Cadet Obituaries

Format: 2024

David F. Ritchie

1957
 

Ritchie, David F., 85, of Hope Street, Rumford, died on March 9, 2024 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Sharon Kay (Francia) Ritchie.

Born in New Bedford, MA, a son of the late David W. and Ida (Cory) Ritchie, he lived in Rumford for the past three years, previously residing in Pittsburgh, PA.

David graduated from the University of Cincinnati Class of 1960 where he earned a master’s degree.

Mr. Ritchie was a college and professional football coach for 50 years before retiring in 2012. David began his coaching career in 1962 as an assistant coach with Greenbrier Military School.

He was an assistant coach with his alma mater, Cincinnati, from 1969 to 1972. He later joined the Brown Bears as an assistant coach and head recruiter. Thereafter, David was the head coach for the Fairmont State Fighting Falcons, from 1978 to 1982, where he compiled a 35–13–3 record.

He was a former American gridiron football coach in college football, the Canadian Football League (CFL), the Italian Football League (IFL), and Switzerland Nationalliga A (American football). He is best known for his time as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers head coach from 1999 to 2004. He was a three-time Grey Cup champion, having won in 1990, 1994, and 2006 and was named the CFL’s Coach of the Year in 2001. He won 108 regular season games as a head coach in the CFL which is the seventh highest win total by a head coach in the league’s history.

Mr. Ritchie was named to the Fairmont State Hall of Fame in 2010, following five years as a head coach there with two conference titles and one Coal Bowl victory in 1979. He is a member of the Blue Bomber Hall of Fame as the fourth-winningest head coach in team history with a record of 52–44–1 and winning a Grey Cup as an assistant coach in 1990.

Mr. Ritchie was enshrined in the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in the Class of 2022 as a builder.

Besides his wife of 65 years, he is survived by two daughters, Phyllis R. Buckley and her husband Jay of Riverside and Susan E. Custer and her husband Dan of Barrington, a son, David W. Ritchie of Rumford; eight grandchildren, Sarah, Matthew, Daniel, David, Katelyn, Kendra, Kylie and David; three great-grandchildren, two brothers, Frank J. Ritchie and his late wife Carole of Cincinnati, Ohio and Philip A. Ritchie and his wife Barbara of Raleigh, NC and a sister Susan R. Todres and her husband Allen of Franklin, MA and several nieces and nephews.

His Funeral Service will be held on Saturday March 16, 2024 in the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 9 a.m. A private burial will follow in Beach Grove Cemetery, Westport, MA.

The Ritchie family will receive relatives and friends for a Celebration of Life on Saturday March 16, 2024 from 1-3 p.m. in the Blue Water Grill Restaurant, 32 Barton Avenue, Barrington, RI 02806.

Calling Hours and flowers are respectfully omitted. Contributions in David’s memory to The Wolf School, 215 Ferris Avenue, East Providence, RI, 02916 would be deeply appreciated.

James William Kane

1957
 


JAMES "JIM"' KANE OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Mr. James (Jim) William Kane, Sr. Age 85, passed away Monday, February 26, 2024, at his son’s home in Prattville, AL.

Mr. Kane was born in Logan County, West Virginia and had been a resident of Monroeville since August 11, 2011. He was a retired Labor relations and human resource specialist. He was an active member of the First United Church of Monroeville and was a member of the choir. He worked for several major coal companies, NASA, and Defense Contractors. He was also an Eagle Scout. He was highly active in his community, and a member of the Wednesday Work group at First United Methodist.

Preceded in death by his wife, Janice A. Kane, his parents C.O. Kane and Wilsie Kane, his brother Danny Kane, a daughter Kandy Kane, a son James W. Kane II, and a granddaughter, Tiffany M. Blackard.

Survivors include three daughters, Lauri L. Sprague of Charles Town, WV, Connie S. Kane of Brentwood, TN, and Tabitha F. Kane of UT. Three sons, John P. Stewart of Prattville, James (Bo) A. Stewart of Ringgold, GA, and Jeremy R. Stewart of Houston.; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 3:00 P.M at Monroe Chapel Funeral Home with Pastor John Woodrow officiating..

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the First United Methodist Church of Monroeville, 324 Pineville Road, Monroeville, Alabama, 36460.

Please share your condolences online by signing Mr. Kane's guestbook.

Joseph Martin III

1966
 

Joe Martin Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Tomblyn Funeral Home and Cremation Service on Feb. 24, 2024.
Joe Martin III, a longtime leader in state and local government whose service spanned decades and historic milestones, died Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024, at his home in Charleston. He was 75.

Martin dedicated his life to public service. He holds the record as Elkins' youngest city council member and mayor, and the state's first Homeland Security advisor. He is remembered by colleagues as a statesman, friend and mentor, the one who would always pull through for the competition of any project.
"Some of my earliest memories are attending campaign events across the district with my father, seeing how much attention and care he paid to each of his constituents," said Martin's daughter, Abbey. "I may be an only child, but the people of West Virginia (especially Randolph and Pocahontas counties) may as well have been my siblings. He'd say, 'Ab, you always have to remember to put more into this world than you take out of it.' It was in his blood, and he made sure it would be in mine."
Martin's career began in 1973 when he was elected to Elkins City Council. Two years into his service, Elkins City Hall moved to its current location from Fourth Street, where the fire department was expanded and stands today.

After a four-year term on council, he won the race for mayor of Elkins in 1977 at age 28. He held that post until 1989.

During his tenure as mayor, he also served in the West Virginia House of Delegates District 30, representing residents of Randolph and Pocahontas counties. That service continued for 22 years amid redistricting. He was appointed to the legislature in June 1978 to fill the unexpired term of Julia Pitsenberger Elbon, was elected to the position later that year and again every two years through 1998.

"Joe was just a natural born leader," said Elkins resident Steve Shepler, who served on city council when Martin was mayor. "He did a tremendous job for Elkins as mayor and when he was in the House he could work on things we needed and bring them to the state level." He kept the city moving with progress, including upgrades to the landfill and the circa 1929 water plant.

Martin was also a mentor to Shepler.
"I observed him a lot when I was on council," Shepler said. "When he decided to not run again for mayor, he suggested I might consider it."
Shepler was successful in his bid and continued to work with Martin when the city needed help from the state.
As a member of the House, Martin served more than two terms as majority leader, chairman of the House Committee on Government Organization, co-chairman of the Joint Committee on Government Operations, chairman of the House Select Committee on Health Care Policies, co-chairman of the Forest Management Review Commission, chairman of the House Committee on Oil and Gas, and as a member of the Joint Committee on Government and Finance, House Committee on Rules, Commission on Special Investigations and Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability.

With the onslaught of responsibility, Martin always focused on what was best for his constituents and residents of the state. A prime example is the purchase and development of the former CSX railyard in downtown Elkins. When the company pulled up tracks in what was the epicenter of the town's founding and later a hub of commerce transportation and employment, the Randolph County Development Authority knew the 20-plus acre site had to be repurposed for the good of the community. However, they were lacking the approximate $2 million asking price.

"Joe was instrumental in getting the majority of the funds and we raised the rest," said Jim Schoonover, who served as RCDA president at the time. "CSX took a note and it was about a four-year process."

Since then, it's been what Schoonover described as "one brick at a time" with the restoration of the depot, the bridge replacement, Durbin & Greenbrier Railroad excursions, Holiday Inn Express, the former theater and current church, as well as the future event center.

"All of this wouldn't have happened if we had not purchased it and that's all because of Joe Martin. He was the integral part."
In gratitude, Martin Street was named in his honor.

"It was the least we could do to put his name on the street in the middle of the railyard," Schoonover said.
"He never forgot who he represented and that showed when he got the money to buy the railyard," said Bill Hartman, a RCDA member at the time and later a member of the House of Delegates. "The railyard is very important to the community and will continue to be. Joe did that for us."
Former Elkins mayor Jimmy Hammond had a similar experience when the city planned to develop the 22-acre Riverbend Park.
"He got us the money to buy the land," Hammond said. "Any time we needed help, he was the go-to guy. He never failed me."
Today the park serves thousands of residents and visitors with athletic facilities for Little League baseball, soccer fields, walking trails and pavilions.
Tom Meader, retired Elkins fire chief, echoed Hammond's sentiments.

"Joe was one outstanding mayor," said Meader, who had just joined the fire department when Martin was on council. "He did a lot for the city to bring it forward. We had a lot of respect for him because when you went to him for help or a suggestion, he always gave you an answer – he never put you off."
An Elkins staple, the Mountain State Forest Festival was a favorite event for Martin. As a public official, he presented Queen Silvia with the "Investment of Mantle Authority" during the Royal Coronation ceremony. On at least one occasion, he stepped in for the governor to bestow the crown to her majesty.
Elkins businessman and former city councilman Harold Elbon, whose wife Julia preceded Martin's term in the House, enjoyed forming a partnership with the Forest Festival and the city.

"We worked a lot together on the Forest Festival when I was director general," Elbon said. "He and the city were very helpful. He was such a go-getter for Elkins."
Pocahontas County Commission President Walt Helmick considered Martin not only a close friend, but the one he always went to for advice on any issue that arose throughout his political career. That included the local and state fronts, along with multiple occurrences when the two crossed over to the federal level.
When he and Martin were discussing how to move the Corridor H project forward, they knew a trip to Washington, D.C., was in order. The two, along with Hartman, scheduled a meeting with former U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd and other leaders.

