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Sunday, December 04, 2011

Nitro High School WV News, Updates, Obits, Notable



Shelba Childers, 75, of Nitro went to be with her Lord and Savior January 10, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice West following a short illness. Shelba was born in Chattanooga, Tenn., June 13, 1936, a daughter of the late Samuel and Lillian Reed. Mrs. Childers and her husband owned Shelba's Dress Shops of Dunbar, Parkersburg, Beckley and Madison. Shelba's Dress Shops were the first fashion shop for plus-sized women established in West Virginia. Shelba was a longtime and faithful member of Cross Lanes Bible Church. She loved spending time with her family and friends, whether it was having lunch together or singing her favorite hymns. Shelba attended Tennessee Temple, University of Georgia and Radford College, and received her bachelor's degree in accounting from West Virginia State College. Shelba is survived by her son and his wife, Todd Childers and Carol Childers of Cross Lanes; and two granddaughters, Sydni Brooke Childers and Courtni Paige Childers. Preceding her in death are her husband, Dr. Robert D. Childers Sr.; son, Robert D. Childers Jr.; and infant brother, Mitchell Reed.

Cecil M. Spence, 74, of Cross Lanes passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2012, after a courageous nine-year battle with cancer. Cecil was born April 3, 1937, and spent his whole life in Cross Lanes. He was a proud U.S. Army Reserves veteran with 28 years of service. He was retired from the Federal Government, U.S. Army maintenance, where he worked as a supervisor at the Cross Lanes Army Maintenance Shop. He was a Christian and attended Cross Lanes United Methodist Church. Cecil loved to spend his Saturdays attending auctions and met many good friends this way. He was preceded in death by his parents, Goldie and Herbert Spence; sisters, Emilee Spence Denkins and Bessie Spence Schoolcraft; and brothers, Ronald Spence and Charles Spence. He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Roberta M. Spence; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Betty Lou Harrison, 80, of Nitro went home to be with the Lord on January 6, 2012, in Hubbard Hospice House West. Betty was a Christian and a member of Rock Branch Independent Church. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Mr. Robert E. Lee Harrison; children, Connie Harrison Chambers of Nitro and Bobby Harrison of Virginia; grandchildren, Nathaniel Chambers and Cody Harrison; and great-grandchildren, Alexxis, Brogan and Alden.

Mr. Robert L. "Bob" Summers, 95, of Cross Lanes passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2012, after a short illness. He was born May 9, 1916, in Fayette County. He attended Charleston High School and the University of Charleston, then Morris Harvey College. He served in the United States Army, and was a decorated World War II veteran. Bob was retired from the West Virginia Department of Highways, where he was a drafting supervisor. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Bob was an avid bowler, once bowling a perfect 300 game. He was also an avid golfer, once making a hole-in-one at the age of 79. He bowled and golfed until he was 89. One of Bob's greatest passions was used car shopping while taking his daily drive. Earlier in his life, other hobbies included tennis, ping pong, pool, semi-pro league baseball, basketball, softball, repairing stereo equipment and automobiles and collecting 78 RPM records. He loved music, and played the organ, piano, violin and ukulele. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Emma Summers; and brother, William Summers. He is survived by his wife, Eva Mae Summers; daughters, Barbara Summers Barnes of Cross Lanes and Pam Summers of South Charleston; grandchildren, Robert Summers Barnes and wife, Annemarie, of Dunbar and Malinda Barnes Kyrkos and husband, Vassili, of New York City, N.Y.; sister-in-law, Alice Legg of Cross Lanes; and great-grandchildren, Althea Maria and Robert Francis Barnes.

Joyce Ann Nickelson Cunningham, 59, of Flagler Beach, Fla., originally of Cross Lanes, died Dec. 17, 2011. She is survived by three children, Craig and Shawn Cunningham of Palm Coast, Fla., and Kristy Phillips of Covington, La.; one special nephew, Tim McDaniel of Palm Coast; and sister, Joan Nickelson Fulwider of Flagler Beach, Fla. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Dolly Nickelson of Cross Lanes.

The following article published by Kate White

http://wvgazette.com/News/201112240082

Bill Fortune, 67, places a frozen turkey into a grocery cart with other food that was distributed at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Nitro. He said they'd like to be able to provide for everyone but keeps their services more manageable by staying in Nitro.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- While many are inspired to help others who are less fortunate during the Christmas season, a Nitro couple has the holiday spirit of giving year-round.

Bill and Fran Fortune took over operation of the Nitro food pantry in 2007 and formed the Nitro Mission Team, where they are on-call 24 hours a day.

"I think this is our calling," said Bill Fortune, 67. "We've always liked to help people out in difficult situations, and we've always been organizers in anything we get into."

Fran Fortune, 68, said she remembers getting a call one snowy night last year from a lady who was stranded and didn't have anywhere to stay.

"It was so bad out there that we couldn't get out, so we called the local motel here in town and set up a room for her to stay," she said.

People around Nitro knew who to tell the woman to call.

"People know us around here, even the police and the churches tell people to call us," she said.

Bill Fortune was a teacher in the Nitro area for 33 years and still works as a substitute from time to time. Fran Fortune has lived in Nitro all of her life.

"We know about everybody in town," he said.

That knowledge allowed the couple to break the boundaries of church denominations and bring congregations in Nitro together for a good cause.

"In the whole town there are 19 churches, and we get a good amount of them participating financially or volunteering in different ways," Bill Fortune said.

To be able to make an impact where they live, the Fortune's focus on helping people in the Nitro area.

OAK RIDGE, Tenn. — Mary Frances Crawford Bailey, age 87, died Monday, Dec. 19, 2011, at the Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge. She was born Jan. 17, 1924, in Charleston, W.Va., the eldest daughter of James Ernest Crawford Jr., and Frances Nash Crawford. She graduated from Nitro High School, in Nitro, W.Va., in the class of 1942. Mary Frances was a member of First United Methodist Church in Oak Ridge. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack L. Bailey, a former WWII Prisoner-of War, who died on Jan. 4, 2003; and a sister, Carol Ernestine Crawford Frye, who died in June 1998. Jack and Mary Frances were married for 60 years. They moved to Oak Ridge with their young children in 1951 from Nitro, W.Va. At one time she was a very active bridge player and always enjoyed hosting their many friends in their home. After retirement, they enjoyed travelling and visited 48 of the 50 states. Their favorite vacation spot was Long Boat Key, Fla. After raising her children, Mary Frances entered the work force and spent 24 years at Y-12 Federal Credit Union, retiring as loan services manager in 1986. She thoroughly enjoyed her career and the people she worked with during her time at Y-12 Credit Union. She was also a member of Altrusa International for a number of years. She is survived by her son, Jack l. Bailey Jr. (Pat), of Oak Ridge; and a daughter, Julia Ann “Judy” Bailey, also of Oak Ridge; sister, Patricia Crawford Logan (Tom) of Escondido, Calif.; three grandchildren, Kenneth H. Self Jr. (Carol) of Oak Ridge, Katherine Bailey Price (Todd) of Aiken, S.C., and Darrell Scott Bailey of Dallas, Texas; and three great-grandchildren, Madison Self of Oak Ridge and Charlie and Claire Price of Aiken, S.C.; and very special friend, Clifford Smith. Source http://www.oakridger.com/obituaries/x1658263762/Mary-Frances-Bailey

Thelma A. Harris Bailey, 79, of Cross Lanes passed away on Friday December 16, 2011, at Valley Health Center following a long illness. Born July 28, 1932, she was a daughter of the late Howard and Rachael Harris. Thelma was a retired office clerk for the WV Department of Highways, a homemaker and a lifelong resident of Cross Lanes. Also preceding her in death was her husband, Ray Bailey; and son-in-law, Mark Christian. Survivors include sons, Larry (Marsha) Bailey of Cross Lanes, and Garland (Janet) Bailey of Cross Lanes; "adopted" son, Robert (Jennifer) Harden of North Carolina; daughters, Karen Bailey (Bill Lemon) Lemon of Cross Lanes, Brenda Bailey (Larry) Miller of Cross Lanes, Glenda Bailey of Nitro, and Jeannie Bailey Christian of Cross Lanes; brother, Howard Denvil Harris of Ripley; sister, Talma "Dee" Turpin of Dunbar; eight grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Ellawe Rebecca "Becky" Holmes, 87, of Nitro passed away Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at Thomas Memorial Hospital after a short illness. She was a 57 year resident of Nitro; a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother; and a member of the Nitro Church of God, where she had lead a ladies exercise class for many years. Becky is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Eugene C. Holmes; her son, Gary Holmes and wife, Carol, of Eleanor; grandsons, Scott Holmes and wife, Amie, and Jeremy Holmes and girlfriend, Kim; and great-grandchildren, Jacob Holmes and Emma Holmes. A service to celebrate Becky's life will be held at noon Friday, December 16, 2011 at Cooke Funeral Home Chapel, 2002 20th St., Nitro, with Pastor Rob VanFossen and Pastor David McCormick officiating. Burial will follow in Grandview Memorial Park, Dunbar.

Christina Spanos, 80, of Nitro passed away early Friday morning on December 9, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital following complications of a short, but hard fought, illness. She was born January 24, 1931, in Detroit, Mich., to her loving Greek immigrant parents, George Dallakouras and Katina Argiropoulos. Shortly after graduating from Wayne State University, where she played violin in the school orchestra, she met and later married Dr. Michael G. Spanos, the one and only love of her life, and eventually they settled in West Virginia as their permanent home. After his untimely death in 1964, she returned to school and earned her degree in education from West Virginia State College and later her master's at WVU. She taught in the Kanawha County school system at West Sattes Elementary and Nitro Elementary until her retirement in 1989. She continued to work after retirement, tutoring students in math and English and volunteered as an IRS tax return preparer through the 1990s. She is survived by her loving son, George Michael, and now peacefully resides in the house of the Lord, reunited after 47 devoted years with the one and only love of her life for all eternity.

Madaline Virginia Barnett Jones of Hurricane passed away on December 7, 2011. Born December 8, 1929 in Nitro, she was a daughter of the late Charles O. and Orpha Barnett. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Ernest K. "Kenneth" Jones; her brothers, Grover Cleveland Barnett, Harold Barnett and Charles Barnett; sisters, Iva Mae Barnett Thomas, Genevieve Barnett Cottrill and Mary Jane Barnett Hill. Educated in Nitro schools, she was a former employee of W.W. Mack Company and Kroger, both of Nitro. In her later years, she was a dedicated homemaker and mother. She was a Girl Scout den mother and was a past president of the PTA at Rock Branch Elementary School during her daughters' school years. She was reborn March 18, 1959, and was a member of the WV Home Mission Church, East Nitro, where she was a former Sunday school teacher and sang in the choir. Surviving are her daughters, Linda Hoffman (John) of Winfield, and Sue Bailey (Stephen King) of Houston, Texas; a grandson, Ryan Hoffman (Emily) of Hurricane; brother-in-law, Dennis H. Jones of Hurricane; brothers, Franklin R. Barnett, Dempsey Barnett and Gene Barnett, all of Hometown; and several nieces and nephews.

