The Elkins Intermountain, 7 January 2008

Cathy L. Crites

Cathy Lavon (Jenkins) Crites, 37, of Petersburg, died Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, in Ruby Memorial Hospital.

Family will receive friends today from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Schaeffer Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Rig Assembly of God Church with Pastor Brad Taylor officiating. Interment will be in Olivet Cemetery at Moorefield. Schaeffer Funeral Home service.  From 7 Jan 2008.

Edward Simmons

Edward “Clell” Simmons Sr., 85, a resident of Parsons, departed this life Sunday morning Jan. 6, 2008, in Cortland Acres Nursing Home at Thomas. He had been in declining health.

He was born Friday, June 9, 1922, at Bretz, Tucker County, a son of the late Edward Lee Simmons and Anna Dorothea Stevens Simmons.

On Oct. 4, 1946, at Red House, Md., he was married to the former Helen Eugenia Kepner, who survives. They had celebrated 61 years of marriage

Also surviving are four sons, Edward “Clell” Simmons Jr. and wife, Cheri, of Jacksonville, Fla., Preston Lee Simmons and wife, Kelly, of Parsons, Gregory Scott Simmons and wife, Randy, of York, Pa., and William Robert Simmons and wife, Sherry, of Bretz, six daughters, Gale Ann Kuhn and husband, David, of Acworth, Ga., Barbara Elaine Nestor and husband, David, of Lexington, Ky., Janet Marie Denison and husband, Lawrence, of Parsons, G. Yvonne Williams and husband, Joe, of Fort Pierce, Fla., Debra Lorraine Fansler and husband, Phil, of Parsons, and Teresa Kaye Simmons of Parsons; two brothers, Herbert Simmons of Elkins and Wallace D. Simmons and wife, Mildred, of Richmond, Va., one sister; Catherine Bellows of West Denise, Mass.; 16 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.  

Preceding him in death was one infant sister, Gloria Simmons.

He was a graduate of Parsons High School with the class of 1941. Following graduation, he moved to Baltimore, Md., and worked in the defense plant. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving in the South Pacific. He attended the Refrigeration School at Chicago, Ill. He was a former construction worker, having helped build the flood control in Elkins. He was a former beer truck driver for the late Bus Morman, and he had worked as a mechanic and salesman at the Ford dealerships in Parsons and Elkins for 39 years, retiring June 30, 1988. Clell was an avid sports fan, and he loved to hunt. He was a Baptist by faith.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Parsons. Final rites will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 9, at the funeral home parlor. Pastor Allen D. Crosten will officiate and interment will follow in Parsons City Cemetery at Parsons, where the H.W. Daniels Post 29 American Legion and the Tygart Valley Post 3647 Veterans of Foreign War will conduct full military rites. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Edward “Clell” Simmons Sr. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 7 Jan 2008.

Junior L. Ward

Junior L. Ward, 85, a resident of Serenity Care of Buckhannon, died Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008, in Serenity Care.

He was born Aug. 4, 1922, at Hemlock, the son of the late Francis Ward and Evelina Leigh Ward.

Surviving are three sons, Gary Ward and wife, Sharri, of Gilbert, Ariz., Richard Ward and wife, Marsha, of Largo, Fla., and Ronald Ward and wife, Sharon, of Mentor, Ohio; one grandson, Jason Ward of Largo, Fla.; and one granddaughter, Hillary Ward of Mentor, Ohio.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Carl Ward.

He was an inspector for TRW and attended Good Hope Tabernacle. Mr. Ward proudly served his country in the Marine Corps during World War II.

Friends will be received from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, in Good Hope Tabernacle with Pastor Holly J. Hoover officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Olive Church Cemetery at Hemlock. Buckhannon Veterans of Foreign Wars 3663, Frank B. Bartlett Post 7 American Legion and Disabled American Veterans Chapters 5 and 36 will conduct military honors at the graveside. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.  From 7 Jan 2008.

Leafy M. Bohon

Leafy Mildred White Bohon, 92, a former resident of Elkins and more recently a resident of the Heritage at Bridgeport, departed this life late Friday evening, Jan. 4, 2008, at the Heritage.

