Dr. Pamela Kaye Gauch (Age 80)
Dr. Pamela Kaye Gauch, beloved mother to four children, at 80 years old, of Woodbridge, VA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and family on February 27th, 2025.
Dr. Gauch was from Hopkins, MN born in 1945 to Jack and Helen Edeskuty. She attended Brigham Young University where she earned her Bachelors degree in Education, earned her Masters from George Mason, and finally her Doctorate from Virginia Tech. She spent her professional life dedicated to the education of children in Prince William County Public Schools where she taught French, English, became a principal and retired as Associate Superintendent of Curriculum/Instruction. She leaves a legacy of loyalty, commitment, and love for her profession and those she worked with for so many years.
Dr. Gauch was a devoted mother to Kathryn Harned, Michele Powers, Barry Gauch II, and Bryan Gauch. They have always been her pride and joy. Her passion for her family shined through in her selflessness and faith in Jesus Christ. You’d often find her at a sporting event cheering her children on or in the service of others, whether that be in her work or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She was a dedicated servant for which God has a special place reserved.
Dr. Pamela Gauch was preceded in death by her sisters Dorianna Haller, Nonie Parks, Jacqueline Lund, and brother Joseph Edeskuty, and is survived by her sisters Dianna Horntvedt and Ginger Robinson, her four children and their spouses, ten grandchildren, and two great grandchildren, who will never forget the love she brought to their lives.
A private family remembrance is planned for Wednesday, March 5th. A celebration of life will be scheduled and announced in the coming week for those interested in attending. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you say a prayer for Dr. Gauch and family, and take the time to volunteer at your local public school to help the dedicated individuals whose mission it is to further the education of our children.
Book of Mormon
Alma 56:47-48
“Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.”
“And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it.”
Linda Kathleen William (Age 77)
Memorial service info
Linda Kathleen Williams (Green), 76, found peace on February 6, 2025 surrounded by the love of family and friends. Linda was a beautiful person both inside and out. She grew up in South Charleston, West Virginia with her parents, Charles and Mary M. Green and her 13 siblings.
From her parents, Linda learned the value of working hard, loving others and laughing often. Linda graduated from Charleston Catholic High School in 1966. As the second born and eldest daughter of a large family, Linda’s love for children and caring for others came naturally. She completed a degree in Early Childhood Education in Athens, West Virginia at Concord College in 1970.
Her life spent educating children began in a kindergarten classroom in Covington, Virginia. Linda met the love of her life, Thacker Williams II while attending a mutual friends’ wedding. The two were married on June 9, 1973. Newly married, the classroom would have to wait while Linda embarked upon her next adventure, becoming an Army wife. Linda spent the next 19 years traveling the world with Thacker, making a loving, supportive, and cozy home wherever they landed. The Army sent them to Virginia, Arkansas, Alaska, Kentucky, Kansas, Indiana, Germany, and finally back to Virginia.
Along the way, their Army family grew with the addition of three children, Jessica, Sarah and Bryan. After retiring from Army life, Linda and Thacker planted roots in Dumfries, Virginia where Linda returned to the classroom. For 18 years, Linda taught sixth grade in Prince William County at Rippon Middle School. She especially enjoyed teaching history, referring frequently to her travels as an Army wife to enhance lessons. Middle school years can be tough, but Mrs. Williams made them a little easier providing snacks, encouragement and a listening ear. She had a knack for playing peacemaker when needed. Linda retired from Prince William County Schools in 2014.
Following retirement, Linda was thrilled to have more time to spend with her five grandchildren, Leona, Sage, Henry, Harrison and Adeline. Linda lived her life with child-like wonder and enthusiasm. She took notice of the small things; seashells, birds, shiny rocks, kind gestures, and children. She loved singing in the car, walking in the woods, tossing popcorn to the dog (or darn cat), baking cookies and pecan pies, sipping hot tea, laughing with children, and dancing in the kitchen.
