Norma Jean Anderson
Norma Jean Anderson, 93, of Winfield, passed away January 11th, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband Raymond, parents Babe and Dewey Lackey, most of her siblings and many extended family members. She is survived by all of her children, Gary, Larry, Steve, DJ, her daughter- in-law Cindy, her only grandchild Addison, sisters JoAnn Whitaker and Yvonne Holland and many extended family members.
A service will be held at noon, on Saturday, April 4th, at Meadow Grove Baptist Church located at 1829 Dawson-Springdale Road, Grassy Meadows, WV 25962.
Clara E. Chittum
Clara Elizabeth Chittum, lovingly known by all as “Topsy”, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and woman of unwavering faith, went home to be with the Lord on March 17, 2026.
She was born on December 2, 1939 to the late Thomas L. Sr. and Mary Maxine Hatfield Chittum. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Debra D. Cremeans; sister, Nancy Dabbs; and brothers: Clifford, Richard and Thomas Sutherland.
To know her was to witness a life truly lived for Christ. Her faith was not only something she spoke about, it was something she lived out daily in the quiet, selfless ways that touched everyone around her. She believed deeply that love should be shown through actions and she made it her life’s mission to serve others with a humble and giving heart.
Her family was her greatest blessing and her most treasured calling. She poured herself into caring for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always putting their needs above her own without hesitation. Whether through a comforting word, a helping hand, or simply being present, she made sure everyone felt loved, supported, and never alone.
One of the greatest gifts she gave her family was her steadfast faith in God. She instilled in them the truth of Romans 8:28; that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him. She wanted them to carry that promise in their hearts, especially in life’s hardest moments, and it became a foundation they will hold onto forever.
Her legacy is one of faith, sacrifice, compassion, and unconditional love. The seeds she planted in her family and in all who knew her will continue to grow for generations to come.
She will be deeply missed, but her family finds peace in knowing she is now at home with the Lord she faithfully served.
Clara is survived by her children: Jack “Skip” (Kim) Cremeans Jr., of Hurricane, Mary Skot Lilly of Hurricane, Gregory Lile (April) Cremeans of Independence, KY and Lyla (Billy) Woodward of Port Charlotte, FL; grandchildren: Allison (Cam) Koehler, Kayla Lilly, Morgan (Daniel) Coles, TJ Hendricks, Alex Cremeans, Keaton Hendricks, Taylor (Dakota) Newman, Nathan Cremeans, and Paris (Layla) Cremeans; great-grandchildren: Audrey, Landon, Reece, Braxton, Ezra, Jocelyn, Maggie Jane, Ellyanna, Emerie, Molly and 1 on the way; siblings: Cynthia Sacher, Patricia “Jimmie” Richmeier, and Thomas “Butch” (Drema) Chittum Jr.
There will be no services at this time. Clara will be laid to rest in Culloden Cemetery at a later date.
Irene Schoolcraft Cobb
Irene Schoolcraft Cobb, 88, of Liberty, passed away Friday, March 13, 2026, at her home.
Irene was a devoted homemaker and earlier in life worked in local restaurants. She previously attended Barnett Chapel Church and Heizer Creek Community Church. Irene especially enjoyed gardening and spending time tending to her flowers, which brought her great joy throughout the years.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, Jim Schoolcraft and Paul Zink; and her son, Carl Schoolcraft.
She is survived by her husband, Mayford Cobb; her children, Sherry Caruthers, Debbie Settle, and Bruce Schoolcraft; step-children, Sandy Hurley and Dorothy Rollins; brothers, Michael Flinner and Carl Flinner; grandchildren, James Schoolcraft, Shannon Caruthers, Chris Schoolcraft, Johnna Jordan, Brandon Settle, and Katie Settle; six great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren.
A tribute to the life of Irene was held Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Pete Cobb officiating. Entombment was in Haven of Rest Memory Gardens, Red House.
