gastonia, NC and Elizabeth Rose of Marion, NC; a brother, Clinton Rose of Princeton; a sister, Patricia Ann Rose of Roderfield; and 5 grandchildren.
Funeral service will be held Friday, January 8, at 11 a.m. at the Ark of Safety in Roderfield with the Revs. Gene Ball and Danny Blackburn officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell.
1. US Publc Records Index, Vol 2; Ancestry.com Web Site.
Odell Whistlehunt; living at 198 Vine Street, Princeton, WV 24740.
2. FindAGrave.com Web Site; Iaeger Memorial Cemetery, Roderfield, McDowell Co, WV. submitted by
Virginia Gal; 24 Mar 2007; headstone photo added by B. Walls.
Odell Whistlehunt; born 13 Nov 1946; died 23 Mar 2007; buried here; headstone photo shown; "IN LOVING MEMORY".
"Gravesite Details son of Earl and Mae Nichols Whistlehunt"
1. US Publc Records Index, Vol 2; Ancestry.com Web Site.
Ellen F. Whistlehunt; living at 198 Vine Street, Princeton, WV 24740.