Andrew Giles Semones

Andrew Giles Semones, of Fancy Gap, died of natural causes on August 12, 2025.  Born in Dr. Virgil Cox’s Clinic in Galax, Virginia, July 7, 1953, Andy was a master woodcutter and woodworker; a builder, a carpenter, a fisherman, a gardener, a hunter, and a writer; and a much-loved son, brother, uncle and friend.
 
He lived most of his life in and around Carroll County, especially Fancy Gap, Virginia, for many years in his maternal grandparents’ house and near the lands once owned by McMillan and Semones relatives.  He was preceded in death by his father, Reford Eugene Semones, and by his sisters Patricia Semones Dow Flippen and Jeanette Semones Hawks.
 
He is survived by his mother Anna McMillan Semones, his brothers Michael Semones (Helen), Vincent Semones (Karen), Joe Semones (Jill), and Danny Semones (Anita), and by his sisters Ramona Semones Fletcher and Nancy Semones Knox.  He is also survived by nephews and nieces, cousins, and friends far and near.

Andy did not want a funeral service, and the family is honoring his wishes.  We will think of him when he was at his happiest -- out in the woods, mowing the yard, playing board games and working puzzles, making his signature Christmas cookies, and simply sitting outside enjoying the peace and beauty of nature.  He loved books; his knowledge was wide and deep and based on over six decades of reading and study.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Carroll County Public Library, 101 Beaver Dam Road, Hillsville, VA 24343;  to Devil's Den Nature Preserve, c/o Hilary Botschen, PO Box 7, Fancy Gap, VA 24328;  to Fancy Gap United Methodist Church, 578 Old Appalachian Trail, Fancy Gap, VA 24328;  or to Sky View Baptist Church, 129 Skyview Drive, Fancy Gap, VA 24328, where Andy was a member.  Condolences may be sent to the family, at PO Box 102, Fancy Gap, VA 24328.

Vaughan Guynn McGrady Chapel in Hillsville is serving the family.