Featured, Obituaries

Obituaries for Week of January 1, 2026

James Martin Ashley
James Martin “Jim” Ashley, 80, of Scott Depot, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family.
Jim is a graduate of Nuttall High School and in 1998 retired from Bell Atlantic. He is a proud Air Force Veteran. He is a member and deacon of The Bridge in Poca, enjoyed woodworking, but loved spending time with his family.
He is preceded in death by his parents Everett and Violet Ashley; son Peter and sister Jeannie Ashley.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Anne Ashley; four children Scott (Lori) Ashley, Sarah (Scott) Riddle, Mary Kay (Brad) Davis, and Joe Ashley; three sisters Mary Sue (Carson) Lane, Barbara (Kenneth) Samms, and Kathy (Larry) Hypes; three grandchildren Madelaine, Marinda, and Elliott and a host of nieces and nephews.
A tribute to the life of Jim will be held 11:00 AM, Friday, January 2, 2026, at The Bridge with Pastor Mike Ramsey officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.

Arnold Bailey
Arnold G. “Sam” Bailey, 88, of Jim Ridge, Leon, passed away Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House. He was a retired member of the Cement Masons Local Union 926 in Charleston. He attended Centerpoint Church in Liberty. Sam loved horses and farming. He spent countless hours working on his farm.
Born April 19, 1937, he was the son of the late Robert Bailey and Delice Reed Bailey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Shirley J. Bailey; grandson, Travis Elkins; sisters, Orpha Herbert, Ann Bailey and Erma Bailey; brother, Allen Bailey.
Survivors include his son, Jerry (Christy) Painter of Liberty; daughters, Susie (Rick) Maurer of Winfield and Brenda (Clemens) Elkins of Buffalo; son, Kevin Bailey of Leon; sister, Susie (Fred) Thomas of Columbus OH; brother, Jimmy (Linda) Bailey of Logan OH; grandchildren, Aaron Painter, Kasey Null, Amber Richardson, Wesley Donahoe and Rachel Gallagher; great grandchildren, Harlee, Sophie, Bailey, Greyson, Luke, Maddie, Jacey, Noah, Emmie and Amelia. Sam is also survived by several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Raynes Funeral Home, Eleanor, with Rev. Randy Parsons officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Given. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home in Eleanor.

Wanda Mae Chapman
Wanda Mae Chapman, 78, of Fraziers Bottom, passed away on December 26, 2025 at Genesis Putnam Center in Hurricane.
She was born to the late Leonard and Goldie Setliff Chapman on September 30, 1947. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her sisters: Edith Bush and Sharon “Shug” Lykins; brother: Terry Chapman; and niece, Melissa Dawn Harrah.
Wanda retired from Putnam County Board of Education, where she worked as a custodian.
Wanda is survived by her only daughter, Renee (Timmy) Chapman; brother, Edward “Buddy” (Gayle) Chapman; special niece/granddaughter, Valerie Harrah; and special Nephew, Jeff Lykins; sister in-law, Linda Chapman; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral service for Wanda was Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane, with Pastor Butch Cooper officiating. Burial was in Staten Chapel Cemetery, Milton.

Lester Combs
Lester Combs, 69, of Hurricane, passed away on December 15, 2025 at home.
He was born to the late Denton Combs and Elizabeth Lawson Young on Sept. 26, 1956, in Dayton, OH. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his grandparents and brothers: Jerry and Roy.
Lester was raised in Ohio Soldiers and Sailors Home in Xenia, OH, then he honorably served in the Army where he served as an Intelligence Analyst. He later moved to Columbus, OH and while there he was employed by Yenkin Majestic Paint Company as a Resin Maker and of course enjoyed rooting for his The Ohio State Football team. In 2008, he married Donna and moved to Hurricane where he lived out his days playing with his dogs watching sports, fishing and helping raise Taylor and Shannon, then becoming “Pop” to Axten and Oliver.
He is survived by Donna, Taylor, Shannon, Jarrad, Axten and Ollie; as well as his brothers: Sonny and Otis; and his sister, Bobbi, as well as other family members and friends.
Funeral service for Lester was Monday, December 22, 2025 at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane. Burial was in Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery Dunbar.

