REBA MAE CASTO
Reba Mae Casto, 79, of Red House, passed away January 8, 2023, at home.
Reba was a retired bookkeeper and a graduate of Poca High School. She was a member of Lone Oak Church of God Mission.
She is preceded in death by her parents Jonah Arden and Clora Wolfe Bush; brothers Paul Bush and Ray “Bud” Bush; and daughters Melody Casto Mack and Melinda Casto Arthur.
Reba is survived by her husband William “Bill” Casto; sister Ruby Bush Casto; two children Jonathan Trent Casto and Brett Casto Robinson; sons-in-law Chris Mack and Greg Arthur; six grandchildren Lisa Mack Harrison and husband Ben, Nichole Casto Hogue and husband Ben, Amy Mack Crago and husband Tony, Roberta Arthur McClanahan and husband Matt, William Arthur and wife Catlin and Kobe Robinson; five great grandchildren and a host of friends and neighbors.
Honoring Reba’s request a celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
VERONNICA G. ERVIN
Veronnica G. Ervin, 73, of Teays Valley, passed away on December 12, 2022. For years Veronnica battled many serious illnesses, which included heart disease, plural effusion of her lungs, and a recent battle with breast cancer. She ultimately passed of a sudden heart attack.
Veronnica was born September 9, 1950, in Charleston. She attended Stonewall Jackson High School and WV State College, where she studied Art and English. Veronnica was the Coowner of Hamon Glass Studio from 1969 – 1995. Over the years, she become a renowned glass artist. She designed cameo paperweights, which earned personal recognition from President Gerald Ford. Her hands were masterful, working with glass rods to make delicate pieces. She used to create one of a kind floral designs, which were then enclosed in glass. She jointly produced large glass sculptures, including one that was the Alexis de Tocqueville award winner. Her love of art and glass continued throughout her life.
In later years, she was a legal assistant at The Lord Law Firm. There, Veronnica’s professional skills, and her caring and attentive ways earned her the love of many clients and coworkers. Veronnica was an active member of the Newcomers Club in Putnam County, liked playing Bunko and board games, was famous for her cooking, and her ability to make people laugh.
Veronnica was predeceased by: her parents, Reva and Frank Mooney, brother, Frank Mooney, former spouses, Robert Hamon and Donald Ervin, and daughter by marriage, Diana Kay Rose.
She is survived by: Her only child, Sharon McKeny Lord, and grandson Jack M. Lord, both of Charleston; her children by marriage, beloved son Robert L. Hamon III, West Palm Beach, FL; Susanne Thomas, Cross Lanes; Erica Ervin, Roanoke, VA, as well as a grandson she raised for years, Jonathan F. Hamon, Knoxville, TN; 2 other grandchildren; several great grandchildren; her only sister, Reva Jean Cummings of Hurricane, other family members, and many close friends.
A celebration of life was held Saturday, January 7, at the Fireside Grill, Hurricane.
PHYLLIS L. FISHER
Phyllis L. Fisher 94, of Red House, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at English Meadows in Scott Depot following a short illness. She was a member of Paradise Bible Church. She retired from Putnam County Schools where she was a cook for over 20 years.
She was the daughter of the late Guy Casto and Beulah Smith Casto. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Doyle Fisher; son, Jerry Fisher; brother, Roy Casto; sisters, Elsie Monday, Eva Coleman and an infant sister.
Survivors include her sons, Garry Fisher of Red House and Rick (Jill) Fisher of Red House; sister, Mildred Monday of Columbus; grandchildren, Tina Shoemaker, Jody Fisher, Jonathan Fisher, Jeremy Fisher, Mikayla Wood and Cody Fisher. Phyllis is also survived by seven great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Funeral service was Saturday January 7, 2023 at Raynes Funeral Home, Eleanor, with Pastor Doug McComas officiating. Burial was in Haven of Rest Memory Gardens, Red House.
JOHN GALLAGHER, JR.
John Franklin Gallagher, Jr., 91, of Buffalo, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2023 at St. Mary’s Medical Center. He started working as a glass cutter at Libby Owens Ford Glass Plant in Charleston then worked in construction as a superintendent for over 45 years. During his career, he lived in Florida and was involved in many major construction projects, including the construction of the monorail system at Walt Disney World, and the building of many banks and hospitals. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps. John loved the Lord more than anything, and enjoyed horses, dogs, and cats and all of God’s creatures.
