STEVEN ALLEN BARNETT
Steven Allen Barnett, 74, of Red House, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Cabell Huntington Hospital.
Steve was a proud graduate of Poca High School and retired from Putnam County Schools. He was very active in the Winfield community, faithfully supporting local youth in all their sporting events. Known for his generous heart, Steve loved people and was always putting others before himself.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dencil and Daisy Barnett; his beloved wife, Dolores Barnett; and his brother, Chuck Barnett.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Steven “Stevie” Barnett; siblings, Junior Barnett, Debbie Blankenship, and Terry Barnett; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends.
Visitation was Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home in Poca.
HAROLD GRIFFITH
Harold Eugene Griffith, 88, of Hurricane, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 25, 2025 after an extended illness. He was a retired Master Electrician working out of UMWA and enjoyed spending time with his family especially when they were fishing, hunting, camping or anything outdoors and he was loved by many.
He was preceded in death by his parents Robert Griffith and Audrey Griffith Whitt and son Robert Allen Griffith, Grandson Stevie Haynes, Brother Jim Griffith. Sister-in-law Diane Griffith. He is survived by his wife Iva Griffith, Daughter, Sheila Haynes and Son Geno Griffith (Stephanie), Grandchildren, Robert Allen Griffith, Lemuel Tyler Griffith, Leigh Ann Griffith, Madison Jones (Chase Burdette), Emilee Jones. Great Grandchildren, Seth Haynes, Lily Griffith, Allen Griffith, Lemuel Colton Griffith, Mazey Burdette, Great Great Grandchildren Kaylee Griffith, Corbin Haynes, Wilder Griffith. Sister Patty (Earl) Miller, Brother Barney Griffith.
Funeral service was Monday, September 29, 2025 at Allen Funeral Home. Burial was in Forest Memorial Park.
DAVID MICHAEL HANING
David Michael Haning, born on November 26, 1949, in Charleston, and a longtime resident of Poca, passed away on September 25, 2025, at the age of 75.
David, known to many as Mike, will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor whose life was marked by kindness, humor, faith, and love for his family. He attended Cincinnati Mortuary School and received his apprenticeship training both in Cincinnati and in Poca. Following his schooling, Mike worked full time at Gatens Funeral Home in Poca, where he served the local community for many years, providing comfort and outstanding service to countless families.
Later, Mike decided to change career paths and entered the insurance business as a Nationwide Insurance agent. In that role, he earned many distinguished honors and awards for his dedication and excellence. He served the local community well until he decided to retire so he could spend more time with his family.
This season of retirement allowed him to spend his days doing what he loved most and gave him cherished time with his grandchildren. Mike was always present at their many extracurricular activities, cheering with unwavering support. He celebrated their successes and offered encouragement through the rare setbacks, always their biggest fan both on and off the field.
Mike was also a faithful Christian and attended Poca Methodist Church. He loved the Lord and lived his life with faith at the center of all he did. He was an enthusiastic Cleveland Browns fan and rarely missed a chance to cheer on his team. Beyond sports, he was an avid reader who devoured the daily news, newspapers, and any source of political and current happenings in the world. He was also known for his quick wit, always ready with a joke or a unique saying that brought smiles to those around him.
Above all, Mike loved his family fiercely. His presence, support, and unconditional love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
He is survived by his daughter, Kara Perry of Charlotte, North Carolina; his son, Shannon Haning of Hurricane, West Virginia; his grandchildren, Olivia Peet (Colin), Tristan Perry, Nicholas Haning, Madilynn Haning, and Isabella Perry; his great-grandson, Jackson Peet; his brother, Anthony Haning (Brenda); and several beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Phyllis Haning, and his grandparents, Reverend Jesse and Lola Wolfe.
Funeral service was Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Cunningham-Parker & Johnson Funeral Home.
RUTH BELLE (FAULKNER) JORDAN
Ruth Belle (Faulkner) Jordan, 87, of Hurricane, passed away at home peacefully in her sleep on September 1, 2025 after a prolonged illness.
She is survived by her husband of 69 years Edward, and her children Mark, of Smith Mountain Lake, VA, Daniel, of Cross Lanes, , and Sarah Jordan Ravery and husband John, of Fayetteville, and her three grandchildren, Ginny, Mattie, and Samuel.
Ruth was an exceptionally talented person, she was a good artist, an excellent bridge player, she played a mean game of tennis in her day, and was a volunteer with Red Cross of WV, teaching swimming lessons at Lake Chaweva in Cross Lanes.
Per Ruth’s wishes her body was donated to the WVU School of Medicine. A celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at a later date.
JOAN ‘JONI’ LORING
Joan “Joni” Loring passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, at the age of 83.
A lifelong resident of Nitro, Joni was known and loved by many for her vibrant personality, generous spirit, and deep compassion for others. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued—whether they were old friends or strangers walking through her door for the first time.