She was born Friday, Jan. 15, 1915, at Elkins, a daughter of the late Talman White and Grace Lena Barkley White. On Jan. 7, 1932, she was married to Davis H. Bohon, who preceded her in death Jan. 24, 1995.

Surviving are one son, Wayne Davis Bohon of Bridgeport; one daughter, Nancy J. Reppart and husband, Don, of North Canton, Ohio; one sister, Pearl Curtis-Curkendall of Philippi; one brother, Ronald White and wife, Margaret, of Bemis; nine grandchildren, James Embick, Michael Embick, Debbie Chapman, Cindy Casten, Joni Green, Sarah Jones, Doug Reppart, Darrell Reppart and Susan Duando; 22 great-grandchildren; and one great-great- grandchild.

Preceding her in death were one daughter, Carolyn Embick; three brothers, Bill, Woodrow and Claude White; one sister, Pauline Shillingburg; one grandson, Steven Embick; one daughter-in-law, Norma Williams-Bohon; three sisters-in-law, Martha, Alberta and Beverly White; and one brother-in-law, Ernie Shillingburg.

Leafy was a long time member of Otterbein United Methodist Church at Elkins. She loved to sew and crochet, making many quilts and articles of clothing for friends and family and reading the Bible with her husband, Dave, and babying him. She was a loving wife and mother who liked feeding her family and giving them advice whether they asked for it or not.

The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. today. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home chapel Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 1 p.m. The Rev. Michael Richards will officiate and interment will follow in Elkins Memorial Gardens, formerly the IOOF Cemetery, at Elkins. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Leafy Mildred White Bohon. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com  From 7 Jan 2008.

Lela M. Ware

Lela Mae Lower Ware, 92, a life-long resident of Elkins, passed away Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, in Elkins Regional Convalescent Center.

She was born Sept. 22, 1915, at Elkins, a daughter of the late William Henry Lower and the late Charity Belle Hanifan Lower.

On Dec. 20, 1934, at Elkins, she was married to Coleman Isaac Ware, who preceded her in death on Oct. 16, 1994. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. George (Erma) Robinson of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Mrs. Berdenia Hoffman of Elkins and Mrs. Buddy (Louise) Vanscoy of Martinez, Ga. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, George “Rob” Robinson II, Debra Beal, Rebecca Hammer, Robert “Brownie” Hoffman, Bryan Hoffman, Regina Woodcock, Pamela, Ronald and Scott Vanscoy and Demi Fair; 10 great-grandchildren, A’Ja Shriver, Chrissy Jo Robinson, Jessica and Derrick Hoffman, Brant Hammer, Baylie and Allison Hoffman, Keyder Woodcock, Joseph Fair and Melissa Vanscoy; two stepgrandchildren, Robin Poling and Toby William; and one great-great-grandchild.

Mrs. Ware was the last surviving member of her immediate family and was preceded in death by a daughter, Shirley Menear; son-in-law, Robert Hoffman; a grandson, David Hoffman; three sisters, Nellie Hoffman, Bertha Simmons and Alma Lower; and four brothers, Edward, Fred, Burley and John Lower.

Mrs. Ware attended the schools of Randolph County and graduated from Beverly High School. She was employed by Dutch Oven Bakery as a cake froster/decorator prior to her retirement. She was a Protestant by faith.

Friends called Sunday at Tomblyn Funeral Home in Elkins. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. today from the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Dr. Basil A. Hensley officiating. Interment will follow in Mountain State Memorial Gardens near Gilman. Memorial contributions may be made to the Elkins Regional Convalescent Center, 1175 Beverly Pike, Elkins, W.Va. 26241 in memory of Mrs. Ware. Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for Lela Mae Lower Ware. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com.  From 7 Jan 2008.

Mary L. Thorpe

Mary Louise Rexroad Young Thorpe, 83, of Buckhannon, passed away at 11:55 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, in United Hospital Center in Clarksburg.

She was born Dec. 7, 1924, at Camden on Gauley in Webster County, a daughter of the late Nathan and Lela Morton Rexroad.