Born November 23, 1931, he was the son of the late John F. Gallagher and Myrtle Virginia Hall. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, John F. Gallagher, III; granddaughter, Tristan Gallagher; sisters, Ella Mae Kirkendall, Lillian Catanzaro, Virginia Pendley, Sally Ann Mangus, and Elizabeth Waldrop; as well as one niece.
Survivors include his daughter and caregiver, Kim Gallagher of Buffalo, daughter, Debra (Phil) Whitaker of Williamsburg, Iowa, and daughter-in-law and caregiver, Bobbi Gallagher of Buffalo; grandchildren, Dr. Danielle Gallagher of Zurich, Switzerland, Perry (Lauren) Whitaker of Williamsburg, Iowa, Chief David G. Murphy, USN Jacksonville, Florida, and Jimmy Chiapuzio of Orange, California; great-grandson, Ricky Varga of Deltona, Florida; brother, Paul (Vonna) Gallagher of Anderson, South Carolina. John is also survived by 6 nieces and 7 nephews.
Memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, January 14, 2023 at Buffalo United Methodist Church with Pastor Mark Harris officiating.
LINDA FAYE GUTHRIE
Linda Faye Guthrie, 80, of St. Albans and formerly of Hurricane, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 8, 2023 after a short illness. She was a member of the Forrest Burdette United Methodist Church and loved reading her Bible. She was a wonderful and loving Mother, Grandmother, great Grandmother and friend. She is preceded in death by parents Audbert and Mary Maynard, husband Kermit Guthrie and great great grandson Blake Burdette.
She is survived by her daughter Tina Pauley of Nitro, Tim Guthrie of St. Albans, 6 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.
Graveside funeral service was0 Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at Valley View Memorial Park.
WILLIAM ‘BILL’ HENSLEY
William “Bill” Howard Hensley 88, of Hurricane, passed away on January 5, 2022 at St. Mary’s Hospital Huntington.
He was born on October 15, 1934, the son of the late W. Howard Hensley Sr. and Hetty E. Spence Hensley.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his son, Michael.
Bill was a 1952 graduate of St Albans High School. He attended Georgia Tech as a co-op student, where he lettered in cross country and as a football manager. He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon. While in college his education was interrupted by an industrial accident that left him temporarily blind in both eyes and permanently blind in one eye. During his recovery period he married Rose, had a son and attended WV State and Morris Harvey College, where he took all of the math courses available. He completed his Mechanical Engineering degree at WVU in 1962.He was a member of Pi Tau Sigma and Tau Beta Pi Engineering honorary fraternities. Bill served as Chairman of the WV section of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and a Delegate representing the region including WV. He has been a member of Lions Clubs International for more than 35 years. He served on the Board of the Medical Eye Bank of WV and was the President of his community HOA for 10 years after its inception.
Bill was retired from DuPont and Olin Chemical. Bill and Rose enjoyed traveling, the beach, WV State Parks, movies, and just hanging out together. For many years, Fridays were “Date Day” and Bill tried to see that Rose always had fresh roses to enjoy. He was forever thankful for those that donated the corneas of their deceased loved ones so he might see. He had 15 corneal transplants during his lifetime to maintain some vision.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 67 years, Rose; their daughter: Lisa Gregoire of Odenton, MD; grandchildren: Greg (Amanda) Hensley, Sara (Phil) Pendleton, Chelsea Gregoire, Matt Hensley and Lindsay Gregoire; great-grandchildren: Skye and Lincoln Pendleton; and his siblings: Jon (Grova) Hensley, Beth (Woodrow) Lucas, and Margie Evrard.
A Memorial Service will be 11:00 am, Saturday February 4, 2023, at Teays Valley Presbyterian Church, Scott Depot, with Rev. Kyle Key officiating. Friends may visit the family an hour prior to the service at the church.
JEFFREY MCCALLISTER
Jeffrey Dare McCallister, 68, of Hurricane, passed away suddenly of heart failure. Jeff was born December 21, 1954, to the late Charles J and Carol McCallister in Detroit Michigan.