Jo Ann Payne Hammond, 80, of Big Tyler went home to be with the Lord on December 8, 2011 surrounded by her loving family. She was a member of Perrow Presbyterian Church and was attending Nitro Presbyterian. Jo Ann retired from Kanawha Valley Radiologists in 1986 to care for her mother. In later years, she cared for her great-granddaughter while living in Florida with her daughter and family for months at a time. She was an avid bowler and a former West Virginia State Singles Champion. She shared her love of bowling as an instructor at Towne & Country Lanes. She was a devoted wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack H. Hammond; her parents, John T. and Martha Turner Payne; her infant twin daughter, Helen Jan; her sister, Maxine Payne West; and her brother, John R. "Jack" Payne. Jo Ann is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Nan Hammond and Randy Milholen; granddaughter, Nikki and husband, Don Heaton; and great granddaughter, Makenzi, all of Port Orange, Fla. Jo Ann is also survived by her brother, Ralph Payne and wife, Ginnie, of Pensacola, Fla.; and a host of nieces and nephews.

William L. "Bill" Cummings, 62, of Nitro died December 4, 2011 at Hospice West, South Charleston. He was born August 9, 1949 and was preceded in death by his son, William Jr. Bill was a former employee of the City of Nitro and Cunningham Memorial Park, and was a member of Nitro Moose. He is survived by his companion, Peggy Belcher; daughter, Tammy Cummings Harris; brother, Mike Cummings; sisters, Brenda Cummings Jeffers, Lizetta Cummings Withrow and Carolyn Cummings Taylor; four grandchildren; and many friends.

Dorothy Hill Shamblin passed away on Saturday, December 3, 2011. Born on June 10, 1910, She was a lifelong resident of Nitro. She was predeceased by her children, James 'Sonny' Jefferies of Nitro and Jacqueline Dayhaw of Tampa, Fla. She is survived by her grandchildren, Jeff Harbour of East Lynn, Janellen Knof of Oldsmar, Fla., John Harbour of Middleton, Wis., Donna Landan of Hurricane, and Michael Jefferies of Rock Hill, S.C.; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Tuesday, November 01, 2011

NHS WV News, Updates, Obits, Interesting stuff, November 2011

Henry David Harrison of Nitro passed away on November 28, 2011. Mr. Harrison served in the U.S. Navy and was a retiree of Union Carbide, South Charleston, with 38 years of service. He was a member of South Charleston Masonic Lodge 168. He was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley and Darlena Harrison; brothers, Dallas and Edgar; and granddaughter, Megan Kathleen Harrison. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 63 years, Evelyn Harrison; three sons, Roger Harrison and his wife, Ginger, of Cross Lanes, Philip Harrison and his wife, Vickie, of Winfield and Mark Harrison of Nitro. Also surviving are grandchildren, Adam, Amber, Kendra, Tara, Monica and Eric; and great-grandchildren, Tyler, Braelyn and Landon.

Frances Roberta Knight, 88, of Nitro left her earthly body on November 26, 2011, and is now rejoicing in Heaven after her long battle with cancer. She was the daughter of the late Carl and Alice McDonald Thomas of Nitro. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Harold M. Knight; infant son, Eddie Ray; and sister, Genevive Asbury, all of Nitro. Frances is survived by eight children, Brenda Knight (Darrell) Sheets of Lynch Station, Va., Diana Knight Gillispie of Nitro, Sharon Knight (her primary caregiver) of Nitro, Phil Knight of Grandview, Ind., Jeanette Knight (Eddie) Casto of Cross Lanes, Stephen Knight of Culloden, Greg Knight of Nitro and Glenn Knight of Eleanor. She was also blessed with 20 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Also surviving is her only brother, Gene Thomas of Nitro; and sister, Pat (Gordon) Trainer of Bear, Del. In addition, she is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Frances was a devoted wife, daughter, mother, and grandmother, beloved by all for her love of God and family. She was well known for her cooking and baking skills and her quilting and sewing expertise. She was a founding member of Cross Lanes Bible Church and loved reading her Bible.

Mr. Patrick Jason Brown, 34, of Nitro passed away November 25, 2011. Patrick is a graduate of Nitro High School, attended Ben Franklin Career Center and served in the Air Force. He is survived by his parents, Tammy and Patrick Brown of Nitro; brother, Travis Michael Brown of St. Albans; and grandmother, Sarah Eloise Griffith of St. Albans.

Charles David "Charlie" Cobb, 60, of New Bern, N.C., died Thursday, November 24, 2011, at his home. Charlie was born on May 25, 1951, in Charleston, W.Va. He graduated from Nitro High School, Nitro, W.Va., in 1969. He served his country in the U.S. Navy for eight years and, most recently, worked at Mazda Kia of New Bern in both sales and service. He is survived by his wife, Janet G. Cobb; and son, Brian E. Cobb, both of New Bern; his father, James Robert Cobb; his mother, Georgia Persinger; two brothers, Robert "Ed" Cobb, all of Poca, W.Va., and Scott Cobb of Jacksonville, Fla. The family wishes to give special thanks to Dr. Glen Lesser, the Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and friends of the North Carolina Anglers Association. A very special thanks goes to the Leslie Jones family for their care over the past five years.

One of NHS WV 1968 stars has died. Richard was always friendly, funny, and one of our academic stand-outs. Appears as though he led a wonderful and fulfilling life. Godspeed, Richard. You will be missed.

Richard G. Uglow, 60, of Leland, Mich., passed away Sunday, November 20, 2011, after a one-year battle with ALS.

He was born December 14, 1950. Rich grew up in Cross Lanes and was a 1968 graduate of Nitro High School. He graduated from West Virginia Institute of Technology and had an MBA from the University of Michigan. He retired in 2005 after a 33-year career in the auto industry.

After retirement he moved from the Detroit area to Leland, where he enjoyed restoring his 1972 Mustang, walks along the shore of Lake Michigan and hiking in the sand dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes, National Lakeshore. The last few years he was especially happy to have renewed friendships with six of his best high school friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert "Bob" Uglow. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Uglow of Buckhannon; sister and brother in law, Lora Uglow and John Mathias of Buckhannon; nieces, Lisa Mathias of Gainesville, Va., and Paula Mathias of Durango, Colo.; and nephews, Jay Mathias of Washington, D.C., and Alex Rueckert of Gainesville. He is also survived by his life partner, Arlene Janks of Clarkston, Mich.

Reward Offered In Woman's Murder Reported by: Kallie Cart http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/eyewitness/111123_7474.shtml Reported: Nov. 23, 2011 5:23 PM EST
Eyewitness News Photo Charleston , Kanawha County , West Virginia

Police in Charleston are shining new light on a murder investigation. After several months, they're hoping someone will come forward with information that will lead to an arrest and the victim's family is now offering a reward.

Megan Harrison's body was pulled from the Elk River in Charleston back in August. Police have yet to make an arrest in the case.

http://wvgazette.com/News/201108290747

"Obviously the family is left without closure, there's a suspect at large who's capable of committing a crime like that and of course we take it personally we work as hard as we can on it," Charleston Chief of Detectives Lt. Steve Cooper says.

Megan, who was 28 and from Cross Lanes, was staying at the Sojourners Shelter in Charleston prior to her death. Police do say they have a strong lead in her murder, but they need more information.

"The last person who saw her, someone who may have spoken to the suspect, we just ask that person come forward and give us what they have," Lt. Cooper says. Megan's parents say as the holidays approach, her murder is even more difficult to handle. They are now offering a $1,000 reward for any information that will lead to an arrest and conviction in her murder. Police say they want the case to be closed before the end of the year. Charleston has had only five murders in 2011. Arrests have been made in all of them, except Megan's.

"We're fortunate this year that the numbers are way down than before, that comes from the pattern of these types of crimes, peaks and valleys and the stepped up efforts on the part of the police department," Lt. Cooper says. "We're hoping if anyone knows anything they'll come forward during this holiday season to try and bring justice for Megan and her family."

Mark E. Reed, 58, of St. Albans passed away November 19, 2011, at his home. Born October 1, 1953, in South Charleston, Mark was a son of the late Samuel Everett Reed. Mark was a groundskeeper for the Nitro Moose Lodge Park and a member of the Loyal Order of Moose No. 565, Nitro. Mark is survived by his loving wife, Kay Reed; mother, Dorothy Virginia Whittington Reed of Nitro; children, Missi Reed and husband, Chris Saunders of Red House, and Crystal Reed Ward of South Charleston; stepchildren, John Harbert and wife Tina of St. Albans, Joshua Harbert of Nitro and James Harbert of Nitro; grandchildren, Jessie and husband, Trey Hedrick, Hannah and Isaac Saunders, Bailey Ward and Jayden and Tyler Green; step-grandson, Dakota Matthew; sisters, Linda McDaniels of Nitro, and Patty Cogar of Frame; and brothers, Raymond L. Reed of Madison, Thomas Reed of Buffalo, Robert Reed of Buffalo and James Reed of Huntington.

Ruby Mae Brown, 80, of St. Albans, formerly of Nitro, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 19, 2011, after a short illness. Ruby was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and was known to all her family as "Mom." She will be greatly missed. Ruby was preceded in death by her husband, Charles S. Brown; son, Charles M. Brown; and parents, Charles M. Stanley and Mary Kathryn Stanley. Surviving are children, Connie Brown Santucci of Garden Grove, Calif., Cecil E. Brown and wife, Lana, of Apollo Beach, Fla., Michael D. Brown of High Point, N.C., Ray Brown and wife, Kathy, of Kansas City, Mo., John Brown and wife, Trena, of South Charleston, and Jim Brown of St. Albans; sisters, Josephine L. "Aunt Jo" Stanley and Barbara Jane Stanley Webb; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Juanita Pearl Smith, 79, of Cross Lanes passed away November 14, 2011, at CAMC Memorial Hospital. Juanita was born April 18, 1932, in Clendenin and was a daughter of the late William A. and Nettie Hively Withrow. She was a teacher's aide with the Kanawha County school system and loved to raise flowers, garden and was happiest helping and doing favors for others. Survivors include her husband, Benjamin Smith; sons, Terry D. Cavender of Atlanta, Benjie Smith of Nitro and Jeffery Smith of Fraziers Bottom; sisters, Virginia Arrington of Alum Creek and Doris Abbott of Wills Creek; grandchildren, David Smith and Kailyn Smith; and many nieces and nephews

A. Hugh Burton Jr., 82, of Cross Lanes passed away Friday, November 11, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital following a short illness. Born February 10, 1929, he was a son of the late A. Hugh Burton Sr. and Georgia Ward Burton. Also preceding him in death were his wife, Geraldine "Jerry" I. Burton; and one sister, Lois Jean Burton Johnson. Hugh was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in the Korean War, and a retired schoolteacher for the Kanawha County Board of Education. Survivors include two sons, Stephen Burton (Christie) of Cross Lanes, and Michael Burton of Charleston; one daughter, Sonja Burton Hempstead (David) of Raleigh, N.C.; one brother, Jake Burton of Texas; one sister, Ruth Ann Burton Simms of Charleston; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a special nephew, Roger Lewis (Drema) of Poca

Donald W. Bowling, 82, of Cross Lanes went to be with the Lord on November 9, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House after a long illness, leaving his beloved wife of 61 years, Frances Null Bowling. He was born on October 26, 1929, in Nitro. He was the son of Lottie and W. Ernest Bowling of Cross Lanes and, along with his parents, joins his infant son, Daniel Bowling; brothers, W.E. "Junior Bowling," Hershel Gail Bowling, Charles Delbert Bowling and Ronald Howard Bowling, with his Creator in Heaven. Besides his wife, Don, affectionately known as G-Dad, is survived by sisters, Phyllis Bowling Karnes, Mary Bowling Adams, Beulah Bowling (Ralph) Page, and Ethel Bowling (Rex) Parsons; children, Anita Bowling (Greg) Stonestreet and David Bowling; grandchildren, Andrew Stonestreet, Lauren Stonestreet, Stephen Stonestreet and Caitlin Stonestreet; and many nieces and nephews. Don was a veteran of the Korean War, worked at Kroger as a manager, at FMC Chemical Company, and retired from Monsanto Chemical Company in Nitro. He served as a church officer and treasurer for Main Street Church of God, now Southridge Church of God, as a treasurer, deacon and elder at Perrow Presbyterian Church, and was a friend to many neighbors, relatives, and fellow Christians. Don loved everything outdoors, hunting, camping, gardening, woodworking, and keeping up his beautiful five-acre home. He also thoroughly enjoyed being with his family, passing ball, vacationing at the beach, taking the grandchildren on mower rides and passing on his knowledge of life. He loved to sing and worship the Lord. He was an affectionate, humorous, loving and kind man, and will be remembered with gratefulness and joy.