"I spent a lot of time in meetings in Washington because over half of Pocahontas County is owned by the federal government, so I had that connection," Helmick said. "But, in that meeting, it was just Joe's presence, how he conducted himself, and his connections with Jennings Randolph that made it successful. Everything that got re-energized came out of that meeting."

Byrd suggested they raise the gasoline tax by 5 cents, which then netted $55 million in one year to help fund the project beyond the Buckhannon to I-79 connection.
Helmick said that wasn't the only time Martin's very presence and knowledge made a difference. He cited Howes Tannery and Inter-State Hardwoods.
"If I called him with any issue, he was there," Helmick said. "He had connections to and knowledge of the timber industry and environmental issues. People appreciate that when they can connect with someone who knows about their business and what they face."

Among his other accomplishments, Martin ushered in a bill that exempted Helvetia cheese from most state food regulations and was instrumental in passing a bill to allow vintage cars to legally use license plates from the year they were manufactured.

In 2001, Martin was appointed Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Military Affairs and Public Safety – now the Department of Homeland Security – by then-Gov. Bob Wise. In that post he oversaw the divisions of Criminal Justice Services, Corrections, Juvenile Services, Regional Jail Authority, West Virginia Parole Board, State Police, Protective Services, Office of Emergency Services, Veterans Affairs, West Virginia National Guard and the West Virginia State Fire Commission.
It was during that time Christy Farris Morris, a former legislative lawyer, agreed to serve as Martin's deputy cabinet secretary. The two remained colleagues throughout their careers and as friends well after.

"He gave his all to everything," Farris Morris said. "He had the distinct ability to see through obstacles to find solutions."
Within a few months into his role with MAPS, one of those obstacles presented itself. The tragedy of 9/11 devastated the nation and Martin's duties expanded as the state's first Homeland Security advisor, a position the federal government required in each state. Advisors participated in regular meetings with the White House to discuss needs and plans in their states.

"During this time there was a flood of information coming in for new requirements and laws, and assessment of what resources were needed. Joe had never worked as a first responder and he wasn't afraid to let others teach him what he needed to know for this role," Farris Morris said. "Joe was very forward thinking and he knew how to marshal the resources to prepare for any act of terrorism. I think he enjoyed helping direct those plans."

In the meantime, the state was hit with natural disasters. When floods struck, destroying homes and communities, it was par for the course for Martin, Wise and sometimes Farris Morris to board helicopters for a bird's eye view.

"What you see from the air is entirely different. It's horrific," Farris Morris said. "Joe and the governor wanted to meet with those people, to give them comfort. Joe, in his shirt sleeves, would march up and ask how they could help. It was just part of who Joe was – always wanting to help people."

Among his work was involvement in years of planning for the state's 10 regional jails, including the Tygart Valley Regional Jail, which opened in 2005.
Martin's dedication, leadership and expertise in state government landed him in a new role in 2003 as Wise's legislative director, the liaison between the governor, House and Senate. Added to that was senior staff responsibility for the state budget.

"He was good at recognizing good legislation and shepherding it to become law," Farris Morris said. "And, he was good at masterfully passing a responsible budget."
Martin wasn't all business, though. Farris Morris recalls his sense of humor and quick wit to come up with puns, sometimes even on the House floor, that resulted in bursts of laughter.

And, then there were his random acts of kindness.
Farris Morris remembers one afternoon when the two were walking back to their office, grasping their umbrellas to protect them from driving rain.
"Joe was always alert to his surroundings, so when he saw a woman with no umbrella, standing drenched in the rain, he ran back and gave her his umbrella," she said. "He thought she needed it worse than he did. That's the stereotypical Joe Martin and that's one thing I will miss."

When Wise's administration ended, Martin was still at the top of the list for public service. In 2005, then-Gov. Joe Manchin appointed him deputy chief of staff and he also took on the responsibility of the state budget and public finance. He later worked as legislative director of West Virginia Policy and Legislative Affairs.
"It was around that time that bond ratings began to suffer," Farris Morris recalls. "Joe went to work and helped them to stay strong so people would move to West Virginia. He was loyal to the end and we are loyal to him to the end."

"Gayle and I are saddened by the passing of Joe Martin, a longtime friend and true public servant to the state of West Virginia," Manchin, now a U.S. Senator representing West Virginia, said. "Joe dedicated his life to the people of our great state and his legacy will always be remembered. I join all West Virginians in sending our thoughts and prayers to the Martin family."

Martin was born June 15, 1948, in Elkins, a son of the late Dr. Joseph E. Martin Jr. and Rose G. Martin.
He graduated from Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg in 1966, where he achieved the title of battalion commander as the leading cadet. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon in 1970. In 1971, he began work on his master's degree in industrial relations at West Virginia University.

He is survived by his only daughter, Abbey R. Martin of Brooklyn, New York; a sister, Jane Ann Jesson of Enterprise, Alabama; a brother, John S. Martin and partner, Hope Rierson, of Elkins; several nieces and nephews; his former wife, Sarah Mongold Martin, and his grandpup Napoleon, whom he loved very much.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Edith Martin Schneider, and a brothers in-law, Edward J. Schneider and Darreld Jesson.

A Methodist by faith, Martin was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Elkins. A memorial service is planned for late June

Frederick Burks

1964
 

Frederick Burks Obituary
Mr. Frederick Charles Burks, 78, of Fleming Island, FL, died from complications with RSV on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Baptist Clay Medical Center. He was born in Roanoke, VA, to the late Lynchfield Watson Burks and Helen Turpin Burks Logwood. He was a 1964 graduate of the Greenbrier Military School, Lewisburg, W. VA. He served in the United States Marine Corps, both active and as a reservist.

He spent most of life in North Carolina and had a 45-year career starting with driving for Yarborough Transfer, then moved onto owning Burks Moving & Storage, an agent for Bekins, and then Global Van Lines, where he then went onto work at Charlotte Van & Storage, an agent for Mayflower Transit, until his retirement. He also served in several positions for the North Carolina Movers Association: President (1987); Treasurer, Secretary, 2nd Vice President, and 1st Vice President (1983-86); board member (1980-83).

He loved the Episcopal church, in serving as a Verger and choir member at Holy Comforter, Charlotte, NC, and was an active member at St. Mary’s, Green Cove Springs, FL. He loved his time as a troop leader, Troop 1 in Charlotte, NC; his Ford Mustang car club drive ins; taking his car on the drag strip and, most of all, he loved his family and friends. He will be missed significantly as he was an amazing father, father-in-law and grandfather.

Frederick was married to Louise Shelton Burks for 46 years, until she preceded him in death in 2009. He is survived by his daughter, Shannon Sweeney; son-in-law, Andrew Sweeney, Fleming Island, FL, two granddaughters, Maggie and Kayla Sweeney; Kayla’s husband, Martin Ramirez Araujo, Tucson, AZ; brother, Barney Burks, Lexington, NC; cousin, Nancy Blankenship, Lynchburg, VA; nephew, David Burks, High Point, NC; and niece, Lara Smith, Lexington, NC.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 3, 2024, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Green Cove Springs, FL, and reception to follow in the parish hall. The burial will be at a later date at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Bedford, VA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Thomas Episcopal Church building fund, PO Box 695, Bedford, VA, 24523 or St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 400 St. John’s Avenue, Green Cove Springs, FL, 32043.

Michael L. Wilson, Jr

1960
 

Michael L. Wilson Jr., 82 years old, passed away in Raleigh, N.C., on Jan. 19, 2024. Born Aug. 24, 1941, in Lexington, he was the son of the late Michael L. Wilson Sr. and Carrie Hughes Wilson.

He graduated from Lexington High School, attended Greenbrier Military School as a Post Graduate in Lewisburg, W.Va., and received an Associate of Applied Science degree in business management from Dabney S. Lancaster Community College. He retired from the U. S. Postal Service with 32 years of service as a letter carrier. He served four years in the U. S. Air Force as an air policeman, was in the Virginia National Guard and retired from the U.S. Army Reserve with a total of 30 years of military service. He was a member of New Monmouth Presbyterian Church where he served as elder and chairman of the Cemetery Committee. He was also a member of the Lexington Moose Lodge and the American Legion.

Michael was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Brenda D. Wilson; and is survived by a daughter, Monica W. Shabo and husband Scott Smith of Raleigh, N.C., and a son, Willet D. Wilson and wife Rachel Wilson of Richmond; and a grandson Korben Wilson.

Walter David "Dave" Trenton

1968
 

“Education never ends. It is a series of lessons, with the greatest for the last.” -Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

YORK, Pa. — Walter David “Dave” Trenton, man of medicine, ardor, and community, had his last, greatest lesson on Dec. 12, 2023, at the age of 73.

Dave was a man who loved community. He sought and found it every place he went. Born on Dec. 3, 1950 in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. to Eloise and John Trenton, he was a firecracker with bright red hair and clear blue eyes. Nothing gave him more pleasure than raising hell and living life to the fullest.

This zest for life led him to his next chapter, Greenbrier Military School. There he found a motley crew of boys who grew into adulthood together. He then attended West Virginia University, where he graduated with a BA in Biology and in a twist of fate, as if being spun back to center, he returned to Greenbrier to attend the newly minted West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. He found his purpose and drive in the same halls in which he grew up. Dave loved medicine. He loved the science, the frantic pace, the privilege of being such an important part of his patient’s lives. He loved his classmates, professors and attendings and the sense of community that comes from the shared joy and trauma of becoming a physician.

