"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God."

Arkie Dove Carrico age, 92, of Independence, VA passed away at the Grayson Nursing and Rehab Center in Independence on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.  Dove was born in the Comers Rock Community on December 27, 1932, to Emmett and Vina Jane Testerman Hackler.  She was very devoted to her family.  She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.  She was an excellent cook and there were seldom any leftovers. Despite her extended life of 92 years, Dove was never old.  Her young and playful spirit made her a favorite of all ages in her family.  A visit with Grandma Dove always meant a basket of toys would awaited visiting children. Her love of adventure was often nourished with travel- she was always ready to go!  She was fashioned minded always accessorizing her outfits. Dove was never complete without a spray of Lancôme Tre'sor, her perfume of choice!!!  Dove will be remembered for bringing cakes to the funeral home and sliding them into the family car!  A relationship with the family was not necessary to warrant a cake, she would often attend the funeral of people she didn't know, saying "I know they did not live here long, so I figured not too many people would show up!"  This innocent free-spirited attitude made her a favorite among many people.  She was loved by everybody who was fortunate enough to have known her.  Among the most endearing and enduring qualities of Mrs. Dove was her attempt at peace-making!  She did not like disharmony and made every attempt to bring resolution to a dispute.  She will best be remembered as a peacemaker.  She was a devout Christian who set aside time every day for her Bible reading and study.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Kemp Carrico, her son, David Carrico, as well as her parents.

She is survived by her sons, Doug and Katy Carrico and Richard and Opal Carrico all of Independence; six grandchildren, Jeff and Dana Carrico of Rural Retreat, VA, Jason and Emily Carrico and Robert and Ashley Carrico all of Galax, VA, Worth and Beth Carrico and Phillip and Mikayla Carrico all of Independence, and Joy Beth and Buck Tomblin of Berryville, VA; 16 Great grandchildren also survives.

Graveside services will be conducted on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 1:00 at the Comers Rock Cemetery with Rev. Randy Watts officiating.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Carrico family.