Lynn Townsend

Lynn Elwood Townsend, 92, of Mill Gap, passed away Tuesday, July 3, 2018 at Pocahontas Memorial Hospital in Marlinton, W.Va.

He was born July 4, 1925, in Campbell Town, W.Va., a son of the late Howard David and Icie Viola (Townsend) Townsend. On December 20, 1946 he married Thelma Hiner, whom remained married for 71 years.

Mr. Townsend was a member of Green Hill United Methodist Church, a World War II Navy Veteran having served on the U.S.S. Pittsburgh, life member of the Monterey VFW and served as treasurer and trustee of Green Hill Cemetery. He was a founding member of the Mill Gap Ruritan Club, and owner of Townsend Auction Barn for over 25 years. Additionally, he was also a self-employed logger and farmer. After his auctioneering business came to an end, he still held annual yard sales at the auction barn to keep up with his friends. He was a frequent contributing writer for The Recorder sharing his experiences.

He enjoyed playing his harmonica and banjo, hunting, and ginsenging but above all, he most enjoyed sharing his stories of growing up on Townsend Draft and of being in the Navy. When he rubbed his hands together quickly and smiled, you knew a story was about to be shared.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two infant daughters, Ellen Marie and Diana Kay Townsend; two sisters, Hallie Hemp and Mayjewel Curry; and two brothers, Ernest and Guilford Townsend.

Mr. Townsend is survived by his wife Thelma Townsend; two sons, Lynn Elwood Townsend Jr. and wife, Linda of Churchville and David Eugene Townsend of Franklin, W.Va.; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; as well as a large circle of friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 7, 2018 at Obaugh Funeral Home with pastor Bobbie Jo Gardner officiating. Burial will follow in Green Hill Cemetery.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Joe Simmons, Virgil Armstrong, Chad and Jeremy Townsend, Brad and Allen Lowry, Brad Gumm and Tim Duff.

Honorary pallbearers will be the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Highland County Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 268, Monterey, Va. 24465.

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