Dave went on to become a champion of women’s reproductive health. After completing his Rotating Internship at Grandview Hospital in Dayton, Ohio in 1980, he fell in love with obstetrics, completing his Ob/Gyn Residency at Doctor’s Hospital of Stark County in Massillon, Ohio. He then built a thriving practice in Somerset, Pa. Wherever place medicine took him, Dave could be found tearing up and down winding mountain roads, cold coffee from an extra-large coffee mug staining the floor of his old Bronco as he took turns at pace well past the posted limits, pipe smoke billowing out the window as he rushed to the hospital. He was the first face generations of babies saw as they took their first breath. He found peace and purpose in bringing life into this world.

After retiring in 2006, Dave found new joy in cooking, wine, travel, colorful clothing, and getting to be a part of the world around him after a life dedicated to work. He was a voracious reader, who loved the Wall Street Journal, Sherlock Holmes and dabbled in the classics like Garfield and The Far Side. He always lived by the motto, “go big or go home,” and as he entered the final years of his life, he did so boldly and with grace. He found his final community in his caregivers. He delighted in hearing about their families, daily lives, and small things that connect us to one another. He loved a drop-in, a handshake, hugs. He delighted in the tiny details of life that were shared with him.

While there are so many to thank and so many he treasured at Wellspan, he wanted to give a special recognition to Dr. Chakravarty, LeAnn Ream, Dr. Madathil, Dr. Malik, Dr. Patel, Dr. Vranian, Dr. Harvey, Dr. Shah and Kim Saunders for giving him the gift of the last year of his life.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife Megan, his moon and stars, his endearing sidekick Gizmo, and a large and boisterous, blended family including his children Brooke, John, Hannah and Jessica and grandchildren Zadie, David, Lucille, Clara, Lola, Liam, Piper, Connor and Killian.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Dr. David Trenton to Women’s Health, c/o WellSpan York Health Foundation, 2500 South George Street, York, PA 17403.

A private celebration of life service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Rd., York is in charge of arrangements. Send condolences at HeffnerCare.com.

Michael Hall Lee

1964
 

Michael Hall Lee, 78, of Stockdale, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on December 9, 2023. Mike was born on October 10, 1945 in Charleroi, the son of the late Edwin Mckay Lee and Eleanor Louise (Harris) Lee.

Mike graduated from Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg W.V. and continued his education at West Virginia University and Robert Morris College.

Mike was President and co-owner of Lee Supply Company Inc., for many years with his brother David Lee and sons, Kevin and Shawn Lee.

Mike was a member of the 10th Street Athletic Club, the Nemacolin Country Club, the Monongahela Valley Country Club and Charleroi Elks Club. He was the former past President of the Mon Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, former board member of cfsbank and former member of the Pa. Coal Alliance. Mike also served as Council Member and Mayor of Stockdale.

Along with his great passion for his business, Mike enjoyed many hobbies. Boating and gathering of family and friends on his beloved “Bella” on the river. Numerous fishing trips, golf trips, football trips and he loved rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers and going to games on the Steeler bus with his buddies. He also had the pleasure of attending several super bowls. He cherished traditional vacations with his family in Ocean City NJ and loved his trips to the island of Aruba. He also enjoyed going back to Greenbrier to reminisce with his old classmates. He will be forever proud of Lee Supply and the people that were part of the business success.

Surviving to cherish Mike’s memory; his loving wife of 58 years Mary “Maggie” Glasser Lee. His three children; son Kevin (Marisa) Lee, son Shawn Lee and daughter Dana (Val) Smith. His grandchildren whom he loved dearly; Alyssa (Nathan) Hega, Makenzie Lee, Sydney Lee, Christian Lee, Aislyn Lee, Shea Smith and Eden Smith. Two great-grandchildren Kellan Hega and Maeva Stafford, along with his brother David (Wendy) Lee.

Nieces and nephews; Melissa (Jason) Stewart, Amanda Lee, Luke (Lisa) Glasser, Loren (Chad) Carrotto, Paul (Anita) Goodson and Christine Rogers.

Mike is also survived by numerous great nieces, nephews and his abundance of treasured friends whom he loved like family.

Friends and family will be received on Wednesday December 13th, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00pm and on Thursday December 14th, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00pm at Hogan-Melenyzer Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., 226 Fallowfield Ave., Charleroi, PA 15022. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00am on Friday December 15th, 2023 at Saint Andrew the Apostle – Charleroi Site, 624 Washington Avenue. Those attending mass are asked to meet directly at the church. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Monongahela. Online condolences may be sent to www.hogan-melenyzer.com.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations in Michael Lee’s name be made to, Saint Andrew the Apostle Parish, 624 Washington Avenue Charleroi, Pa 15022 or the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Suite 1B 5150 Centre Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15232.

Gene Ray Anderson II

1969
 

Gene Anderson Obituary

GENE RAY ANDERSON II, 72, of Palm Coast, FL, passed away on November 19, 2023. He was born on March 27, 1951, in Charleston, WV, to Gene Ray Anderson and Jaqueline Hundley Anderson. Gene was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his wife of 47 years Carol Parsons Anderson of Palm Coast, FL; his son David (wife Rosanna) Anderson of Manassas, VA; his daughter Helen (husband Paul) Wiley of Harts, WV; his four grandchildren, Gabriel, Anthony, Isaac, and Cecile Wiley; his sister Ronda Salisbury of Austin, TX; nephew Brian Salisbury; and niece Melanie Galloway.

Gene attended South Charleston schools and graduated from Greenbrier Military School Class of 1969. After his education, he dedicated himself to a career at Union Carbide, where he worked until his retirement. Outside of his professional life, Gene had a passion for cars and motor sports. He was a lifelong enthusiast and a proud member of the Southern West Virginia Region SCCA. Gene's love for speed and competition brought him great joy throughout his life.

Gene was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of South Charleston. A Celebration of Life will be held privately this spring. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in Gene's memory to the SCCA Foundation (https://sccafoundation.org/).
Gene Ray Anderson II will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Published by Charleston Gazette-Mail on Nov. 22, 2023.

Dr. Thomas Warren Jarrett

1968
 

It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of Dr. Thomas Warren Jarrett, 73, of Daniels, WV. Tom was born on July 31st, 1950 in Charleston, WV to Dr. William Mitchell and Jean Wilshire Jarrett. In the last several months, Tom showed great strength and a dedication to his family before passing on October 22, 2023.
Tom was a 1968 graduate of Greenbrier Military School. He then went on to West Virginia University for his undergraduate studies. He continued his education in Morgantown at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry, graduating in 1975. Following in his father's footsteps, he decided to pursue a post doctorate degree in orthodontics, for which he attended St. Louis University.

In 1977, Tom moved to Beckley and opened his orthodontic practice. Tom was an active member of the dental community and the Beckley area. He was a member of the American Dental Association and the West Virginia Dental Association, as well as a member of the American Association of Orthodontics and past president of the West Virginia Association of Orthodontics. Tom served on the boards of the New River Dental Society and the Southern Association of Orthodontics. He was a Diplomat of the International College of Dentists and Diplomat of American Board of Orthodontics. He was on faculty at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry in the orthodontics department for over 30 years. Tom loved his profession and teaching orthodontics to students gave him so much joy. The influence he had on the dental community was far reaching. In dentistry and beyond, he was a mentor to so many people.

Tom loved his community and wanted to see it flourish. He was on the board of directors of the Beckley Area Foundation, instrumental in building the YMCA Youth Soccer Complex, founder of Citizen Southern Bank, and developer of Brookshire Professional Park. He was involved in starting FORWARD WV for economic development. He was an originator of Chili Night, involved in the Youth Museum and helped design the Peace Totem, started Foster's Hardware Restaurant, contributed to the FOLK project and Operation Backpack. He was an advocate and supporter of the Raleigh County Humane Society.

He was an avid outdoorsman and loved being in nature. Appointed by the governor, he was a DNR commissioner. He loved to fish, hike, golf, and bike. He was a founder of Glade Creek Trout Association, champion of the inaugural Glade Spring's member-guest, and back-to-back Black Knight club champion. Being a youth sports coach, he impacted countless young people's lives.

Tom was a devoted father and displayed his love for his children every day. He was proud for his children to be fourth generation dentists and carry on the tradition of serving the people of West Virginia continuously since 1901.

He is preceded in death by his father, Dr. William Mitchell Jarrett; his mother, Jean Wilshire Jarrett; and his brother, William Mitchell Jarrett II.
He is survived by the love of his life, Vicky Foley; His son, Jordan Jarrett and his wife, Megan Borak; his daughter, Allison Jarrett Zegeer and her husband, Andrew Zegeer; his two grandsons, John McCarus Zegeer and David Warren Zegeer; and his two hiking buddies Wrangler and Lapua.

There will be a visitation at Rose & Quesenberry in Shady Spring on Thursday, October 26, 2023 from 5-8pm and a celebration of life at Black Knight Country Club on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 12:00pm. Tom will be laid to rest in Richwood, WV next to his parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the Beckley Area Foundation.

The family also requests any personal stories you may have about Tom be sent to tomsfishtales@gmail.com.

Private online condolences and other expressions of sympathy may be directed to the family via the guestbook at www.roseandquesenberry.net.
Arrangements are by Rose and Quesenberry Funeral Home, Shady Spring Chapel, 729 Flat Top Road, Shady Spring, WV.