He graduated from Milton high school in 1972, became a certified Millwright and carpenter before retiring from Carbide. Jeff is survived by his Mother, Carol McCallister of Culloden; Son, Tyler (Emme) of Hurricane; Life partner of 16 years Teresa Huffman of Goldtown; sisters Sheri (Dave) Aquilina of Newark, CA. and Susan (Zac) Carter of Culloden; Nephews, Jeremy Null, and Rhett McCallister of Newark, CA, and Cody (Maira) McCallister of Greeneville, TN; Great niece and nephews Ranen, Ivan, Riley and Orianna; Special cousin, Danny, and a host of family and friends. And his sidekick Piper.
Jeffrey was a kind and caring person. His life was a blessing to all of us that knew and loved him. He will be forever missed. “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord” Ps 31:24
A celebration of life will be held at a late time.
SANDRA ‘SANDY’ D. MUNDY
Sandra Denice Mundy 79, of Hurricane, passed away on January 2, 2023 at her home.
She was preceded in death by her parents: Goble and Mary Mundy; wife: Rebecca “Teke” Nickerson and her precious fur baby, Maddie.
Sandy was retired from Bell Atlantic after many years of service. She enjoyed traveling, softball, golf and reading.
She is survived by her precious fur baby: Molly; brother: Dana Mundy (Linda) of Winfield; niece: Belinda of Charleston, and her children: Jax and Zaria; step-daughter: Rebecca Hall (Charles) of Franklin Furnace, OH; granddaughters: Jessica Woods (Bobby) of Huntington, and Samantha Uys (Neels) of Franklin, TN; and great-granddaughter: Elli Woods.
Sandy’s Graveside Service will be 12:00 noon Friday January 13, 2023 at St. Timothy’s in the Valley Episcopal Church, Hurricane, with The Rev. Cheryl Winter officiating.
MILA LEE NUNLEY
Mila Lee Nunley 94, of Scott Depot, passed away on January 4, 2023 at Hubbard Hospice House Charleston after a long battle with Dementia.
She was born on May 14, 1928 to the late CJ and Dola Salisbury Morris. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Mack Nunley.
A 1946 graduate of Dupont High School and was also Ms. Dupont that year as well.
Mila is survived by her sons: Kim of Scott Depot and Kurt Nunley of Nitro; 5 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren; as well as her brother: Coyle (Bud) Morris of Scott Depot; and her sister: Marilyn Lindahl of Morgantown.
Funeral Service for Mila was Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Chaplain Pete Thompson officiating. Burial was in Mount Vernon Cemetery, Hurricane.
NOAH POLLASTRINI
Noah Ryan Pollastrini, 23, of Scott Depot, entered into Heaven at 9:00 pm on December 31, 2022, from Duchenes Muscular Dystrophy.
He is survived by his parents Dante Joseph Pollastrini and Harmony Jo Sowards of Scott Depot, WV, sister; Mackenzie Leah Siders, brother; Seth Jakob Pollastrini, great-grandmother Barbara Gross, grandmothers; Elizabeth Pollastrini, Joanna Morton, and a host of many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Noah is predeceased by his grandfathers’ Gildo Joseph Pollastrini and David Eugene Morton, cousins; Kasey Nicole Bishop and Ryan William Basham, who also died from Duchenes Muscular Dystrophy.
Noah graduated from St. Albans High School in 2016. He liked everyone at the school and the other students. The teachers, aides, and staff all loved Noah. He was funny and he could make people laugh and be happy. He enjoyed participating in the Kanawha County Work Exploration Program while in school. He loved playing X-Box and had friends that he played with from all over the U.S.
Noah liked going to Monster Truck shows, WWE Wrestling, Live on the Levee, the Putnam County Fair, and especially going to the Muscular Dystrophy Camp and Myrtle Beach in the summers.
NANCY SMITH
Nancy Smith, age 77, of Hurricane, went to be with Jesus on Sunday, January 1, 2023. Her passing occurred at home. She was born at home in Hurricane to the late Harvey and Dolly McDowell. Nancy graduated from Hurricane High School and worked for J.S. Latta’s School supply for over 20 years, where she performed office-related tasks including Accounts Payable and Receivable. She also worked in the administrative offices of Pressley Ridge Schools (Grant Gardens) and retired from Braley Foster Care in 2011. Following her retirement, she cared for her mother and watched her grandchildren throughout the day while their parents worked.