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/201110310217
Lawrence Pierce (photographer)

Charleston Gazette, November 1, 2011, October 31, 2011 Full circle for Nitro? Seniors were freshmen in 2008 state title run By Tommy R. Atkinson

Emily Ross, one of three seniors who started as freshmen on Nitro's state championship team in 2008, has five goals in three postseason games this season.

Nitro seniors Ashley Bowyer, Kaitlyn Gilham and Emily Ross are hoping the slipper fits one more time. Those three are the only players still holding down starting positions from the Wildcats' run to the 2008 state championship, the school's first and only girls soccer title to date.

Bowyer, Gilham and Ross find themselves back at the ball this week and are looking to close out their high school careers the same way it all began as freshmen four years ago when Nitro takes on Winfield at approximately 7:30 p.m. Friday in the Class AAA semifinals at the YMCA Youth Sports Complex in Beckley. ....

Nitro finds itself just two victories away from another improbable title. "This year from the very first game we were fantastic,'' said Nitro coach Kim Aurelio, who guided the Wildcats to the championship in 2008 during her first season. "I was like, 'We're going to do this. We can go back and we can go all the way.' Then we started falling apart.

"We tried to decide with our captains what could be done to change things and we worked together as a team and put this team first. Finally they put it together and we're heading back. We have fought all the way to this. Every year I tell the girls every game leading up to tournament play is practice.'

There are several parallels between this year's Wildcats and the 2008 squad that played its best over the last three weeks of the season.

In 2008, Nitro entered states as the lowest-ranked team (No. 18) in the final state coaches association rankings, had the fewest victories (10) and was tied for the most losses among state tournament qualifiers.

The 2011 edition of the Wildcats (14-7-1) is again the lowest-ranked squad (No. 19), tied for the fewest victories and has the most losses. And both years saw Nitro pull out overtime victories in the sectional tournament. "We haven't been a unit like we were my freshman year, but this year we've gotten that back and I think that's really taken us far,'' said Gilham. "We had a lot of injuries and we learned how to get past them together. That's really brought us together as a team this year.

"You have to have a special group of girls to get the feeling we do, the camaraderie. The seniors were really our big sisters [in 2008] and I feel like that's how our underclassmen look up to our seniors this year. I just feel like this is our year and this is what we've been working for the past few years. I really think we have it this year.'

Ross said the family atmosphere has returned to the sideline. "Throughout the season we've all gotten to be really close as a team,'' said Ross, who has scored five goals in three postseason games and is the Wildcats second-leading scorer with 12 goals. "We're like a family and in that way we're the same [as 2008]. The past several games, we just think soccer now. It's really helped us.'

Bowyer said the nine seniors on this year's roster struck the right tone at the beginning of the season, which has been a mirror image of 2008. The other six seniors for the Wildcats this season are Samantha Gaten, Emilee Hrtyanski, Tiffany Newland, Megan Popp, Devin Randolph and Allison Scarbro, who started in the '08 title game.

"Our seniors were a big part of the team my freshman year,'' said the defender. "We expected we wouldn't be the same after they left. At the beginning of the season we all made [the underclassmen] feel like they're welcome and they're part of the team and help them at practice.

"We had a team sleepover. We do a lot of different activities, we go to movies, we go out to eat and we eat together at lunch. It's really helped to get to know each other, especially the freshmen. We're all really good friends and we try 100 percent at practice and every game. We do it for each other.'

Bowyer said she didn't think much about winning it all in 2008, but now that she is a senior the journey has meant more.

"As a freshman it really wasn't a big deal to me then, but now that I'm a senior the last game, it's a big deal,'' she smiled. "It's definitely more exciting. Hopefully we'll go out the same way we came in.'' "I think it's cool to start with states and end with states,'' added Ross. "It's an awesome feeling.'

Reach Tommy R. Atkinson at tatkin...@wvgazette.com or 304-348-4811.

Here's an update and video at WCHS http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/sports/bbs/bbs111103_799.shtml

Hilda O'Dell Linville, 92, of Nitro went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, October 28, 2011. She was a 1937 graduate of Nitro High School and also a graduate of Charleston School of Commerce. She was employed over 40 years with American Viscose, Nitro, in the Personnel Department, and a lifelong member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Nitro, having been received there on the cradle roll. Hilda served in many capacities at the church, which included: Sunday school teacher of many ages, and choir member, in which she received special recognition of having sung in the church choir for over 70 years. Hilda was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Garnet O'Dell; brother, Jake O'Dell, sisters, Ruby O'Dell, Ruth O'Dell, Garnie O'Dell, Florence O'Dell, and Hazel O'Dell; her husband, Ralph; and son, Bernard Linville. Left to cherish her memory are her sister JoAnn O'Dell Jividen of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.; daughters, Mary Linville Church of Austin, Texas, and Beverly Linville Bailey of Willis, Texas; daughter-in-law, Patty Linville of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Jody (Diane) Young of Brownsville, Texas, Eric Young of Austin, Texas, Matthew Dorsen and Kim, Tammy, and Scott Linville; and great-grandchildren Gracie, Annie and Jack Young of Brownsville, Texas. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

Timothy Pollitt article.... Here is a quote of the article written by Julie Robinson, Charleston Gazette, November 2, 2011: "CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- A neon "Open" sign glowing on the newly renovated historic Quarrier Diner excites both local residents who remember the restaurant's heyday and passers-by who look forward to a new downtown dining option. The restaurant's opening last week was bittersweet for Anna Pollitt, who owns the restaurant with her husband, David.

The Pollitts purchased the dilapidated restaurant in September 2010 at the urging of their son Tim, who worked at Murad's in Kanawha City. "He told us that if we would purchase a restaurant, he would make it work," she said.Here is a nice photo from the Charleston Gazette story of his Mother and included photo of Tim:


Gary W. Botkins, 64, of Nitro passed away Sunday, October 30, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital following a long illness. He was born May 18, 1947, in Kanawha County. He was the son of Glenn Botkins Sr. and Shirley Spaulding Massey. Gary was a truck driver for Corey Brothers Wholesale Company. He attended Maranatha Fellowship for years. His greatest love was his wife and family and his Lord. He was an avid outdoorsmen and loved to fish. Surviving are his loving wife of 46 years, Mary Redman Botkins; two sons, Christopher Wayne Botkins and wife, Jeanine, of Nitro and David Alan Botkins of Nitro; daughter, Kimberly Botkins Doss and husband, Herb, of Nitro; brothers, Mike Botkins of North Charleston and Glen Botkins Jr. of Florida; sister, Christine Botkins Cunningham of Nitro; grandchildren, Matthew, Brianne and Nikki Toler and Christian and Joey Botkins; and two great-grandchildren.

Deanna Kay Landers Johnson, 66, of Nitro left this world to begin her journey with Jesus after a short battle with brain cancer. Deanna was a childcare provider for many children in her home. She was a Christian and was a member of the Nitro Church of God for many years. She was preceded in death by her husband, John F. Johnson Jr.; her mother, Mildred Landers; grandmother, Vina Arthurs; and niece, Karen Smith. Those left to cherish her memories are her children, Kimberly Johnson(Anthony) Loveday of South Charleston and Stephanie Johnson (Alex) Bennett and Jay (Samantha) Johnson, all of Hurricane; four grandsons, Trey Mattox of Hurricane, and Patrick, Michael and John Loveday of South Charleston; three granddaughters, Kinslie (Devin) Knicely of Georgia and Lily Jo and Emma Jean Johnson of Hurricane; sisters, Rhonda Landers Stewart of Cross Lanes and Debbie Landers Metten of Dunbar; brothers, Jerry Priestly of Georgia, Norman Fowler of Charleston and Craig Landers of Charleston; best friend and sister-in-law, Betty Jo Johnson of South Charleston; and brother-in-law, David Johnson of Florida.

Saturday, October 01, 2011

Nitro High School, WV, News, Obituaries, Noteworthy, October 2011 update

Franklin Reed Gibeaut, 77, of Nitro went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 18, 2011, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Frank was retired from Republic Container Company, Nitro, and was a member of the United Steel Workers of America Local 5712, Nitro Masonic Lodge 170 AF&AM, Scottish Rite Bodies, and Beni Kedem Shrine. He was an active member of the Nitro Church of God, where he taught Sunday school, was a visitation minister, and a member of the Mission Team. Frank loved to sing gospel music and had sung in the Gospel Light Quartet. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Mary Elizabeth Gibeaut; parents, Richard Dana and Flora Hill Gibeaut; sisters, Macil Gibeaut Morgan, Jean Gibeaut Lett and Lula Gibeaut; and brother, James Gibeaut. Left behind to cherish his memory are his wife of 60 years, Wanda Boggess Gibeaut; daughters, Gail Gibeaut Ball of Fraziers Bottom, Cathy Gibeaut Keene and husband, Bill, of Pinch, Hollis Gibeaut Claypool and husband, Loren, of Mequon, Wis., and Amy Gibeaut of Charleston; son, Robert Reed Gibeaut of Nitro; sisters, Mary Spears of Bancroft and Josie Warner of Red House; and brother, Charles "Shark" Gibeaut of Poca. Frank is also survived by his grandson, whom they raised, Jamie Layne; grandchildren, Ann Lockard, David Gibeaut, Jared Layne, Jason Ball, Sarah Cox, Stefan Claypool, Kathleen Claypool, Justin Wright and Dillon Wright; and great-grandchildren, Kerrigan Lockard, Samuel Lockard, Joshua Ball, Bailey Layne, Alana Cox and Seth Layne.

Johnny Bill Goodall, 88, of Nitro passed away Friday, October 14, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. Johnny was born April 10, 1923, and was the son of the late Cecil and Beulah Goodall. Johnny retired from Monsanto Chemical Company with 35 years of service. He was a Navy veteran of WWII. Johnny was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Nitro, where he had served as a trustee. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Franceline Goodall; son, Scott Goodall and Dee Goodall; son, Mark Goodall and wife, Suzy Goodall; grandchildren, Loren Goodall, Blake Goodall, Blair Goodall and Bryce Ritter; sister, Maryann and husband, Gene Brightwell; and brother-in-law, Walt and wife, Dee Showen.