Donald Kramer Riedesel

1964
 


Don Riedesel, aka Donnie, Gondola, and Pops, passed away on the evening of October20, 2023 after a long illness. He was 77.

Donnie was born on June 6, 1946 in Washington, DC and grew up in Falls Church, Va. with his parents Myra and Don Riedesel and sister Joyce.

He attended Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg, W.Va.. After high school, he attended the University of South Carolina in Columbia where he earned a degree in English. He served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Adak, Alaska.

It was at the University of South Carolina where he met his wife of 43 years, Bonnie Smoak. Bonnie and Donnie left Columbia in 1979 and moved to Warrenton, Va. where their first daughter Paige was born and where Donnie began his life-long career in woodworking.

Shortly after Paige was born, they moved to McClellanville, S.C. where their other two children, Anna Tay and Sam, were born. Donnie set up his first woodworking business, Broad Creek Door and Woodworking, that specialized in custom doors and architectural mill work. Living in this small fishing village, he often traded his woodworking for fresh seafood. It was not unusual to be paid in shucked oysters, shrimp or crab meat.

In 1989, Hurricane Hugo struck the coast of S.C. and the village of McClellanville was devastated. Donnie's shop, their house, cars, and boat were all destroyed. Donnie, his friends, and many volunteers rebuilt their home and restored his shop. They bought a new boat called the “New Daddy” and their son Sam, known as a “Hugo baby”, was born. After Donnie restored his woodworking shop, he was commissioned to build the alter and pews at the historic St. James Episcopal Church in McClellanville that had been destroyed by the hurricane.

The Riedesels sadly left McClellanville and after a few brief stints in Highlands and Saluda, N.C., landed in another magical place called Batesville. It is here that Donnie built his successful woodworking business and raised his family in this close-knit community.

Known as the “Door Man”, Donnie's custom doors can be found throughout Albemarle County and central Virginia, Asheville, N.C. and Charleston, S.C. Over the years, he built hundreds of interior and exterior doors for extraordinary homes, historical churches and synagogues, and simple cottages including their historic home in Batesville.

In his later years Donnie began making furniture for his immediate family and for a few fortunate friends. His beautifully handcrafted beds, dining tables, hunt boards, dressers and bookcases will be cherished for generations to come.

Family was everything to Donnie. He loved his children more than anything in the world. He was always involved in their academic and sports activities, not necessarily in that order. He loved sports and coached his kids in basketball, lacrosse, and baseball. He was their biggest fan. He was a beloved baseball coach at Cove Creek Park where his son played for many years. He enjoyed sports of all kinds, but mostly baseball and in particular the Boston Red Sox. He would make his daily morning trip to Crossroads Store to get his danish, coffee and 3 newspapers: the Daily Progress, USA Today, and the Washington Post only to read the sports section. Being the sports fanatic that he was, every dog he owned was named after a sports figure – Dexter, Riggins, Tydus, Rypien, and Ali.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories; his wife Bonnie and their children, Paige and her husband Chase, Anna Tay and Sam, his two grandsons Rowan and Pierce, his sister Joyce, many nieces and nephews and his lifelong friends.

A memorial service and oyster roast are planned for Sunday, November 12, 2023 from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at the Batesville Market.

Condolences may be shared with his family on the Tribute Wall.

Earl Kendrick Hurt, Jr.

1960
 


Obituary for Earl Kendrick "Ken" Hurt Jr

Earl Kendrick (Ken) Hurt, Jr. of Union Hall, VA passed away peacefully at home on September 24, 2023 at the age of 81. He was the eldest of Earl Kendrick Hurt, Sr. and Jane Baldwin Hurt York.

Ken was born on September 23, 1942 in Richlands, Virginia. He graduated from Richlands High School in 1959 and Greenbrier Military School in 1960. His youth included many wonderful memories of family gatherings at Cedar Bluff, jumping in swimming holes at the “The Island” and Bally Haven, helping run errands for his father’s businesses in downtown Richlands, and summers later spent working at Camp Kiniya in Vermont where he was a Riflery Instructor and helped campers learn watersports. He continued his education at Emory & Henry College in Emory, Virginia and graduated with a B.A. degree in Psychology. He moved to Arlington, VA but greatly enjoyed returning to Emory & Henry on Homecoming weekends in his prized Sunbeam Tiger and reconnecting with his Phi Pi Alpha Fraternity brothers. His easy smile and robust greetings captured those around him, including the love of his life, Jean Carole McCollum, whom he wed on November 10, 1968.

Ken proudly served 6 years in the U.S. Army Reserve, 352nd Civil Affairs Unit in Washington, D.C. He enjoyed 32 years in management with the Arlington County Department of Parks & Recreation. His attention to detail and unrelenting work ethic cultivated strong relationships with both colleagues and friends. Post-retirement, he served as a Facility Manager with Arlington County Public Schools and worked in the Capital Improvement Projects division of the City of Alexandria, VA. Ken and Jean were long-time residents of Arlington, VA and actively involved in their community. Ken was a natural leader who embodied positivity and a quiet thoughtfulness, which led to his roles as President of his fraternity at Emory & Henry, President of the Dominion Hills Pool – Area Recreation Association board, President of the Forbidden Acts Investment Club, and was a division referee for regional high school basketball and football games. Ken and Jean were active members of Cherrydale United Methodist Church where Ken served as Head Usher and participated in annual Christmas Living Nativity and Last Supper reenactments.

For over 25 years, Ken spent weekends with family and friends at the families’ humble A-frame cabin on Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County, MD. He was an avid skier, boater, sailor, outdoorsman, and accomplished Mr. Fix-It who loved lake living. Ken treasured his 1983 Flying Scot and looked forward to raising the sails whenever the wind evoked an optimal heel. Upon retirement in 2006, Ken and Jean moved to Smith Mountain Lake where they became members of Trinity Ecumenical Parish. Ken enjoyed his time on the Landscape Committee at the Cottages, attending the BUHBAs men’s breakfast gatherings, and serving as Usher and Greeter at Trinity Ecumenical. He volunteered for the Smith Mountain Lake Association water quality monitoring program and, with his usual due diligence, approached this task with a clipboard and spreadsheets. Ken took great pleasure in his membership of the SML Lions Club, where he volunteered at many charity events and served on the Scholarship Trust Board from 2018-2023. Later in life, his eclectic pursuits included woodworking, landscape care and irrigation, grilling savory Big Green Egg meals, collecting US National Park Passport stamps, and even a rather short stint playing the pan drum. He remained devoted to his family and loved their visits, phone calls, special events, and celebrations. Despite a terminal cancer diagnosis 27 years ago, Ken lived his life fully and never gave up.

Ken was preceded in death by his father Earl Kendrick Hurt, Sr., his mother Jane Baldwin Hurt York, and his stepfather Maj. Gen. (USAF Ret.) John Y. York Jr.
Ken is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jean; two children Michael (Caroline) and Kerry (Jud); four grandchildren Paisley, Quinn, Elise, and Mac; sisters Marty (Doug) and Susan, and brother Hunter (Maria); and a host of in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Many affectionately call him “PawPaw” and remember his love of sports, board games, dueling Chopsticks on the piano, and sunset cruises on the water.

A Celebration of Life service will be on October 28, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at Trinity Ecumenical Parish in Moneta, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the SML Lions Club Scholarship Trust (mail checks to P.O. Box 655, Hardy, VA 24101) or online to Trinity Ecumenical Parish (www.trinityecumenical.org). Conner-Bowman Funeral Home in Rocky Mount, VA is assisting the family. Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so at www.connerbowman.com.

John Morgan Gibson

1961
 

John Morgan Gibson of Lewisburg passed away at the Peyton Hospice House on Friday, September 15, 2023, following a long illness.

John was born to Richard Vernon Gibson and Mary Morgan Gibson Detch on February 17, 1943.

A longtime and dedicated educator in Greenbrier County, John was a graduate of the Greenbrier Military School, in Lewisburg, WV, Randolph Macon College, in Ashland, VA, and obtained his master’s in education from the West Virginia Graduate College.

John served as a teaching principal at Williamsburg Elementary, principal at Lewisburg Intermediate School, and one semester as the last principal at Lewisburg Junior High before the county middle school consolidation. John worked in the insurance industry for a few years before returning to his true love of teaching. He adored the students, the teachers, and administrators throughout his career and retired from teaching at Alderson Elementary.

A loving father, he is survived by his son John Morgan Gibson II (Kathy) of Lewisburg, grandsons Morgan Gibson (Melissa) of Delmar, MD, Dillon Gibson of Myrtle Beach, SC, Jack Gibson (Mykenzie), and his granddaughter Megan Gibson of Beckley, and his daughter-in-law Jennifer Highlander Gibson Brown.

He will be missed by his extended family, including sisters Nancy Jo Hansen (Bruce) of Orange, CT, and Ellen Gibson Goodwin of Morgantown, WV, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. Also left to remember John is his longtime partner, Mary Dailey, who was steadfast by his side.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his second son, Michael Scot Gibson, and his brother-in-law, Stephen P. Goodwin.

A kid at heart, in addition to his passion for education, his other great loves included spending time with his family, time spent at his cabin on Spring Creek and gardening. He also enjoyed talking, telling tales, driving muscle cars, as well as occasionally thrilling his nephews with a quick ride.

Always the epitome of cool and a truly unique individual, it is essential to note this obituary and future memorial service are for those he left behind, as John’s instructions were just to let him go with none of the fuss.

