ROBERT HICKMAN
Robert Clair “Bob” Hickman, 70, of Poca, passed away Sunday, September 7th, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House Charleston.
Robert was a retired Utility Inspector for the State of West Virginia with 36 years of service; a US Marine Corp veteran with 4 years of service and was also in the Army Reserve for 14 years. He was born in Charleston on November 16th, 1954, to the late Clair & Beulah Skeens Hickman. He was a Nitro High School graduate class of 1973. He was preceded in death by brother, Bill Hickman sister, Connie Hickman Odell; nephews, Eddie Hickman and David Bobbit. Surviving, sister, Charlotte King and family; devoted sister-in-law Ramona Hickman and family; and sister, Dorothy Bobbit and family; and lifelong friend, Tom Jones.
Graveside services with Military Honors was Sunday, September 14th, 2025, at Given Cemetery with Pastor Chad Lovejoy officiating.
JEAN MAYNARD
Jean Maynard, 97, passed away surrounded by family at the Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, on August 29, 2025. Born January 2, 1928, in Rainelle, West Virginia, she was the daughter of Ollie Courtney Carter and James A Carter.
She was a long time resident of Hurricane, West Virginia, where she taught mathematics for 30 years.
In addition to her parents, Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband, Arthur J. Maynard, and three brothers, Jack W. Carter, James D. Carter and Leland Carter.
She is survived by her three children, Lois Leith (Bill) of Haverford, Pennsylvania; George Maynard (Elaine) of Knoxville, Tennessee; Beverly McGee (John) of Boulder, Colorado; 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
A celebration of her life will be held September 26, at 2:00 pm at the White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Barboursville.
MICHAEL MCCALLISTER
Michael T. McCallister, 55, of Hurricane, passed away on September 13, 2025 at home in Hurricane.
He was born on January 17, 1970, to Pamela McCallister and the late Charles McCallister in Huntington. Michael lived a life marked by compassion, faith, and deep devotion to his family.
Michael spent the majority of his professional life working with the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH), later transitioning into real estate investment before taking early retirement. His work ethic and dedication were evident throughout his career, but it was in retirement that he found his greater purpose sharing his faith and spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his mother, Pamela McCallister; and his sister, Misty Burger (Staci). He also leaves behind his stepchildren: Jenna Counts (Jeff Cross), Mike Steele (Leeah), and Brandon Steele (Chelsea); grandchildren: Summer, Madelyn, Ashton, Priscilla, Paisley, Colter, Zachary, Morgan, and Aurora; nephews: Sean Burger (Allison), Seth Burger, and Zane McCallister; great-nephew, Weston Burger; aunt: Sharon (Perry); cousins: Charity (James) Hooser which he shared a special bond, and a host of other cousins.
In addition to his father, Charles McCallister, he was also preceded in death by his maternal grandmother: Freda Spurlock; paternal grandparents: Hallie and Betty McCallister; his beloved brother, Nathan McCallister; and cousin and close friend: Marlo Gonzales.
A man of deepened faith, Michael became a devoted member of River Ridge Church in Hurricane. He embraced a spiritual rebirth that transformed how he lived each day. He believed wholeheartedly in the power of Salvation through Jesus Christ and made it a mission to share this message with those around him. Whether speaking to friends or strangers alike, Michael’s words were filled with hope and conviction.
His greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren. Whether kayaking down a quiet stream or casting a line into the water while fishing. Michael cherished every moment outdoors. These experiences were more than hobbies – they were opportunities to bond with those he loved most and to reflect on the beauty of creation.
Michael was known for his kindness and compassion. He devoted himself to helping others whenever he could. His love extended not only to his immediate family but also to his mother-in-law and father-in-law: James (Vickie) Bailey, whom he loved and held dearly.
Funeral service for Michael was Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Pastor Blair Hayes officiating. Burial was in Valley View Memorial Park, Hurricane.
DAVID LEE PAYNE
David Lee Payne, 70, of Winfield, passed away peacefully from this life on September 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. For two years, David faced illness with courage and determination, and though the battle was long, he now rests in peace.
Born to the late Donald and Wilma Payne of Winfield, David embodied the spirit of a true “man’s man.” He delighted in life’s simple yet profound joys – casting his fishing line into the Kanawha River, cheering passionately for the West Virginia Mountaineers, beaming with pride at his grandchildren’s performances and sporting events, donning a collection of memorable hats at family gatherings, and savoring the timeless comfort of his mother’s home cooking.
From his days making tackles on the high school football field, to shaping landscapes with his hands, to leading teams with strength and loyalty in the manufacturing industry, David poured his heart and energy into every single endeavor. He gave nothing short than his all – 110 percent- whether the task was great or small.
Those who knew him admired his competitive fire, his steadfast work ethic, and his “tough as nails” resolve. Integrity was his compass, and he believed in doing things right the first time. Yet behind that rugged exterior was a man who openly declared that the true strength of his life came from his beloved wife of 52 years, Tina, the anchor who steadied him in every storm.
David’s memory will be cherished by his wife, Tina Clagg Payne of Scott Depot; his children: Amy (Darold) Curtiss of Hurricane, WV, Jeremy (Valerie) Payne of Winfield, WV, and Sara Payne (Derek) Scarbro of Huntington, WV; his grandchildren: Nic Osburn, Tyler Payne, Gabby Osburn, Mason Payne, Seth Potter, Christian Payne, Olivia Payne, and Willa Scarbro; and his great-grandchild, Greyson Payne. He is also survived by his brother, Donnie Ray (Lorraine) Payne of Bickmore, WV; and his sister, Patty (Wayne) Kayser of Scott Depot, WV as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his brother, Lonnie Payne; and sister, Barbara Mays.
Gathering in Remembrance of David will be Friday, September 19, 2025 from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, followed by David’s Memorial Service at 7:00 pm.
LLOYD D. SMALLEY
Lloyd D. Smalley, 81, of Hometown, passed away Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Hubbard Hospice House. He was a graduate of Poca High School and a retired member of IUPAT Local 53 in Charleston. He enjoyed fishing and was an avid WVU football fan.
Born February 8, 1944 in Liberty, he was the son of Fravel Smalley and Annabelle Scott Smalley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Smalley; son, Kenny Smalley and sister, Shelvy Cowen.
Survivors include his son, Shannon Smalley of Eleanor; grandchildren, Hannah Smalley of Eleanor, Josie Cooper of Poca and Evan Smalley of Eleanor.
In accordance with his wishes, no formal services are planned at this time.