Linda led a selfless and passionate life. She will missed beyond measure by all who knew her and loved her including her loving husband Thacker Williams II, her children and their spouses, Jessica Lamont (Michael), Sarah Edwards (Michael Paul), Bryan Williams (Joyce), her grandchildren, Leona, Sage, Henry, Harrison and Adeline, her sisters and their spouses, Betsy Green, Cathy Green, Ella Colgin (Curtis), Margaret Casto (David), Lisa Friddle (Harold), and Rhonda Atkins, her brothers and their spouses Charley Green (Mary), Joe Green (Glenda), John Green (Debbie), Patrick Green (Christine), Paul Green (Zaye), Matthew Green, and Larry Stamey. Linda is preceded in death by her parents Charles and Mary Green, her sister Susie Stamey and her brother Tom Green. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 1:00 pm with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans, WV. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org.
You may visit Linda’s tribute page at BartlettNichols.com to share memories or condolences with the family.
Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, family-owned and located at 409 Sixth Avenue, St. Albans, is honored to serve the Williams family.
Submitted by Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home
John Fasulo (Age 94)
Memorial service info
John Fasulo, Sr. passed away on January 31, 2025 at the age of 94 in Lake Ridge, Virginia, surrounded by family.
Born October 21, 1930 in Mineola, New York to William and Jenny Fasulo, nee LaMendola, John was the oldest of 6 children-4 brothers and a sister- all of whom he managed to outlive.
As a youth, John spent summer evenings in Brooklyn, New York observing and lending a hand with local fireworks displays. This casual pastime sparked a curiosity and enthusiasm for explosives that became a hallmark of his adult career with the US Marine Corps, where, among numerous other accomplishments, he became an expert on engineering and explosives and continued on to be a respected instructor in those areas at TBS and OCS on Quantico Marine Corps after leaving active duty.
Between October 17, 1950, until his retirement July 1, 1977, John served his country through the conflict in Korea, went to combat engineering school at Camp Lejune, NC, received his commission in 1966, and from there led troops in Vietnam, clearing mines among other bomb-making and diffusing assignments, was promoted to Master Sgt. in 1966, served in the Philippines, and eventually retired from active duty with the rank of major. In addition, John later traveled to Saudia Arabia to remove land mines surrounding oil rigs that were on fire and continued to support the international removal of live mines left from military actions through his partnership with a land mine specialist focused on this area of work.
John left the service highly decorated, receiving the following medals: Korean Service Medal with 3 stars, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal (4th Award), UN Service Ribbon National Defense Service Medal Korean PUC, Sharpshooter Badge (M-14), Purple Heart, Navy Commendation Medal w/combat “V”, Viet Nam Service Medal with 2 stars, Viet Nam Campaign Medal with device, Bronze Star with combat “V”.
While in Korea, John met and married his wife of 66 years, Si Kyung Hwang Fasulo, whom he described as “the prettiest thing”, on August 16, 1956. Together they had two sons and a daughter.
Outside of his notable career, John was a skilled amateur athlete, known for his ability to consistently make successful half-court shots in basketball, despite being all of 5’4” tall, and making a name for himself in Marine softball, where he was known as the “bare-handed pitcher”, leading his team to the White League Championship, and winning the MVP award in the baseball league while stationed with the Naval Advisory group in Korea, hitting .542 that season.
John was also fluent in Korean, Italian, Spanish, Tagalog and knew Church Latin.
John Fasulo Sr. is preceded in death by his parents, Pellegrino (William) Fasulo and Jennie LaMendola; his brothers, Joseph, Angelo, Neil, Antonio; his sister, Mary, and his wife, Si Kyung Fasulo, nee Hwang.
John Fasulo Sr. leaves behind his children, Pellegrino Fasulo II, John Fasulo Jr., and Nancy Ann Shannon, nee Fasulo.
The following memorial events are planned.