At John’s request, his body has been donated to West Virginia University for the advancement of science.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at the Wallace & Wallace Funeral Chapel at 884 N. Jefferson Street, Lewisburg, WV. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Peyton Hospice House at 1265 Maplewood Avenue, Lewisburg, WV 24901, in memory of John M. Gibson.

Richard Carden

1949
 

Richard Otis (Dick) Carden, 92 of Richmond, died Tuesday September 12, 2023. He was the
retired editor and publisher of The Virginia Engineer magazine.

He is survived by his wife, Georgeen Dahlem Carden; four children from a previous marriage,
Richard II, who preceded him in death (Patty), of Hanover; W. David (Susan), of Cumberland; Susan
Baskette (Roland), of Cumberland; John Earl (Jan) of Cumberland; and two step-children, Stephen
Garfield, of Texas, and Bonnie Garfield (Keith), of Pennsylvania. He is also survived by six
grandchildren, Jessica Sharp, Elizabeth Carden, Isaac Porter Carden, Robert K. Lipscomb, IV, Sara
Welton and Megan Richardson and step-grandchildren, Leah Gonzalez and Joel Garfield. He has nine
great-grandchildren and four step great grandchildren.

Born in Richmond on January 19, 1931, his early years were in Victoria, VA, where his father,
Roscoe, was a lawyer. His mother, Francis Otis, was a retired Director of Public Welfare for the City of
Hopewell.

An honors graduate of both Greenbrier Military School (1949) and Washington and Lee
University (1952), he later earned a master’s degree at the University of Richmond.
He was Chief of the Suffolk Bureau for the Norfolk Ledger-Dispatch, and ended a 10-year
newspaper career to become the first Director of Public Relations for the Virginia Retail Merchants
Association. He later became Executive Director of the Virginia Society of Professional Engineers, a
position he held until he resigned in 1972 and became owner/publisher of The Virginia Engineer. After
retiring, he built and flew his own airplane.

He and his wife lived in Cumberland County for more than 40 years before moving to the
Masonic Home of Virginia in 2016. An active Episcopalian, he served as both Parish and Cure Warden;
he was a past president of the Cumberland Farm Bureau and the Farmville Chapter of the Experimental
Aviation Association, and served on the boards of the Cumberland Public Library, Cumberland County
Meals on Wheels, and the Cumberland Community Christmas Mother. He was a Past Master of
Cumberland Masonic Lodge and was a District Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Virginia.
After moving to Richmond, he became active in the Varina Food Pantry, an outreach activity of Varina
Episcopal Church.

A memorial service with reception following will be held at the Masonic Home of Virginia, 500
Masonic Lane, Richmond,VA 23223 on October 2, 2023 at 11:00 am. Interment will be at Grove
Church Cemetery, Old Buckingham Road, Cumberland, VA 23040 on October 3, 2023 at 11:00 am.
Heading west on Old Buckingham Road (Rt 13) from Powhatan,VA the cemetery is located on the left
just past Sunnyside Road. Heading east on Old Buckingham Road (Rt 13) to Powhatan,VA from
Cumberland Courthouse, the cemetery will be on the right just past Strawberry Hill Road.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Varina Episcopal Church Food
Pantry, 2385 Mill Road Henrico, VA 23231 or the Masonic Home of Virginia, P O Box 7866
Richmond, VA 23231.

Paul L. Turman

1960
 


PAUL LEWIS TURMAN "Mayor T" went to see his Savior on August 3, 2023. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary and Bill Turman, and his mother and father-in-law, Minnis and Gladys Yeager. He also was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Jack and Chuck Yeager. He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife Karen of 60 years; his two sons, Paul Jr. (Lorri) and Tom (Patty) and his daughter Teresa (Rob Blake); his brother and sister-in-law, Waymond (Peggy), his sister, Donna Jefferson, and his sister-in-law, Barbara Yeager; his grandchildren, Megan (Nick) Anuszkiewicz, Bryan (Katy) Turman, Laura and Lee Blake, William and Olivia Turman; his great-granddaughter, Emery Ann, who brought him so much joy, and his great-grandson, Benjamin Paul, who is on the way; as well as many special nieces and nephews.

Paul was a graduate of Barboursville High School where he served as the Class President of 1959. He played football, baseball, basketball and wrestled for the Pirates. Everyone affectionately called him "Termite" and the name stuck for all his life. Afterwards, he was off to Greenbrier Military Academy. He then went to Marshall University where he received an ROTC scholarship. He proudly played for his beloved Thundering Herd football team that he loved supporting from the stands and later from his recliner. He enjoyed recounting how he never dropped a punt during his time on the team. He served his country in the United States Army as a helicopter pilot in the Vietnam War and was promoted to the rank of Captain. Following his service he worked at his family's construction company, Turman Construction. During this time, he served as the President of the Contractors Association of West Virginia. Paul was particularly proud of his service to his community that he loved as both a Barboursville City Council member and the Mayor of Barboursville for 14 years. He was a member of Steele Memorial United Methodist Church and a member of Gideon International where he served his Savior in this ministry.

Donations in memory of Paul can be made to the Gideon International or the Huntington City Mission. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.

Harold K Smith

1956
 

H.K.'S OBITUARY
H. K. Smith, 86, of Parkersburg passed away Tuesday August 1, 2023 at the Eagle Pointe Healthcare Center. He was born September 15, 1936 in Marietta, OH, a son of the late Harold and Evelyn (Smith) Smith.

H.K. graduated from Parkersburg High School in 1955, where he ran track and was a running back on the football team. After graduation, he went to the Greenbrier Military Academy, in Lewisburg, WV, attended Marshall University and then served his country in the United States Army. H.K. worked for Amax Specialty Metal Company in Washington, WV, was a former Wood County Clerk, manager of the American Legion Post #15 of Parkersburg, and was part of the PHS Chain Gang for over 40 years. He enjoyed golfing and was active with the Parkersburg Lions Club.

He is survived by his wife, Janet Cozart Smith; two sons, Terry Smith (Pam) of Williamstown, Riker Smith (Yuri) of Parkersburg; one brother, Allan Johnson of Johnson City, TN; one sister-in-law, Joy Smith of Belpre; four grandchildren, Shane Smith, Brooke Cooper, Kiko Smith, Yume Smith; three great-grandchildren, Palmer, Cameron, Arlo; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, H.K. was preceded in death by two sisters, Diana Sue, Sheila Rae, and one brother Phil.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Belpre Church of Christ Food Pantry 2392 Washington Blvd. Belpre, OH 45714.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Camden Clark Medical Center, Housecalls Hospice and the staff at Eagle Pointe Healthcare Center for their love and care.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of H.K. Smith, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Robert Thomas DeHart

1962
 

Robert Thomas “Tom” DeHart, Jr., 79, entrepreneur, creator, athlete, and bigger than life, Tom DeHart, 79, died Tuesday July 18th at his daughter’s home in Oxford, MS.

Born July 27, 1943 in Philadelphia, PA, raised in Wenonah, NJ, Tom was always involved in sports. Growing up Tom played little league baseball and football. The family treasures Tom’s ball glove and football pads that are mementos of that time he spent with his brothers as child athletes. Tom graduated from Woodbury High School, where he was a state wrestling champion and played high school all-american football. It was football where recruiters for Memphis State noticed Tom’s natural skills. Tom would move to Memphis where he would play on the offensive line 1963 - 1966 while earning his Bachelor of Science degree. Tom would return to Memphis in the late 60’s where he was a general assistant and offensive line coach 1967 - 1970 for the Tigers.

It was while he was a student at Memphis that Tom met Sandra on a blind date, and it was love at first sight for both of them. After more than 58 years of marriage, Sandra passed just days before Tom, and he re-joined her on what would have been her 79th birthday. Tom and Sandra were die-hard Tiger fans, holding season tickets for decades. If they couldn’t be at the game,
they spent every Saturday watching the game on TV while at the same time listening to the radio play-by-play…they always wanted to know how their Tigers were doing!

Services for Tom and Sandra will be held at a later date.

James Nurney Joyner, Jr.

1963
 

Col. James Joyner Jr. of Lexington died July 4.

Col. James Nurney Joyner Jr. (retired), man of honor, dedicated Army officer and ’67 Virginia Military Institute alumnus, devoted husband, committed family, church, and community member, died Tuesday, July 4, 2023.

No date could be more fitting for a man who dedicated his life to this country and the values that are most noble in it. Jim lived a life defined by honor, service, and leadership. He held high standards for all and never asked anyone to do anything that he was unwilling to do himself. He was an eternal optimist who unflaggingly worked to enact a world in which all people showed respect and felt respected and valued.

Jim was born to the late James Nurney Joyner and Dorothy Stone Joyner on April 28, 1944, in Norfolk. He was the eldest of four children and donned his first military uniform at the age of 13 as a cadet at the Greenbrier Military School in West Virginia. From that date until his retirement from VMI 54 years later, Jim spent his school and working life in uniform.

After graduating from Greenbrier Military School in 1963, Jim matriculated at VMI. There he met a core group of lifelong friends, his band of 1967 brother rats. Upon his graduation in 1967, he was commissioned in the U.S. Army as an infantry officer and married his high school sweetheart and lifelong partner and companion, Barbara Ann Joyner, a graduate of Mary Baldwin College.

Jim and Barbara spent 52 years of marriage together as Jim served his country as an Army officer and Barbara held the family together through deployments, 13 duty assignment moves, and all the other highs and lows of daily living.

