DANNY ARTHUR, JR.
Danny Lee Arthur, Jr., 60, of Hurricane, passed away at his home on June 8, 2026.
Born on May 31, 1966, in South Charleston, Danny was the son of the late Danny Lee “Buggy” Arthur, Sr. and Mary Ann Arthur of Bancroft.
Danny was a 1984 graduate of Poca High School. He furthered his education at West Virginia State College and earned an electronics degree from ITT Technical Institute. He dedicated much of his professional life to the electronics and chemical industries, working at Dow for over 21 years. Prior to that, he worked for Ericsson for six years.
A man of service and community spirit, Danny was a member of the Rustburg, Virginia Volunteer Rescue Squad. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing with his cousins. Lake Sherwood and Holden Beach were among his favorite destinations. Danny was an avid reader with a particular passion for history and enjoyed visiting historic sites throughout the country, especially Civil War battlefields.
He is survived by his loving mother, Mary Ann Arthur; his sister, Amy (Grant) Walker; his nephew, Evan Walker; his niece, Kathryn Walker; his aunt Debbie; his uncle John Lewis and Dorrel “Peachie” Arthur; and a host of cousins. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.
A tribute to the life of Danny Lee Arthur, Jr. was held Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastors James Legg and Frank Allen, Jr. officiating. Burial was in Showen Cemetery.
WILLIAM ‘BILL’ BIRD
William “Bill” Bird, 75, of Scott Depot, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026.
Bill was born on July 1, 1950 in Canada, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his mother, Peggy (Keith) Chandler; his father, Creed Bird; his sister, Teresa Crouch; his brother-in-law, Charles Johnson; his grandson, Michael Flinn; and his nephew, Scottie Alford.
Bill was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge, and Beni Kedem Shrine. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy was spending time with his family.
He is survived by his loving wife, Patti; his children, Brandi (Rodney) Moore, Stephen White, Justin White, Chris (Stephanie) Bird, and Tracy (James) Hall. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Sierra (Dennis) Gibson, Chase (Caitlyn) Moore, Drew and Jacob White, Colton Bird, Lindsay (Ben) DeWess, Lauren (Dustin) Huffman, Emily (Jalen) Wayt, Matthew (Ally) Hall, LeighAnn Flinn, and his beloved great-grandchildren, Cameron and Dawson Gibson, Skylar Moore, Oaklynn Bird, and Theodore Brown, Jack and Wren Pursely, Kai DeWees, Katelynn, Carter, and Zander Shamblen, and Emilynn Wayt. He is also survived by his sisters, Patty (Roger) Wood and Kathy (Jackie) Johnston, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
Bill loved spending time on the family farm at Turkey Creek, where he enjoyed hunting, riding side-by-sides, and making memories outdoors. He especially treasured family camping trips and any opportunity to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His kind heart, unwavering love for his family, and enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures will be remembered by all who knew him.
Funeral service was at Allen Funeral Home, Hurricane, on June 15, 2026.
SHIRLEY BOWLING
Shirley Ann Tinsley Bowling, 90, of Walkertown, North Carolina, formerly of Poca, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
Shirley was a woman of many talents and simple joys. She found great happiness in quilting, gardening, reading, and watching her favorite television program, Gunsmoke. Alongside her beloved husband, Howard, she enjoyed woodworking and crafting, creating cherished memories through the years they spent together. Above all else, Shirley treasured time with her family. Her greatest joy was being surrounded by those she loved, and the memories she created with them will remain a lasting gift.
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 55 years, Howard Bowling; her parents, Franklin and Verneeda Tinsley; and her brother, Daniel Tinsley.
Left to cherish her memory are her loving children, Bob Bowling and his wife, Vicki; Cindy Andrew; and Jimmy Bowling and his wife, Ann. She is also survived by her sister, Irene Rosiek.
Shirley was a proud grandmother to Stacy and her husband, John; Rob; Amy and her husband, Randy; Jackie; Julie and her husband, Chris; T.J. Bowling; Katie Bowling and her husband, Dustin; Brody Bowling and his wife, Tabitha; and Chase Bowling and his wife, Hannah Craig and wife Penny Andrew, Tim and wife Alison Andrew.
Her legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren: Hunter, Blake, Aiden, Zoe, Ava, Alex, Raiden, Kyler, Elijah, Silas, Jessa, Stella, Tucker, Wyatt, and Finn all of whom brought immense joy to her life.
A celebration and tribute to Shirley’s life was held Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel in Poca, with Pastor Delbert Hawley officiating. Burial was in Grandview Memorial Park in Dunbar.
MARLANE CARR
Marlane Virginia Crockett Carr, 95, of Eleanor, passed away on June 11, 2026, at Hospice Hubbard House.