Visitation
02/11/2025 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home
13318 Occoquan Road, WOODBRIDGE, Virginia, 22191
Service
02/11/2025 12:00 PM to 01:00 PM
Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home
13318 Occoquan Road, WOODBRIDGE, Virginia, 22191
Interment
02/11/2025 02:00 PM to 02:30 PM
Quantico National Cemetery
18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, Virginia, 22172
Submitted by Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home
By Sarah Hagen and Andrew Kerley
VCU Capital News Service – Retired Falls Church handyman John Magill braved cold rain and snow, and a blocks-long line for the chance to see President Donald Trump speak at a rally ahead of his second inauguration.
Magill held a handwritten sign with the words: “TRUMP IS THE G.O.A.T.” — short for “greatest of all time.”
“Just the way he handles things, he’s a businessman,” Magill said, about why he voted for Trump. “He wants to get rid of the corrupt government. The economy is better off with him.”
Magill was one of several Virginians who called themselves commonsense voters, and who journeyed into Washington for Trump’s “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” at the Capital One Arena on Jan. 19.
These voters tell Capital News Service they want cheaper gas and food, more law enforcement support, less undocumented immigrants and things that “normal Americans love.” Several cited false or misleading statistics to back up their favorable view.
Approximately 20,000 people were allowed into the rally that ran from approximately 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event featured guests like Kid Rock, Village People and Elon Musk, whose son X followed him on stage.
Trump, who did his trademark dance to a live “YMCA” performance, reiterated his promise to issue many executive orders upon taking office, which is common during the transfer of power.
“You’re going to see executive orders that are going to make you extremely happy, lots of them,” Trump said to a cheering crowd, according to a transcript of his speech. “We have to set our country on the proper course.”
Trump promised the “most aggressive sweeping effort to restore our borders the world has ever seen.” Another initial focus will be to end “the Biden war on American energy” which Trump sees as a way to help defeat inflation and lower energy costs.
Arlington information technology specialist Bryan Malonjao immigrated from the Philippines. He became a naturalized citizen by serving in the Marine Corps for five years and now works at the Pentagon, he said. Malonjao supports Trump’s planned deportations.
“Do it the right way,” Malonjao said. “Do it the way I did it. I earned my citizenship.”
Malonjao’s wife is currently in Turkey awaiting a process to migrate to the U.S., he said. He questions why Immigration and Citizenship Services are taking a year to make it happen. And he is frustrated by a belief that the Democratic Party is expediting cases of people “coming in here illegally already.”
“This is all from the internet, you can see it, and they’re approving them a lot faster than someone who’s doing it the right way,” Malonjao said.
There are currently 17 countries that have temporary protected status, which allows individuals who would be unsafe if deported back to those countries to stay temporarily but is not necessarily a permanent immigration pathway, according to the American Immigration Council. It can take anywhere from six months to 1.5 years to gain TPS.
Malonjao also thinks it is unfair if undocumented immigrants receive more housing money than people who lost homes in Hurricane Helene, citing numbers similar to statements Trump made in the past that were disproven.
 He also wants Trump to fix inflation.
“Fix the tax, lower the grocery prices, gas prices,” Malonjao said. “Help out the veterans … honestly help out the veterans. A lot of veterans are suffering right now and I want those people to be helped first.”
Marcos Padilla from King George County said he was active in the earlier tea party movement that paved the way for the Make America Great Again movement, or MAGA. Padilla likes Trump because he “left us alone” during his first term.
“Just stay off our backs,” Padilla said. “We don’t need more regulations, we don’t need more laws, we don’t need more rules, we need fewer, right?”
Candy maker Rick Dotson of Staunton thinks Trump did “a really good job” the first time. He cited inflation and border security as top reasons he is excited to see Trump back in the Oval Office.
Dotson, who works at Hershey Chocolate of Virginia, thinks this is a moment of change.
“I’ve seen a lot of different people out here today, a lot of different nationalities,” Dotson said. “I think it’s going to bring the country together more, hopefully.”