Jim was deployed to Vietnam shortly after their marriage; while deployed his daughter, Virginia “Pebble/Gin” Stone West, was born in 1969. When Jim met his daughter during R&R in Hawaii, he was enamored. Two duty stations later, his son, James “Jamie” Nurney Joyner III, was born in Berlin, Germany. The family moved all around the world as Jim served at Fort Bragg, Fort Benning, Berlin, Fort Lewis, Korea, The Naval War College, VMI, the Pentagon, Fort Drum, and back to VMI to finish his active-duty service.

While in the Army, Jim furthered his education by earning a master’s degree in psychological counseling from Georgia State University in 1975. He was a graduate of the U.S. Army Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Airborne School, Ranger School, U.S. Naval College Command and Staff School, and the U.S. Army War College.
His awards and decorations after 26 years of active military service included the Legion of Merit Award, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Military Meritorious Service Medal x3, Army Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal x2, Army of Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal x2, Vietnam Service Medal x3, Vietnam Campaign Medal x3, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, U.S. Army Staff Identification Badge, U.S. Army Ranger Tab, U.S. Army Parachutist Badge, and the Combat Infantry Badge.

Having lived in Lexington as a cadet and having served twice as an Army officer in the ROTC department at VMI, Jim and Barbara desired to settle in Lexington after retirement from the Army. After briefly teaching as a JROTC instructor in Richmond in 1996, Jim became director of cadet affairs at VMI and the couple moved back to Lexington.

In 1997, Jim became commandant of cadets; this was the year following the Supreme Court ruling and the first female cadets matriculated at VMI. Jim was committed to making that inclusion successful; he worked tirelessly to ensure that all cadets unified to become one Corps. After serving as commandant for three years, Jim served in three other senior administrative positions at VMI before his retirement in 2011.

After his second retirement, Jim dedicated his time to his wife, family, and several community service organizations and boards. He learned to enjoy life in civilian clothes and spent as much time on the golf course as possible. He relished planning several VMI ‘67 class reunions and always enjoyed time with his BRs and attending VMI football and basketball games. Jim and Barbara were committed members at Lexington Presbyterian Church. They enjoyed spending time with friends and traveled to visit family, as well as to favorite destinations like Kentucky, Germany, Hawaii and Walt Disney World. Wherever they went, they ate well and shared every moment both good and hard, until Barbara’s death in 2020.

Heartfelt thanks go out to the friends and caregivers who supported Jim in the three years since Barbara’s death; among those caregivers are Diane Bowman, Stephanie Berkshire, Tammy Berkshire, Jennifer Repper, Kay Bennington, the staff of Brookdale Staunton’s Memory Care Unit, and Hospice.
To remember Jim, you could get donuts from Krispy Kreme, eat some cake, display an American flag, take a drive through the country, head out on the golf course, watch and feed the birds, talk with a friend ‒ old or new, or share a meal with your family. Most of all, treat everyone with unfailing respect, knowing that it is only in that way that we can have the country that Jim envisioned and worked for tirelessly throughout his life.
Jim is survived by his siblings, Alice Langford of Roanoke, Richard Joyner of Richmond, and George Joyner of Waynesboro; his children, Virginia Joyner West and husband, Ken, of Culpeper, and James Nurney Joyner III and wife, Laura, of Lexington; and his three living grandchildren, Hanna and Alex West, and Caroline Joyner. He is predeceased by his lifelong partner, Barbara, and his grandson, Thomas Joyner.

A graveside military burial service will be held on Friday, Aug. 11, at 10 a.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery in Lexington. This will be followed by an 11 a.m. memorial service at Lexington Presbyterian Church, with a reception to follow afterwards at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Virginia Military Institute or Lexington Presbyterian Church.
Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.

Donald Franklin Richmond

1952
 

Donald “Don” Richmond age 86, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2023 at his home in Nokomis Florida.

Born in New Jersey to Howard and Leona Richmond he was the youngest of three sons. The family moved several times during his youth. Some of Don’s fondest memories were of his childhood in West Virginia. The family eventually made their way to Ohio.

Don was a Cadet at the Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg West Virginia (Class of 52) and went on to be a member of the Unites States Navy. Don also attended the University of Toledo, and The Ohio State University.

After school Don began a career in retail management where he was best known as “Mr. Richmond”. During his 30 plus year career with a S.S. Kresge and Value City Department stores he relocated many times around the Midwest.

Don’s first wife Beverly passed after a long illness, subsequently he met Mary Lou. They married in the early 1990’s relocating from Northeast Ohio to the Kings Gate Club community in Nokomis Florida. Don loved being involved in the Kings Gate Community and its many activities. Don and Mary Lou spent many years as the travel directors at Kings Gate, travelling all over the world making beautiful memories not just for themselves but their many close friends.

Don is survived by his wife Mary Lou. His Children; Mark Richmond (Beth), Timothy Richmond, Marianne Richmond Mathies, Eddie Lehman, Debbie Sopko (Ed), 11 Grandchildren, and 7 Great Grandchildren.

Don was preceded in death by his first wife Beverly (Smith) Richmond, his son Dale Richmond and his brothers Howard and Richard

A ceremony and burial will take place at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, FL at a time to be announced. In lieu of flowers please consider a monetary donation to Tidewell Hospice Tidewell Foundation www.tidewellfoundation.org

George William Craft II

1966
 

George William Craft II, age 76, of York, PA, previously of Mechanicsburg, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 after an extended illness. Born February 8, 1947 in Bluefield, West Virginia, son of Thomas Alfred & Frances (Garwood) Craft.

He was a proud alum of Greenbrier Military School, whose motto of truth, duty, and honor he embodied. George served with that same truth, duty, and honor in the US Army during the Vietnam War, based in Ft. Lee, Virginia. He studied at West Virginia State University and settled into a long, fruitful career with the US Navy in the Fleet Materials Support Office as a Systems Analyst. His colleagues found his humor, sharp thinking, and enthusiasm for moving projects forward to be a great asset. He loved his family and friends fiercely with a truth, duty, honor, and humor that was felt by all.

He leaves behind his loving partner of 13 years, Eileen Chindblom of York, PA; his daughter Sara Concini (Michael) of Cary, NC; his son Alexander Craft; and the mother of his children, Kathie (Eavis) Craft. Additionally, he leaves behind his two grandchildren, Rachael and Benjamin Concini; and his sons by relationship, Carl Chindblom (Allyson) and Michael Chindblom (daughter Lizzie). He is survived by his siblings, Ann Marie Schafter and Donald (Monique) Craft and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved brother, Charles T. Craft, his dear friend and brother-in-law, Lawrence J. Schafter.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date; more details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central PA or any Army Veterans Association of your choice.

https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/28148819/george-william-craft-ii

Charles F. Wilson, Jr.

1966
 

Charles Wilson Obituary

It is with great sadness the Wilson and Varney families announce the death of Charles F. Wilson, Jr. age 74 on May 27, 2023 at his home in Pikeville, Ky with his devoted wife, Wanda at his side after a long battle with cancer.

Chuck was born October 9, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois to the parents of Dr. Charles F. Wilson and Pett Lemon Wilson. His Homecoming will be celebrated on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at the J.W. Call Funeral Home in Pikeville, KY with hours of visitation from 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM with services starting at 7:00 PM with Tommy England, Jim Patton, Kenny Hamilton and Morgan Chapman officiating. He was preceded in death by his parents Dr. Charles F. Wilson and Pett Wilson Doherty along with his Mother and Father in Law Jojn and Ruby Varney. Chuck is survived by his loving and devoted wife Wanda Varney Wilson, a special Son in Love Thomas Miller of Robinson Creek, KY and his children Tommy (Erin) Wilson of Lexington, KY and Katie Wilson Miller of Pikeville, KY along with his grandchildren Sagan Wolff Wilson and Madeline Ann Miller, a sister, Sharon Proctor (John) of Louisville, KY and two brothers Kim Wilson (Lynn) of Louisville, KY and Steve Wilson (Rosemary) of Richmond, Ky and his Brothers in Love Larry Varney (Patty) of Pikeville, KY and Allen Varney (LoJeanne) of Lexington, KY along with a host of friends too many to mention.

He did not let his battle with cancer slow him down and he maintained a positive attitude throughout his illness and showed more concern for others than for himself. He was an inspiration and shining light to so many and for that he will be remembered every day by his friends and family. He attended Pikeville High School and Greenbrier Military School, was a graduate of UPike and he attended University of Arkansas School of Law and returned to Pikeville to practice law upon graduation until 2003 when the battle for his life began.

Gilbert Frederick

1957
 

Gilbert Bruce "Gil" Frederick died May 3, 2023.
Per his request there will be no service. No other information available.

https://www.waybrightfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Gilbert-Gil-Frederick?obId=27869308

John Rex White

1965
 

John Rex White
May 4, 1946 – March 21, 2023

John Rex White was born on May 4, 1946, in a Washington D.C. Naval hospital to parents Ruth Barnett White and Howard Hall White and brother Kyle White. Howard was in the Navy and the family moved a lot before they put down roots during Rex’s elementary school years in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, where they had a farmhouse and were surrounded by Pennsylvania Dutch culture.

Howard was a leader in the meat packing industry and helped set USDA grading standards, while Ruth was an active community leader advocating for women’s rights from the 1920s to her passing. Ruth loved her family and enjoyed giving to her community through service and raising collies. Rex participated in 4H and Kyle played football. They enjoyed their years and made many lifelong friends in Emmaus.