On July 20, 1947, she was united in marriage to Richard L. “Dick” Young, who preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by Dewey W. Thorpe; two grandchildren, Edythe Ann Livesay and Leslie Young. In addition, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Esther Davisson and June Foehr; and five brothers, John M., Nathan Junior, Vorley Michael, Max W. “Pete” Rexroad and William Dennis Rexroad.

She is survived by two daughters and one son, Ann Louise Young Livesay and husband, Mike, of Buckhannon and two loving grandchildren, Michael and Amy; Marian Lee Young of New York City, N.Y., and Richard Lee Young II of Buckhannon and two loving grandchildren, Richard Lee Young III and Colin Young. A sister, Doris Berry of Mogadore, Ohio; and a special cousin, Marian Marston of Corvallis, Ore., also survive. Her very special lifelong friend, Bettie Jean Williams Winder survives at Ormond Beach, Fla.

She attended Cowan High School where she was a majorette. In 1942, her family moved to Buckhannon. She was a graduate of Buckhannon-Upshur High School with the class of 1943. She attended West Virginia Wesleyan College where she was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in music education. She was a member of Wesleyan Emeritus Club. During her lifetime business experience, she was co-owner and operated Dick Young’s Dairy Bar and Dick Young’s Restaurant. During the war, she worked for C&P Telephone Co. in Buckhannon, Pt. Pleasant and West Palm Beach, Fla. In Buckhannon, she worked for Dr. Young and Dr. Courtney and at Miller’s Pharmacy as well as being an accountant at the Division of Highways headquarters at the Equipment Division. She also worked at The Appliance and Furniture Mart. Being community minded, during the 1960s, she helped the West Virginia Strawberry Festival as an advisor to the queen’s court, worked with the United Way, was a member of the West Virginia Republican State Executive Committee and was selected as the Upshur County Republican of the Year in 1996-1997. She was a founder and president of the Ladies of the Elks and belonged to the Women of the Moose. She also worked as an assistant for Delegate Dale Riggs. She joined Chapter 18 Order of the Eastern Star in 1945 and was a 64-year member receiving her 50-year pin in 1994. She was elected to and served on Buckhannon City Council from 1996 to 2000.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home with an Order of the Eastern Star service at 8:30 p.m. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Billee Scott Mick and the Rev. Dr. Charles Godwin officiating. Burial will follow in Heavner Cemetery. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.  From 7 Jan 2008.

Maxine Platt

Maxine Platt, 82, died Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008, in Huntsville Hospital, Huntsville, Ala.

She was born in Toronto, Ohio, the daughter of the late Charles and Virginia Johnson of Follansbee.

She graduated from Follansbee High School. In recent years, Maxine resided both in Madison, Ala., and Parkersburg.

Maxine was a 50-year member of the Eastern Stars. She enjoyed playing cards and visiting with friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Clarence “Chub” Platt; son, Donald Platt; sisters, Evelyn McCracken and Beverly Pertko; and brother, William Johnson.

She is survived by two daughters, Patty Maloney and husband, Pete, of Madison, Ala., and Beverly Campbell and husband, Mike, of Parkersburg; seven grandchildren, Melissa McClure and Jennifer Roberts, both of Elkins, Michelle Pennington of Morgantown, Robert Maloney of Hoboken, N.J., Cynthia Wester of Madison, Ala., Alex Campbell of Virginia Beach, Va., and Evan Campbell of Parkersburg; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received at Heavner & Cutright Funeral Chapel Wednesday, Jan. 9, from 11 a.m. to noon, the funeral hour. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Heavner and Cutright Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.  From 7 Jan 2008.

Pauline O'Kernick

Pauline M. “Polly” O’Kernick, 97, a resident of Wilson Lane, Elkins, departed this life Sunday evening, Jan. 6, 2008, at her home.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are under the direction of Lohr & Barb Funeral Home for Pauline M. “Polly” O’Kernick. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 7 Jan 2008.

