Thomas Abnathy
Thomas Elliott Abnathy, 78, of Poca, transitioned from this life into the next on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at his residence. Thomas was married to Sandra L. Carter Abnathy for fifty-six beautiful years and together they had four children.
Thomas was a Navy veteran who retired from Nokia (ATT) as a communications technician. He was a graduate of the HBCU WV State and was a member of Ananda Marga for fifty years. Thomas was a sponge for knowledge and an avid reader, chess player, yoga teacher, karate instructor, guitar player, and second-degree black belt. His faith in God and love for family and friends was a bright spot to us all. He never met a stranger. His signature greeting was “Hey Buddy”. To him, every person in the world was just a friend he hadn’t met yet. Thomas could make you laugh with one of his jokes or have a thought-provoking conversation that could redefine your outlook on life.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, George T. and Elayne Abnathy.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Sandra L. Abnathy, sons; Thomas E. Abnathy, Jr., Lakeland, FL, and Charles B. Abnathy, Poca, WV, daughters; Lori Abnathy, and Carin Abnathy, both of Tampa, FL, sister, Carol Abnathy, Washington, D.C., seven grandchildren and numerous family and friends.
Gravesde service was Wednesday, March 31, 2021, at Grandview Memorial Park Cemetery, Dunbar.

Alice Alford
Alice Lorraine Adkins Alford, 96, of Poca, went home to be with the Lord on March 24, 2021, at her residence with her family by her side.
Mrs. Alford is preceded in death by her late husband of 57 years, Roy Washington Alford, Jr.
Alice was born in Boone County to the late C. Frazier and Myrtle Adkins. She began her teaching career in Boone County and Michigan and then came to Poca High School in 1947 and taught for 38 years, retiring in 1985. She founded PHS Future Business Leaders of America Club, served as member and officer in Southern Business Education Association, member of Phi Delta Kappa Education honorary society and was a member of Putnam County Association of Retired School Employees. Alice was a member of Poca United Methodist Church and was always found supporting her late husband in all his positions with the Lions Club.
Alice is survived by her daughters Clora Craigo and Charlene and her husband Glen Lovejoy and grandson Anthony Lovejoy.
A tribute to the life of Mrs. Alice Alford was held Tuesday, March 30, 2021, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor John Mason officiating. Burial was in Haven of Rest Memorial Gardens.