Katherine ‘Kitty’ Absten
Katherine “Kitty” Slate Absten, 82, of Crown Hill, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday June 26th, 2025, following complications of a fall. She was a 1960 graduate of Poca High School and retired from Tudors Biscuit World in Eleanor.
Born September 3rd, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Lee Andrew and Minnie Slate. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Edward D. Absten (“Dennie,” “Slim”); grandson, Josh Absten; great-granddaughter, Emmi Rose Absten; sisters, Edith Waugh, Louise Barile, Linda Fabien, Virginia Mae McBrayer, Wanda Woodrum, and brothers, Lee “Bubby” Slate, Jennings Slate, and Virgil Slate.
She is survived by her children, Edward L. (Teresa) Absten of Eleanor, Darry (Lee) Casto of Bancroft and Timothy (Cheri) Absten of Red House; grandchildren, Harlan (Nichole) Casto, Tressa Chapman, Meagan Absten Lewis, Adam (Ashley) Absten and Amber Absten; great-grandchildren, Kayden, Liam, Lilly, Adelyn, Ava, Jayce, Sutton, and Reid; sisters, Dimple Casto and Faye Thornton. Kitty is also survived by several nieces, nephews, a host of family and friends.
Funeral service was Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Raynes Funeral Home, Eleanor with Pastor Rick Legg officiating. Entombment was in Haven of Rest Memory Gardens, Red House.

Gaynor Mae Ray Chandler
On June 27, 2025, at the age of 92, Gaynor Mae Ray Chandler traded her Earthly Home for her Eternal One, built by Chuck Chandler, no doubt. She lived boldly, loved fiercely, and made sure no one left her presence without a warm hug and at least one good laugh.
Born on February 27, 1933, in Huntington, WV, Gaynor lived life with both feet planted firmly in her faith and her heart wide open to everyone she met. A devoted Christian woman with a quick wit, a beautiful smile, and a zest for life, she never met a stranger. She was sure that everybody “just loved her,” and she was usually right about that!
She married the love of her life, Charles Ray Chandler, and together they shared 50 years of marriage filled with love, service, communities of faith, travel, and endless adventures. Raised in Barboursville, WV, she graduated as valedictorian of Barboursville High School’s Class of 1951. After high school, she worked as secretary to the vice president of Columbia Gas but later chose to leave her career to raise her daughters.
She attended Bridge Church and loved being pastored by her grandson, Matt, for the past few years. Though her eyesight and hearing began to fail her, and she couldn’t always hear what Matt was saying, she still told everyone how great a preacher he was. She loved to sing in the choir and attend Sunday school. Her faith was truly her anchor, but she didn’t just talk about Jesus, she lived Him out in every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every prayer, and every delicious meal she served for her family, friends, or anyone in need.
She is survived by her daughters: Renee Chandler and Robyn Davis (Jack); her five beloved grandsons: Evan Young (Brooke), Matt Davis (Eliza), Jared Davis (Brooke), Ethan Young (Isaiah), and Bryan Davis (Kristin); and her eleven great-grandchildren: Sophia Young, Ava Young, Marley Young, Hallie Davis, Sydney Davis, Everly Young, Olivia Davis, Eleanor Davis, Cooper Davis, Landon Davis, and Vivienne Davis. She is also remembered by a large extended family of cousins, church friends, neighbors, YMCA buddies, and anyone who ever had the privilege of sitting at her kitchen table.
She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend, Charles Ray Chandler; her mother, Glesnor Bunn Ray; her father, Garland Ray; and brother, Glenn Ray.
A Celebration of Gaynor’s Extraordinary Life was Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Bridge Church, Scott Depot, officiated by Pastor Matt Davis.