William A. Helmick

William Ashley Helmick, 75, a resident of Parsons and more recently a resident of Good Samaritan Nursing Home, departed this life Friday afternoon, Jan. 4, 2008, at Davis Memorial Hospital at Elkins.

The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Parsons today from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home parlor on Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 2 p.m. Pastor Pat Cassidy will officiate and interment will follow in Sunrise Cemetery at Hambleton. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for William Ashley Helmick. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com  From 7 Jan 2008.

The Elkins Intermountain, 8 January 2008

Edward Simmons

Edward “Clell” Simmons Sr., 85, a resident of Parsons, departed this life Sunday morning Jan. 6, 2008, in Cortland Acres Nursing Home at Thomas. He had been in declining health.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Parsons. Final rites will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 9, at the funeral home parlor. Pastor Allen D. Crosten will officiate and interment will follow in Parsons City Cemetery at Parsons, where the H.W. Daniels Post 29 American Legion and the Tygart Valley Post 3647 Veterans of Foreign War will conduct full military rites. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Edward “Clell” Simmons Sr. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.   From 8 Jan 2008.

Michael L. Reed

Michael L. Reed went to be with the Lord on Dec. 31, 2007.

A memorial service for family and friends will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at New Life Tabernacle in Buckhannon.   From 8 Jan 2008.

Pauline O'Kernick

Pauline M. “Polly” O’Kernick, 96, a resident of Wilson Lane, Elkins, departed this life Sunday evening, Jan. 6, 2008, at her home.

She was born Thursday, March 23, 1911, at Thomas, a daughter of the late Frank O’Kernick and Franceska Kordan O’Kernick, both of whom had immigrated from Slovenia.

She is survived by one brother, Fred O’Kernick; and one sister, Anna Louise O’Kernick, both of Elkins; seven nephews, William, Robert, and Joseph O’Kernick, all of West Virginia, Steven O’Kernick of Massachusetts, Gregory, Douglas, and Kevin, all of Ohio; and two nieces, Mary B. Hefner of Maryland and Sue Totten of Ohio. Preceding her in death besides her parents were four brothers, Frenk, Frank Jr., Rudy and Joseph O’Kernick; one sister, Mary F. O’Kernick; one nephew, James J. Godwin; and one niece, Frances Rae Hoffman.

Pauline was raised in Coalton and came to attend Elkins High School where she graduated in the early 1930s. While taking business classes at Davis & Elkins College, she held three jobs simultaneously. During World War II, she operated the Rhythm Club for high school and college students, and she assisted with the USO Club where soldiers based in Elkins on maneuvers had a chance to dance and meet local people.

Pauline was the first woman in West Virginia to hold a small business license, and in 1946, she and a few Elkins businessmen opened the Fidelity Finance Co., of which she later became the sole owner. In 1953, she expanded her loan business into Barbour County, and she trained her sister, Mary Godwin, to manage the Philippi Loan Co., which she eventually sold to Welfare Finance Co. In 1956, she opened the Pocahontas Loan Co. in Marlinton which her sister, Mary, managed until her death in 1973. Shortly thereafter, Pauline sold the business to the American Finance Co.

Pauline was the first woman in West Virginia to be elected as an officer in the Consumer Finance Association, and while serving as secretary of the organization; she traveled throughout the United States to many Consumer Finance Conventions. She was also interested in government and attended many political gatherings where she met Presidents Truman, Kennedy, Johnson and Reagan. She had dined with President John F. Kennedy and the First Lady, was invited to a luncheon at the White House by Lady Bird Johnson, and was in a group photo with President Lyndon B. Johnson, which appeared on the front of PARADE Magazine. While attending the National Consumer Finance Convention in Los Angeles, Calif., the keynote speaker was the president of the Screen Actor’s Guild, Ronald Reagan. Pauline was so impressed with his speech, she told him that he should run for president of the United States. She was glad that he took her advice and became the 40th president of the United States.

Pauline was active in the American Cancer Society for more than 50 years and was elected treasurer of the Randolph County Unit, an office she held for many years.