Denvil Glassco "Plum" Plumley, 88, of Cross Lanes went home to be with his Lord on Oct. 11, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House West after a four-month battle with illnesses. Denvil was born Jan. 5, 1923, in Pear, Raleigh County. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Tyler Mountain, where he served as a trustee and worked hard in his church. His mission was visiting the sick and you could always count on him when in need. He also worked for many years with Tyler Mountain/Cross Lanes Community Service, collecting and distributing food to those in need. He retired from Union Carbide, South Charleston, in 1985 with 46 years of service as a heavy equipment operator. You could see him from long off, running the largest crane in the plant. He and his wife were 50-year charter members of the Nitro Antique Car Club. This was the love of his life; he had many cars and was always gathering with the fellows to work on somebody's. He took his family on lots of rides, picnics, camping and trips in those cars. Denvil served in the CCC camps as a young man. He went straight into the Army as a sergeant. He served his country, building lots of things. One he talked about was working on the Boulder Dam in Colorado. Denvil was a 52-year Master Mason of Nitro Lodge 170. He also was a 50-year 32nd degree Scottish Rite Shriner in the Beni Kedem Shrine, Charleston. Denvil was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Mary Anna Summers Plumley; parents, Marion and Dora Kincaid Plumley; a brother, Olden; and a sister, Doleta "Tootsie." He is survived by his four children: daughter, Virginia Plumley NHS 1968 Martin and husband, David; and sons, Freddie Plumley and Thomas Tom Plumley and wife, Linda, all of Cross Lanes, and David Wayne Plumley and wife, Libby, of Poca. Also surviving are grandchildren, Annette Good and husband, Raymond, and David Martin and wife, Rebekah, all of Cross Lanes, Anna Church and husband, Wesley, of Morgantown and David Plumley II of Poca; stepgrandchild, Shannon Wallace of Sissonville; great-grandchildren, Joshua, Rachel, Matthew and Joseph Good and Zachary Martin; and stepgreat-grandchildren, Lillian O'Dell and Samantha Wallace.

Toby Jon Buel Jr., 26, of Cross Lanes passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 8, 2011 Our beautiful son went home to be with God. We are crying for ourselves, while we know he is safe and cared for in the arms of Jesus. We will see him again when we depart this world. Please remember Toby as a truly good and kind person. He had compassion for people who were less fortunate than himself. He was never content, he always pushed for bettering the lives of others around him. Toby will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Toby was born in St. Petersburg, Fla., son of Toby and Tamara Knox Buel Sr. of Cross Lanes. He was a member of Cross Lanes Baptist Church. He was a 2003 graduate of Nitro High School, 2007 graduate of West Virginia University with an undergraduate degree in political science and a 2010 graduate of WVU College of Law with JD and MBA degrees. He practiced law in Charleston. In addition to his devoted parents, he is survived by his brother, Sean Michael Buel; and sister, Rachel Kathleen Buel.

Charles Leonard Murphy, 84, of Nitro, formerly of Cottle, passed away Thursday, October 6, 2011 at Hubbard Hospice House after a long illness. Leonard was born October 29, 1926 in Morris (Braxton County) to the late Edmund and Lucy Adkins Murphy. He is also preceded in death by his brothers, Herald Murphy, Bernard Murphy, Herman Murphy and Buren Murphy; sister, Evelyene Murphy Long; and grandsons, David Southall and Barry Southall. Leonard proudly served in the Army during World War II. He was a coal miner for 40 years and a member of the UMWA. He had a love for gospel music and genealogy. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lucille Johnston Murphy of Nitro; daughter, Joyce Murphy Southall and husband, David Southall, of Nitro; son, Charles Murphy and wife, Patricia, of Charleston; sister, Margie Murphy Crislip and husband, Terry, of Burnsville; grandchildren, Jason and wife, Erin Southall, of Barboursville and Bennett Murphy and Mikalyn Murphy of Charleston; great-grandchildren, Ethan, Jaxon and Ryanne Southall, all of Barboursville; and eight step-great-grandchildren.

Ronald Foster, 45, of Cross Lanes died Tuesday, September 13, in Huntington. He was a graduate of Nitro High School and was formerly employed by Fletcher Enamel, in Dunbar, and Wendy's. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Sylvia Foster of Rocky Fork. He is survived by his children, Vaylena Foster of Akron, Ohio, Billy Foster of Nitro and Crystal Foster of North Carolina. He is also survived by his sisters, Geraldine Foster Legg of St. Albans, Virginia Foster Bailey of Ashland, Ky., and Michael Foster of Charleston. He is also survived by a host of friends in the Rocky Fork/Cross Lanes area.

Loretta M. "Dumpy" Halley Westfall went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 29. She was born December 14, 1930, to Jesse Walden and Marie Martin Halley in Nitro. Loretta graduated from Nitro High School in 1948 and went to work at the telephone company in Nitro until her marriage to John T. "Buddy" Westfall in 1950. Loretta was active in several groups at Poca Methodist Church, including serving as Girl Scout leader for many years. She was school secretary at Rock Branch Elementary and a teacher's aide at Poca High School before going to work full-time with John in his State Farm Insurance office. Loretta attended Judson Baptist Church, Nitro Church of the Nazarene and, most recently, Rock Branch Independent Church. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Buddy. Survivors include: brother, Bill Halley of Colleyville, Texas; children, Linda Halliday of Winfield, Larry and Kathy Westfall of Nitro and Cheryl Farrington of Winston-Salem, N.C.; grandchildren, Lori Farrington and Stephen Surrell of Pilot Mountain, N.C., Chad and Carol Westfall of Winfield, Niki Farrington of Pilot Mountain, N.C., and Nathan Westfall of Poca; and great-grandchildren, Maci, Amee, Michael, Carly and Connor. She is also survived by many other relatives and friends.

O.E. "Jack " Russell Jr., 86, of Nitro finished his race September 29, 2011, at his home, surrounded by his family. Jack was a decorated U.S. Army veteran who served in Europe during WWII and was a member of the VFW. He worked as a general contractor until he retired at 82 years old. Jack was a faithful member of Victory Baptist Church in Cross Lanes, where he was a member of the Board of Trustees and served as Sunday school superintendent for many years. He also faithfully ministered in the Visitation Program of the church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ode Russell and Nancy; his brothers, Joe Harry Russell, Willard Russell, Miles Russell, Donald Russell and RobertRussell; and his sisters, Margaret Russell, Betty Jean Russell and Lillian Russell. Jack is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mona Russell; his brother, James Russell and spouse, Edra, of Spring Hill; his five children and their spouses, Barbara Russell and Ben Alt of Louisville, Ky., Elaine Russell and Roger Harrison of Nitro, Jack and Suzie Russell of Nitro, Julie Russell and Terry Slater of Cross Lanes and Jennifer Russell of Nitro; his nine grandchildren, Jeff, Jessica, Jason, Lisa, Emily, Joshua, Breanna, Bethany and Caleb; and six great-grandchildren.

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Nitro High School Memories 60's WV

Dr. Robert E. Bricker passed into the arms of his Lord while at his St. Albans home on September 27, 2011. Born in Akron, Ohio on February 8, 1926, Bob moved to West Virginia at the age of 2, graduated from Nitro High School and resided and practiced dentistry in St. Albans for 56 years. After serving in World War II as a cryptographic technician, Bob attended West Virginia University, was a graduate of the University of Maryland Dental School and opened his dental practice in St. Albans. He served as past president of the West Virginia Dental Association, the West Virginia Academy of General Dentistry and the Southeastern Academy of Prosthodontics, as well as numerous dental associations and societies. Through the AGD, he was honored to participate in the development of the national guidelines used in continuing education. His career led him down many paths, seeking knowledge and lecturing, including a trip to China with his son, Robert. Involved in the community, he was active in Rotary for many years and served as past president. Bob was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of St. Albans, enjoyed his Sunday school class and was known to make it particularly interesting at times. He enjoyed ice photography. Dentistry was his passion, but he loved to cook. Over the years, many were privileged to share an elegant meal prepared after much deliberation, reading and selecting just the right recipe from among his vast collection of cookbooks. We will remember Bob as a loving husband and father and a good friend to many, always eager to share a joke with a hearty laugh or a good story with friend or stranger. He touched the lives of many and left a lasting impression on each. Those preceding him in death include his parents, Paul T. and Louise Harris Bricker; and Helen Bricker, who passed away four days after Bob's birth. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Paulette Bricker; children, Virginia Bricker of Baltimore, Md,, Linda Bricker of Dunbar, Paul (Evelyn) Bricker of Scarbro, Sarah (Rick) Perry of Cincinnati, Ohio, Robert (Catherine) Bricker of Charlottesville, Va., and Dr. Andrea Bricker (Greg) Sullivan of Boston, Mass.; 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Random memories: Gerrie Thacker with his home brewed radio station. He ad-libbed, told jokes, and played music, and offered to repeat your name for an entire minute if you paid him a quarter.

Sandy Simmons...Why didn't I ever ask her for a date? She was one of the funniest, cutest, and personable young women in our class (1968). She probably would have refused, but I should have taken the chance anyway! I did take her home from school one time though, luxuriating in my '65 Volkswagen.

I did all my dating in St. Albans and Hurricane,never asking a Nitro girl for a date. Of course, my job at the St. Albans BBF opened many liasons, and having a motorcycle helped a lot too!

Lunch hour at Nitro High was always a kick...open campus....perhaps Ben Franklin's for a 20 cent hot dog, then Nitro News Stand to hang out, buy a pop, and play pinball machines. For a walk on the wild side, perhaps try to get a look at the latest Stag, or other men's magazines. Maybe some pipe tobacco or cigarettes to complete the adolescent joybomb.

An alternative was to hang with the firemen at Nitro Fire Department, or visit Kroger's across the street from the school.

It's too bad that today's high schools have a closed campus. Young people need the freedom and opportunity at self discipline that an open campus provides.

Just saying.....

Thursday, September 01, 2011

September 2011 Nitro High School WV, Updates, Obits, and Info

Jeffrey "Poochie" Magoun, 57, of Nitro passed away Wednesday, September 14, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House West, South Charleston, after a long illness. Poochie was a 1972 graduate of Nitro High School, a graduate of WVU with a degree in chemical engineering, and a former employee of Bayer Crop Science and Clearon. While in high school, he played football, basketball, and was a hurdler on the track team. He was a true blue and gold Mountaineer fan. Jeff is survived by three children, Joshua Magoun, Jeffrey Magoun Jr. and Jade Magoun, all of St. Albans; sisters, Nancy Magoun Risch of Nahant, Mass., Terri Magoun Tedesco of Troy, N.Y., and Melody "Dee Dee" Macoun McCormick of Nitro; stepmother Bobbie Magoun of Stephens City, Va.; stepbrothers, Tiny Arthur of Hurricane, Robin Arthur of San Diego, Calif., and Mike Hudson of Nitro; and stepsisters, Lanie Arthur of San Diego, Calif., and Patty Hudson of Nitro. He was preceded in death by his father, Warren Magoun, in 2010; and his mother, Delores Stallman, in 2007. A memorial service for Poochie will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 17, at Cooke Funeral Home Chapel, Nitro

William L. Cummings Jr., 38, of Nitro died at home on Sept. 8, 2011. He was employed by Lowe's of Nitro. He is survived by his son, William Blaine of Michigan; his father, Bill Cummings of Nitro; his sister, Tamra Cummings of St. Albans; and a host of family and friends.

Jeanie M. Workman Young, 77, of Nitro passed away Saturday, September 10, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital following a short illness. She was employed for over 30 years at the Nitro Moose Lodge as a waitress. She was a member of the Women of The Moose, Nitro. Born February 11, 1934, she was the daughter of the late John C. Workman and Betsey Burd Workman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, William E. Young Sr.; daughter, Joyce Jean Young Irick; and son, William E. Young Jr. Survivors include: son, Keith Young of California; brother, Clifford Workman of Columbus; grandchildren, David Byrd of Cross Lanes and Billy Young III of Florida; and great-grandchildren, Kourtney Byrd, Sebastian Young and William Young IV.