Mildred Ann Ferrell
Mildred Ann Casto Ferrell of Nitro was born June 3, 1943, and died June 26, 2025.
She was the daughter of the late Arden and Pearl (Painter) Casto of Given. She is preceded in death by her brothers Burton of Red House, Roger of Red House, and Wendell of Given; granddaughter Farrah Harrison, sister-in-law Beverley Casto, and husband Charlie Ferrell.
She is survived by her brother Allen (Kathy) Casto of Given; children Vicki Dodd of Nitro, Dana Casto of Ripley, and Stacy Casto of Hometown; ten grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.
Mildred worked at Monsanto/Flexus for 20 years, as a caregiver, and at Tudors and Gino’s Warehouse. She graduated in 1960 from Ripley High School and was a member of Poca Baptist Church.
A tribute to the life of Mildred was Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Tom Moore officiating. Burial was in Emma Chapel Cemetery.

Okey Fizer
Okey Daniel Fizer — or as most folks knew him, Danny or Big Fuzzy — passed away on June 28, 2025, at the age of 61, after a long fight with his health. He was from Hurricane, West Virginia, and if you knew Danny, you knew he loved being outdoors. Whether it was riding four-wheelers, hitting the dirt trails, hunting, or fishing, that’s where he was happiest.
Danny had one of the biggest hearts around. He’d give you the shirt off his back — even if it was the only one he had. That’s just who he was.
He’s now reunited with his parents, Gene and Louise Fizer, and his son, Daniel Fizer, who went before him. Left to cherish his memories are his life partner, Denise Leavitt; his daughters Cathy (Robert) Fizer and Brittany (Michael) Quentrill; his bonus kids Chasity and Dakota (Laura) Leavitt; and his sister Peggy (Mike) Maynard. He’s also survived by his bonus brother, David Cremeans, a bunch of grandchildren, several aunts and uncles, and his faithful Pit Lab, Gunner who was always right by his side.
Graveside service to celebrate Danny’s life was held Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Sycamore Cemetery.

Jerry L. Griffith
Jerry L. Griffith, age 82, passed away on June 17, 2025, at his home in Manassas, VA. He was born on March 27, 1943, in Charleston to the late Alma Marie Phillips and Clarence Griffith.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 61 years, Anna Marie Griffith; Siblings: Nancy Cox of Florida, Bill & Grace Ore of Clendenin, Dwight & Jane Griffith of Philadelphia, PA; Children: Cheryl & Mark Croyle of Fredericksburg, Ed & Lisa Griffith of Chesapeake, VA and Jerry & Michelle Griffith of Orlando, Florida; Grandchildren: Jessica & Guy, Matthew & Amanda, Edward & Kortney, Allison, Olivia, Anne Marie, & Emma, Joshua & Alyssa, Easton & Max; as well as three great grandchildren and Numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, & friends.
Jerry was a Catholic gentleman who lived his faith, loved his family and was fiercely proud of them, and enjoyed many sports throughout his life. He was a member of All Saints Catholic Church in Manassas, Virginia and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Jerry leaves behind his siblings: Nancy Cox of Florida, Bill and Grace Ore of WV and Dwight and Jane of Philadelphia, PA. He had six children, after his own had married, fourteen grandchildren including spouses, three great-grandchildren, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. The word “in-law” was not in his vocabulary as he treated everyone like family. Jerry enjoyed the many birthdays, graduations, weddings, holidays, and concerts that he attended with his family. In April, he traveled to Disney World to watch Emma’s high school orchestra perform there. In May, Jerry Brian and Easton surprised him with third row seats to see his favorite band AC/DC.
Jerry was a devoted father and invested his time not only in his children, but the children of Hurricane. When asked why he did this, despite his own son being first string, Jerry replied “in high school, I was third string on a two-string team”. In 1973, he and Anna Marie created the Hurricane Baseball League where each child played the entire game. No one sat on the bench and no child was turned away due to financial limitations. His selflessness created an impact upon his children who also volunteered in the organization.
In 1984, Jerry transferred with AT&T from Charleston to Oakton, VA. Despite the distance, Jerry flew home every Friday, with roses for Anna Marie, to record Ed’s Hurricane High School football games. He continued to make the trek back and forth until June of 1986, when the family moved to Manassas, Virginia. While the distance from family was difficult, the move provided opportunities that were impactful. Cheryl graduated and met her husband, Mark. Ed graduated and met his wife, Lisa. Jerry Brian became an entrepreneur and met his wife, Michelle.
With a growing family, Jerry was determined to build a home with enough space for everyone to visit. In 1991, the home was complete, and Jerry’s dream became a reality. He poured his heart and sweat into its completion. After retiring from AT&T, Jerry worked for Comtek Telecommunications in Chantilly, VA. When the company downsized, he had one dream left of owning a business. As Phenix Salon Suites sold franchises, Jerry persuaded Anna Marie to purchase a franchise in Ocala, Florida and later another location in West Hills, California.
Jerry was a remarkable man who lived his faith each and every day. As a parishioner of All Saints Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus, he treated everyone with kindness and worked each week to raise funds to benefit others. Jerry faithfully prepared tickets for twice-weekly bingo games and enjoyed spending time with his “Bingo family”.
Throughout his time on earth, Jerry worked to create a unique family where love, hard work, and thinking of others was the gold standard. His parents, actually in-laws, O.C. and Anna Ore, were influential in teaching him that family and faith were invaluable. Their support of yearly Myrtle Beach vacations demonstrated to Jerry that family time was precious. When the Ore’s passed, Jerry recognized that it was his turn to provide vacations for his children. Whether it was Disney World or a week in Duck, NC, the children and grandchildren gathered to enjoy the company of their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Family dinners, conversations, and bingo games were the highlights that we have as treasured memories. Our family treasures the many years and experiences that we had with Jerry.