She served on the advisory board for Beta Alpha Business Fraternity at Davis & Elkins College, from which she had received many awards. She belonged to the Business and Professional Women’s Club, and in 1997, received the “Woman of the Year” award. She was also active in the Woman’s Club of Elkins and the Emma Scott Garden Club, and she was a member of Saint Brendan Catholic Church at Elkins. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends. The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. On Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the funeral home a wake service will be recited by the Very Rev. Donald X. Higgs VF and Sister Teresa Reddington. On Thursday morning, Jan. 10, Ms. O’Kernick will be moved to Saint Brendan Catholic Church where the Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. The Very Rev. Donald X. Higgs VF will be the Presider and interment will follow in Saint Brendan Cemetery at Elkins. The family suggests that expressions of sympathy be in the form of memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society in care of Jennifer Bennett, 47 Turkey Run Road, Buckhannon, W.Va. 26201. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Pauline M. “Polly” O’Kernick. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 8 Jan 2008.

The Elkins Intermountain, 9 January 2008

Antoinette M. Gum

Antoinette “Ann” Marie Gum of 7776 Church St., Middletown Va., passed away Jan. 7, 2008, at Blue Ridge Hospice Residential in Winchester, Va.

She was the daughter of Dominick and Cecelia Piretti Nucilli, who are both deceased.

She was married to Harry Brennan Gum, who passed away June 3, 1981.

Mrs. Gum retired from Aileen Inc. and Automotive Industries of Strasburg Va.

Surviving are two daughters, Vickie Gum Norman and her husband, James L. Norman, of Winchester, Va., and Donna Maria Gum and her companion, Ron Gray, of Middletown,Va.; two grandchildren, Nicole Ann Norman and Phillip John Ashley; one great-grandson, Jon Harrison Ross; and two brothers, Carl Nucilli of Homestead, Fla., and Joseph Nucilli of Elkins.

One brother, Michael Nucilli, is deceased.

Gravesite rites will be Thursday, Jan. 10, at 2 p.m, at the Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Middletown, Va. Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W. Cork St., Winchester, Va. 22601  From 9 Jan 2008.

Larry A. Kisamore

Larry Alan Kisamore, 51, of Onego, died Jan. 7, 2008, in Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg.

He was born Aug. 23, 1956, at Petersburg, a son of the late William Carl Kisamore and Reva Ann Raines Kisamore of Riverton.

On Dec. 12, 1980, he was married to Peggy Lynn Hall Kisamore, who survives.

Also surviving are two daughters, Melissa Dee Mongold and Loretha Ann Stump, both of Cabins; two sons, Larry Shane Kisamore of Onego and Jeremy Alan Kisamore of Riverton; eight grandchildren; and one brother, Timothy Kisamore of Onego.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by one brother, William Carl Kisamore Jr.

He was a 1974 graduate of Circleville High School and a 30-year employee of Sherman Trucking in Rig.

Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Basagic Funeral Home in Petersburg. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 11, in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Earl Bible officiating. Interment will follow in U.G. Mallow Cemetery at Riverton. Memorials may be made to family in care of Peggy Lynn Kisamore, HC 81, Box 132, Onego, W.Va. 26886. Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin is in charge of the arrangements.  From 9 Jan 2008.

Lena M. Bennett

Lena Margaret “Tiny” Bennett, 77, a resident of Elkins, departed this life early Tuesday morning, Jan. 8, 2008, at the Davis Memorial Hospital Emergency Department. She had been in declining health, however, death was unexpected.

She was born Tuesday, July 22, 1930, at Elkins, a daughter of the late Eva Roy Pennington.

She is survived by Herbert Bennett of Elkins; one son, Richard Lee Bennett and wife, Betty Jo, of Elkins; one sister, Shirley Shaffer of Elkins; four granddaughters, Kristie Ann Skidmore and husband, Brian, of Elkins, Betsy Lynn Minear and husband, David, of Moon Township, Pa., Debra Bennett of Lacy, Wash., and Delaina “Joy” Ramirez and husband, Enrique, of Annapolis, Md.; and two grandsons, Norman Bennett of California and Christopher Bennett and wife, Rose, of Lacy, Wash.