Teresa Maria Crump
Teresa Maria Crump, 70, of Hurricane, peacefully went Home to Heaven on December 15, 2025 at Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston, surrounded by her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents: Keith and Peggy Chandler.
Teresa’s faith and walk with her Lord and Savior was the most important thing in her life along with her family. Her walk with Jesus carried her throughout her life. Through the years she was a nanny for many families whose children became like her own. Outside of being a nanny, she loved going on cruises, thrifting at goodwill, late nights eating at The Waffle House, peacocks, sunflowers, laughing and dancing to music. Her joy and laughter radiated every room she entered. She was so incredibly proud of her children, grandchildren and the family she had created. She was a member of Teays Valley Church of the Nazarene, where she felt at home and found great joy in the relationships formed. She dearly loved her group of ladies, “The Divas”.
She is survived by her children: Jeremy (Bekah) Crouch of Red House, Mike (Alisha) Crouch of Culloden, Jesse (RuthAnna) Crouch of Winfield, Sarah (Jay) Dunlap of Hurricane, and Mary (Ron) Isabell of Charlotte NC. Her 16 grandchildren: Haleigh, Jonathan, Emma, Abagail, Hannah, Leah, Peyton, Jonah, Ezra, Micah, Jude, Caylan, Carly, Braylan, Amiya, Jaiden; and a great grandson, River. Her siblings: Patty (Roger) Wood, Kathy (Jackie) Johnston, and Bill (Patti) Bird, as well as many nieces, nephews, and additional family members.
A Celebration of Teresa’s Life will be 2:00pm on Friday, January 2nd, 2026, at Teays Valley Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Charles V. Williams officiating.

David Walter Deyerle
David Walter Deyerle, 64, of Winfield, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, at home with his loving wife by his side.
David was a graduate of Charleston Catholic High School, West Virginia State College, and the University of Charleston. He retired after many years of dedicated service as a Disability Determination Examiner with the Social Security Administration.
David had a thoughtful and gentle spirit. He enjoyed collecting stamps, watching science-fiction movies, and spending time with his beloved dogs. One of the most cherished stories of his life began in 1992, when he traveled to China to marry his pen-pal sweetheart after the two had exchanged more than 500 love letters—an enduring testament to their devotion and love.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Rosemary Deyerle.
David is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Lan Deyerle; his father- and mother-in-law, Yong and Ping Du; sister Martha (Mike) Gingerich; brother Richard Deyerle; nephew Alex Gingerich; and niece Jessica Shelton.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services.

Charles William Davis
With heavy hearts and grateful smiles, we remember Charles William “Chuck” Davis, who passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 unexpectedly, leaving behind a lifetime of laughter, stories, and unforgettable memories.
,Known for his quick wit and contagious sense of humor, Chuck could make friends anywhere he went—and often did. He had a deep love for the open road on his bike and found true peace on the water, whether boating with family, friends, or simply enjoying the quiet rhythm of the waves. Adventure wasn’t just a hobby for him; it was a way of life.
,Above all else, Chuck was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. His family was his greatest joy, and he showed his love through steady support, playful teasing, and being present for the moments that mattered most, big and small. He taught those around him how to live fully, laugh often, and never take life too seriously.
A loyal friend to many, Chuck leaves behind a circle of people who were better for knowing him. His stories will continue to be told, his laughter remembered, and his legacy carried on by those who loved him most.
Chuck is survived by spouse, Kimberly Dawn Davis; daughter, Sarah Davis-Bird (Randy); grandchildren: Easton Bird and Carter Bird; step-daughter, Brittany Guthrie (Brett); grandchild, Kruz Farley; step-son, Joshua Boyce (Kayla); sister, Berdina Gail Davis (Steve); nephew, Adam Day; stepmother, Sondra Davis; step-brother, Bob Shamblin; nephew, Bob Shamblin Jr.; as well as many dear friends and family members.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Robertson-Davis; father, Bill Davis; brother, Stuart John Davis.
A Celebration of Chuck’s Life will be scheduled at a later date.

