Nitro High School WV, Obituaries and News, Memories and Photos

Bob Robert Layton, NHS 68
Mr. Robert Lee "Butch" Layton, 67, of St. Albans, formerly of Nitro, left this earth to go to his eternal home on March 28, 2017. Mr. Layton retired from Dotson Pest Control and was a former employee of FMC. Butch had a spiritual musical gift from God and played in Spyce rock band. His brothers were the musicians. He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Louise Layton. He is survived by his loving wife Dee Layton; children Scott Layton, Gary Layton, Sierra Layton and Bryan Machowicz; sister Helena Reed and grandson Bodhi. Butch was also adopted and loved by Dee's side of the family. A tribute to the life of Butch will be noon, Saturday, April 1, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Richard Neal officiating. Burial will follow in Haven of Rest Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 Eighteenth Street, NW Washington, DC 20006-3517. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hardingfamilygroup.com. Gatens-Harding Funeral Home, 147 Main St., Poca, is serving the Layton family.- See more at: gazettemail.com/Obituaries#sthash.tWN80ip2.dpuf


Ruth Santrock was a resident of Nitro for more than 70 years. She leaves a legacy of caring and support to her family, church and school. She was born October 11, 1921, in Kanawha City, and died in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on August 25, 2012. She became a member of the First Baptist Church of Nitro in 1938 and in the last several years had been its oldest member. For many decades Ruth was a soloist in the choir, singing not only in the choir each Sunday but also for numerous weddings and funerals. She also was an Elsie Kittlitz circle member and a deaconess at the church. She began working as the secretary at Nitro High School in 1944 and retired in 1975 when her husband, John, became superintendant of Kanawha County schools. She is fondly remembered by many people in the Nitro community, including parents and students, for her wide range of contributions to the school. For almost two decades, during summers Ruth also handled the managerial duties for the Pro Shop at the Charleston Tennis Club. In the late 1980s she and her husband, John, began living in Davie, Fla., during the winter months, where their daughter, Shauna, lives, and visiting their son, John, in Plano, Texas, every October, where she enjoyed celebrating her birthday, often with her relatives coming to join her in Texas. Ruth Santrock was a loving wife, grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by two children, John W. Santrock (wife, Mary Jo) of Plano, Texas, and Shauna Hampshire (husband, Don) of Davie, Fla.; three grandchildren, Tracy Santrock of Cary, N.C., Jennifer Santrock of San Antonio, Texas, and Stephanie Hampshire of Rockville, Md.; and three great-grandchildren, Jordan Bowles of Dallas, Texas, and Alex and Luke Bellucci of San Antonio, Texas. William Gene Rhodes Sr., 69, of Cross Lanes, passed away at Hubbard Hospice House West on August 12, 2012. He was born in Charleston on March 21, 1943, a son of the late Matt Clair and Maggie Alice Fields Rhodes. He was a former employee of FMC Corp., where he was employed as a fabricator. Mr. Rhodes was a member of the Baptist church, the Moose Lodge and loved to build and race drag cars. He set many world racing records and was a member of the National Hot Rod Association. He is survived by a son and his wife, William "Bill" and Kim Rhodes Jr. of Cross Lanes; brother, Johnny Otmer Rhodes of Cross Lanes; sister, Frances Norene Rhodes of Cross Lanes; and his faithful companion, Thor "Pee Wee," his beloved dog. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Clyde Maford Rhodes and Matt Clair Rhodes Jr.; sister, Irene Rhodes; and nephew, Richard W. Rhodes. Junior Adam Withrow, 88, of Nitro, was called home to be with Jesus on July 30, 2012, after an extended illness. He was a born-again Christian and was a member of West Virginia Home Mission Church, Nitro. After his conversion at age 61, he liked to play bluegrass gospel music at local churches and nursing homes as long as he was able. Junior served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked at the Ohio Apex chemical plant in Nitro, which later became FMC, and retired from there in 1983. He was preceded in death by his wife of almost 55 years, Alma Jean Withrow, in 2004. He is survived by son and his wife, Richard Withrow "Ric" and Arleen Withrow; grandson, Jeffery Jividen; nephews, Carroll Withrow, Gary Withrow, Ronald Withrow, James Withrow, Lowell Withrow and Paul Withrow; niece, Bea Asbury; nephews, James Humphreys and Greg Haverty; niece, Ann Smithson; and his sister-in-law, Freda Haverty.

Linda Lee Plumley, 60, of Cross Lanes, was called to her eternal home on July 12, 2012. She was born in Charleston, a daughter of the late William R. and Irene Wallace. She was a 1970 graduate of South Charleston High School and retired from St. Francis Hospital in 1991. Linda was a devoted Christian, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was extremely proud of her only granddaughter, Samantha Leigh. Linda's life revolved around her family, pets and friends, who cherished her deeply. She was a member of Roxalana Gospel Tabernacle of Dunbar. Linda is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Tom Plumley; her loving daughter, Shannon Wallace and her companion, Randy Fisher, of Given; cherished granddaughter, Samantha Leigh of Given; sisters and their husbands, Diana and Greg Brown of South Charleston and Phyllis and Roy Wolfe of Dunbar; brother, Dick Wallace of Charlotte, N.C.; her pet "babies," Precious, Daisy Mae and Callie; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends who mourn her passing.