She was preceded in death by one son, Charles J. Bennett; and two brothers, Danny and Tommy.

She attended the schools of Randolph County, worked at the Davis Memorial Hospital for many years, the Elkins-Randolph County Senior Center, and retired in 1996 from Nella’s Inc. She loved camping, hiking and was an avid fan of the Elkins Speedway.

The family will receive friends at the Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home chapel on Saturday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m. The Rev. Terry A. Burgess will officiate and interment will follow at the Mountain State Memorial Gardens at Gilman. The Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Lena Margaret “Tiny” Bennett. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 9 Jan 2008.

Martha Smith

Martha Smith, 84, a resident of Seneca Road, Elkins, passed away at 1:15 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008, in Ruby Memorial Hospital at Morgantown.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are under the direction of Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins for Martha Smith. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com. From 9 Jan 2008.

Pauline O'Kernick

Pauline M. “Polly” O’Kernick, 96, a resident of Wilson Lane, Elkins, departed this life Sunday evening, Jan. 6, 2008, at her home.

The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today. At 7 p.m. at the funeral home, a wake service will be recited by the Very Rev. Donald X. Higgs, VF, and Sister Teresa Reddington. On Thursday morning, Jan. 10, Ms. O’Kernick will be moved to Saint Brendan Catholic Church where the Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. The Very Rev. Donald X. Higgs, VF, will be the Presider and interment will follow in Saint Brendan Cemetery at Elkins. The family suggests that expressions of sympathy be in the form of memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society in care of Jennifer Bennett, 47 Turkey Run Road, Buckhannon, W.Va. 26201. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Pauline M. “Polly” O’Kernick. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 9 Jan 2008.

Virginia R. Pringle

Virginia Ruth Pringle, 92, of Buckhannon, died Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008, in Crestview Manor.

She was born Dec. 31, 1915, in Upshur County, a daughter of the late Edwin Isaac and Mary Julia Crouch Hyre.

Surviving are three children, Norma Elmer of French Creek, Mildred Booth of Buckhannon and Darrell Pringle of French Creek; 11 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Eleanor Mullins of Arizona; and a brother, Herbert F. Hyre of French Creek.

She was preceded in death by a son, Robert Casto; and six brothers.

She was a homemaker.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. today at Rock Cave Cemetery with Pastor David Jessie officiating. Tomblyn Whitescarver Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements for Virginia Ruth Pringle.  From 9 Jan 2008.

The Elkins Intermountain, 10 January 2008

Don A. White

Don Allen White, 69, a resident of Summer Street, Elkins, departed this life early Thursday morning, Jan. 10, 2008, at his home.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are under the direction of Lohr & Barb Funeral Home for Don Allen White. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 10 Jan 2008.

Geneva S. Wilfong

Mrs. Geneva Swadley Wilfong, 83, of Brandywine, died Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2008, in Rockingham Memorial Hospital in Harrisonburg, Va.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Cedar Grove Church of the Brethren at Brandywine with the Rev. Harold Cullers and Patrick Godfrey officiating. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Church Cemetery at Sugar Grove. The family will receive friends from 6: p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Kimble Funeral Home in Franklin.  From 10 Jan 2008.

Glenn H. Smith

Glenn H. Smith, 81, of Lumberport, died at 5:19 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008, at his residence.

He was born Nov. 2, 1926, at Job, a son of the late French and Cora Flanigan Smith.

In June of 1972, he married Lora “Maggie” Smith, who preceded him in death on Dec. 3, 2005.

He is survived by one son, Robert “Bob” Smith and his wife, Sue, of Charlotte, N.C.; two daughters, Judy Inscore and her husband, Earl, of Tunnelton and Bonnie Jean Cain of Clarksville, Tenn.; one granddaughter, Kimberly Letourneau and her husband, Darrell, of Charlotte, N.C.; six other grandchildren; one great-grandson, Sloan Letourneau; one brother, Neal Smith of Newton Falls, Ohio; and one sister, Mary Harper of Warren, Ohio.

In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Smith was preceded in death by three brothers and four sisters.

He retired from Harrison County Board of Education and was a member of Ten Mile Baptist Church.