Marlene Harrah
Edith Marlene Harrah, 91, of Conway, SC, and formerly of Teays Valley, went Home to be with her Lord on June 19, 2025.
She was born on January 31, 1934, to the late Kenneth “Joe” and Maude E. “Jimmy” Moses Ashworth in Charleston. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, The Rev. Dr. Jerry “J.D.” Harrah; infant daughter, Rebecca Lynn; infant grandson, Bryant Gregory; and a sister, Karen Scragg.
Marlene is survived by her children: Dr. Gregory Harrah (Mary) of Scott Depot, Nancy Salkeld (David) of Cary, NC, and Dr. Jason Harrah (Lauren) of Conway, SC; grandchildren: Arrow Salkeld (Helen), Benjamin Salkeld (Molly Dedmond), William Nettles, Sophia Harrah and Kathryn Harrah; brother, David Ashworth (Diane); brother in-law: Charles Harrah (Peggy); and sister in-law, Dianne Harrah; as well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
She was formerly a secretary of the Presbytery of West Virginia, where she played a critical role in supporting Bluestone Conference Center in Hinton. She spent countless hours helping to coordinate events at the retreat including annual Summer Camp. She was a true and fervent follower of Christ and genuinely lived her faith. She served as church secretary, was a constant presence in the choir, taught Sunday school, was an instrumental voice in the realization of Teays Manor while at TVPC, volunteered and served on the session at Kuhn Memorial Presbyterian Church.
After her faith, family was the cornerstone of her life, both immediate and extended. She embraced her role as mother and was an enduring presence in her children’s lives. She was a kind and loving sister to her two siblings and equally loved their extended families. A special relationship was reserved for her grandchildren, to whom she witnessed grace and overwhelming love.
She loved music. Few knew that she had the opportunity as a young woman to sing professionally with a traveling gospel group, choosing instead to attend college and then start a family. She was active in Red Hats, enjoyed travel and shared her husband’s love of the beach. Following the death of her husband she moved to Conway and established a new life. She embraced the offerings of her retirement community, serving on the welcoming committee, attending numerous social gatherings, regularly playing cards and Scrabble at the club house, and developed a cadre of close-knit friends with whom she socialized, shared luncheons, and played weekly Canasta.
The most remarkable thing about her was the impression she left upon all those she met. She quietly blessed everyone she met, leaving their lives better having known her. She will be terribly missed by family and friends.
Funeral Service for Marlene was Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with her children officiating. Burial was in Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens, Cross Lanes.