Joan Allen Engel
Joan Allen Halsey Engel, 81, of Hurricane, passed away on March 18, 2026.
She was born on August 4, 1944 to the late Arthur W. and Ruth Marie Payne Halsey in Pineville. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her brothers: Jack and Doug Halsey.
Joan was a Registered Nurse early in life and later helped build and run Engel Welding in St. Albans. She was a long-time member and thoroughly enjoyed her time with the ladies of the Red Hat Society. She was also a member of other civic organizations and regularly played bridge with several clubs in the area. However, the thing she loved most was being Granny to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a devoted Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother who absolutely loved spending time with all of them.
Joan cared for many loved ones throughout her life. She had an immense and lasting impact on so many people.
Joan is survived by her husband, Robert “Bob” Engel; sons: Tim (JoElla) Engel and Lance (Angela) Engel both of Hurricane; grandchildren: Mallory (Ben) Samples, Jacob (Taylor) Engel, Alexa (Michael) Fruth, Samantha (Josh) Twohig and Robert (Haley) Engel; 8 great-grandchildren; sisters: Jean Aliff of Beckley, WV, Janet Vandall of Dayton, OH, Joyce Erickson of Wilmington, NC and Jerri Hartsock of VA; as well as other family members and friends.
Richard Fellure
Richard Fellure, 79, of Hurricane, passed away Monday morning March 16, 2026.
He was born to the late Curtis and Hazel (Clagg) Fellure on March 10, 1947 in Huntington.
Richard was a 1965 graduate of Milton High School and was involved with several different occupations throughout his career. He loved serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Traveling was one of his greatest pleasures and visiting the national parks all over the United States was his passion. His book of passport stamps from the parks is almost full.
Richard is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Nancy; son, Curt Fellure of Hurricane; grandchildren: Rece and Paislie Fellure of Hurricane; sister, Brenda Turpin of Natchitoches, LA; brothers: Roger Fellure of Milton, and Rickie Fellure of Barboursville; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
The family will receive friends on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at River Ridge Church, Hurricane. A Celebration of Richard’s Life will immediately follow with Pastor Andy Tuel officiating.
James Walter Jones
James Walter Jones, 78, of Charleston, passed away Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at CAMC Memorial Division.
James was a 1966 graduate of Poca High School and a proud United States Navy veteran, having served his country during the Vietnam War. He dedicated many years of service to his community and career, retiring from 3M Corporation in Rock Branch. James was one of the original Putnam County EMTs, serving from 1976 through the 1980s, and was deeply committed to helping others in times of need. He also served as former Police Chief for both Bancroft and Poca, was a former firefighter with the Bancroft Fire Department, and was a former member of St. Albans American Legion Post 73.
In his free time, James had a passion for bowling and enjoyed traveling out of state to participate in tournaments, creating many lasting friendships along the way.
James is preceded in death by his parents Walter and Ellen Jones.
He is survived by his loving companion and best friend, Irene Williams of Charleston; his children, Jamie (Sherrie) Jones of Clendenin, Tara (Steve) Farrow of Hometown, Ashley (Earl) Whittington of St. Albans, Christian (Skylar) Jones of Ocala, Florida, Drew Markham of Ocala, Florida, and Madison Markham of Ocala, Florida; 13 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his brothers, Ernie (Sharon) Jones of Poca, Dale Jones of Culloden, and William “Wimpy” (Linda) Jones of Poca; his sisters, Patty Winter of Black Betsy, Sonja (Reggie) McCallister Seacrist of Poca, Phyllis McCallister Atkinson of Black Betsy, Leella (Allen) McCallister Wyant of Black Betsy, and Myra Sariwatta of Thailand; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A tribute to the life of James was held Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Delbert Hawley officiating. Burial was in Donel C. Kinnard State Veterans Cemetery.
Norma Jean Lanham
Norma Jean “Cookie” Lanham, 81, of Poca, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026, in CAMC General Hospital.