Nancy was a member of Adda Baptist Church in Hurricane, and was a long-time pianist at Highlawn Church of God in St. Albans.
Nancy was proceeded in death by her parents, Harvey and Dolly McDowell of Hurricane, her husband, Richard Smith of Hurricane, and her sister and brother-in-law, Pam and Roger Chapman of Hurricane. She is survived by her daughters Kelli (Robert) Carroll and Jan (Antonio) Davison (both of Hurricane) and her much-loved grandchildren, Addi and Bobby Carroll.
Nancy loved music, crafting, cooking, and baking. But, most of all, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nammie.
Service was Sunday, January 8, at Allen Funeral Home in Hurricane. Interment was in Hodges Cemetary on Hurricane Creek Road.
JOHN STARCHER
John Frederick Starcher, 84, of Culloden, passed away on January 4, 2023 at Midland Meadows, Ona, with his family by his side.
He was born on October 19, 1938 to the late Glenn and Nellie Carpenter Starcher in Clarksburg. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother William Starcher.
John was proudly retired from WV State Police, having served as Commander of the Aviation and also served his country in the US Air Force.
John is survived by his loving wife, Joan Starcher, daughter: Alisa King (Mark) of Scott Depot, WV; son: John F. Starcher II (Michelle) of Woodbridge, VA; and grandchildren: Ariel, Julian, Matthew and Rachel.
Funeral service for John was Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Rev. Ron McClung officiating. Burial was in Forest Memorial Park Ona.
LAURA ANN STONESTREET
Laura Ann Stover Stonestreet, 85, of Hurricane, passed away January 1, 2023 of natural causes.
Laura and her husband Jack were past franchisees of 5 Dairy Queens from Charleston to Barboursville. After many years of retirement in Winterhaven, FL they returned to Hurricane full time to be close to their family.
Laura was proceeded in death by her Mother Lilly Stover and several siblings.
In addition to her husband Jack, Laura is survived by three children Ricky (Janet), Sonja, and Joey. Four grandchildren Josh, Matthew (Jennie), Nathan (Gina), and Chelsea. Two great- grandchildren, Maycee and Brayson, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Special friends Gertrude Legg, Joan Critzer, and Robert Wiseman.
Entombment was at Valley View Mausoleum. A celebration of her life will take place lon Laura’s birthday, January 17, 2023 at the Oakbridge Community Clubhouse. Friends may pay their respects from noon to 2pm at 1000 Oakbridge Drive, Hurricane.
SALLY RAE SUMMERS
Sally Rae Summers, 72, of Winfield, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2023, after a short illness
Sally was born in Logan on September 5, 1950, daughter of the late Frank and Loraine Barker of Dehue. She was a graduate of Marshall University and until retirement she was employed by WVU Extension Service Putnam County. She served as a Home Economist. Sally was active in 4H youth group development and was a member of the Winfield United Methodist Church. Sally was an avid quilter, baker, gardener, excellent jam maker and creator of all things beautiful. She was the owner of Sally’s Sunshine Creations and was devoted to family, friends, and community. She loved all creatures especially her cats that she lovingly referred to as her “children” Lucas, Lyncoln, and Lyla Rae.
She is preceded in death by her husband and soulmate of many years Sergi Stephen Summers, parents Frank and Loraine Barker, her “Bubby” Michael F. Barker, and nephew Nathan Miller.
Those left to cherish her memory are nephew Michael Scott (Marsha) Barker, Logan; nieces Elizabeth (Judith) Miller Oakland CA and Renee (Richard) Skibo Melbourne FL; other nieces and nephews: Brianna Ball, John Robert (Isabella) Barker, Justin Allen, Robbie Beddow, Elijah and Rylee Barker. She is also survived by a very special friend and caregiver Terri Brogan who served as her guardian Angel till the very end and a very special group of ladies that she referred to as her “sister angels.”
Sally’s wish was that her family and friends celebrate her life, her love and passion for life will live in the hearts and minds of all that knew her.
