Hargis “Junior” Webb Jr., 79, of Strasburg, Virginia, passed away at Winchester Medical Center on Monday, April 22, 2024.

Hargis “Junior” Webb Jr.

The funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home, 105 West Main Street, Front Royal, with Sammy Campbell officiating.  Burial will follow at Panorama Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Webb was born on May 3, 1944, in Pound, Virginia, to the late Hargis Sr. and Linda Mullins Webb.  He was also preceded in death by his brother, Vernard “Ray” Webb; sister, Ruby Jean Webb Jones; and sister-in-law, Eloise “Donie” Webb.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Beatrice “Bea” Webb; two sons, Ronnie Webb (Loretta) and Mike Webb (Brenda); four brothers, Bill Webb, Ed Webb (Lesha), James Webb (Dale) and Bob Webb (Chris); sister, Jackie Garmer (Shawn); six grandchildren, Ashley Hamrick (Mike), Amy Webb, Michael Webb (Ashley), Ronnie Webb Jr., Mason Davis and Tori Shamblin; two great-grandchildren, Brentley Hamrick and Keelan Webb; sister-in-law, Ada Webb; brother-in-law, Charles Jones and numerous nieces and nephews.

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

Please remember to check your lawn before you mow!

Patient 24-683 recovering at BRWC. @BRWC 2024

This beautiful American toad was hit by a lawnmower on Saturday and suffered injuries to the right wrist and right hind leg.

Patient 24-683 at intake.

Unfortunately, due to the level of trauma, the right hind leg required amputation at the level of the knee, which was performed once the patient was stabilized.

This patient is still eligible for release once recovered and will do just fine in the wild, even with one less leg to hop on!

This time of year we see species of all kinds come into care with injuries inflicted by mowers and weedwhackers. Luckily, injuries like this are preventable in many cases.

Patient 24-683 recovering at BRWC. @BRWC 2024

Some people will sweep their lawn with a broom to flush out any animals that may be hiding (also a great way to find and protect a bunny nest). You can also enlist a child, partner, or friend to keep you company while you mow by walking a few feet ahead and checking for wildlife as they go!

Or, if you are looking for an alternative to a turf grass lawn, consider replacing some or all of it with native plants! Traditional lawns provide little functional space for wildlife, use excessive water, and often introduce fertilizers and pesticides that damage our environment.

Reducing the need to mow and creating beautiful and healthy habitat for native wildlife is a win-win!

Native pollinator garden at BRWC. @BRWC 2022-2023

Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.

Oral health is vital to our overall well-being, but it’s often overlooked until problems arise. Understanding and recognizing the signs of common dental issues can help you take action before they escalate. Here’s a rundown of eight frequent oral health problems that adults face and why staying vigilant is key to maintaining a healthy smile.

1. Cavities

Cavities are areas of tooth decay caused by the acidic by-products of plaque bacteria eroding the enamel. If left untreated, they can lead to severe toothache and infections.

2. Stained Teeth

Various factors can lead to tooth discoloration, including tobacco use and the consumption of certain foods and drinks (like coffee, wine, and dark-colored vegetables). Some medications also contribute to this problem, affecting the brightness of your smile.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Exposed tooth roots due to gum recession or gum disease can lead to sensitivity. This means hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks can cause discomfort or pain.

4. Gingivitis

The early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is characterized by inflammation of the gums. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. It’s primarily caused by plaque build-up.

5. Damaged Tooth

Teeth can be chipped, cracked, or broken due to accidents, falls, or biting down on hard objects. This affects your smile and can lead to further dental issues if not addressed.

6. Mouth Cancer

Oral cancers can manifest as bumps, sores, or rough patches in the mouth. Early detection through regular dental check-ups significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

7. Periodontal Disease

An advanced form of gum disease, periodontal disease affects the tissues and bones that support teeth. Without treatment, it can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to other health issues.

8. Tooth Movement

Our teeth naturally shift as we age, potentially leading to overcrowding or misalignment. This can complicate oral hygiene and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Act Early, Stay Healthy

Recognizing these common dental issues is the first step toward prevention and treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, are crucial. If you notice any signs of the above conditions, consulting with your dentist promptly can help keep your smile bright and healthy.

Nancy Smith, a remarkable athlete who recently completed her 24th consecutive Boston Marathon, shared her inspiring journey and motivations in an interview at the Royal Examiner studio. With the 128th Boston Marathon behind her, Nancy celebrated her physical accomplishment and substantial contributions to cancer research.

Nancy was sporting a collection of medals as a testament to endurance and dedication. This year, she ran as part of the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge, raising awareness and funds for innovative cancer research. Over nine years, Nancy has raised almost $66,000, with her efforts this year adding $11,575 to the cause.

The Boston Marathon is not just a race; it’s a beacon for participants like Nancy, who run for a cause greater than themselves. She runs in memory of Brooke, a young girl who lost her life to neuroblastoma cancer at age 12. Each year, Nancy’s participation in the marathon serves as a tribute to Brooke and a means to support ongoing cancer research, making each step on the pavement meaningful.

This year’s marathon was particularly challenging due to unseasonably warm temperatures, making it the warmest marathon day since 1917. Despite these conditions, Nancy and thousands of others persevered, supported by the enthusiastic cheers of spectators along the 26.2-mile course and the extensive medical support available to the runners.

The Boston Marathon, a historic event requiring qualification or charity sponsorship for participation, not only tests physical stamina but also embodies a spirit of community and support. Runners from all walks of life come together to push their limits and raise funds for various causes, making it more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of human spirit and resilience.

As Nancy looks forward to her 25th consecutive marathon next April, she aims to join the elite “Quarter Century Club,” a significant milestone that underscores her commitment to the sport and her cause. Her story is a powerful reminder of one person’s impact, combining physical endurance with heartfelt philanthropy and inspiring us all to think beyond the finish line.

Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com

Dana Dell Shaffer, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the age of 77.

Dana Dell Shaffer

Born September 16, 1946, in Savannah, Georgia, to Virginia and Osgood Shearouse, Dana moved to McLean, Virginia, as a teenager with her family, where she would later meet her husband, Elmer Shaffer. They started a family in 1973 and moved to Front Royal, Virginia, where she was a loving and guiding wife and devoted mother to her four children.

Dana gave all to her family and prided herself on getting the kids off to school on time with clean clothes and a good breakfast, or even just the smiles on her family’s faces when a family’s (or neighborhood’s) favorite recipe made it into the meal rotation!

Dana loved knitting and was always eager to share her creations with those she loved. She took pride in her canning skills and enjoyed her word search puzzles and watching her soaps in her spare time. Dana had a deep love for her church and singing on Sundays. Her love extended to everyone who knew her, and she will be remembered for her warm smile, loving personality, and mischievous giggle.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Elmer; her children, Charles Shaffer (Laura Maxey), Brian (Tina) Shaffer, Edith Shaffer, and William (Sara) Shaffer; two grandchildren, Duane Shaffer and Lisa Shaffer; siblings, Mary Bach and Charles (Linda) Shearouse; and last but not least, her family at Grace Bible Fellowship Church where she loved all so dearly.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 26, from 6-8 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at Maddox Funeral Home on Saturday, April 27, at 1:00 p.m., with Sammy Campbell officiating. Interment will follow in Panorama Memorial Gardens in Warren County.

Instead of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Blue Ridge Hospice at (540) 313-9200 or https://www.brhospice.org/donate. 

Rest in peace, mom. You will forever be in our hearts and memories.