Norma was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who devoted her life to caring for her family. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her children and “chasing” after her grandchildren, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love made her the heart of her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Lanham, her parents, John and Helen Muck, and her brothers Johnny and Donald Muck.
Norma is survived by her five children, Lloyd “Bo” (Regina) Lanham, Melinda Long, Rebecca Dickerson, Elizabeth (David) Brown, and Johnnie Lanham; one sister, Linda Ingram; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry on her legacy of love.
A tribute to the life of Norma was held Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens with Pastor Delbert Hawley officiating.
Gloria Maddox
Gloria Jean Maddox, age 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Hurricane, after recently battling heart disease.
She was born on November 1, 1942, in Republic, PA, to the late Michael and Helen Bilconish. After graduating from Redstone High School, she attended West Virginia University and finished her degree at California State College in 1964. She carried her strong Czechoslovakian roots and deep love for family with her throughout her life.
Always interested in dance, she studied in her early years at studios in Pennsylvania and New York. She loved traveling and especially trips to Europe with daughters and grandsons to visit her great-grandparents’ homeland, to Paris with her high school friends as well as trips to shows in Las Vegas and other US cities with her travel buddies. She enjoyed gardening flowers and produce and enjoyed sharing the fresh vegetables with neighbors and friends – especially known for her homemade zucchini bread, cucumber sandwiches, and black raspberry jelly.
Gloria’s dedication to her family extended to friends, career, and community. She started teaching at Nitro High School before moving on to Hurricane High in 1970. Teaching for over thirty plus years at Hurricane High and Middle schools, she was a favorite biology teacher to many students. Her keen interest in science and creative methodology made her one of the best – always doing fun and inspiring activities with the students with her love of science, compassion, and patience. “Mrs. Maddox” was an ardent Redskin and could routinely be found at sports and music events showing her support.
Gloria was an active member and officer in Putnam County Democrat Women, Hurricane Woman’s Club and Alpha Delta Kappa, international honorary for women educators, as well as a member of the Ascension Women’s Club and had served as an Eucharist minister and reader. As an avid reader, she also belonged to two local book clubs.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 64 years, Joe Maddox; her children, Jeanne (Phil) Columna of Las Flores, California, Joe Maddox of Fairmont, WV, Sherry (Ron) Cole of Cross Lanes; grandchildren Lindsey (Matt) Melander of Minnesota, Kianna (Josh) Ching of California, Cody Columna of California, Kira Columna of Colorado, Indigo (Chris) Geohring of Colorado, Colton Columna of California, Braxton Maddox of Colorado, Braiden Maddox of WV, RC (Ashley) Cole of Texas, and Maddox Cole of WV; nine great grandchildren; and extended family in Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents Mike and Helen; sister Dolores Saylor; and granddaughter Autumn Cole.
A celebration of life service was held Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Ascension Catholic Church, Hurricane. Gloria will be remembered for her kindness, her dedication to her family, and the lasting impact she made on the lives of her students, friends, and community. Her legacy of love, learning, and generosity will live on in all who knew her.
Martha Lea Morris
Martha Lea Cobb Morris, 84, of Scott Depot, passed away on March 17, 2026 at CAMC Memorial Division.
She was born to the late Merine and Mary Lea Cobb on August 29, 1941. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Jennings “Dean” Morris.
She was a graduate of the Class of 1959 from Charleston High School and attended Morris Harvey College, where she majored in instrumental and vocal music studying from Beulah Duffield, Lenora Skeens, Dr. Connie Chourie and Dr. Harold Ewing.
Martha sang for several years with WV State Choral Festival and also sang with various quartets and trios throughout the Kanawha Valley. She was employed by W Va. Water Co. where she met the love of the life, Jennings “Dean” Morris. She was married to him, 57 years prior to his death and later retired from Kanawha County Schools after 38 years of service.
She was a member and retired organist of Teays Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Hurricane.