Thomas Joe Harris
Thomas Joe Harris, 67, of Buffalo, passed away Sunday, June 29, 2025 at the Emogene Dolin Jones Hospice House in Huntington following a long illness. He was a former employee of Putnam County Schools, having worked in the bus garage, and a truck driver. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and spending time in the outdoors.
Born November 22, 1957, he was the son of the late Ernest and Dicie Harris. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Norman Harris; granddaughter, Jordan Harris Barber; niece, Amanda Skeens; and nephew, Robert Harrison.
He is survived by his son, Joey (Krystle) Harris of Buffalo; daughters, Misty (Mary) Barber of Buffalo, and Marlee Bailey of Poca; grandchildren, Bradley Harris, Nathan Harris, Kelsey Barber, Thomas Holdren, and Kash Chapman; sister, Judy Harrison of Nitro; nephews, Stanley Harrison and Richard Harrison; nieces, Joy (Chris) Randolph and Janella Slate. Thomas is also survived by several great-nieces and great-nephews, extended family and friends.
In accordance with his wishes, his body was cremated. A Memorial Gathering of family and friends will be held at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, July 5, 2025 at the Buffalo Church of God Fellowship Center.

Patricia Keeney
Patricia Dawn Keeney, lovingly known as Patti, passed away Friday June 27th, 2025. She was born December 20th, 1965 to Shirlee Lively and Woodrow Wheeler. Patti was a life long resident of Hurricane and a graduate of the 1984 Hurricane High school Class.
She was preceded in death by her husband Charles Keeney and her mother Shirlee Lively. Patti was a loving woman who dedicated a good portion of her life to caring for those around her. An avid green thumb, she could always be found working away at her flowers, Lilies and African Violets a particular favorite. Patti was also an animal lover who deeply cherished her beloved dog Beau. Patti is survived by her three daughters Makinzie, Niccole, and Erin Keeney, her Father Woody Wheeler and Bonus Mother Beverly Wheeler, her five grandchildren, her dog Beau, and ample extended family and friends.
A loving mother, grandmother, and friend, Patti will be missed by all.
Funeral service was Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Allen Funeral Home, Hurricane. Burial was In White Chapel Mem Park, Barboursville.

Nora Faye Lovejoy
Nora Faye Lovejoy, 82, of Hometown, went Home to be with the Lord on June 26, 2025.
Nora Faye was a wonderful wife, mom, and mama Nora who was totally devoted to loving and taking care of her family. She was a member of Hometown Independent Church and was active as a counselor at church camp, a Sunday school teacher, and a choir member, that truly had a “servant’s heart” who loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
She was preceded in death by parents ‘Skillet” and Faye Hackett, her loving husband of 62 years Charles Lovejoy, her sister Sharon Gibson and her husband “Cooney” Gibson.
Left behind to cherish her memory are her son Charles “Chuck” Lovejoy and his wife Nicole of Hometown, her daughter Tandy Boggess and husband David of Fraziers Bottom, her grandchildren Colt and Michael Boggess, Jesse and Jordon Lovejoy, her great-grandchildren Graycee Boggess and Evan Boggess, her brother “C B” Hackett and his wife Karen, and a host of other family members and church family.
A Celebration of Nora Faye’s life was held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Hometown Independent Church in Hometown with Pastor Darren Persinger and Pastor Joe Scarberry officiating. Burial was in Showen Cemetery, Bancroft.

Christopher Lee Mack
Christopher Lee Mack, 71, of Red House, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, June 27, 2025.
Christopher Mack is retired from Bayer Crop Science with 31 years of service and was a 50-year member of the Pipefitters Local # 625. He was a member of Lone Oak Church of God Mission, enjoyed working on cars and tractors, but especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his wife Melody Mack; parents Eddie and Betty Mack; sister Barbara Baldwin; and best buddy Bill Casto.
He is survived by his two daughters Lisa and husband Ben Harrison and Amy and husband Tony Crago; three sisters Karen and husband Rick Beller, Patty and husband Rob Beller, and Laura Mack; and his five precious grandchildren Karlie, Drew, Skylar, Raegen, and Logan.
A tribute to the life of Christopher Mack was held Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ray Parsons officiating. Burial was in Center Point Cemetery, Liberty.

