Eddie Kendall
Owner/CEO/Funeral Director
Eddie Kendall may have been born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but his heart is also with the people of Giles County and all of the New River Valley. He moved to Giles County early in life. Growing up he would deliver the GRIT (a local news service for Appalachian Communities) to local homes. By the age of 14, Eddie inherited his Grandfather’s store near his home (“Marshall’s store”), began ministering to the communities whether at “The Jesus Church” (now, Bethel Chapel) or in local revivals, and was writing articles for the Virginian Leader. Eddie is a graduate of Giles High School.
Following High School, he attended McLane’s Business College in Bluefield. Eddie would then go to work for Electrotec, Kimbleton Lime, and then for Levi Marshall’s Sawmill. While working for Levi, and ministering he was encouraged to speak with the Williams brothers and Rastus Jamison at their Funeral Home. He began working for them shortly at both Jamison Hardware and then Williams Brothers Funeral Home in 1968. With this he also would also gain the opportunity to assist with ambulance calls. In 1973, he graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, becoming the first licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer with Williams Jamison Funeral Services. In 1985, he and Fern became the owners of both now, Kendall Funeral Home and Pembroke Hardware. In addition, he has served the community in various civic groups, but one notably was being the chaplain for New River Valley Hospice; and another as a lifetime honorary member of the Giles County Rescue Squad.
Eddie continues to be the senior pastor of Bethel Chapel in the Clendennin Community. While there may be many changes to the Funeral Industry, Eddie considers it an honor to be a part of your story when you come through the doors of Kendall Funeral Home, with every intention to serve your family as his own. A portion of his love of the business is the wealth of knowledge he has gained of all of the history of these communities and persons. After a desire to be a professor of history, his dream came true being an avid storyteller and collector of sweet stories and community. Eddie currently resides in Pembroke with his wife Fern Gilmer Kendall; he is the father of Odessa “Dessie” Gordon (Erik), Mimi Kendall Harris (Ward), and Ashley Kendall O’Dell (Eddie); and the Grandfather of seven. In his spare time, he enjoys a good book, a friend, gardening, and a new adventure of remembrance. Through the years, Eddie has felt it a special privilege to gain such a large extended family as the New River Valley, I am sure he wouldn’t take nothing for this journey.
Eddie Kendall
Owner/CEO/Funeral Director
Eddie Kendall may have been born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but his heart is also with the people of Giles County and all of the New River Valley. He moved to Giles County early in life. Growing up he would deliver the GRIT (a local news service for Appalachian Communities) to local homes. By the age of 14, Eddie inherited his Grandfather’s store near his home (“Marshall’s store”), began ministering to the communities whether at “The Jesus Church” (now, Bethel Chapel) or in local revivals, and was writing articles for the Virginian Leader. Eddie is a graduate of Giles High School.
Following High School, he attended McLane’s Business College in Bluefield. Eddie would then go to work for Electrotec, Kimbleton Lime, and then for Levi Marshall’s Sawmill. While working for Levi, and ministering he was encouraged to speak with the Williams brothers and Rastus Jamison at their Funeral Home. He began working for them shortly at both Jamison Hardware and then Williams Brothers Funeral Home in 1968. With this he also would also gain the opportunity to assist with ambulance calls. In 1973, he graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, becoming the first licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer with Williams Jamison Funeral Services. In 1985, he and Fern became the owners of both now, Kendall Funeral Home and Pembroke Hardware. In addition, he has served the community in various civic groups, but one notably was being the chaplain for New River Valley Hospice; and another as a lifetime honorary member of the Giles County Rescue Squad.
