Bernard Thurman Riffe

April 18, 1941 - March 5, 2020

Bernard Thurman Riffe, 78, of Wyco, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at his residence. Born April 18, 1941 at Ike's Fork, he was the son of the late George W. and Hannah Dameron Riffe. Bernard was a member of Corinne First Church of God and was so proud of his church family. He was a 40 year coalminer, a member of UMWA, and the Wyoming County Black Lung Association. Bernard loved people and was always willing to help others. If you had a problem, he knew the solution to it. He was so loved and will be missed by many, especially by his family. In addition to his parents he is also preceded in death by four brothers, Herman, Sherman, Ralph, and Earnest Riffe; three sisters, Lottie Riffe, Velva Cline, and Thelma Cline. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 57 years, Judith Marie Walters Riffe; one son, Burnard Dean Riffe of Glen Rogers; six grandchildren, Jason Powell of Deep Run, NC, Arianna and Sierra Turner of Deep Run, NC (whom he called Thunder and Lightening), Lillian Cox and Andrew Cox of Hillsville, VA, and Lucas Ingram of Wyco. These six grandchildren can never imagine the love he had for them or the joy they brought to him; one sister-in-law, Delephine Riffe of Welch; the very best of friends, Jimmy and Iris Manning, Randy and Linda Ingram, and Aaron Bishop; a special sister, Charlene Cook and her husband, Allen; and many nieces and nephews whome he loved dearly and enjoyed getting together with them. Services will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at the Corinne First Church of God with Pastor Evelyn Williamson officiating. Burial will follow in Palm Memorial Gardens, Matheny. Friends may call from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at the Corinne First Church of God and one hour prior to services Wednesday at the church. Pallbearers will be Chris Ingram, Lucas Ingram, Lacy Cox, Andrew Cox, Glen Walters, and Travis Orndorf. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Manning, Randy Ingram, and Aaron Bishop. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tankersleyfh.com. The family of Bernard Riffe is being cared for by Tankersley Funeral Home, Mullens.