For high school Rex attended Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg, West Virginia and graduated in 1965. He then briefly attended Hillsdale College and transferred to California College of Arts and Crafts (CCAC) in Oakland. While at CCAC, he met Wendy Marcus. They shared talent and interest in creative art styles. In 1968, Rex and Wendy married, and both graduated with bachelor degrees in fine arts.

Following college, Rex and Wendy drove a Saab and camped through Mexico and Central America, including Guatemala and Costa Rica. Upon their return to California, with their friend Frank Carson, they traveled to the remote fishing village of Shelter Cove in Humboldt County and bought land.

In 1972 their son Praj Olam Ananda White was born at the Garberville Hospital with help from Dr. Jerold Phelps. That same year they began construction of their home, a geodesic dome inspired by Buckminster Fuller, that became known as the “Dome”. Several years later, the Dome was a real functioning home and work of art.

Rex’s brother, Kyle, died just after Praj was born. Kyle was a natural leader, worked as an attorney for the Black Panthers, and likely would have entered politics to continue his activism but cancer took him early at age 31. Kyle has been greatly missed. Praj attended the funeral as a baby and carries many of Kyle’s charming qualities.

In 1973, the Big Finley Creek Fire burned from Whitethorn all the way to the ocean. Only a rope hanging in the Dome burned, and the undamaged Dome was spared. In the post-burn landscape, they stayed in a nearby cabin where their daughter, Adona Celeste White, was born in 1975 with attendance from midwife Kate Lanigan; Dr. Bill Hunter arrived soon after. Adona has become a community leader carrying forward her mothers and grandmothers’ charisma. Rex and Wendy continued to build the Dome and pioneered a homestead.

Rex fished commercially to support the lifestyle he and Wendy created. Rex was part of the mosquito fleet that fished primarily out of Shelter Cove, Fort Bragg, and Eureka. Fishing for salmon, Albacore, and rock fish on several boats, including the Hooker.

Rex and Wendy separated in 1982, with the kids attending Jacoby Creek School in Arcata and spending summers and weekends with Rex at the Dome. Rex played music with friends and neighbors weekly and was lead singer and guitarist with a local band called the Repercussions.

In 1984, Rex met Nella Coker and in 1986 they were married and lived together in Benbow. Nella is a wonderful stepmother to the kids, who both started their working years at the Benbow Inn dining room at age 14. In 1995 Rex and Nella founded the first internet service in Southern Humboldt, ASIS Internet, where they served the community for many years. In 2003, their Benbow house burned down, and Rex’s father Howard passed away two weeks later. With the help of Praj and son-in-law David Walsh, Rex and Nella rebuild their home. In 2005, Rex and Nella separated.

Rex spent the next few years caring for his mother Ruth in Eureka and West Virginia. In 2012, Rex returned to Humboldt County and lived in McKinleyville, where he enjoyed his grandchildren, church, playing music, and painting, while struggling with declining health.

In 2022, Rex moved to a cottage in Redway and continued to play music with the Repercussions and to paint, finding new techniques and forms of creative expression. He enjoyed the warm sun and warm fires.

Rex passed away on March 21, 2023, on the spring equinox and the new moon, at his daughter’s home. Wendy passed away just 36 hours later.

Throughout his life, Rex was active in eclectic spiritual practices including, Hippy, Vedanta, Tantric Yoga, Qi Gong, redwoods Monastery and the Episcopal Church. Rex was an active member of his community and offered his services readily. Rex was a longtime supporter of community non-profits including KMUD and the Mateel Community Center. Rex served as a videographer and video archivist for decades including local theater and music events, including the long running events Jazz on the Lake and Reggae on the River.

Rex was always creating and innovating. Some of his entrepreneurial pursuits included Video Now, the Repercussions, Almondio, Pacific Standard Lumber, Access Solutions Information Services (ASIS), Natural Video in Production (NVIP), Rextracts Magic, and Rex White Gallery.

Rex was a snappy dresser and was happy to see people he knew and happy to meet new people. He made every effort to participate in the party. He was energetic and charming. Long and lanky, he was full of humor and showmanship. Rex shared himself generously and exuberantly with his family, friends, and community. Rex was an activist for the Earth and liberty. Rex was a poet, a musician, and an artist. Rex was ever exploring and philosophizing. He loved deeply and wholly.

Rex will be missed. Rex is survived by his son Praj White, daughter in-law Alisa White, and his grandchildren Logan Kyle White and Isabella Rose White, his daughter Adona White, son in-law David Walsh and granddaughter Vida Sacha Rayne Walsh, and former wife Nella White, as well as a few first cousins.

William Lee Broaddus, Jr

1950
 

BROADDUS, William Lee , Jr., 91, of Hopewell, Va., died January 17, 2023.

A lifelong resident of Hopewell and Prince George County, Bill was the son of William Lee Broaddus and Evelyn Pleasants Beckham. He attended Greenbrier Military School, the University of Virginia, and served in the U.S. Navy. After returning to Hopewell, he led W.L. Broaddus, Inc. (later Commonwealth Industrial Services) which was founded by his father, co-founded Plant Food Products, Inc., and was active in the Rotary Club.

Bill is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Broaddus Kelly; his children, Meriwether, Molly and Warner; and his grandchildren, Liza (Matthew Wheeler) and Catharine Dent, and Wilton and Christopher Stubbs. He is also survived by beloved nieces, cousins and extended family.

Interment services will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Merchants Hope Memorial Gardens. The family thanks Rosetta Banks and the wonderful staff at Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center and the Richmond VA Medical Center for their care and kindness to Bill and our family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill's memory to the Historic Hopewell Foundation or the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com.
Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Jan. 22, 2023.

David P. Allen

1971
 


David P. Allen Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of David P. Allen of Beckley, West Virginia, who passed away on January 10, 2023, at the age of 71, leaving to mourn family and friends. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by : his parents, Coe C Allen and Beulah Mae Allen; and his brother James R. Allen. He is survived by : his sons, Christopher Allen (Erica Engel Allen) of Asheville, NC. and Joshua Allen; his wife Valorie Michael Allen; his grandchildren, Nathan Allen (Riley Allen) of Alice Springs, Andrew Allen of Los Angeles, CA. and Rio Simone Allen of Asheville; his step-granddaughter Edie Francis Engel of Asheville; his great grandchild Parker Lee Allen; his sister Jeanne Allen Nagye (Elmer) of Beckley, WV; and his sister-in-law Kathy McCormick Allen of Waynesville, NC.

Donald E. Smith

1954
 

Donald Erwyn Smith, 86, went to be with the Lord on Jan. 5, 2023. Don was the son of Donald A. Smith and Gertrude Harper Smith, brother of Patricia Smith Wilson (Robert Kay), of Marietta, Ohio.

Don loved his sister dearly, and she can tell many stories of him being a typical little brother. He grew up on the banks of the Ohio River in Hartford, where many of his childhood adventures took place. Stories of fishing, racing his boat and “treasure hunting” in the flood waters bring to mind a “real life” Huckleberry Finn. He had a bird dog “Bill” and loved hunting with his dad. Don graduated from Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg in 1954. He then attended Duke University but had to leave school when his father passed away to run the family business — the Liverpool Salt and Coal company. While he did this, he attended Ohio University and “the” Ohio State University and even found time to be the mayor of Hartford.

In 1961, Don met the love of his life, Linda Huffman and they were married for 60 years. They had two daughters, Ann Smith, of Albemarle, N.C., and Kathy Smith Cool (Thomas), of Ruskin Fla. Don was close to his brother-in-law, Cliff Huffman (Jenny), and sister-in-law, Mary Bobbitt, of Lewisburg. Don graduated a proud West Virginia Mountaineer in 1969 from the WVU School of Dentistry and practiced dentistry in Morgantown from 1969-2011. When he retired, he and Linda moved to Ocala Fla. and later to Apollo Beach, Fla. to be closer to family.

Don loved to hike and backpack in the sun or snow and loved fishing in the river by the family cabin in Moorefield — his “happy place.” He loved his WV Mountaineers and almost always had his WV hat on. He was crazy about his girls — Ann, Kathy and his granddaughters Sarah and Kat, who affectionately called him “Poppy.” He also loved his nieces and nephews — Debbie Coffman, Jan Eichinger, Beth Wilson, Jim Wilson, Jane Hill, Patrick Huffman, Russell Huffman, Meg Burton and Cam Huffman.

Don loved the Lord and lived by the Golden Rule, treat others as you want to be treated. He was always a gentleman and we will miss his sweet soul and kind ways. We love you Poppy. We ask that in lieu of flowers, you may send a contribution to Lifepath Hospice, 4200 Cypress St., Suite 690, Tampa FL, 33607. They were so kind and helpful during Don’s illness. Arrangements are by Sun City Center Funeral Home, 813-634-9900.

Nathaniel "Nat" Harris

1966
 

Dr. Nathaniel “Nat” Noble Harris II of Lewisburg, WV, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2022, with his daughter, Kate Harris, and devoted partner of 15 years, Charlotte Baldwin, by his side.

Nat was born in Ronceverte, WV, on December 14, 1948, to the late Carolyn Moore Harris and the late Robert Miller Harris. He was the youngest of five siblings, including Robert “Bob” Harris, Shirley Wester, William “Bill” Harris, and Margaret McClain, all of whom preceded him in death.