Eddie continues to be the senior pastor of Bethel Chapel in the Clendennin Community. While there may be many changes to the Funeral Industry, Eddie considers it an honor to be a part of your story when you come through the doors of Kendall Funeral Home, with every intention to serve your family as his own. A portion of his love of the business is the wealth of knowledge he has gained of all of the history of these communities and persons. After a desire to be a professor of history, his dream came true being an avid storyteller and collector of sweet stories and community. Eddie currently resides in Pembroke with his wife Fern Gilmer Kendall; he is the father of Odessa “Dessie” Gordon (Erik), Mimi Kendall Harris (Ward), and Ashley Kendall O’Dell (Eddie); and the Grandfather of seven. In his spare time, he enjoys a good book, a friend, gardening, and a new adventure of remembrance. Through the years, Eddie has felt it a special privilege to gain such a large extended family as the New River Valley, I am sure he wouldn’t take nothing for this journey.
Fern Kendall
Owner
Fern Gilmer Kendall is a native of Giles County. For over 50 years she has been the backbone of Kendall Funeral Home, supporting Eddie in whatever capacity she has been needed. She brings many talents to the business. She has worked in the local sewing factories and later would manage Pembroke Hardware. She truly enjoys life, lives in Pembroke with Eddie, and is the mother of Odessa Kendall Gordon (Erik), Demetria "Mimi" Kendall Harris (Ward), and Ashley Kendall O'Dell (Eddie), and Granny to seven grandchildren.
Fern Kendall
Owner
Fern Gilmer Kendall is a native of Giles County. For over 50 years she has been the backbone of Kendall Funeral Home, supporting Eddie in whatever capacity she has been needed. She brings many talents to the business. She has worked in the local sewing factories and later would manage Pembroke Hardware. She truly enjoys life, lives in Pembroke with Eddie, and is the mother of Odessa Kendall Gordon (Erik), Demetria "Mimi" Kendall Harris (Ward), and Ashley Kendall O'Dell (Eddie), and Granny to seven grandchildren.
Rodney Freeman
Funeral Service Intern
Rodney is a lifelong resident of Giles County. A graduate of Giles High School, he was an original member of the "Bandana gang". Having retired as a Police officer (Deputy, Town of Pearisburg, and Virginia Tech Police Department) after 26 years of service, Rodney is a proud graduate of the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy and New River Police Academy. Rodney enjoys serving his community and has done such as a Fireman briefly. Shortly after High School he joined the Giles County Lifesaving and Rescue Squad. In 1983 he was first certified as an EMT. He is currently an Active Life member and an advocate and advisor for the Junior Rescue Squad. Rodney is a member of Bethel Chapel in Clendennin. Rodney is family to us at Kendall Funeral Home having started employment in 1987 under Williams-Jamison-Kendall Funeral Home. He has served so many hearts and has been a driving force for many. A people person, he enjoys helping people during bereavement periods. He reminds us that the families are important and need the most professional care we can provide during their time of loss.
Rodney Freeman
Funeral Service Intern
Rodney is a lifelong resident of Giles County. A graduate of Giles High School, he was an original member of the "Bandana gang". Having retired as a Police officer (Deputy, Town of Pearisburg, and Virginia Tech Police Department) after 26 years of service, Rodney is a proud graduate of the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy and New River Police Academy. Rodney enjoys serving his community and has done such as a Fireman briefly. Shortly after High School he joined the Giles County Lifesaving and Rescue Squad. In 1983 he was first certified as an EMT. He is currently an Active Life member and an advocate and advisor for the Junior Rescue Squad. Rodney is a member of Bethel Chapel in Clendennin. Rodney is family to us at Kendall Funeral Home having started employment in 1987 under Williams-Jamison-Kendall Funeral Home. He has served so many hearts and has been a driving force for many. A people person, he enjoys helping people during bereavement periods. He reminds us that the families are important and need the most professional care we can provide during their time of loss.
Ashley Kendall O'dell
Office Manager/Certified Aftercare Specialist
Ashley Kendall O’Dell feels deeply grateful to have been raised in the New River Valley, a place that has shaped her heart, her values, and her love for serving others. She has always believed her purpose is to care for people with the same compassion that has been shown to her throughout her life—a belief that naturally guided her into this meaningful calling.
