Vest, James Bernard

James Bernard Vest, 86, of Check, in Floyd County, Va., went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 17, 2009. Mr. Vest was born on December 22, 1922, in Fayetteville, W.Va., to William Arthur and Nettie Mae Gearheart Vest, who preceded him in death.

He was a decorated World War II veteran and served honorably in the Medical Corps of the United States Army in Africa, Sicily, and Italy.

Mr. Vest is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Wanda Elizabeth Whitenack Vest; his children and their spouses, Carol Vest Jackson, Robert Bery and Mary Vest, and John David and Cheryl Vest. He will also be greatly missed by eight grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, March 20, 2009, at the Iddings Cemetery at the intersection of Daniel’s Run Road and Huffville Road in the Terry’s Fork Community. The Reverend Matthew Kirkland will be conducting the service. Military rites will be conducted by the Disabled American Veterans of the Roanoke Valley.

There will be no visitation at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Stonewall Fellowship Food, c/o Wendy Gruver, 7565 Floyd Highway North, Copper Hill, Va. 24079. Arrangements are being handled by Gardner Funeral Home, Floyd, Va.