Peggy Henson Taylor, 60, of Cross Lanes, formerly of South Charleston, passed away Saturday, September 10, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital after a long illness. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Enid Henson of South Charleston; and sister, Jane Henson Strother of Cross Lanes. She is survived by husband, John Taylor of Cross Lanes; sons, James Taylor (Wendy) of Cross Lanes, and John Thomas Taylor of Pittsburgh, Pa.; niece, Ellen Strother of Cross Lanes; grandson, Thomas Taylor; and great-niece, Reagan Strother. She was active in numerous community organizations, including the American Diabetes Association, the Nitro High JROTC and football programs, Boy Scouts of America, and the Cross Lanes Junior Woman's Club. Friends and family knew Peggy for her selfless attitude and commitment to civil service. In keeping with this philosophy, Peggy elected to participate in the WV Human Gift Registry. While no formal viewing or funeral will be held, friends are invited to gather beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday, September 17, at the First Presbyterian Church of Dunbar, 1414 Meyers Avenue, Dunbar.

Anna Lee Shamblin French, 57, of Nitro passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House, Charleston, following a long illness. Born May 30, 1954, she was a daughter of Juanita Shamblin of Nitro and the late Grover Shamblin. Anna was a Christian and attended Cross Lanes Church of Christ, where she taught Sunday school class and the children were beloved by her. Anna was a mortgage loan officer for Poca Valley Bank. Survivors include two sons, Brian French and Brandon French, both of Cross Lanes; two brothers, Gary Shamblin of Hometown and Dale Shamblin of Nitro; two sisters, Kay Shamblin Casto of Cross Lanes and Vickie Shamblin and David Skyles of Nitro; and two grandchildren.

This is in loving memory of Paul Tincher, loving husband, father and grandfather, who passed away at home on Monday, Sept. 5, 2011. Paul was born May 4, 1929, and was a lifelong resident of Nitro, where he was a graduate of Nitro High School with the class of 1948. He was a retired teamster. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Herb and Faye Tincher; and his son, Shawn Tincher. Surviving are his wife of 62 years, JoAnn; daughter and her husband, Genie Tincher and John Scott of Nitro; sons, Jeff Tincher and Timmy Tincher of Rocky Fork; grandchildren, Jodee and Bobby Martin of Nitro, Jason Thomas of Cross Lanes, Amber Tincher of Charleston, Branden Tincher of Virginia and Ashley Tincher of Rocky Fork; great-grandchildren, Jeremy Martin, Luke Martin and Rosie Martin of Nitro; and his special dog, Fancy.

Connie L. Cooper Whittington, 98, of Nitro passed away Friday, September 2, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. She was a lifelong resident of Nitro and member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Nitro and the Women's Society of Christian Service, the Kanawha Valley Medical Assistants Association, Nitro Women's Club and the Nitro Senior Citizens. Connie was a medical assistant for Dr. George Hogshead for over 30 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Whittington; sister, Nell Vera Cooper Gott; and her parents, Earle H. Cooper and Erma M. DeWolfe Cooper. Surviving are niece, Sue Ann Gott Null and her husband, Ed of Poca; nephew, James E. Gott and his wife, Judy of Alexandria, La.; three great-nieces, Missy Benoit, Meredith Tucker, and Casandra Null; one great-great-niece, Melanee Tucker; and two great-great-nephews, Lee Tucker and BJ Benoit.

Myrtle L. Adkins, 96, of Nitro passed away Sunday, August 28, 2011, after a short illness. Myrtle was a homemaker and a member of the First Baptist Church of Nitro. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fran D. Adkins; sons David K. Adkins and Charles G. Adkins; and sister, Betholene F. Love. Surviving: sons, Clyde F. Adkins of Christiansburg, Va., and Frank D. Adkins of Nitro; seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; three stepgreat-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren; and sisters, Violet Alexander of Connecticut and Lillian Wilson of South Carolina.

Megan Harrison: Searching for answers and their daughters killer, the family of a murdered Cross Lanes, WV, woman is speaking out. Ginger and Roger Harrison say they want to know what happened to their daughter Megan. The body of the 28 year old was found Saturday in the Elk River. While no motive or cause of death has been released, police are treating the death as a homicide. Rumors about Megan's checkered past and drug use have painted a picture of a young woman her parents say wasn't the real Megan. They say she was a kind hearted girl whose life changed because of drugs. The Harrisons' say Megan would have done anything for anybody and was a free spirit. They say Megan was staying at Sojourners after she stole from their home. They wanted her to get help and say although she had flaws they still loved her very much. Here is link to WCHS video/story http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/eyewitness/110831_6453.shtml

Here's a video re: Megan on News Report

Monday, August 01, 2011

August 2011 Nitro High School WV News, Events, and Obits....

Megan Harrison, beloved daughter, was granted her angel wings on Saturday, August 27, 2011. Megan was born in Charleston on September 13,1982, grew up in Cross Lanes and graduated from Nitro High School in 2001. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Newt Coleman; and her aunt, Jill Miller. Megan is survived by her parents, Roger and Ginger Harrison of Cross Lanes; brother, Adam Harrison of St. Albans; grandparents, Margaret Coleman of Charleston and Evelyn and Henry Harrison of Nitro; and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins. With Megan's passing, we remind others that life is to be celebrated and held precious. Although we will miss her every day, we know she is at peace with the angels and will remain in our hearts forever.

Betty A. Cook Sizemore, 79, of Nitro passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, August 19, 2011, after a short illness. She was born in Nitro on March 8, 1932, a daughter of the late Charles S. Cook and Lena Mae Cook Painter. She was married on July 11, 1947, to William "Bill" Sizemore Sr. After raising a large family, she worked as a cook and custodian in the Nitro schools for several years. She was a good friend, mother, and grandmother and will always be missed by her family. Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and a daughter, Lisa Ann Sizemore. Also preceding her are one sister, Dorothy Cook Buckenhimer; and one brother, Harold L. Cook Sr. She is survived by six sons and their families, William E. Sizemore Jr. and wife, Pat of Eleanor, Charles D. Sizemore and wife, Mary of Rock Branch, George A. Sizemore and wife, Tina of Red House, Timothy S. Sizemore and wife, Angie of Flatwoods, Thomas L. Sizemore of Red House, and Michael J. Sizemore of Nitro; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren; brother, Howard Cook of Nitro; sister, Viola V. Cook Long and husband, Jay of Nitro.

Eileen Hern Morgan, 95, of Nitro passed this life to live in eternal glory with her Heavenly Father on August 21, 2011. She was lovingly cared for at home by her loving daughter, Jacqueliine Morgan White, where she was surrounded by her family and friends. She was born December 6, 1915, in Acme to Bessie and Vernie Hern. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cledith Morgan; and her daughter, Wilma Charlene Morgann Beane. Eileen was a member of the Church of Christ in Nitro and devoted her life to serving Jesus Christ as her personal Savior and was very faithful to her church and her family and community. A lifelong resident of Nitro, she was very active in the Senior Citizen's Organization in Nitro, where she made many lasting friendships. An avid gardener, Eileen spent many years with her husband on the family farm in Frazier's Bottom growing flowers and vegetables, which she canned and shared with family and friends. Her devotion to her family, her church, and her Lord defined her life and she will be missed by those who were fortunate enough to share that life with her. Left behind to cherish her memory are her daughter, Jaci Morgan White and husband, Harold of Nitro; daughter, Betsy Morgan Plott and husband, Robert of Sarasota, Fla.; grandchildren, Tracy White, Troy White and wife, Beth, Todd White and wife, Cathy, Trina Rueckert and husband, David, Jeff Beane and wife, Cindy, Eric Beane, Beth Nolan and husband, Rick, and Bobby Plott; 17 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren; sister, Erma Stanley of Orgas; brothers, Gene Hern and wife, Doma, Richard Hern and wife, Nancy of Point Pleasant; and many nieces and nephews.

David N. Hunter of Key West, formerly of Nitro, died August 5, 2011, at Key West Rehabilitation Center, following a struggle with cancer. David grew up in Nitro, where he graduated from Nitro High School. He served in the U.S. Navy for two years before marrying. He had four children with his first wife, Carolyn Claar, settling eventually in the Tampa, Fla., area. David trained as a computer programmer and worked for several technology companies, including EDS and McDonnell Douglas, where he spent the bulk of his career. In later life, he moved to the Chicago area, where he continued to work as a computer consultant. In Chicago, he grew a garden, indulged a taste for antique cars and developed a passion for the city's two iconic sports teams, the Cubs and the Bears. He made a practice of regularly seeking out new churches to attend Mass, and volunteered at his local VFW post. David's musical tastes ranged from classical to soft rock. While visiting a friend in Key West, he was so taken by the relaxed tropical culture; he decided to spend his retirement there. Known for his prodigious memory, he was the final arbiter within the family on questions of births, weddings, moves and other key information. David is survived by his twin sister, Mary Hunter Reppert; brother-in-law, John Reppert of St. Albans; brother, Joe Hunter of Newton, Mass.; daughter, Suzanne Pearl of Tarpon Springs, Fla.; son, Todd of Albuquerque, N.M.; sons, Patrick and Matthew of St. Petersburg, Fla.; and six grandchildren. An informal "celebration of life" was held on August 7 at Harpoon Harry's, a Key West hangout where David often enjoyed his favorite brew, Budweiser.

Mrs. Emogene "Jean" Hanna Kilgore, 75, of Charleston passed away Thursday, August 11, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House. Jean was a member of Community Chapel Church in Cross Lanes. She graduated from Nitro High School class of 1953. She lived her whole life in the area with the exception of a brief stay in Sanford, Fla., giving care to the elderly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence N. and Beulah Dooley Hanna; husbands, James H. Kilgore and William Lee Lanham; son, James H. Kilgore Jr.; sister Marie Hanna Saulton; brothers, Wilmurth Hanna and Clarence Hanna; and daughter-in-law, Myoung MI Kilgore. Jean is survived by two sons, Bill Kilgore and wife, Leslie Kilgore, of Keene, Texas, and Charles Kilgore of Clendenin; two daughters, Yolanda Sue Kilgore and husband, Greg Honaker, of Deltona, Fla., and Kimberli Kilgore and husband, Brad Means, of Clendenin; sister, Louise Hanna and husband, George Skidmore, of Poca; 11 grandchildren, Michelle and husband, Kyle Green, Meredith and husband, J.D. Ravenscroft, Jim and wife, Amber Kilgore, Josh Kilgore, Matthew and wife, Rhonda Honaker, Charles and wife, Lora Means, Ron and wife, Rachel Means, and Mike, Daniel, Josh and Mindy Means; great-grandchildren, Andrew Means, Desiree Kilgore and soon-to-be-born Logan Means. Jean is also survived by a host of other family and friends.

Orville R. Carney, 91, passed away after a short illness in Charleston. He was a retired school board employee, an Army veteran, serving his country during WWII and a member of Lake Wood Church of God, Cross Lanes. Orville was saved by the blood of Jesus Christ and will be missed by all. We will meet you on the other side. Surviving are his children, Gary Carney of Poca and Nancy Ann Carney (Ron Thaxton) of Cross Lanes; granddaughter, Amy G (Kevin) Heath of Muncie, Ind.; great-grandchild, Boaz Carney Heath; granddaughter, Angela R (Ryan) Dearian of Scott Depot; great-grandchildren, Alyssa R Murphy, Spencer M Murphy, Zada G Murphy and Landen Dearian; granddaughter, Charessa Dawn (Bob) Thaxton Wilkinson; great-grandchildren, Stormie Payne Wilkinson, Starr Parker Wilkinson and Che River Wilkinson; and granddaughter, Amber Elizabeth (Brandon) Thaxton Mouser.