Marlane was born on January 28, 1931, in Boone County, West Virginia, to Robert and Eva Crockett. She graduated from Poca High School and later worked as a surgical technician.
Marlane was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Harold Aubrey Carr, and their youngest daughter, Rebekah Jayne Carr. As an infant, Rebekah was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect. Marlane cared for her daughter with unwavering love, strength, and devotion until her passing at the age of fourteen.
She is survived by her beloved son and daughter-n-law, Michael & Karen Carr, who served as her sole caregivers, creating a loving and safe environment where Marlane enjoyed her final years; daughter Sandra Neely from Columbia, Missouri. She is also survived by her grandsons, Jonathan (Christina) Carr and Christopher (Joy) Bess from Columbia, Mo.; granddaughter, Lindsay (Steven) Lanham; great-grandchildren, Audrey and Colton Carr and Austin and Alyvia Lanham, of Eleanor; Anna, Brooke, and Jack Bess of Columbia, Missouri.
Marlane’s love for the town of Eleanor has deep roots going back to her childhood and the wealth of knowledge she possessed may never be recreated. She was the oldest living original Eleanor Homesteader and took great pride in sharing the town’s history with local elementary and high school students. She served on Eleanor Town Council for several years and initiated the community’s annual Memorial Day ceremony at Beech Grove Cemetery 30+ years ago, a tradition that continues to honor those who served in addition to the friends and family of our town.
She was the last surviving sibling among the five Crockett children and cared deeply for her brothers, sisters, and their families. She was preceded in death by her siblings Gerri, Ervine, Joe, and Bob Crockett.
Marlane enjoyed researching her family genealogy, tending her gardens, and beach vacations. She will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her commitment to her community, and her passion for preserving the history of Eleanor.
Funeral service was Monday, June 15, 2026 at Raynes Funeral Home, Eleanor, with Pastor David Panaro Jr. officiating. Burial was in Beech Grove Cemetery, Eleanor.
MARGARET CHILDERS
Margaret Frances Childers, 92, of Hurricane, passed away on June 11, 2026.
She was born to the late Robert Lincoln and Frances Byerly Naylor on September 19, 1933 in South Charleston. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Clayton Childers; son, Jeffrey Childers; and siblings: Jacqueline Childers and Robert Naylor.
Margaret was a member of Hurricane First Baptist Church and a former member of the WV Order of the Eastern Star Nitro, WV.
She is survived by her children: Robin Childers Nicely and Virgil “Mick” Childers (Barbara) both of Hurricane; 9 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren.
Linda Foster
Linda Ann (Gass) Foster, 58, of Hurricane, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, June 8, 2026 after waging a 15 ½ months battle with Glioblastoma. Linda fought her cancer with unwavering strength and bravery to the very end.
Born June 19,1967, in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, Linda was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Gass. Linda’s medical condition forced her to take disability retirement after 26 dedicated years with the West Virginia State Supreme Court.
Primarily left to cherish her memories is her husband and best friend of 37 years, Brett Foster. Linda also left a number of aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends who loved her very much. This includes her long-term childhood friend, Jody Kelley of Leesburg, Florida.
Linda was a sweet, kind, giving and loving soul who loved the sun and beach growing up in Orlando, Florida. She also loved shopping, going to movies and concerts. She was also a homebody who just loved being around and enjoying the company of family and friends.
A celebration of Linda’s life will be held July 11, 2026 at Allen’s Funeral home on Main Street in Hurricane. Visitation will be at 11 a.m., and service to follow at 12 p.m. with Pastor Jerry Losh officiating.
BETTY JO JOHNSON
Betty Jo Johnson, 97, of Hurricane, formerly of South Charleston, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Teays Valley.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents, John and Mabel Johnson; brothers: John F Johnson II and David Earl Johnson; sister-in-law, Deanna Johnson; nieces: Kim Loveday and Stephanie Bennett; and great niece, Kinslie Knicely.
Left to cherish her memory is her nephew, John F. “Jay” Johnson Ill and wife Samantha; as well as a host of extended family and friends.
Per her wishes, Betty will be cremated and a private Memorial Service will be at a later date.
Ruth Ann Miller
Ruth Ann Miller (DeLancey), 72, of Culloden, passed away unexpectedly on June 8, 2026. Her sudden departure leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her, but her legacy of love, humor, and dedication will live on forever.
,Born in Parkersburg, on July 29, 1953, Ruth Ann was the cherished daughter of the late Denward and Eva DeLancey. She grew up with a naturally compassionate heart, which led her to pursue a lifelong calling in healthcare. She proudly attended nursing school at the University of Kentucky and dedicated her life to her work as a Registered Nurse in healthcare administration. To Ruth Ann, nursing wasn’t just a career; it was a calling to care for others, a testament to her generous spirit.