Travelers and locals scrambled to find backup plans when Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration was moved inside the Capitol Rotunda due to forecasted freezing temperatures. Over 200,000 tickets were reportedly distributed, or promised, but only a fraction of that number could enter the Capital One Arena, which was used Monday as a location for people to watch a livestream of Trump’s swearing in.
The president plans to take the stage again at the sports arena on Monday, as part of his inaugural parade ceremonies. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who attended the inauguration, told the press he is slated to deliver remarks at the arena before the parade.
Capital News Service is a program of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Robertson School of Media and Culture. Students in the program provide state government coverage for a variety of media outlets in Virginia.
Stafford Hospital also welcomed its first baby of the year, Miles Roy, born at 4:59 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 1.5 ounces. Miles’ parents, Jessica and Ken of Spotsylvania. He joins big brothers Garrett, 5, and Jackson, 2.
The hospital did not provide the last names of the parents.
More in a press release from Mary Washington Hospital.
Mary Washington Hospital proudly announces the arrival of the first baby born in the Fredericksburg region for the new year. Baby girl Kylah Ann made her debut at 1:55 a.m., weighing 7 pounds, 1 ounce. She is the daughter of Erica and Christopher, residents of Spotsylvania.
Erica and Christopher were not expecting to have their baby so soon, as Kylah made her debut five weeks early! They were heading to a New Year’s Eve party when plans suddenly changed and they found themselves heading to the hospital instead. Kylah is currently getting amazing care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Mary Washington Hospital. Both Kylah and Erica are doing great. “I knew as soon as I heard her cry, that she was a fighter,” says Erica.
Stafford Hospital also kicked off the new year with a heartwarming arrival of their own! Baby Miles Roy, weighing 6 pounds, 1.5 ounces, made his debut at 4:59 a.m., bringing joy to his parents, Jessica and Ken of Spotsylvania, and the entire community. Adding a touch of excitement, Miles’ gender was kept a surprise until delivery! While his big brothers – Garrett, 5, and Jackson, 2– had their hearts set on a sister, they could not be happier to welcome their new baby brother.
Mary Washington Healthcare extends heartfelt congratulations to the new parents and warmly welcomes these little New Year’s babies into the world. The arrival of Kylah and Miles symbolizes hope and new beginnings, perfectly aligning with the spirit of the New Year.
A 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI traveling northbound veered off the roadway into a field, striking a utility pole. The impact caused the vehicle to overturn multiple times and catch fire. The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed no other vehicles were involved, and speed was identified as a factor in the crash.
The driver’s identity is pending confirmation and notification of next-of-kin. Police urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact investigators.
Stafford Busts Major Drug Operation
A significant drug bust in Stafford County led to the arrests of Gesiah Hill, 22, and Henry Rojas, 24, both of Stafford, following a December 19th search of their Rappahannock Landing residence. Authorities uncovered:
– 1 kilogram of cocaine ($30,000 value)
– 35 pounds of marijuana ($122,500 value)
– 1,000 THC vape pens ($40,000 value)
– 100 ecstasy pills ($2,000 value)
– 3 handguns ($1,500 value)
– 60 boxes of ammunition ($900 value)
– $9,800 in cash
Hill was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, possession of a firearm with drugs, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is held without bond. Rojas faces conspiracy to distribute drugs and is held on a $5,000 bond.
The investigation began when New Mexico authorities alerted Stafford detectives during a traffic stop involving Hill and Rojas. The Stafford SWAT and Drone teams executed the search warrant, making these arrests a clear warning to drug dealers to avoid Stafford County. The investigation is ongoing.
Fredericksburg Police Arrest Third Suspect in Downtown Shooting Case
The Fredericksburg Police Department has arrested Eric Costley, 22, of Spotsylvania, in connection with the December 14th downtown shooting that claimed the life of Tyler Lee Jones, 23, of Fredericksburg. Costley faces charges of second-degree murder, firearm use in a felony, and aggravated malicious wounding. He is being held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.
The shooting occurred near Castiglias Italian and Fahrenheit 132 restaurants in the 400 block of William Street, a bustling downtown area. Police responded at 1 a.m. to reports of gunfire and found Jones on Charles Street with gunshot wounds. Despite rescue efforts, he later died at the hospital.
