Arthur Barnhill Obituary

Arthur David Barnhill, 79, born in Pender County, N.C., raised in Beaufort, N.C., and a long-time resident of Roanoke, passed away on August 4, 2006. The loving husband of Bea Barnhill, deceased, attended what is now East Carolina University and served in the U.S. Navy's Pacific campaign during World War II. He is survived by two sisters, Grace McCormick of Fayetteville, N.C., and Pauline Lovick of Morehead City, N.C.; four children and their spouses, Jim Barnhill of Roanoke, Susan Barnhill-Ransom and Bob Ransom of Charlotte, N.C., Mike and Robin Barnhill of Roanoke, and Stan and Kathy Barnhill of Roanoke; six grandchildren, Jeb and Luke Barnhill of Fishersville, Heather Barnhill Petry and Jon Barnhill of Knoxville, Tenn., and Hannah and Rachel Barnhill of Roanoke; and three great-grandchildren Laura Petry, Abby Petry, and Lidia Barnhill of Knoxville, Tenn. Art (or "Pops" to his grandchildren) will be remembered for his religious faith; his dogged determination to live life fully despite the legion of physical ailments that plagued him; his keen sense of right and wrong; his devotion to family; his great sense of humor; and his sharp, analytical mind which continued to hunger for stimulation up to his very last day. The family wishes to express gratitude to the residents of Friendship Manor and the members of his Sunday school class at First Baptist Church for giving him such support and fellowship during his final years. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, Boxley Chapel, on August 7, 2006, at 11 a.m., the Reverend John Cochran officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made by contribution to the American Heart Association or the Democratic candidate of choice.