Elaine Marie Stonestreet, 85, of Charleston went to be with the Lord on August 6, 2011, after she had suffered a recent stroke. She was married to the late Denzil W. Stonestreet, her beloved husband for over 60 years. She was born on November 25, 1925, in Battle Creek, Mich., the daughter of Stephen Lawton and Ethel Chapin Lawton. She was preceded in death by her brother, Leon Lawton. She is survived by her six children and their families, who include Wayne Stonestreet and Cindy, Greg Stonestreet and Anita, Dana Stonestreet and Jana, Marilyn Stonestreet, Jan Stonestreet and Mark Liberati and David Stonestreet and Mireille; 15 grandchildren, Bryan, Matthew, Charles, Andrew, Lauren, Stephen, Caitlin, Joanna, John, Daniel, Nathan, Natalie, Jenna, Evan and Liam; and two great-grandchildren, Micah and Sofia. Elaine graduated from Salem College in Salem, W.Va., with a four-year degree in education, majoring in English with a minor in music. She played the clarinet and piano and sang in various choirs. Early in her career, she taught English, shorthand and typing, and worked as a legal secretary. Later, between caring for and raising their six children, she worked as a bookkeeper and secretary for her husband's various business concerns. She loved music, gardening, canning vegetables, reviewing house plans for her dream retirement home, which her husband built for her, and worshiping God at Perrow Presbyterian Church. She started a library at Perrow, sang in the choir, worked with various ministries and especially enjoyed housing missionaries on furlough in the U.S.

James Junior "Doc" Wolfe of Nitro passed away on Sunday, July 31, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston. Jim was a veteran of the Korean War, a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Nitro, and a retired millwright from the Union Carbide Institute Plant. He was preceded in death by his father, James O. Wolfe; mother, Lottie Mae Wolfe; and daughter, Jeanne Wolfe Mallory.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Lou Wolfe of Nitro; his daughter, Jennifer Wolfe Coffman and son-in-law, Randy, of Scott Depot; sisters, Donna Wolfe Foster of Charleston and Frances Wolfe Fortune and her husband, Bill, of Nitro; grandchildren, Kip Merrifield, Cody Merrifield and his wife, Tiffany, Molly Merrifield and Kevin Holliday, all of North Carolina, and Tanner Coffman of Scott Depot; three great-grandchildren; and various beloved nieces and nephews.

Owen Lee Carney, 71, of Cross Lanes passed away unexpectedly Saturday, July 30, 2011.
He was born in Charleston on May 13, 1940, the son of the late Paul and Lelia Carney. He was also preceded in death by his sons, James Paul Carney and Matthew Paul Carney, and by his brother, Paul Allen "P.A." Carney.
He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Margaret "Maggie"; son, Andrew Owen "Andy" Carney; daughter, Alana Carney Williams and her husband, Brian; granddaughter, Leela Joann Carney Williams; a grandson due to arrive in November of 2011; and Robert (Beverly) Duff, who was as close as a brother to Owen. Owen was a graduate of Greenbrier Military School, class of 1959, and West Virginia University. He was formerly employed by the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources; was vice-president of Dunbar Lumber Company; and retired from Ace Center Hardware, St. Albans. Aside from his wonderful extended family and friends, working on his art was his next great love. Words cannot even begin to express how loved Owen was and how missed he will be. Family and friends will forever cherish every memory they had with Owen and will never forget the smile he brought to everyone's face.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Marshall University, WV, Halcyon Days of Yore

If you went to Marshall University, WV, ca 1968-70, you may remember this sign for the first 'head shop' on 4th Avenue, Huntington, WV (1/2 block from campus). You entered the store (house), then descended stairs to the basement, where you were transported to San Francisco summer of love era. Posters, incense, pipes, black lights, strobes....What a great place. I seem to remember that the owner was an older (30 yrs old?) gentleman with a full beard...nice guy!

I festooned my South Hall dorm room with these posters, black lights, and homemade day glo drawings, and had a great time rapping with my friends about the issues of the day.

Here's another head shop named Middle Earth, Atlanta Georgia; same magic time period:

Here's a quote about the Atlanta Georgia Middle Earth head shop from http://www.flickr.com/photos/leonarloforbes/2804541016/ posted by Kola47:
...My name is Dee and I was one of the 3 owners of Middle Earth after Bo and Linda decided they wanted out. Ron and Suzy Jarvis took the shop over and myself and a guy named Kevin came in as partners. I owned the record room upstair and also lived in the middle bedroom upstairs. Kevin had a clothing Boutique also on the second floor. Ron and Suzy had the head shop in the main room downstairs and their custom leather shop in the entry. They lived in the bedroom in the back of the shop. I later moved my shop to Atlantis rising down the street. I have been looking for pics of the shop forever. The only one I have is a picture of me and two of the hanger outers from an AJC story 'bout me. The shop was on 8th street behind the federal building and across the street from the Food and Drug Administration. There was a large parking lot across the street that would fill up on Fri. and Sat nights with all the street people, kids from the burbs and the wanna-bees.

We didn't take many photos in Huntington, WV ca 1968-71. Here is a good link for photos and info re: Atlanta hippy scene. The group of Atlanta freaks represent similar fashion, mindset, and camaraderie of our group in WV. http://www.flickr.com/photos/49249011@N03/4514412477/in/photostream Great photos of the era here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/49249011@N03/with/4514412477/

Sunday, July 03, 2011

July 2011, Nitro WV new, obituaries, and noteworthy events

Ralph "Jack" Higginbotham, 66, of Cross Lanes, WV passed away July 20, 2011, after a long illness.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; son, Patrick Higginbotham; daughter, Paula Higginbotham Minner; granddaughter, Shannon Minner; stepchildren, Rodney (Cathy) Hurd and Michelle (Brian) Barton; stepgrandchildren, Dylan and Corey Hurd and Hannah and Ben Barton; two brothers, Bob Higginbotham (Rosalee) and Arnold Higginbotham (Frances).

Phyllis J. Drake Yates of Nitro passed away Friday, July 22, 2011, at her home after a courageous battle with cancer.
She graduated from Nitro High School in 1944 and Charleston School of Commerce. She was a former employee of McClanahan Insurance, Insurance Exchange, and later was a caregiver in the area.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Bertha Steele Drake; and sisters, Catherine Drake, Geraldine Drake, Ruth Drake Gandee.
She is survived by her children, Beverly Yates Stamper and husband, Don, of East Bank, Johnny Yates and wife, Ginny, of Hiram, Ga., Miriam Yates Thornton and husband, Rick, of Charleston and Sally Yates McDonald and husband, Mike, of Hurricane; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren and one on the way; sisters, Delores Burdette and husband, Clarence, of Cross Lanes and Carol Young and husband, Charles, of St. Albans; sisters-in-law, Garnet Yates of Poca, June Yates of Sissonville and Betty Yates Deen of Eleanor.

Sidney Stephenson, 81, of Cross Lanes passed away on Friday, July 8, 2011.
He was the son of the late Newton J. and Marie Stephenson. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Laura Stephenson Thomason; and brother, David Stephenson.
He was a teacher and counselor for Kanawha County public schools. He was also a Navy veteran of the Korean War and a retired member of the Air National Guard.
Surviving: son and his wife, Sam Stephenson and Susan Stephenson of North Carolina; daughter and her husband, Lydia Stephenson and Steve Rzucidlo of Ohio; son-in-law, Joel Thomason of South Carolina; grandchildren, Lindsey, Philip, Rachel, Elizabeth and Drew; sister, Nancy Salai of South Carolina; and brother, Jack Stephenson of Charleston.

Dollie D. Hunt Vanoy, 86, of Cross Lanes passed away peacefully on July 8, 2011.
She attended Emmanuel Baptist Church, loved music and played guitar.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Edgar James Vanoy; son, Eddie Charles Vanoy; parents, Arnold Harvey and Gertrude Ethel McCoy Hunt; brothers, Woodrow Wilson, William Arnold and Lafayette Staten Hunt; and sisters, Sadie Mae McKenzie, Pearl Juanita Pence, Laverne Elisabeth Ferrell, Evelyn Alice Moles and Ruby Ellen Smith.
Surviving her are son, Elvis Wayne Vanoy of Cross Lanes; daughters, Linda Faye Vanoy Jenkins of Live Oak, Florida, Carolyn Ann Vanoy Clemons of Fort Myers, Florida, Lorene Vanoy Miller of Cross Lanes and Geneva Rachel Vanoy Barefield of St. Albans; 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

William Bill Kenneth Dempsey II, 47, passed away July 1, 2011 in Murrell's Inlet, S.C., after a short illness.
Bill was a graduate of Nitro High School and attended NIT. He was a builder by trade, but will be remembered as a man who would give the shirt off of his back for a friend. He had a heart of gold and will be deeply missed by his family.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Kenneth Dempsey; paternal grandparents, Faye H. and Joe W. Dempsey Sr.; maternal grandparents, Irene and Clarence Ryan; and daughters, Miranda Louise Dempsey and Crystal Dawn Dempsey.
He is survived by his son, William K. Dempsey III of Hurricane; mother, Shirley Hall of Milton; brothers, Brian Dempsey of Roanoke, Va., and Rick Dempsey of Cross Lanes; sister, Jan Dempsey Woodruff of Hurricane; niece, Brittany McCown; nephew, Ethan Cole Dempsey; and aunt, Marian Cavender of Cross Lanes.

Mrs. Loretta Aileen Bowles, 77, of Nitro passed away Thursday, June 30, 2011.
Loretta lived in the area her whole life, and attended First Baptist Church in St. Albans. She loved her family and enjoyed her antiques and her flowers.
Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and Oval Joseph; and sister, Francis Harrison of Nitro. She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Carrol Gene Bowles; daughter, Tammy Bowles and husband Cary "Doug" Sharp of Nitro; brother, Roger Lee Joseph of Nitro; two grandsons, Justin Sharp of Nitro and Joshua Sharp of Teays Valley; and great-granddaughter, Jane Marie Sharp of Nitro.

The Mountaineers have lost their biggest fan, Bobby Wayne Massengill Sr., 68, of Cross Lanes. Bob passed away at home on July 1, 2011. He was born on November 10, 1942, in Morristown, Tenn., to Dallas and Letha Massengill. In 1963, Bob left the surf and sun of Myrtle Beach to follow the love of his life, Patsy, back to West Virginia, where they would spend 47 blessed years together. Bob was a graduate of East Tennessee State University and was an active member of Cross Lanes Baptist Church. Bob worked as a successful clothing salesman for over 40 years. Bob was a loving husband, father and uncle, and will truly be missed by his family and friends who loved him very much. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas and Letha Massengill; his brother, Joe E. Williams Jr.; his sister, Mary Jo Williams; and his beloved dog, "Sassy." Bob is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Patricia Tucker Massengill; his son, Bobby Wayne Massengill Jr.; sister, Brenda Kay Dancy of North Wilkesboro, N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thursday, June 02, 2011

June 2011 Nitro High School WV obituaries and news and.....

Betty Jean Huffman, 79, of Cross Lanes passed away June 29 at Heartland of Charleston.
She was born in Charleston, a daughter of the late George and Hester Ferrell. Betty retired from both the Value City Department Store and Hecks Department Store.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Arnold C. Huffman; children, Bill Huffman and Jan Huffman of Hobe Sound, Fla., Debbie Huffman and Gene Drake of Cross Lanes, Eugene Huffman and Gloria Hughes of Nitro and Teresa Huffman and John Carter of Thomasville, N.C.; brother, George Ferrell of Charleston; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends.