Juanita Ruth Williams, 89, of Nitro passed away on Friday, July 13, 2012, at her home.
She was born in Whitesville and was preceded in death by her parents; brothers; sister; and daughter, Deborah Sue Williams Casto. Juanita is survived by her husband, Charles Edward "Eddie" Williams. They would have celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary August 2, 2012. She is also survived by grandsons, Rusty Casto and wife, Bobbie, of Liberty, and Joey Casto and wife, Amber, of Cross Lanes; great-grandsons, Joshua, Dakota, Isaac and Elijah; and a host of other family and friends.

Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Slater Miller was born October 16, 1924. On June 27, 2012, she went to be with her Lord and Savior. She was reunited with her beloved husband, Dick; her parents, Bob and Rosie Slater; her baby boy, Willard; and brothers, Sam and Darrel Slater. She is survived by her sons, Olden and Carolyn of Elkview and Kenny and Janet of Nitro; daughters, Linda and Bob Fields of Nitro and Gail and Jerry Bailey of Medina; grandchildren, Greg Miller, Jeanette Mikael, Todd Miller, Chris Miller, Jason Hicks, Josh Bailey and Jeremiah Bailey; and great-grandchildren, Dustan Miller, Chelsie Mikael, Cody Miller, Ivy Miller, Bratch Bailey and Trent Bailey.

Robert "Bob" Louis Dawson was called home to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 23, 2012.
Bob was affectionately known as "Bear" to family, friends and all who loved him. When not wearing his handyman hat for family and friends to fix cars, boats or other projects, Bob enjoyed hunting and woodworking with his son, Mark, and mutual friends. At the end of the day, spending time with family was his most cherished pastime. Bob was born June 10, 1928, in Canton, Ill., to the late Arthur D. Dawson and Edith M. Dawson. He was educated in Beaumont, Texas and Toledo, Ohio, before joining and serving in the Merchant Marines from 1945-1946. Service being important to Bob led him to serve in the U.S. Air Force from 1946-1949. After serving his country, Bob moved to Nitro and spent 37 years working for Monsanto Chemical. Survivors include the love of his life and wife of 63 years, Dolly G. Dawson; children, Debra D. Debbie Dawson Houser and husband, Doug, of Scott Depot, Vicki Dawson D.D. Kiner and husband, Clarke, of Galena, Ohio, and Mark J. Dawson and wife, Pamella, of Scott Depot; grandchildren, Brandon Houser, Sierra and Jamison Kiner; great-grandchildren, Isabella, Olivia and Josiah; sisters, Natalie Mitchell of Michigan, and Sally Tittle of Ohio; and brother, Jerry Dawson of Alabama.

Mr. Timothy R. Boothe, 45, of Cross Lanes passed away on May 31, 2012, after a tragic accident at work.
He was born October 10, 1966, and was a 1984 graduate of Nitro High School. He was employed by WVDOH. He loved the outdoors and spending time with family and friends on many hunting trips in Pocahontas County during deer season. He was excellent archer and had recently started a small business "Natures Voice Game Calls," making turkey calls which have been sold and used successfully by hunters in many states across the U.S. and in professional turkey calling contests. Tim is preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Mary Neal and Carl "Chip" and Blanche Boothe; and father and mother-in-law, Dallas and Alice Smith. He is survived by his "high school sweetheart" and wife of 25 years, Beverly Smith Boothe of Cross Lanes; daughter, Jessica Boothe and soon to be husband, Justin Boyd, of Nitro; son, Justin Boothe and Brittany Layton of Cross lanes; parents, Carl and Beverly Boothe of Cross Lanes; sister, Angie and husband, Jody Moore, of Abington, Va.; brother, Mike and wife, Rachael Boothe, of Cross Lanes; grandsons, Jordan and Josiah Boyd of Nitro, and Carter Boothe of Cross Lanes; granddaughter, Jaylynn Boyd of Nitro; a grandson due in June; and a grandbaby due in November. He is also survived by nieces, Kayla Moore, and Kaci Boothe; nephew, Trevor Boothe; plus many aunts, uncles and cousins whom he dearly loved.

Samuel Mike Holleron Sr., 92, of Nitro passed away on Friday, June 1, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House West in South Charleston. Mike was born in Jackson County on Cavin Fork on August 3, 1919, and was the son of the late Ebert and Elizabeth Craig Holleron. He was retired from American Viscose in Nitro with 36 years of service, was a Navy Veteran of World War II, and a member of Nitro Church of Christ. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Pauline Holleron, on March 20, 2011; and by eight brothers and sisters. Mike is survived by his daughter, Linda Holleron of Nitro; sons, Richard Holleron, Robert Holleron, and Samuel Holleron Jr., all of Nitro; granddaughters, Nancy Holleron Massey and Kristin Holleron Booth; grandson, Rich Holleron; and great-grandson, Michael Massey.