Ronnie Duncan
Ronnie Lee Duncan, 69, of Hurricane, passed away on December 27, 2025 at Teays Valley Hospital with his family by his side. He was born in Putnam County on October 10, 1956, and was the son of the late Norman Randell Duncan and Dorthy Jean Duncan.
He was also preceded in death by his sister Cathreine Tucker and brother Charles Duncan.
After graduating in 1974 from Hurricane High School, he joined the Navy Seabees with a combined total of 24 years of active duty and reserves. He retired from Mountaineer Gas Company after 28 years of service.
He had a high level of integrity and was well liked by everyone, mostly due to his sense of humor and jokes.
He was a Christian and attended Valley View Church, he loved the Lord, his family, friends and his country.
Ronnie is survived by his wife and the love of his life of 47 years, Hazel Marie; two sons, Jason Duncan of Grove City Ohio and Wesley Duncan of Hurricane, his precious grandchildren, Avery, Emmy, Wyatt, and Elliot Duncan. He also leaves behind his siblings, Norma Jean (David) Taylor Sharon Armstead, Carolyn Mynes, and Calvin (Teresa) Duncan.
Funeral service was Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Allen Funeral Home with Rev. Jason McComas and Rev. Jay Ross officiating. Burial was in Valley View Memorial Park with Honor Guard service provided by Winfield American Legion Post 187.

Jay Allen Matthews
Jay Allen Matthews 67, of Scott Depot, passed away on December 22, 2025.
He was born on April 23, 1958 to the late Troy and Glyda Mae Matthews in Charleston.
Jay was a retired truck driver with Slay Transportation and loved spending time with his family.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joan; daughter, Erin Franklin (Joseph) of Charleston; step-children: James Black of Scott Depot, and Missy Orrick (Richie) of Wales, UK; grandchildren: Britton and Bella Orrick of Wales, UK; sister, Linda Cruickshank (Bill) of Sissonville; brother, Dennis Matthews of Jacksonville, NC; and several nieces, nephews and friends.
A Celebration of Life for Jay will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane.

David Bennie Maxwell
David (Bennie) Maxwell 71, of Winfield, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Huntington.
He was born on June 27, 1954, to the late Davey Lee and Adalene Maxwell. In addition to his parents, David was also preceded in death by his daughter, Leslie Dawn Meadows; sisters: Carolyn Maxwell, Eunice Maxwell; brother, Boyd; former wife and mother of his children, Elva Terry; nephews: Everett Lewis and Billy Briscoe; and brother-in-law, Dale Lewis.
Bennie was a retired Heavy Equipment Operator with South Putnam PSD. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren.
He is survived by his children: David Lee Meadows of Scott Depot, WV, and Amber Lynn Catlin (Kyle) of Winfield, WV; grandchildren: Leslie Bishop (Bobby) of Point Pleasant and Jerry Catlin of Winfield; sisters: Shirley Lewis, Lawanda Donald (Eddie), Sharon McCormick, Ladonna Briscoe (Richard), Jane Amory (Ned) all of Hurricane; brother, Robert Maxwell of Eleanor; and a great grandson on the way.
Funeral service for Bennie wias Friday, December 26, 2025, at Chapman Funeral Home, Hurricane. Burial was in Leadmon Cemetery, Winfield.

Dorothy McAllister
Dorothy Lee “Dottie” McAllister, 89, of Poca, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, in the Hubbard Hospice House.
Dottie was the second daughter of the late Jake and Louise Lanham. She was a graduate of Poca High School and was a former co-owner of Western World in St. Albans. Dottie was also a former employee of Walker’s Flower Basket and spent many years devoted to caring for others as a caregiver. She was a faithful member of Nitro Nazarene Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Lanham, and her sister, Phyllis Jean Walker.
She is survived by her two sons, Duane (Debbie) Walker and Randall (Doug Smith) Walker; three grandchildren, Shawnna (Tammy Poole) Walker, Crista Cole, and Bron (Stacie) Walker; and five great-grandchildren, Jacob, Ethan, Maylee, Walker, and Josiah.
A tribute to the life of Dottie was held Friday, December 19, 2025, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastors Bron Walker and Jim Cash officiating. Burial was in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans.

William Frank Persinger
William Frank Persinger, age 71, of Hurricane, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, after a sudden illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Frank and Norma JoAnn Persinger, and his sister, Darla Reynolds
William was employed by Kirby Inland Marine at Institute and was a graduate of Hurricane High School.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Cathy, and his sons: Jason Persinger, Jayme Persinger, Justin Persinger, and bonus son Hunter Persinger. mother-in-law, Laura Brown, special brothers: Roger Harless, Bill Brown, and Gary Brown. He is also remembered by his special aunt, Roberta Oxley of Point Pleasant, William leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of twin great-grandchildren.
Funeral service was Friday, December 26, 2025, at Allen Funeral Home, with Rev. Mark Hesson officiating. Burial was in Valley View Memorial Park, Hurricane.