Beyond her professional dedication, Ruth Ann was a woman who truly embraced life. She loved to travel, explore new places, and above all, spend time with her family. She possessed a rare and beautiful gift: she made friends with every single person she met. With an infectious smile that could light up any room and a wonderful sense of humor, she brought joy wherever she went.
Ruth Ann was truly the glue of her family. She was the anchor we all leaned on, and the one everyone turned to for the absolute best advice.
Ruth Ann’s greatest joy was the beautiful family she built. For 52 wonderful years, she was the devoted and loving wife of Richard Miller. Together, they created a lifetime of memories and a foundation of love that will sustain her family through this difficult time.
In addition to her husband, Ruth Ann is survived by her children, who carry her spirit forward: Vincent Miller (Tiffney), Jason Miller (Jennifer), Ryan Miller (Lisa), and Kristina Aguilar (Carlos). She was the world’s proudest grandmother to her ten beloved grandchildren: Alex Miller, Eva Miller, Ryli Miller, Landon Miller, Nicholas Cadena, Ethan Miller, Emily Miller, Mateo Aguilar, Ella Miller, and Emiliano Aguilar. Ruth Ann also leaves behind her brother, Dee DeLancey; sister, Bernita Maxon; many special nieces and nephews; her dear friend of over 45 years, Debbie Crookshanks; and her beloved fur babies, including her cherished dog, Dexter.
Ruth Ann is preceded in death by her sister, Donna Lewis.
There will be a private Celebration of Ruth Ann’s Life at a later time.
Gary Ray Stover
Gary Ray Stover, 81, of Red House, formerly of Eleanor, passed away Monday, June 8, 2026. He was a 1962 graduate of Buffalo High School, and retired from Columbia Gas Transmission as a Fleet Mechanic with many years of service. Gary enjoyed wood working and loved spending time outdoors. He was a patient and kind man, who loved to sit down with family and friends and solve the world’s problems. His family lovingly knew him as “Our Plaid Dad”, who was seen in plaid in every picture. They encourage all attending his service to wear plaid and be yourself. Most of all, Gary was the best dad, grandpa, and friend to his neighbors, and will be missed by all.
Born October 9, 1944, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Minnie Stover. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Phyllis Stover; sisters, Louella Stover, Joyce Parsons, and Sharon Bailes; brothers, Herbert Stover, Kenny Stover, Kelly Stover, and Nelson Stover; 1 grandchild, Curtis Sheltz; as well as 2 great-grandchildren.
Survivors include his children, Serena (Tommy) Earley of Eleanor, Wes (Crystal) Stover of Cross Lanes, Abby (Brian) Sheltz of Red House, Denise Roberts of San Antonio, Texas, and Melody Kimbler of Madison; grandchildren, Trevor Patton (Jessie), Summer (Eric) Lyons, Danielle (Travis) Bird, Jacob (Paige) Earley, Layne Stover, Jakob Stover, Erica (Homer) McDaniel, Daniel (Amber) Winnell, Brandon (Elise) Landers, Noah Landers, Katie (Ethan) Barker, Josh (Jena) Sheltz, Austin (Zoe) Roberts, Erica Roberts, and Lauren (Rock) Stevens; 25 great-grandchildren, brothers, Sammy Stover, and Mike Stover; sisters, Karen Robinson, Margaret Davis, and Freda Higginbotham; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Funeral service was Thursday, June 11th, 2026 at Raynes Funeral Home, Eleanor, with Gary’s nephew, Jim Davis, officiating. Burial was in Emma Chapel Cemetery, Liberty.
Pamela Sue Swanson
Pamela Sue “Pam” Swanson, 74, of Poca, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at CAMC Memorial Division.
Pam was a 1970 graduate of Poca High School and was retired from Mt. Carmel East and St. Ann’s Hospitals in Columbus, Ohio. She was a faithful member of Riverside Baptist Church and Hometown Senior Citizens. Pam enjoyed volunteering at the Hometown Senior Center, making baskets, canning, and traveling with her family. Above all, she cherished time spent with her loved ones, especially her two grandchildren, who brought her great joy.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert H. Swanson; her parents, Clyde and Earldine Ingram; and her brother, Steve Ingram.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Mark (Bethany) Swanson and Rachel (Lisa) Brittle; her treasured grandchildren, Jase and Harper; her siblings, Randy (Kathy) Ingram, Mike Ingram, Rodney Ingram, Donna Ingram, Regina Leiva, and Tim (Cindy) Ingram; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
A tribute to the life of Pamela Swanson was held Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Michael Hanna officiating. Burial was in Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens.
Gloria Mae Tucker
Gloria May Tucker, 81, of Homer, IN, formerly of Red House, went to be with her Heavenly Father on June 13, 2026.
Born on November 2, 1944, in Starlet, Virginia, Gloria was a devoted Christian who found great joy and comfort in reading her Bible. She was a loving and caring woman who was always there for her family and friends, offering support, encouragement, and unconditional love. Her faith guided her throughout her life, and her kindness touched all who knew her.
Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 46 years, Gerrell Tucker Sr.; her son, Gerrell Tucker Jr.; her mother, Vida Cherry; her father, William Baine; her brother, William Cherry; her stepfather, James Cherry; her father-in-law, Earl Carney; and her mother-in-law, Anna Carney.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughter, Sherry Tucker of Indiana; her granddaughter, Vida Tucker of Indiana; her sister, Wendy Davis of South Carolina; her sister-in-law, Gale Shawver (Frank) of West Virginia; and her brothers-in-law, Ronald Carney and Robbie Carney, both of West Virginia, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
As we remember Gloria, we celebrate a life well lived, a heart that loved fiercely, and a spirit that will remain with us forever. We find comfort in knowing that she loved the Lord and is now reunited with those she loved and missed dearly.
A tribute to the life of Gloria will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Haven of Rest Memory Gardens, Red House. Burial will follow in the memory gardens.
William Jesse Ventura
William Jesse “Bill” Ventura, 85, of Scott Depot, formerly of Clarksburg, passed away unexpectedly on June 11, 2026.
Bill was born November 28, 1940 to the late William and Helen Ventura in Clarksburg. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sisters: Leah Fazzini and Priscilla Watson; and his brothers-in-law: Abe Fazzini and Don Browning.
As a young man, Bill served in the U.S. Navy as a Radioman. He then worked in the field of logistics for the rest of his career. Bill was a very gracious and loving man and lived each day with Jesus as his savior; Galatians 2:20 captures the essence of his life. “Pops”, as he was affectionately known by his grandchildren, will be deeply missed for his gentle kindness, strong faith in the Lord and willingness to always help.
Bill is survived by his wife, Anna Ventura; children: LeAnn Nutter (Perry) of Ellamore, West Virginia; Mindy Ventura of Hurricane; and Bill Ventura (Cristina), of Chesapeake, Virginia; siblings: Jonathan Ventura (Martha) of Charleston, Miriam Browning of Bridgeport, and Sara Gianettino (Ken) of Clarksburg.
He was a loving grandfather to: Gretchen Lee Kalar Kelly (Matthew), of Edgemoor, South Carolina; Cameron Lee Kalar of Ellamore, West Virginia; Jesse Ventura (Alyssa), of Raeford, North Carolina; Caleb Ventura of Chesapeake, Virginia and Ben Ventura of Chesapeake, Virginia. Bill found the most joy in life with the recent additions to the family, his great-grandchildren: Marshall Lee Kelly and Audrey Joy Ventura.
Bill was blessed to share a family with Anna’s children, James “Jimmy” Montgomery (Robin) of Charlotte, NC and Alisa Montgomery (Steve Mynsberge) of Charleston. He was also grateful to share in the life of Robin’s son, Brandon Conley of Lincolnton, NC.
Funeral service for Bill was Wednesday June 17, 2026 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Pastor Chris Kimbro officiating. Burial was in Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery in Dunbar with military honors.
Nathan Williams
Heaven gained the sweetest, most gentle soul when Nathan Lewis Williams, 87, of Hurricane, entered into eternal rest on June 11, 2026.
Nathan was born on November 20, 1938, in Columbus, Georgia, to the late George and Kate Williams. He graduated from Carver High School before moving to Chicago, Illinois, in 1962. It was there that he met the love of his life, Marion Theodosia “Tina” Billups. Together they built a life rooted in love, family, faith, and devotion.
Nathan was known for his kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. A hardworking and determined man, he spent many years serving as Head of Maintenance at West Suburban Hospital in Chicago, where he earned the respect and admiration of those around him. He also owned and operated Nate & Sons Carpet Cleaning, a business that reflected his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.
When he wasn’t working, Nathan enjoyed watching sports, singing, and spending time with his family. His warm smile, quiet strength, and caring nature left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Nathan was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marion Theodosia “Tina” Williams; his sons, Ralph O’Dell Billups and Michael Little; and his parents, George and Kate Williams.
He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Louis Billups, and daughter-in-law, Whitney Billups; grandchildren Byron Holman, Aaron Holman, LaDawn McGee, Cieara Moore, Nathan Billups, and Micah Billups; great-grandchildren D’Angelo Holman, Jocelyn Holman, Ava Holman, Aubrey Holman, Allie Holman, Aerin Holman, and Christian Billups. He also leaves behind several beloved cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.
Nathan will be remembered for the love he shared, the example he set through hard work and perseverance, and the kindness he freely gave to others. His legacy lives on through the generations of family he loved so deeply.
While our hearts mourn his absence, we find comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his beloved Tina. Though he will be deeply missed, his love, laughter, and gentle spirit will remain in our hearts forever.