DILLWYN, March 30 – Benjamin Bagwell Bersch, 82, of Dillwyn, died Thursday, March 25, 2004 at his home.

He was born January 11, 1922 to the late Leslie Archer Bersch and Jane Williams Bersch in Dillwyn.

Mr. Bersch was a devoted member, as well as secretary and treasurer for many years at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Buckingham County Lions Club and Buckingham County Electoral Board.

He is survived by his wife, Erecelle Taylor Bersch; two sons, David and his wife, Debbie and Richard and his wife, Barbara all of Dillwyn; one daughter, Janice Bersch of Madison; one brother, Victor Lightfoot Bersch and his wife, Billee; one sister, Louise “Lou” Dunkum; six grandchildren, Jennifer and husband. Leaf Martin, Brian and Emily Bersch and Michael Bersch all of Dillwyn, Jean Marie Dixon, Will and wife, Helen Dixon of Madison; four great-grandchildren, Orion, Ian and Grant Martin of Dillwyn and Christian Dixon of Madison.

Funeral services were held 2 p.m. Sunday at Bethlehem Baptist Church with interment In the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1490 Pantops Mountain Place, Suite 200, Charlottesville, VA 22911 or Bethlehem Baptist Church Building Fund, Dillwyn, VA 23936.

Dunkum Funeral Home, Dillwyn, was in charge of arrangements.