A proud 1999 graduate of Giles High School, Ashley went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University, along with minors in Psychology and Business. During her years in healthcare, she completed multiple certifications, including specialized training in Crisis Pregnancy Counseling. After nearly 15 years of service in the nursing field, she felt the pull to return home to Southwest Virginia, where she could once again pour her heart into the community she loves and work alongside her father. Since coming home, she has added an Aftercare Specialty and looks forward to furthering her education to better support the families she serves.
Ashley considers it a true honor to walk with families during their most difficult moments, offering personalized, dignified care with warmth, empathy, and respect. Her faith is an integral part of her life, and she enjoys teaching Children’s Church at Bethel Chapel in Clendennin. Now residing in Pearisburg, she cherishes the opportunity to continue making meaningful memories with her family. Above all, Ashley remains devoted to helping families develop thoughtful, individualized funeral service plans that celebrate each life with grace and genuine compassion.
Ashley Kendall O'dell
Office Manager/Certified Aftercare Specialist
Ashley Kendall O’Dell feels deeply grateful to have been raised in the New River Valley, a place that has shaped her heart, her values, and her love for serving others. She has always believed her purpose is to care for people with the same compassion that has been shown to her throughout her life—a belief that naturally guided her into this meaningful calling.
A proud 1999 graduate of Giles High School, Ashley went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University, along with minors in Psychology and Business. During her years in healthcare, she completed multiple certifications, including specialized training in Crisis Pregnancy Counseling. After nearly 15 years of service in the nursing field, she felt the pull to return home to Southwest Virginia, where she could once again pour her heart into the community she loves and work alongside her father. Since coming home, she has added an Aftercare Specialty and looks forward to furthering her education to better support the families she serves.
Ashley considers it a true honor to walk with families during their most difficult moments, offering personalized, dignified care with warmth, empathy, and respect. Her faith is an integral part of her life, and she enjoys teaching Children’s Church at Bethel Chapel in Clendennin. Now residing in Pearisburg, she cherishes the opportunity to continue making meaningful memories with her family. Above all, Ashley remains devoted to helping families develop thoughtful, individualized funeral service plans that celebrate each life with grace and genuine compassion.
Debbie Mays
Billing / Insurance Specialist
Debbie Mays is a resident of Giles County. She has been employed in various capacities for Kendall Funeral Home for five years. Originally from the Little Creek Community of Pulaski County, she is married to Pastor Terry Mays. Together they have two daughters; Teresa, and Whitney, 10 grandchildren, and a growing new generation. The joy of her life is her entire family, from her birth family to the growing family she has now. She feels this role is a ministry, because of her people skills and her love of helping others.
Debbie Mays
Billing / Insurance Specialist
Debbie Mays is a resident of Giles County. She has been employed in various capacities for Kendall Funeral Home for five years. Originally from the Little Creek Community of Pulaski County, she is married to Pastor Terry Mays. Together they have two daughters; Teresa, and Whitney, 10 grandchildren, and a growing new generation. The joy of her life is her entire family, from her birth family to the growing family she has now. She feels this role is a ministry, because of her people skills and her love of helping others.
Dewayne Perkins
Funeral Attendant
Dewayne Perkins is a lifelong resident of Giles County. He works in varied capacities at Kendall Funeral Home. He loves the community and people he has grown with in this community and feels it an honor to serve along side of the staff of Kendall Funeral Home. He lives in Pearisburg, VA with his wife Emily Perkins. Together, he and his wife have two boys. They serve together in various capacities in the community; including directing the Feed America Program in Giles County. In faith, he attends Faith Temple IPHC in Pearisburg, VA.
Dewayne Perkins
Funeral Attendant
Dewayne Perkins is a lifelong resident of Giles County. He works in varied capacities at Kendall Funeral Home. He loves the community and people he has grown with in this community and feels it an honor to serve along side of the staff of Kendall Funeral Home. He lives in Pearisburg, VA with his wife Emily Perkins. Together, he and his wife have two boys. They serve together in various capacities in the community; including directing the Feed America Program in Giles County. In faith, he attends Faith Temple IPHC in Pearisburg, VA.