Nat’s formative years were spent by the Greenbrier River at Camp Shaw-Mi-Del-Eca, where he refined his basketball skills and learned to fish and trap wild game, including skunk, raccoon, and fox. To the delight of his mother, many of these became pets. The last several years of his time spent at camp were as a camp counselor. He most enjoyed being a canoeing and swimming instructor, as well as a wildlife mentor.

Nat attended Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg from 1962-1966, where he played varsity basketball and averaged double figures and led the team in assists. After graduation, he attended Centre College in Danville, KY, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Chemistry in 1970. Nat enrolled in the National Guard shortly after his college graduation and completed his basic training in Fort Still, OK, where he trained in artillery. He was a platoon leader and earned an expert distinction in riflery with an M16 at 300 yards.

He then attended West Virginia University for his master’s degree in Freshwater Ecology. He used his degree to work for the Kentucky Department of Natural Resources, where he supervised strip mine revegetation research and oversaw the state’s Wild Rivers Program.

In 1974, he enrolled at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He returned to Lewisburg after completion of his residency in 1981 and served as an Emergency Physician for four years. He was also the medical director of EMT services for Lewisburg and White Sulphur Springs during that time. He joined his uncle, Dr. Houston Moore, and formed Lewisburg Family Practice Center in 1983, where he proudly served the local community as a Family Physician for nearly 20 years. He took great pride in his profession and was endlessly dedicated to the well-being of his patients.

Nat was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing for smallmouth bass and red eye, as well as hunting grouse, turkey, and deer. He was also an avid sportsman who never missed a Mountaineer game and enjoyed golf, having been an active member of the Elks Club for 42 years. Nat was loved by his friends, and he loved them back. He was a wonderful father and grandfather and loved his family wholeheartedly.

A celebration of life in Nat’s honor will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at the Lewisburg Elks Country Club from 4-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to:

The Moore Family Community Fund
PO Box 1682
Lewisburg, WV 24901

Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com.

Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg is in charge of arrangements.

George Martin Edmiston

1971
 


George Martin Edmiston, 66, of Heath, Ohio died on Tuesday, December 13th, 2022.

He was born September 13th, 1956 in Webster Springs, W.Va. to the late Dr. George B. Edmiston and Beatrice Martin Edmiston. He attended Greenbrier Military School until 1971 and graduated from Webster Springs High School in 1974 and received his BA in Business Administration from Fairmont State University in 1983. George met the love of his life, Lynette Sass in 1986. They subsequently married in April 1995. George excelled in many avenues, as he was an accomplished guitar and bass player, and an avid student of history, specifically World War II. His friends and family members remember his wicked sense of humor, love of debate, and fierce loyalty to friends and family.

He is survived by his wife of twenty-seven years, Lynette Sass Edmiston, his two sisters, Carol Edmiston (James) of Springfield, Ohio and Jane Pfautsch (Michael) of Granville, Ohio, including loving in-laws and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thomas S. Hill

1968
 

Obituary for Tom Hill

Thomas S. "Tom" Hill, 72, of Hurricane, WV, formerly of Huntington, WV, passed away Thursday, December 1, 2022, at his residence.

Tom was born September 19, 1950 in Long Island, NY a son of the late August Schneider and Nancy Stubblefield Hill. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Betty Davis Hill and his mother-in-law, Rosemary Davis. He graduated from Greenbrier Military School and attended Marshall University and University of Charleston. Tom was retired from Moses Automotive and had investment properties. He was a member of Forrest Burdette United Methodist Church. Survivors include: a son, Dr. J.B. (Jennifer) Marinacci of Hurricane; a beloved sister, Helen "Cookie" Maser of Charlotte, NC; a sister-in-law, Vicki Rutherford of Milton, WV; two brothers-in-law, Mike Davis of Orange, CA and Keith (Sally) Davis of Huntington; three grandchildren whom he adored, Alyssa Marinacci, Andrew Marinacci, and Addley Marinacci; a niece, Catherine (Scott) Phelan of Fort Mill, SC; a nephew, John (Corey) Maser of Apex, NC; two great nephews, Ryan Maser and Alex Thomas Maser, both of Apex; and numerous friends, including a very special group of golf buddies. Visitation will be from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday, December 12, 2022 at Chapman's Mortuary, Huntington and one hour before the service Tuesday at the church. Funeral services will be conducted 1:00 pm Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at Forrest Burdette United Methodist Church, 2848 Putnam Avenue, Hurricane, WV, with Pastor Joe Kenaston officiating. Burial will be in Spring Hill Cemetery, Charleston, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of his three favorite charities St. Jude's Children Hospital, Huntington City Mission, or Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.chapmans-mortuary.com

Paul Lacy III

1964
 

Mr. Paul B. Lacy, III, age 76, of Covington, died Thursday, December 1, 2022, at his residence. He was the husband of Linda Stone Lacy.

A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, December 4, 2022 from the chapel of Loving Funeral Home with Rev. William "Bill" Hartsfield officiating. Interment will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Sunday afternoon from 1:00 P.M. until time of service at Loving Funeral Home.
The family requests that those attending the service follow social distance guidelines by wearing masks. Also, they request that you refrain from wearing any fragrances in respect of those who are highly allergic to them.

Arrangements are being handled by Loving Funeral Home; send online condolences at www.lovingfuneralhome1913.com.

Alfred Essa Salamy

1950
 

SALAMY, Alfred Essa, age 90, of Pettus, West Virginia passed away Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at home. He was born on September 30, 1932 in Charleston, West Virginia to Louis and Aileen [Zegeer] Salamy, the first of two sons. As the son of a Lebanese immigrant, Alfred was proud of his heritage and traveled with his family to Beirut, Lebanon in 1950 as a teenager. He would later recount the many exotic locations and amazing sites he experienced while visiting Lebanon and Egypt, including the Great Pyramids of Giza. Alfred attended Whitesville Elementary and later the prestigious Greenbrier Military School in Lewisburg, WV, class of 1950. During these years, he also proudly attained the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest youth award in the Boy Scout Division of the BSA, an honor only 4 percent of members ever achieve. He attended college at West Virginia University (WVU) in Morgantown in the early 1950s where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering with an emphasis in radar systems. After graduating WVU, he joined the United States Navy in 1956 where he served in the rank of 2nd lieutenant [LTJG] and was stationed on the USS DuPont (DD-941) during the Korean conflict, crossing the equator on several occasions during peaceful times. Following an honorable discharge from the US Navy in 1959, Alfred began working for Syracuse University Research Corporation (SRC) and then General Electric in Syracuse, NY as a radar engineer specialist in 1961.

While in Syracuse, NY, he was introduced by friends to his future wife, Beverly, a registered nurse, whom he married in December 1962, sharing their lives for almost 40 years until Beverly's passing in 2002. He and Beverly had three children while making their home in Syracuse: Debra [Paul Scholz] of Silver Spring, MD; David [Shelby Auippa] of Marion, TX; and Karen [Douglas Au] of Santa Cruz, CA. In 1976, Alfred and family moved back to his hometown of Whitesville, WV to be closer to his parents and to work with the family's furniture business. He would later become the operational manager of Dixie Furniture after the passing of his father in 1996.

Alfred was a well-known resident and business owner in the Whitesville, Boone County, and Raleigh County, WV areas for the last 46 years. He served on the Board of Trustees for the Whitesville State Bank since 1997; served as the Director spearheading the development and construction of the Mountain Terrace 35-unit Senior Apartment facility in Whitesville; and he worked tirelessly and with great enthusiasm on the "Turn This Town Around" revitalization effort for his beloved Whitesville — which the town won in 2014. Alfred was known for his amazing "steel-trap-like" memory and was extremely interested in family ancestry (his and others), often proudly introducing 2nd and 3rd cousins that did not know they were related in and around the town of Whitesville. He was a strong advocate for the Raleigh County public school system, especially during the years his children attended, and almost never missed a meeting (despite the 40+ minute drive to Beckley each way) to voice his opinions or concerns at every county Board of Education meeting. Over the last 40years, he belonged to the Whitesville Presbyterian Church and attended often with his wife and family where he served as a Deacon. He was also a proud member of the FreeMasons / Masonic Lodge #168 and the Lion's Club in Whitesville.

Alfred is predeceased by his wife, Beverly [Cowan] Salamy, his parents, Louis and Aileen Salamy, and his brother Raymond. He is survived by his three children: Debbie and her husband Paul, David and his wife Shelby, and Karen and her husband Douglas; his five grandchildren: Stephanie Scholz, Audrey Scholz, Devon Scholz, Emerson Au, and Layton Salamy; sister-in-law, Joyce Salamy and family, nephew Fr. Christopher Salamy, and niece Michelle Moujaes; his niece Kimberly Boyington and nephew Timothy George Pash IV; and the many other cousins, grand-nephews and grand-nieces in West Virginia, across the United States, and abroad.

There will be a visitation for those who wish to say their final farewell to Alfred onSaturday, November 26, 2022 at the Armstrong Funeral Home in Whitesville from 1 to 4 p.m. His family will hold a graveside service in mid-January 2023 so that all will be able to attend following the holidays. In lieu of flowers for the visitation, please consider a donation to Alfred's favorite charities in his name: The American Cancer Society, the Kfeirian Reunion Scholarship Program (kfeir.com/scholarship-recipients.html), or to the Town of Whitesville for community revitalization efforts (www.taxexemptworld.com/organizations/whitesville_wv_25209.asp).