Joni began her career as a talented hairdresser, first at her salon, Magic Fingers Hair Design, and later working from home at Joni’s House of Hair while raising her children. Later, she became a receptionist at the Department of Health and Human Resources, where her spirited personality and sharp wit made her unforgettable to the many people she encountered each day. After retiring, Joni pursued her lifelong dream of owning a restaurant. She first opened a café on 8th Street, followed by the beloved 40th Street Bakery and Bistro, where she shared her famous homemade pies, cakes, and savory dishes. Nothing made her happier than seeing others enjoy her cooking—always served with a warm smile and a story.
Above all else, Joni was devoted to her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Stephen Todd Farley, and her mother, Loretta Vickers. She is survived by her daughters, Tera Salango (Ben) and Tonya Farley, her son, Tracy Farley, and several cherished grandchildren. Joni often worked multiple jobs to support her family, always putting their needs above her own. Her children were the heart of her life.
A celebration of Joni’s life was held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel in Poca Burial was in Cunningham Memorial Park in St. Albans.
SUE A. LUDWIG
Sue Ludwig, 86, of Scott Depot, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025 surrounded by family.
Sue lived a life marked by love, devotion, and strength to her family and God. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Tom Ludwig; and her parents: Red and Georgia Underwood.
Sue’s legacy lives on through her devoted sons: Greg and Lori Ludwig of Hurricane, Gary and Gina Ludwig of Leon, and Doug and Tracy Ludwig of Oak Hill. She was a proud “Memaw” to James, Shelby, Elizabeth, Jeremy, Jacob, Jackson, and Joshua. She was a great grand “Memaw” to Easton and Phoenix Ludwig all of who brought light and laughter into her days and will carry her memory forward with love.
Known for hosting our family Christmas gatherings at her house, she was never happier than when everyone could come together under one roof. She knew no strangers and was quick to strike up a good conversation over family and God.
A member of St. John United Methodist Church in Scott Depot, Sue was a devoted Christian and we rejoice in knowing that she is now walking the streets of gold beside dad and our savior, Jesus Christ and has been reunited with those loved ones that have ascended into heaven before her.
Sue will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, her spirit, and the deep love she had for her family. Her presence was a source of comfort and strength, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.
Funeral service was Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Pastor James McCune officiating. Burial was in Valley View Memorial Park, Hurricane.
Johnny Wayne Tucker
Johnny Wayne Tucker, 74, of Buffalo, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at his home. He was a 1968 graduate of Buffalo High School. He worked as a Journeyman Lineman and retired from Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative. He was a member and Past Master of Kanawha Valley Lodge No. 36 A.F & A.M. in Buffalo and a member of the Buffalo Sportsman Club. He was a Christian and member of Otter Branch Church. Johnny loved spending time outdoors hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles. His love for motorcycles led him on numerous trips to different parts of the country.
Born October 29, 1950, he was the son of the late Leslie Tucker and Mona Stover Tucker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Jesse Tucker; brothers, Billy Davis and Leslie Tucker Jr.; nephew, Shawn Tucker.
Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Sonna Miller Tucker; daughter Holli Tucker Burford of South Charleston; brothers, Gary Tucker of Buffalo and Mike Tucker of Buffalo; sister, Polly Ann Parker of TX; grandchildren, Kayla Tucker of Charleston and Christian Tucker of Red House. Johnny is also survived by several nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.
Inurnment with Masonic graveside rites was held Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Haven of Rest Memory Gardens, Red House.
Wilkie Lee Tucker
Wilkie Lee Tucker, 85, of Grimms Landing, went home to be with the Lord, Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at his home following a long illness. He was a Christian who loved his Savior Jesus Christ. He was a member of Oma Chapel Church, and served for many years as an Elder and Class Leader. Wilkie loved to attend church, and visited many churches in the area for revivals and special services. He worked for years as an electrical lineman for Pike Electrical. He enjoyed the outdoors and hunting, but he loved his family and his grandchildren most of all.
Born July 5, 1940, he was the son of the late Orville Tucker and Fannie Blackshire Tucker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Sullivan; and a sister-in-law, Brenda Tucker.
Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Lova Melvinia Tucker; his sons, Timothy Tucker, Steven Tucker, and Michael (Jada) Tucker, all of Grimms Landing; his brothers, Frank (Sue) Tucker of Robertsburg, and Johnnie “Pug” Tucker of Grimms Landing; grandsons, Andrew Tucker and Matthew Tucker; 5 great-grandchildren; as well as extended family and many friends.
Funeral service was Friday, September 26, 2025 at Oma Chapel Church, Grimms Landing, with Pastor Larry Mobley, Pastor Carl Bailes, and Pastor Mike Tucker officiating. Burial was in Tucker Cemetery, Grimms Landing.
