John David Colaw

John David Colaw, 90, of Big Valley, passed away Sunday, September 25, 2022. He was the husband of Christene (Terry) Colaw, “Chrissie”, whom he married on March 6, 1953 in Hot Springs. He was born on July 13,1932 in Blue Grass, the son of the late George Edward Colaw and Virgie Belle (Swecker) Colaw.

John David graduated from Blue Grass High School, was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and was a member of Hamilton Chapel Church in Big Valley. He loved his family and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a lifelong farmer and an avid bear hunter. He took special delight in his grandchildren and loved to gather with his family around the table to share a meal. He had a strong work ethic and a special love for the land. He was dearly loved.  

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by an infant son, J.D. Colaw; sisters, Rebecca “Becky” Ann Hull, Virginia “Ginny” Curry, Mary “Mug” Margaret Ruddick and Dorothy “Dot” Jean Shepherd; as well as brothers, Paul, Wayne Edward, Cyrus D. and George “Goog” Colaw.

Surviving family members include his beloved wife of 69 years; children, John Michael “Mike” Colaw and wife, Donna of Warm Springs, Terry Colaw Kershner and husband, John of Hot Springs, David Kirk Colaw and wife, Sonia of Big Valley, as well as Jody Daniel Colaw and Landon Vaught of Monterey; grandchildren Michael Scott Colaw and wife, Sarah, John Gentry Kershner, Donna Michelle Colaw, Graham McDow Kershner, Parke Colaw Kershner, Mikayla Grace Woodzell and husband, Christian, and Dawson Lee Colaw; a great grandson, Bradley Michael Colaw; sister-in-law, Frances Terry of Monterey; a great number of nieces and nephews.

A graveside funeral service will be held 1 p.m., Friday, September 30, 2022 in Hamilton Chapel Cemetery with Pastor Chip Hill officiating.  The staff of Obaugh Funeral Home will receive those wishing to pay their respects throughout the day Thursday, September 29 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Active pallbearers include Michael Colaw, Graham Kershner, Parke Kershner, Dawson Colaw, Christian Woodzell, Bill Wagner, Eddie Ailstock, and Andy Terry.

Friends serving as honorary pallbearers are Mike Puffenbarger, Duane Ruckman, Tommy Terry, Lowell Terry, Warren Groseclose, and Charles Rexrode.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bolar Volunteer Rescue Squad, 1099 Robinson Lane, Warm Springs VA 24484