Jerry Lee Priddy
Jerry Lee Priddy, 78, of Scott Depot, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025.
Jerry retired from Laborers Local #1353 after many years of dedicated service. In his free time, he enjoyed antique cars and took pride in their history and craftsmanship.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Myrtle Priddy.
Jerry is survived by his son, Jerry Lee (Kendra) Priddy; daughter, Trisha Loring; brothers, Frank and Larry Priddy; and two grandsons, Austin and Josh Priddy.
Entombment was at Haven of Rest Memory Gardens, Red House.

Delores Sigmon
Delores Mae Sigmon, age 76, of Hurricane, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025. Delores was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose kindness and spirited humor touched everyone around her. She is now reunited in eternal peace with her beloved husband, Paul Ray Sigmon, and her son, Paul Ray Sigmon Jr.
Delores leaves behind her devoted sister, Evie Whiteley; her daughters, Paula Maynard (with husband Albert) and Pamela Douglas; her cherished grandchildren, Will Maynard, Casey Maynard, Kayla Drew, and Douglas Sigmon; and a legacy of great-grandchildren. Her laughter and playful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Funeral service was Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Allen Funeral Home, with Rev. Mark Hesson officiating. Burial was in Mt. Moriah/Sigmon Cemetery.

Nicholas L. Sticklen
Nicholas Lynn “Nick” Sticklen, 70, of Winfield, passed away at home on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Nick was a graduate of George Washington High School and retired from Appalachian Tire after many years of dedicated service. He was a proud member of the Kanawha River Navy and truly enjoyed spending time on the water boating, which brought him great joy and peace.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Janet Sticklen, and his son, Casey Drake.
Nick is survived by his loving wife, Carol Harmon Sticklen; two daughters, Christina (Jason) Johns and Krista (Teddy) Lambert; brother, Scott (Debi) Sticklen; five grandchildren, Haley (Cody) Wilson, Hunter (Mackinzie) Wagner, Mason (Taylor) Johns, Raegan Lambert, and Ashton Lambert; two great-grandsons, Roran and Owen; and two great-grandchildren, Cason and Elena, expected soon.
A tribute to the life of Nick was held Monday, December 22, 2025, at Gatens-Harding Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Delbert Hawley officiating.

Malcolm Wood
Malcolm Ray Wood, 76, of Hurricane, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Emogene Dolan Jones Hospice House. A proud graduate of Hurricane High School, Malcolm dedicated his career to Pipefitter, Welder, and Plumber’s Local 521 before retiring. He was a Christian and a member of Elizabeth Baptist Missionary Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Arvil Wellington Wood and Betty Jane McCallister Wood. Malcolm is survived by his loving wife, Vickie Lynn Mount Wood; siblings, James C Wood (Deborah) and Linda J Wood Bird (Anthony); mother-in-law, Barbara Mount; sisters-in-law, Regina Arbogast and Amy Pinson (Bill); nephews, Rodney Midkiff (Nikki), Adam Holland, Christian Holland, Luke Wood (Crystal), Mark Wood (Beth), Benjamin Bird (Tammy); nieces, E. Suzanne Burton (Michael), Sarah Barnett (Jason); his special Shih Tzu fur baby, Teddy Bear; and a host of other nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Funeral service was Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Allen Funeral Home, with Minister Dolin Garrett officiating. Burial was in Mt. Moriah Cemetery.

Naomi Lee Yost
Naomi Lee Yost, 78, of Winfield, passed away Friday, December 19, 2025 at her home. She was a 1965 graduate of Parkersburg High School, and worked as a Teacher’s Aide for many years in the Jackson County school system. She volunteered her time for several years prior becoming a full-time employee. Naomi was a Christian and member of the Marlaing Church of Christ, St. Albans. Her joy in life was to care for others, and she helped teach many kids to read over the years. She enjoyed driving and loved to travel, and was always up for a Diet Coke. She loved her family and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
Born February 27, 1947, in Parkersburg, she was the daughter of the late Clayton L. Allman and Juanita L. Sams Allman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Carolyn Doyle.
Survivors include her loving husband of 60 years, William A. Yost; her children, Narcissa (Ron) Summerfield of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Melissa (Patrick) Haynes of Sandyville, and William C. (Lynn) Yost of Buffalo; seven grandchildren, and a number of great-grandchildren; brother, David Allman of Vienna; and sister, Virginia Gorrell of Little Hocking, Ohio.
Funeral service was Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Raynes Funeral Home, Eleanor, with Brother David Rich officiating. Burial was in Creston Cemetery, Leon.

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