Police already have two additional suspects in custody.
Elijah Musgrove surrendered to authorities at the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office in West Virginia on December 19 after eluding law enforcement for several days. Police did not provide his age.
Izaiah Jabbar Daniels, 21, of Woodford, was apprehended on December 15th during a vehicle stop by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Daniels is currently held at the Rappahannock Regional Jail and faces charges of second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to call 540-373-3122 or submit anonymous tips by texting “FPDtip” to 847-411.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (17.3MB)
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS | More
In an era of rapid development and change, few leaders, like Mayor Janette Rishell of Manassas Park, leave a lasting impact. After 12 years of dedicated service—four on the City Council and eight as Mayor—Mayor Rishell is stepping down, leaving behind a transformed city with a brighter future.
On the latest episode of the Potomac Local News Podcast, our founder, Uriah Kiser, sits down with Mayor Rishell for an insightful conversation about her journey, her achievements, and her vision for Manassas Park’s future.
Why Listen to This Episode?
1. A City Transformed
Mayor Rishell reflects on how Manassas Park emerged from financial challenges to become a vibrant community with a thriving community center and a new downtown development. Her leadership helped the city avoid state intervention for fiscal distress and achieve a strong credit rating.
2. Leadership Lessons
As a supporter of term limits, Mayor Rishell shares her thoughts on balanced governance, teamwork, and the importance of a shared vision in achieving success.
3. The Road Ahead
Learn about Mayor Rishell’s hopes for the city’s continued growth, from filling downtown storefronts to improving economic development and lowering taxes. She also shares heartfelt advice for residents to stay involved and support their community.
4. A Personal Touch
This episode offers a glimpse into the personal side of leadership. Mayor Rishell discusses her unique hobbies, including translating ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, and her plans to spend more time with family and pursue her passions in retirement.
Whether you’re a Manassas Park resident or someone interested in community growth and leadership, this podcast episode offers inspiration and insight into the dedication required to lead a city through challenging times.
Don’t miss this chance to hear from a leader who has guided her city with resilience and vision. Subscribe to the Potomac Local News Podcast today and join the conversation about shaping the future of our communities.
Two years ago, The George Washington Regional Commission explored creating a street outreach position to serve as a liaison between the unhoused and service providers for the localities in the planning district.Â
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (25.7MB)
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS | More
In our latest episode of the Potomac Local News Podcast, we tackle the complex and controversial topic of data centers and their growing presence in our region. Joining the conversation are two experts with unique perspectives: Bill Wright, a data center activist from Prince William County, and Dr. Eric Bonds, a professor at the University of Mary Washington and a concerned Fredericksburg resident.
Fredericksburg City Council recently held a work session to discuss an ordinance that would allow data centers within the city limits for the first time, focusing on a 250-acre site at Celebrate Virginia South. The proposed timeline is ambitious, with plans to finalize the ordinance as early as February 2025. While data centers promise potential economic benefits, including increased tax revenue, concerns about their environmental and community impact have sparked significant debate.
In this episode, we explore:
- Community Impacts: Dr. Bonds outlines how the proposed digital overlay zone would surround residential areas, including an apartment complex and retirement communities, raising questions about compatibility and quality of life.
- Lessons Learned: Bill Wright shares insights from Prince William County, where data center developments have led to environmental challenges, lawsuits, and a lack of transparency.
- Economic Realities: While data centers generate tax revenue, our guests discuss the hidden costs, including legal fees, infrastructure demands, and environmental compliance, which often go uncalculated.
- Climate Considerations: Dr. Bonds raises concerns about the energy-intensive nature of data centers and how they conflict with local and state commitments to renewable energy and environmental stewardship.
- Whether you’re a Fredericksburg resident, an environmental advocate, or simply curious about how data centers impact communities, this episode offers an in-depth look at these developments’ challenges and opportunities.