Mrs. Ruth Ella Spears Lanham, 80, of Cross Lanes passed away June 27, 2011, in CAMC Memorial Hospital.
Mrs. Lanham was retired with 21 years of service from the West Virginia Rehabilitation Center and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James E. "Frog" Lanham; son, Tim Lanham; and daughter, Pam Lanham Tawney.
Ruth is survived by her children, Jan Lanham Walker of Scott Depot and Jerry Lanham and wife, Amy Lanham, of Roanoke, Va.; sister, Barbara Spears of Rock Branch; best friend, Barbara Lefevre; 11 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren.

John E. Workman, 86, of Big Tyler Mountain passed away Friday, June 24, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital, South Charleston, after a short illness.
John was a shift superintendent for Union Carbide South Charleston Plant with over 38 years of service. He was a World War II Navy veteran, having served in the South Pacific on the USS Dixie.
He attended the Cross Lanes United Methodist Church. John served as Past Master of The Nitro Masonic Lodge No. 170 AF & AM, and he was a 50-year member of the Nitro Lodge. John was an avid hunter. He was preceded in death by parents, Jack and Lyda Workman; sister, Grace Curry; and brother, Richard Workman. Surviving is wife of 65 years, Geneva Gene Cross Workman, at home; sons, John E. Workman II (Mona F.) of Hickory, N.C., Craig Workman (Donna) of Teays Valley; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Lucy Workman Poffenbarger of Nitro and Eveleigh Workman Foster of Dunbar.

Gerard Bell 48 died peacefully on June 21, 2011, in the hospital. He was formerly of England and of Cross Lanes. He was the beloved son of Arthur and Pauline Bell; and a loving brother and uncle. He was a graduate of Nitro High School, and a former employee of Pizza Hut, and Krogers.

James E. Thumm, 88, of Nitro passed away Friday, June 24, 2011, at Hubbard Hospice House, Charleston. James was a lifelong resident of West Virginia and was a member of the St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Nitro. He was a U.S. Army Sgt., serving in the 757th Tank Battalion during World War II. James was preceded in death by his son, James E. Jimbo Thumm Jr.. Surviving wife Marguerite Mog Thumm, at home; daughters, Kathryn Kathy Thumm Lilly and her husband Donald of Charleston, and Sherry Thumm Elkins of Charleston; sister, Lorraine Eberbaugh of Charleston; grandchildren, Dylan Hoffmann, Emily Lilly and her husband Christopher Garnes and Lindsey Lilly; and great-granddaughter, Daizy Jayne Hoffmann.

Sandra Kay Mallett Mariani, 59, of Poca passed away Tuesday, June 21, 2011, at Thomas Memorial Hospital.
She was a homemaker and attended Dunbar Mountain Mission.
Sandra is survived by her loving family: husband, Garth Anthony Mariani; sons, Christopher Mallett and Tony Mallett of Nitro; mother, Patricia Mallett of Cross Lanes; brothers, Mike Mallett of Charleston, Dana Mallett of Midway, David Mallett of Cross Lanes, Mark Mallett of South Charleston, and Steven Mallett and Scott Mallett of Cross Lanes; sister, Virginia Mallett of Cross Lanes; and grandchildren, Timothy Allen, Kamyron, Brooke Nicole and Alexander.

Mary Ann Taylor, 79, of Poca went home to be with her Lord on June 9, 2011, at home after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born October 27, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Lucy Tribble Barnett. Also preceding her in death were her stepmother, Nellie Erwin Barnett; brother, Dorsell Barnett; and sister-in-law, Eva Cavender Barnett.
She was a homemaker and loving mother and grandmother. She volunteered at Thomas Memorial Hospital for 16 years. She was a member of Community Chapel Church in Cross Lanes. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Earl B. Taylor; two sons, David Taylor of Cross Lanes and Gary Taylor and wife, Marlene, of Summersville; two daughters, Kathy Taylor and husband, Vance McWhorter, and Kim Taylor and husband, Jason Rogers, all of St. Albans; five grandchildren, Jason Rader of Miami, Fla., Amber Taylor of Summersville and Brittany Farley and Matthew and Carson Rogers of St. Albans; brothers, Okey Barnett of Nashville, Tenn., and Dempsey Lee and wife, Phyllis Barnett, of Poca; and sister, Judy and husband, Marshall Casto, of Rockcastle.

George Edward Walker Jr., 16, of Cross Lanes went home to be with the Lord on May 31, 2011.

George was a student at Andrew Jackson Middle School. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, video games, boxing, and he loved the outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Jerry F. Walker and Earl O. Shuffler Jr.; grandmother, Phyllis Walker; and uncle, Jerry F. Walker.

George is survived by his father, George Walker Sr.; mother, Lena Ann and husband, Billy P. Rutherford; brother, David Walker and his wife, Amber Napier Walker; sisters, Brittany Napier Walker and Tarah J. Walker; grandmother, Ruth Shuffler; stepgrandparents, Peery and Karen Rutherford; uncles, Ronald L. Walker, Warren Hunt and Keith Shuffler; aunts, Cynthia and husband, James Sander, and Pearl Shuffler; great-aunts, Homa Cottins and Ann Fallen; cousins, Rebecca Sander and Justin Walker; nephews, Kris Allen and Dakoda Palmer; best friend, Jacob Craven; and many other family and friends.

Richard D. "Richie" Rinehart II, 31, of Nitro passed away Tuesday, May 24, 2011 after battling pancreatic cancer for nine months.

Richie was born June 3, 1979. He was a graduate of Nitro High School and was employed by Waste Management. He was a Christian and trusted God with his life and his future. He attended St. Paul United Methodist Church and Maranatha Fellowship. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and riding his dirt bike. He loved to eat, especially spicy foods covered in pepper. He was trusting, forgiving, loyal and was always willing to help his family and friends, even if it was a sacrifice. He had a contagious smile that lit up his face and every room he entered.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sara; his 4 month old son, Little Richie; the White, Miller, Raynes, Rinehart and Thompson families; and his dog, Dee Dee.

"We love and miss you so much Richie. You will never be forgotten. Your spirit lives on in our son and in everyone who knew and loved you."

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

More May 2011 Nitro High School WV obituaries

Colleen Kaye Huff Kortz, 47, of Charleston passed away Sunday, May 29, 2011, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born July 26, 1963, in South Charleston and was a daughter of the late Harry and Helen Stevens Huff. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by the father who raised her, Quentin Fisher; brothers, Steven Huff and Jeff Huff; and sisters, Beverly Huff and Debra Anne Huff Kortz.

She was a 1981 graduate of Nitro High School and graduated from West Virginia State University with a major in human resources management.

Colleen is survived by her husband, Tom; daughter, Jessica; sons, Adam and Colin; sister, Mindy (Jimmy) Lemon; brothers, Kevin Huff and Brian Huff; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Bobby and Susie Salisbury, Karla Huff and Stevie and Libby Kortz; nieces and nephews, Kelly, Jamie and Mary-Katherine Lemon, Robert, Andrew and Brittney Kortz, Kristopher Huff and Carmen and Frannie Salisbury; and faithful pets, Ace Von Churchill, Daisy Mae, Molly and Lucky.

To those of us who knew Colleen, she was a very special person. Her 10-year battle with breast cancer was fought courageously and without a complaint. The love of her life was her three children, whom she thoroughly enjoyed and cherished. She couldn't go a day without talking to them or at least thinking of them. Attending her kid's sporting events and coaching her oldest daughter, Jessica, in softball was her passion. Missing any event that her children were a part of was never an option. She did everything from spending weekends at the softball field to countless hours in the hot, steamy gymnasium for her youngest child, Colin's, wrestling matches. She proudly supported middle child, Adam's, decision to retire from sporting activities and focus on academics.

Colleen's love and acceptance for people spilled over into her career. She was employed by Target Corporation as a human resources manager. She was looked highly upon by her fellow employees as a loving and kind-hearted person who could relate to her co-workers on a more personal level than any other person inside of her industry. She was constantly rooting for the underdog and got great joy out of seeing them succeed.

When she wasn't at one of her own children's activities, she fully supported her six beautiful nieces and three handsome nephews in all of their athletic, educational and career endeavors.

Mary Edith Bird Hilleary, 89, of Cross Lanes moved to her new home in heaven on May 29, 2011, after a long illness.
Mary was born and raised in St. Albans and was the daughter of the late Silas and Savannah Bird. She met her late husband, Herbert Fred Hilleary, while he was working on old Route 60 in the St. Albans area. Fred served in the Army during WWII. Mary worked in Huntington in a tent factory, as she would say, “putting flaps on tents.” When Fred returned they were married and moved to Mill Creek, where they began raising five children, until his death in 1965 when she became a very single mom. She started working in a lumber mill until 1968 when she moved her family to Cross Lanes. She returned to school and received her GED and also had training as a teacher's aide. She worked in the Kanawha County school system as an aide and then as a cook until her retirement in 1962. Mary enjoyed being with her family, working in her church and quilting with her friends. She was an amazing Christian mother who sacrificed her time for her children. She will be greatly missed by all her family.
She is survived by her son, Herbert Hilleary; her daughter, Carol Hilleary; daughters and son-in-law, Yvonne Hilleary and Donald Ash, Susan Hilleary and Keith Perry and Mornalee and Clark Greene; grandson, Clark Anthony Greene; two granddaughters, Megan Perry Polly and Hillary Greene Billings; great-grandson, Brayden Billings; and a new great-granddaughter, Addison Ruth Billings, on the way.

James Addison Duffield Jr. of Cross Lanes died peacefully May 29, 2011, at the age of 90.
Jim was born November 30, 1920, in Charleston and was the son of the late James Addison and Esther Franklin Duffield. He was also preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Ravina Casto Duffield; and his grandson, Lawrence Duffield.
Jim graduated from Charleston High School in 1939 and entered the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCCs) in 1941, went on to specialize in radio operations and mechanics as a radio range and high power communications servicing engineer at several air bases and was a radio mechanics instructor at Scott Field, Ill. Jim followed his love for radios and his country and entered World War II for the Army Air Corps in 1945. Jim reveled in retelling stories of his days as a Staff Sergeant - radio operator and navigator with the 1st Troop Carrier Squadron of the 443rd Troop Carrier Group. Over his three years in the service, flying the China-Burma-India Theatre, known as “The Hump,” Jim accumulated over 2000 flight hours on 273 missions and, by the grace of God, survived many dangerous encounters. Following the war, Jim did a brief stint in Alaska as a radio technician but returned to the warmer climate of Charleston to marry his sweetheart, Ravina, and to begin his 35-year career as an electronics engineer with Appalachian Power.
Jim continued his avid interest in radios, was a licensed amateur radio operator and was a founder and curator for the Antique Radio Museum in Huntington. Jim's faith and his church were always an important part of his life. He was a founder, deacon and Sunday school teacher for the First Baptist Church at Tyler Mountain and a Gideon lay preacher at other area churches.
Jim is survived by his daughter, Dianna Duffield Illig and her husband, Howard, of Weirton and their daughter, Brenda, his son, Larry Duffield and his wife, Deborah, of Cross Lanes; his daughter, Cathy Duffield Chestnut and her husband, Michael, of Charleston; and his daughter, Shelda Duffield Thorburn and her husband, Ronald, and their sons, Grant and Kenneth.