David Eugene Meadows
David Eugene Meadows 55, of Hurricane, passed away on June 18, 2025.
David was born on August 29, 1969 to Judy Marilyn Cowan Meadows and the late Denville Eugene Meadows.
In addition to his mother, David is survived by his daughters: Hannah and Christopher White of Poca, and Haylee and Oliver Lopez of St. Albans; grandchildren: Grayson and Leila White and Niko and Mateo Lopez; as well as cousins: Connie Smith and Lisa Elkins both of Hurricane.
A Graveside Memorial Service for David will be planned in the future at Peach Ridge Cemetery in Hurricane.

Dorothy Faye Saunders
Dorothy Faye Saunders, 63, passed away June 23, 2025, with her daughter by her side in her Winfield home following a short illness.
Dorothy retired from Gritts Midway Greenhouse after 26 years and took pride in raising her grandbaby, Gracie.
She was a loving and forgiving mother, an idolized grandmother and a special friend to many. Her sarcasm and humor could fill any room with laughter. Her wisdom and strength go unmatched, and her beautiful spirit will never fade away.
Preceded in death by her parents Donald Moore and Maxine Flowers, her big (little sister) Mary Casto, and her husband Jack Saunders, her forever love.
She is survived by her children Brandi Saunders, Buffalo, Joe (Alma) Saunders, Milton, and the light of her life Grace Saunders, Winfield. Also 8 grandchildren, she loved deeply one brother and 3 sisters.
A casual service will be held at 2:00 on Sunday, July 6th, at Hometown Independent Mission, Hometown, for family and friends to celebrate the life of our mother, Dorothy Saunders.

Joyce Ann Slater
Joyce Ann Slater, 78, of Sissonville, formerly of Poca, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, with her family by her side.
Joyce was born in Plymouth, on May 11, 1947, to the late Jack and Wilma McClanahan. She is a 1965 graduate of Poca High School and was a member of the Poca High School Alumni Association. Joyce was a hairdresser for over 57 years and was very active in her community, but her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings Jackie Ray McClanahan, Bubby McClanahan, and Sherry Rummell.
Joyce is survived by her husband of 57 years, Gary Slater; two daughters Gara (Kevin) Martin and Sherry (Michael) Bragg; brother Danny (Tammy) McClanahan; eight grandchildren Slater Jarrell, Lexie Summers, Promise Bragg, Honesty Bragg, Christian Perez, Chance Bragg, Hannah Duncan, and Emilee Martin; and two great grandchildren Ella Just and Callum Duncan.
A tribute to the life of Joyce Ann Slater was held Sunday, June 29, 2025 at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Al Mendez officiating. Burial was in Floral Hills Garden of Memories.

Hershel Thomas
Hershel Thomas, born in 1938, in Huntington, to the late Emery and Idilla Dorothy Thomas, passed away peacefully June 24, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, whose legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Hershel was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Rosalie Thomas, and his daughter, Teresa Thomasson. He is survived by his daughter, Kriste Tolbert (Alan), son Eric Thomas (Laura), and his grandchildren: Abbie, Allie, AJ, Collin, Erica, Sierra Brooke, Kyle, Jessica, and Madison. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Warren, Asher, and Jackson, whom he lovingly called “Popcorn.” Sister-in-laws: Veda Freeman (Doral), Sue Bennett (Harold), and Sharon Cart (Bob).
A proud veteran, Hershel served in the U.S. Army, where he dedicated himself to his country. Throughout his life, he was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Hurricane, where he was an active participant in his community.
Hershel’s contributions to Hurricane extended beyond his personal relationships. He served on the Hurricane City Building Commission for over 10 years, helping shape the development of the town he loved.
In his personal life, Hershel had many passions. He was a master wood carver, creating intricate works of art with his hands. His knife-making skills were equally remarkable, and he took pride in crafting each piece with care and precision. An avid golfer, Hershel found joy in the game and in the time spent on the course with friends and family.
Hershel’s warmth, kindness, and dedication to his family and community will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, craftsmanship, and service will live on in the generations he leaves behind.
A private Funeral service will be held at Allen Funeral Home and entombment will be in Valley View Memorial Park.