William "Bill" Henry Lanham, 77, passed away Monday, May 21, 2012, at Hubbard Hospice House. Originally a West Virginia native and graduate of Nitro High School, Bill spent 38 years in New Smyrna Beach, Fla., working for Pan American World Airways at Kennedy Space Center as an air conditioner and heating mechanic. After retiring, he relocated back to West Virginia, where he was a resident for the last 15 years. Bill was married to Lois Lanham, his "bride" of 55 years. He was a proud father of his son, French (Janet) Lanham of Florida; and daughters, Barbara (Marson) Kay of Clendenin, Delinda Funk and Greg Roboniwitz of Florida and Billie (Larry) Hall of Pennsylvania. He was a proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren, and proud great-grandfather of 11 great-grandchildren. Bill was a devoted Christian, a layman whose life centered around serving God, his church and his community. He fought a good fight, he finished the course and he kept the faith, and he has now received his crown of righteousness.

Mr. James Jimmie W. Dye, 57, of Bancroft passed away May 17, 2012, at CAMC Teays Valley Hospital. Jim was a retired chemical operator from DuPont; a member of Elizabeth Baptist Church; and a member of the Road Riders for Jesus. He was also a former volunteer for Bancroft Fire Department. He was preceded in death by his parents, Forrest and Flora May Dye; and brother, Ronnie Dye. Jim is survived by his girlfriend, Janice Gumm of Winfield; daughters, Kristen Bailey and husband, Kenneth, of Poca, Bethany Adkins and husband, David, of Milton and Melody Bailey and husband, Derek, of Nitro, and their mother, Tena Dye; brothers, Larry Dye and wife, Sharron, of Nitro and David Dye and wife, Cindy, of Dunbar; sister, Sue Dye Belcher and husband, Charlie, of Orlando, Fla.; and a host of nieces and nephews.


Mildred Marie Bockway, 93, of South Charleston passed away Sunday morning, May 6, 2012, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. She was born May 23, 1918, the daughter of Noah and Fairy Miller of Turtle Creek, Boone County. She was a retired teacher from West Virginia public schools, having taught for 24 years, most of it at Nitro High School. Mildred was educated in Boone County public schools and held a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from Marshall University. Upon graduating from college she was a home economist for Appalachian Power Company in the early 1940s.
She was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of South Charleston, its J.O.Y. Sunday school class, and the American Baptist Women Ministries. Her hobbies and joys included traveling, bowling, crossword puzzles, and participating in the water aerobics class at the South Charleston Recreation Center for over 20 years until her health no longer permitted it. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, William "Bill" Bockway; son, Paul; brother, Shelby Miller; sisters, Elta Abel, Lavely Cook, and Ersie West; and nieces, Patsy Cook McCarty and Carolyn West Lyons.

The late Rose Ellen Ramsey (NHS 66 and sister of deceased Richard Butch Ramsey NHS 68) Cline's husband passed on. James W. "Bill" Cline, 73, of Charleston died on April 23, 2012, at Thomas Memorial Hospital. James was self-employed, and was usually found tinkering around in the garage when he wasn't out visiting his buddies. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Ellen Ramsey; parents, Jesse O. Cline and Mollie Bell Schoonover Cline; and brother, Henry Cline.

April 17, 2012
Nitro Council meets roller girls by Mary Childress, For the Daily Mail
http://dailymail.com/News/201204170249
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The Heart of Appalachia is rolling into Nitro.
Nitro City Council members were introduced to the Heart of Appalachia roller derby team during a meeting Tuesday. The women will compete in the rink starting at 7 p.m. April 28, at the Nitro Community Center. They will have a flat track, not a banked one, but promised to get rough and tumble during the games. The team will play at the community center for several Saturday nights in a row. Tickets are $10 per person and available at the door on competition nights.

Howard R. Cook, 82, of Nitro passed away at home Thursday, April 12, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. He was a lifelong resident of Nitro; a graduate of Nitro High School; former employee of American Viscose; former employee of Teague and Sons; a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War; and attended Nitro Church of the Nazarene. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Lena Mae Fowler Cook; his wife, Virginia Angell Cook; son, James Cook; brother, Harold Cook; and sisters, Betty Cook Sizemore and Dorothy Cook Buckenheimer. Howard is survived by his daughters, Rebecca Cook Martin and husband, Dana, Debbie Cook Rollyson and husband, Mark, Amy Cook Estep and Kim Cook Miller and husband, Kent; sons, Robert Cook and wife, Lucy, and John Cook and wife, Becky; sister, Viola Long and husband, Jay; 21 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

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.

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.

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."

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.