DONALD TORMAN
Donald “Buck” Torman, 83, of Hurricane, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 1, 2023. Donald was born at home on June 27, 1939 to the late Frank and Lucy Torman.
Donald was an operator at the WV American Water Company and retired after 43 years of service. Donald was a graduate of Hurricane High School and a Christian who faithfully attended West Virginia Home Mission Church in Nitro until his health no longer permitted. But Donald’s passion was hunting, gardening, and fishing anywhere he could find a hole of water. Donald held a WV state record for a catfish for many years.
Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lucy Torman. Donald is survived by his wife, Emily, children Kim (Rusty) Parsons, Teresa (Tim) Persinger, Eric (Michelle) Torman, of Hurricane; sisters Virginia Roberts, Deloris (Kermit) Wood and Debbie (Mike) Romine; grandchildren Ashley Parsons, Lindsey Huffman (CJ), Aaron Persinger, and Ethan Torman, and great-grandchildren Luke and Noah Huffman with baby sister on the way.
Service was Friday, January 6, at Allen Funeral Home. with Pastors Adam Null and Joey Scarberry officiating. Burial was in Mt. Olive Independent Church Cemetery in Hurricane.
NORMAN ‘TOOTSIE’ WAGNER
Norman Ray “Tootsie” Wagner, 86, of Leon, passed away January 3, 2023, in the comfort of his home after a long illness.
Tootsie was born August 28, 1936, in Putnam County to the late Ralph Clayton Wagner and the late Lena Mae Wagner-Gillispie. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his stepfather Samuel Hank Gillispie; wife Drema Hart Wagner; sister Jo Fore; infant daughter Cheryl Lynn Wagner; sons Norman Wayne “Punkin” Wagner, Norman “Gay” Wagner, and Michael Edward “Squirt” Williams; granddaughter Rebecca Lynn Harrison; aunt Juanita Gillispie; his dear friend Bud Newsome; and his companions Betty Williams and Peggy Risner.
Tootsie had a few jobs by trade, but he will best be remembered as a self-employed Logger. He worked hard and loved the work he did. He so enjoyed gardening, raising animals, playing cards with the boys, a summer game of horseshoes, hunting, and driving fast. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandbabies.
He is survived by his sisters Cindy (David) Keith of Kanawha City, Diana (Arnold “Corky”) Persinger of Scott Depot, and Judy Kay (Dennis “John”) Persinger of Scott Depot; brother Benny (Karen) Gillispie of Cross Lanes; children Gregory (Tressie) Wagner of Nitro, Charlotte Wagner of Midway, Kenny (Lori) Wagner of Red House, Brenda (Eugene) Bailes of Hurricane, Darlena (Orval) Meadows of Hometown, Norma (Paul) Casto of Red House, Connie (Mark) Vannoy of Eleanor, Bonnie (Eric) Harrison of Eleanor, Stephen (Misty) Williams of Red House, Norman Ray (Amber) Wagner, Jr. of Leon, Clayton Wagner of Leon, James Risner of Red House, Geoffrey Williams of Leon and Carlie Wagner of Pt. Pleasant and her mother Jennifer Davis; daughter-in-law Joy Wagner of Red House; grandchildren Khristie, Cheryl, Stephanie, Tiffany, Bryant, Matthew, Kendra, Max, Amanda, Robbie, Anthony, Shane, Morgan, Johnathon, Grant, Lacy, Ryan, Brandon, Hayden, Joseph, Michelle, Madison, Michael, Tyler, Keirstin, Addison, and Amelia and great grandchildren Elijah, Kassadie, Kairi, Keirsten, Hayley, Jason, Harley, Michael, Blakely, Marli, Eleanor, Braxton, Bradley, Brantley, Grant, Natalie, Haylee, Chase, Bella, Whitnee, Kaylee, Kenlee, Karson, Carson, Anastasia, Remington, Colt, Stella, Bentley, Audrey, Preslie, Memphis, Synneva, Hunter, Michele, Gabe, Aiden, and Dawson.
A tribute to the life of Tootsie was held Friday, January 6, 2023 at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastors Woody Willard and Pete Cobb officiating. Burial was in New Antioch Cemetery.