Edward J. Canterbury, 67, of Cross Lanes passed away at his residence Saturday, May 21, 2011.
He was born in Charleston and was the son of the late Chester and Edith Lawson Canterbury.
After Ed's retirement from Eskew, Smith and Cannon as a long-term salesman, he was a self-employed contractor with Hickman Assembly.
Mr. Canterbury is survived by his daughters and their husbands, Michelle Canterbury and Gary White of Charleston and Elizabeth Canterbury and Ron Tornes of Cross Lanes; his sister and her husband, Olivia Canterbury “Libby” and Jack Kelley of Jasper, Arkansas; three grandchildren, Allison White, Corey Tornes and Ashley Tornes; and his life partner of 16 years, Johanna Garnes of Cross Lanes and her children, Mike Garnes, and Rick Bowling, and their families.

Gerald Eugene Page, 74, of Cross Lanes passed away May 22, 2011.
He was born May 15, 1937, and was a son of Eugene “Gene” and Faye Page, who preceded him in death. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Darold Page.
Gerald was a member of Teamsters Local 175 and was a retired truck driver from Praxair. Prior to working for Praxair, he hauled heavy equipment for R.L. Jeffries Trucking. He loved to fish and looked forward to his annual fishing trip to Pocahontas County. He also loved to raise a garden. Gerald was an Army veteran with five years of service.
Left to cherish his life and memory are his wife, Virginia Mabe Page; son, Gerald Page “JR” and his wife, Cindi, of Charlotte, N.C., and their three children, Montana and her two children, Trinity and Tristan, Laramie and Jacob; daughter, Gwendolyn Page of St. Albans and her three children, Anthony, Joshua and Jeremy; daughter, Deborah Page and companion, Fredrick Wilmore, of Oxford, N.C., and their two children, Miles and Shelby; son (grandson), Anthony Page and his two children, Seth and Alyssa; brothers, Harold Page and his wife, Betty, of Kellys Creek, C. L. Page and his wife, Linda, of South Charleston and Jerry Page and his wife, Dee, of Charleston; and sister, Brenda Bavle and her husband, Bob, of Kenna.

Saturday, May 07, 2011

NHS WV obituaries update for May

Buel “Leonard” Gibson, 76, of Nitro was called to home to be with the Lord on May 27, 2011.
He was born May 5, 1935 in Fraziers Bottom, a son of Floyd W. and Mable Gibson.
Leonard was a retired meat cutter for NiteOwl Superette for 32 years.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Shirley; daughters, Barbara Gibson Rodrigo and her husband Herman of South Carolina, and Pamela Gibson Lemon of Nitro; grandson, Timothy Lemon and his wife Missy of St. Albans; great-grandchildren, Zachery and Merewyn; sister, Neada Pauley of St. Albans; brothers, Bobby Gibson of Poca, Floyd Gibson of St. Albans, and Darrell Gibson of Hurricane.

Sandra Sue Vance Good, 64, of South Charleston went home to the Lord Thursday, May 19, 2011 at Hubbard Hospice House after a short battle with cancer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil V. And Melva Coffman Vance, and brothers, Michael Vance and Eddie Vance.

She was a former employee of Black Diamond Girl Scout Council and Robin Godfrey, attorney-at-law, and was very active in the Nitro High School Alumni Reunion.

She is survived by her companion of 30 years, Carl Edward Pauley; sons, Tony, Darrin and Steven Good; stepchildren, Jody Hensley, Becky Parker, Carl E. Pauley II and Tina Pauley Roberts; brothers, John, Pat and Sam Vance; sisters, Jackie Taylor, Sharon Layne and Terri Vance; and many grandchildren and friends.

Kimberly “Kym” Dawn Canfield, 43, of Cross Lanes passed away May 15, 2011, at UPMC Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pa., after a long illness.

Kym was preceded in death by her sister, Kelli Canfield Gilfilen; paternal grandparents, Edward and Bessie Canfield; and maternal grandfather, William “Bill” Graham, all of Clay County.

Kym attended Cross Lanes Elementary and Nitro High School. She also attended Community Chapel Church in her youth.

Kym is survived by her children: daughter, Nicole Canfield; and sons, Nathan Canfield of Duck and Josh Lewis of Nitro. Also surviving is a grandson, Thomas Lewis of Nitro.

Kym is also survived by her parents, Leonard Canfield and wife, Sandy, of Canal Fulton, Ohio, and Sharon Given of Charleston; sister, Krista Given Vallandingham of Cross Lanes; grandmother, Janet Graham of Indore; a niece and a nephew; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

George Lester Tinsley, 82, of Big Tyler Road passed away Sunday, May 15, 2011, at Cedar Ridge Nursing Facility, Sissonville, following a brief illness.

George was born February 24, 1929, in Charleston. He was preceded in death by his parents, James P. and Stella M. Tinsley; and sister, Louise Wood.

George was a shoe salesman from early on. He started working at Banks/ Matz department store in Nitro during high school. He went to Great Atlantic Shoe Company and later opened Classic Shoe Store in Dunbar. He also worked at Security America until December 2010 at the age of 81.

Survivors include son, Pat Tinsley and wife, Donna, of Cross Lanes; daughter, Lou Tinsley Dodd and companion, Rick Withrow, of Cross Lanes; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; and PaPaw's “special boy,” Ricky Wilkerson.

George H. Beckwith Jr. of Nitro passed away peacefully May 12, 2011, after a very sudden and quick battle with cancer. He passed at Hubbard Hospice House, surrounded by his family.

George was born June 27, 1951, in Charleston and was a lifelong resident of the Nitro-St. Albans area. He was a graduate of St. Albans High School, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, a Freemason, a former commanding officer in the American Legion Post 20 and was terminal manager for Essroc Cement, Nitro.

George worked at the Nitro terminal for 30 years. While owned by Essroc, he was awarded the highest honor in the corporation, the Essroc Service Above Self Award. George and the terminal received many other awards including the Essroc President's Spiral Award for Excellence, the Essroc Excellence in Service Award and the Distinguished Achievement Award from Essroc.

For 27 years, he was a loving and devoted husband and best friend to his wife, Linda Brown Beckwith of Nitro; and a loving and supporting father to Lisa Beckwith Smith and Anthony Smith, both of Annapolis, Md. In addition to his wife and children, George is survived by his father, George H. Beckwith Sr. of Nitro; sister, Cathy Beckwith Blankenship of Charlotte, N.C.; special pal, Jayden Zickefoose of Charleston; nieces and nephews, Michelle Blankenship, Bart Blankenship, Kandace McDonald, Noah McDonald, Brittney Beckwith and Brooke Beckwith; one great-niece and three great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lena Parsons Beckwith; and siblings Delores Beckwith Capehart, David W. Beckwith and Beth Beckwith McDonald.

George will be remembered as a peaceful and laid-back man. He always had a smile, a wave, a kind word and a helping hand.

Michael David Miller II
Mr. Michael David "Mikey" Miller II, 28, of Nitro passed away unexpectedly May 6, 2011.
Surviving Mikey are his father, Michael "Mike" Miller of Nitro; mother, Deborah Perkins of Cross Lanes; sister, Tana Miller Burford and brother-in-law, Dale Burford, of Hurricane; special nephew, Cayden Briscoe; and grandparents, Joe and Gaynell Snodgrass of Scott Depot, Eddie and Kathy Hilbert of St. Albans and Ferriel Craigo of Eleanor. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will always cherish Mikey's memory.
Mikey attended Winfield schools. His favorite things were listening to old rock and roll music and playing his guitar. Mikey was playing his new guitar at the time of his death.

Ralph R. “Mickey” Wallace Jr., 88, of St. Albans passed away Wednesday, May 4, 2011, in Tampa, Fla., surrounded by his family. Ralph was born on June 22, 1922, in Nitro. He was a 1940 graduate of Nitro High School, as well as a 1943 graduate of West Virginia University, where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

As a longtime resident of St. Albans, Ralph was involved in civic organizations, including the Rotary Club, Catholic War Veterans and Knights of Columbus. He was a founding member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Nitro and a longtime member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in St. Albans. Ralph helped start the Winfield Rotary Club. He was a retired Colonel in the West Virginia National Guard where he served as Chief of Staff. He established Wallace Insurance Agency, which later became Insurance Exchange where he worked with his partners and friends until his retirement. During his career, he also acted as State Representative for the Federal Emergency Management Agency and served as president of the Professional Insurance Agents of West Virginia. Ralph also was active in the St. Albans Planning and Zoning Board. He was a longtime member and chair of the State Board of Risk Management.

Ralph is survived by his children; son, Michael Raymond Wallace of Cross Lanes; and daughters Barbara Wallace Pippinger and Ann Marie Wallace of Tampa, Fla.; son-in-law, Richard G. Pippinger of Tampa, Fla., and daughter-in-law, Lorna D. Wallace of Cross Lanes; grandchildren, Richard Brian Pippinger of St. Petersburg, Fla., Katherine Ann Pippinger of Orlando, Fla., and Benjamin Michael Wallace of Cross Lanes.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary “Marie”; and loving wife of 50 years, Mary Wallace.

Ralph spent much of his time with his friends and family in West Virginia and at the beaches of Anna Maria Island, Fla., where he spent many of his last years. He enjoyed spending time in the mountains at Snowshoe during the summer. Ralph could always be counted on for an insightful and amusing story about times gone by and the relevance that it still held today. Ralph's greatest joy in life was always his friends and family, and sharing his wisdom, opinions and secrets on how to live a successful and happy life. He will be greatly missed, but those who were touched by his life will carry a piece of him wherever we go.

Arthur V. King

Arthur V. King, 71, of Nitro went home to be with the Lord May 6, 2011.

Arthur was the devoted husband of his childhood sweetheart, Ruby D. King (Jones), now deceased, and faithful father of two children, Debbie King Bush (Joe) of Simpsonville, S.C., and Brian King (Michelle) of Caldwell, Ohio. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Sarah Bush French, Kerri Bush, Jeanna Bush and Joshua King.

Arthur was retired from and a member of the Cross Lanes Bible Church.

There will be a memorial service at the church at 10 a.m. Monday, May 9.

Arthur requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to HospiceCare.

William Edison Kyle
William "Bill" Edison Kyle was born on March 10, 1927 in Peytona, Boone County. Bill passed away on May 4, 2011 after a serious illness.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Kyle and Pearl Keiffer Kyle; his two sisters, Virginia Shepard of Tucson, Ariz., and Betty Olmes of Florida; and his two brothers, Charles Kyle of Charleston and Lt. Darwin Kyle, who was killed in the Korean War and awarded the Medal of Honor for his service. Bill was also preceded in death by his first wife, Lois Kyle.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Rose Kyle of Cross Lanes. He is also survived by his three sons, Michael (Joanne) Kyle of Cross Lanes, Patrick (Ginny) Kyle of Birmingham, Ala., and Dennis (Debra) Kyle of Hurricane; his two step-daughters, Catherine Gilbert of Scott Depot and Elizabeth (Tony) Benedetto of Elkview; his seven grandchildren, Brianne Kyle Taylor, Kimberly Kyle, W. Brent Kyle, Matt Kyle, Megan Kyle, Bre Erin Kyle and Brittany Kyle; his two great-grandchildren, Jayden Taylor and Neva Marie Kyle; and many nieces and nephews. Bill is also survived by his sister, Mabel Foster, of Chatsworth, Ga.

Bill was the owner of Carpet Mart in St. Albans. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, having served his country in World War II.