John Hale
John Hale is a lifelong resident of Giles County, particularly the Pembroke community, where he has built deep roots and lasting relationships. After spending time in Richmond establishing his family with his wife, Peggy Robbins Hale, and their daughter, Lorie, John returned home and
continued his work as a skilled jack-of-all-trades. His career included positions with Virginia
Sprinkler and Brown & Root, and he is well known for his willingness to help others whenever needed. Since 1995, John has been a dedicated volunteer with the Pembroke Volunteer Fire Department, serving his community with commitment and pride. Outside of work and service, his greatest joys are his grandsons, Devin and Trevor. John finds meaningful purpose in his role at Kendall Funeral Home, where he values the relationships formed and the care provided to families during their most tender moments.
John Hale
John Hale is a lifelong resident of Giles County, particularly the Pembroke community, where he has built deep roots and lasting relationships. After spending time in Richmond establishing his family with his wife, Peggy Robbins Hale, and their daughter, Lorie, John returned home and
continued his work as a skilled jack-of-all-trades. His career included positions with Virginia
Sprinkler and Brown & Root, and he is well known for his willingness to help others whenever needed. Since 1995, John has been a dedicated volunteer with the Pembroke Volunteer Fire Department, serving his community with commitment and pride. Outside of work and service, his greatest joys are his grandsons, Devin and Trevor. John finds meaningful purpose in his role at Kendall Funeral Home, where he values the relationships formed and the care provided to families during their most tender moments.
Lance Johnson
Lance Johnson, a life-long resident of Giles County, began his journey with Kendall Funeral Home while still in high school. A 2023 graduate of Giles High School, Lance quickly found purpose in assisting his community and relationships grounded in work. Grounded in his faith, he approaches his work with sincerity.
Beyond his professional role, Lance maintains interests in music, sound production, and travel, and he is an enthusiastic supporter of the Tennessee Volunteers. Since joining Kendall Funeral Home, he has developed a deep interest in assisting others and strengthening his skills in community engagement and professional service.
Lance Johnson
Lance Johnson, a life-long resident of Giles County, began his journey with Kendall Funeral Home while still in high school. A 2023 graduate of Giles High School, Lance quickly found purpose in assisting his community and relationships grounded in work. Grounded in his faith, he approaches his work with sincerity.
Beyond his professional role, Lance maintains interests in music, sound production, and travel, and he is an enthusiastic supporter of the Tennessee Volunteers. Since joining Kendall Funeral Home, he has developed a deep interest in assisting others and strengthening his skills in community engagement and professional service.
Debbie Warren
In Loving Memory
Debbie “Deb” Wells Warren, daughter of the late Ralph Wells, Sr. and Lorene Rose Wells was born on September 5, 1955. She transitioned to her heavenly home on Saturday, January 14, 2023.
She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Tom Warren, Jr. of Stuart, VA where they pastor the Mountain View Church of God of Prophecy. Her proudest accomplishment in life was her daughter, Andrea W. Rupe and husband Jay of Pulaski, VA. The joy of her life were her grandchildren, Carter and McKenna Rupe. Also surviving is a brother, Ralph Wells, Jr. and his wife Susie of Coeburn, VA; two dear aunts Theda Rose and Juanita Wells. She had a dear cousin, Vickie Wells and lifelong friends Martha Moore, Faye Snow, Julie Williams, Connie Martin, Jackie Ellison and countless others. She was a cat lover and leaves behind Heartley and Cocoa; and a Grand dog, Fenway.
She was born into a minister’s family and married one; therefore, ministry has always been a part of her life. She will be remembered for the way she put her HEART into everything she did for God. Her Mom’s philosophy “Anything worth doing is worth doing right!” was reflected in the life she lived.
Since 1995, she has ministered to many grieving people through grief support programs at different funeral homes. Her newsletter, “Hope for Grieving Hearts,” was an accomplishment she was proud of and shared over 10,000 copies with families.