Martha is survived by her son: Joseph Dean; daughter, Sheila Lynne Morris; 5 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, as well as a brother, Bill Cobb, and a sister, Thelma Hicks, whom she adored greatly. Her best friends were: Frank and Sally McDonald, her dear friends: Dana Hanks, and her caregiver, Amy Whittington; as well as many other dear friends from her church family.
Martha knew her Lord and Savior being saved in 1954 and she knew Dean was waiting on her at Jesus’ feet inside the Eastern Gate.
Funeral service for Martha wias Saturday March 21, 2026 at Teays Valley Missionary Baptist Church with pastors of the church officiating. Burial was in Elk Hills Memorial Park in Big Chimney.
Deborah Kay Spaulding
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Deborah Kay Spaulding, who departed this world on March 16, 2026, at the age of 70.
Deborah was born on November 22,1955, in the quiet town of Poca, where she began her journey surrounded by the love of her parents Rev. Floyd and Elma Sigman. Throughout her life, Debbie was a beacon of strength and resilience, qualities she inherited from her dear parents and carried with her through life’s trials and triumphs.
Preceding her in death were her cherished parents Rev. Floyd and Elma, her beloved sister Phyllis, her brothers, Johnny, Larry and Mark David and her precious granddaughter Kingslee. Debbie’s legacy lives on through her loving family who were the cornerstone of her world.
She is survived by her sisters Jo Tabor, Carol Shaffer and Barbara Workman, her brother Floyd (Joyce) Sigman Jr., her children, Russell W (Caroline) Spaulding, Tracy Kaye Stuckart, Michael (Holly) Humphreys, and Katie Humphreys.
She also leaves behind her grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Debbie found companionship and solace in her partner, Timothy B Crump, with whom she shared many wonderful moments that will forever be cherished. Together, they navigated life’s journey, finding joy in the simple pleasures and creating a tapestry of memories that will forever be held dear.
Debbie was a woman of many interests and was known for her love of crossword puzzles; she found solace in words and the quiet challenge they provided. Her affinity for game shows and the beloved series “The Waltons” brought her countless hours of entertainment and nostalgia. She found joy in the playful antics of squirrels. She enjoyed familiar routines and friendly conversations. Debbie’s life was a rich tapestry of love, sadness, laughter, and memories, woven from the threads of her experiences and the people she held dear. As we say goodbye, we hold tight to the memories she leaves behind and are forever grateful for the time we were blessed to share with her.
A tribute to the life of Debbie was held at Raymond City Community Church on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Carolyn Lee Wilcoxen
Carolyn Lee Wilcoxen, of Eleanor, born July 11, 1944, went home to be with the Lord on March 16, 2026.
Carolyn was the daughter of the late Clara Moody and step daughter of the late Edward R. Moody. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Rev. Clifford Wilcoxen; sister, Pauline Moody Bird; niece, Denise Pennington; special brothers in-law: C.H. Bird, Vernon Bird and Wendell Wilcoxen; and cousins: Leo and Dorsey Dollen.
She was raised in Hurricane and graduated from Hurricane High School in June 1963. She shortly thereafter (June 22, 1963), married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Clifford Wilcoxen. They were also foster parents to several children.
Not many years after her marriage, she and Clifford both gave their lives to the Lord (Nov. 1971). In 1975, she started her role in life as a minister’s wife, striving to help him be the worker the Lord would be pleased with. She also played piano for various churches. They attended church at Adda Baptist Church.
She was retired from WVDHHR/Bureau of Child Support Enforcement in Charleston. She loved the outdoors, gardening and canning her vegetables. She also loved hunting and fishing with her husband.
She is survived by her two foster daughters: Joyce Kelly Johnson and Lois Kelly Hoffman; two special foster children and cousins: Nancy Davis and Sue (Markel) Fertig; niece, Donna Naroz; and granddaughter, Rachel Hoffman.
Funeral service for Carolyn was Friday March 20, 2026 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Pastor Sam Morris officiating. Burial was in Lower Hodges Cemetery, Hurricane.