She would often say, “Hearts are everywhere,” and got excited for anything heart shaped from a rock to a mud puddle. She left heart prints on many lives!
Debbie Warren
In Loving Memory
Debbie “Deb” Wells Warren, daughter of the late Ralph Wells, Sr. and Lorene Rose Wells was born on September 5, 1955. She transitioned to her heavenly home on Saturday, January 14, 2023.
She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Tom Warren, Jr. of Stuart, VA where they pastor the Mountain View Church of God of Prophecy. Her proudest accomplishment in life was her daughter, Andrea W. Rupe and husband Jay of Pulaski, VA. The joy of her life were her grandchildren, Carter and McKenna Rupe. Also surviving is a brother, Ralph Wells, Jr. and his wife Susie of Coeburn, VA; two dear aunts Theda Rose and Juanita Wells. She had a dear cousin, Vickie Wells and lifelong friends Martha Moore, Faye Snow, Julie Williams, Connie Martin, Jackie Ellison and countless others. She was a cat lover and leaves behind Heartley and Cocoa; and a Grand dog, Fenway.
She was born into a minister’s family and married one; therefore, ministry has always been a part of her life. She will be remembered for the way she put her HEART into everything she did for God. Her Mom’s philosophy “Anything worth doing is worth doing right!” was reflected in the life she lived.
Since 1995, she has ministered to many grieving people through grief support programs at different funeral homes. Her newsletter, “Hope for Grieving Hearts,” was an accomplishment she was proud of and shared over 10,000 copies with families.
She would often say, “Hearts are everywhere,” and got excited for anything heart shaped from a rock to a mud puddle. She left heart prints on many lives!
Royce Parker "Rastus" Jamison
In Loving Memory
In Loving Memory of Royce Parker "Rastus" Jamison, our community loving Funeral Director.
Royce Parker “Rastus” Jamison, 90, of Pembroke departed this life Tuesday, February 21, 2012, at Carilion Giles Community Hospital in Pearisburg after a long illness. Born in Pembroke on October 4, 1921, he was the son of the late Joseph and Ora Maynard Jamison. He was preceded in death by his sweetheart and wife Olga Swallow Jamison, his parents, his sisters Gladys Jamison, Eula Mae Williams, Mildred Pack, and “Tootsie” Britts, and his brothers Bud, Bill, and Jack Jamison.
Rastus was a Christian gentleman, faithful member of Pembroke First United Methodist Church, a veteran of the U S Army, WWII, a member of Castle Rock Lodge AF& AM, a member of American Legion Post 311 in Pembroke, a member of the Pembroke Ruritan Club. For over thirty-three years he was the beloved funeral director in the Pembroke Community, as manager of Williams-Jamison Funeral Home, now Kendall Funeral Home, and he was the owner of Jamison Hardware for over twenty years, and had previously managed Williams Brothers Grocery Store.
Royce Parker "Rastus" Jamison
In Loving Memory
In Loving Memory of Royce Parker "Rastus" Jamison, our community loving Funeral Director.
Royce Parker “Rastus” Jamison, 90, of Pembroke departed this life Tuesday, February 21, 2012, at Carilion Giles Community Hospital in Pearisburg after a long illness. Born in Pembroke on October 4, 1921, he was the son of the late Joseph and Ora Maynard Jamison. He was preceded in death by his sweetheart and wife Olga Swallow Jamison, his parents, his sisters Gladys Jamison, Eula Mae Williams, Mildred Pack, and “Tootsie” Britts, and his brothers Bud, Bill, and Jack Jamison.
Rastus was a Christian gentleman, faithful member of Pembroke First United Methodist Church, a veteran of the U S Army, WWII, a member of Castle Rock Lodge AF& AM, a member of American Legion Post 311 in Pembroke, a member of the Pembroke Ruritan Club. For over thirty-three years he was the beloved funeral director in the Pembroke Community, as manager of Williams-Jamison Funeral Home, now Kendall Funeral Home, and he was the owner of Jamison Hardware for over twenty years, and had previously managed Williams Brothers Grocery Store.