Friends may call at Perine Funeral Home, Route 19, South, Shinnston from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today where funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 11, with Pastor Jeff Perine officiating. Interment will be in the Lions Club Cemetery at Lumberport. Perine Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith family.  From 10 Jan 2008.

Lena M. Bennett

Lena Margaret “Tiny” Bennett, 77, a resident of Elkins, departed this life early Tuesday morning, Jan. 8, 2008, in Davis Memorial Hospital emergency department. She had been in declining health, however, death was unexpected.

She was born Tuesday, July 22, 1930, at Elkins, a daughter of the late Eva Roy Pennington.

She is survived by Herbert Bennett of Elkins; one son, Richard Lee Bennett and, wife, Betty Jo, of Elkins; one sister, Shirley Shaffer of Elkins; four granddaughters, Kristie Ann Skidmore and husband, Brian, of Elkins, Betsy Lynn Minear and husband, David, of Moon Township, Pa., Debra Bennett of Lacy, Wash., and Delaina “Joy” Ramirez and husband, Enrique, of Annapolis, Md.; and two grandsons, Norman Bennett of California and Christopher Bennett and wife, Rose, of Lacy, Wash.; and three great- granddaughters and four great-grandsons.

She was preceded in death by one son, Charles J. Bennett; and two brothers, Danny and Tommy.

She attended the schools of Randolph County, worked at Davis Memorial Hospital for many years, Elkins-Randolph County Senior Center and retired in 1996 from Nella’s Inc. She loved camping, hiking and was an avid fan of Elkins Speedway.

The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home chapel on Saturday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m. The Rev. Terry A. Burgess will officiate and interment will follow in Mountain State Memorial Gardens at Gilman. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Lena Margaret “Tiny” Bennett. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 10 Jan 2008.

Martha H. Smith

Marvin B. Rexrode

Mr. Marvin Byrne Rexrode, 82, of Fort Seybert, died Tuesday morning, Jan. 8, 2008, at his home.

He was born Jan. 26, 1925, at Fort Seybert, the son of the late Noah Marvin Rexrode and Tressie Byrne Boggs Rexrode.

He owned and operated Shenandoah Taxidermy for 60 years, was a farmer and since 1948, had raised turkey layers for Wampler Foods and more recently for Virginia Poultry Growers Co-op. He was a member of the Fairview-Bethel United Methodist Church, the West Virginia Farm Bureau and the West Virginia Poultry Association.

On Oct. 29, 1950, he married Eleanor Somers Rexrode, who survives.

Also surviving are his stepmother; Shirley Propst Pitsenbarger Rexrode of Brandywine; two sons, Michael and his wife, Tracey Rexrode, of Fort Seybert and Kenton and his wife, Angie Rexrode, of Fort Seybert; one brother; Norman Rexrode of Summersville; and one stepgranddaughter; Tiffany.

He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, one brother and one sister.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 11, at Fairview-Bethel United Methodist Church at Fort Seybert with Pastor Mark James officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery at Fort Seybert. The family will receive friends form 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Kimble Funeral Home in Franklin. Memorials may be made to Gideons International, P.O. Box 582, Franklin, W.Va. 26807; American Cancer Society, 300 Scott Ave., Morgantown, W.Va. 26508; or Fairview-Bethel Church in care of Beth May, HC 69, Box 233, Fort Seybert, W.Va. 26802. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Kimble Funeral Home in Franklin.  From 10 Jan 2008.

The Elkins Intermountain, 11 January 2008

Don A. White

Don Allen White, 69, a resident of Summer Street, Elkins, departed this life early Thursday morning, Jan. 10, 2008, at his home. He had been in declining health for the past two months and death was attributed to Leukemia.

He was born Friday, Dec. 23, 1938, at Evenwood, a son of the late Paul White and Lora White.

On Nov. 5, 1973, at Oakland, Md., he was married to the former Arlene Sue Weese, who survives.

Also surviving are three children, Debra Lynn White, Jeffrey E. White and wife, Jackie, and David G White and wife, Paula, all of Elkins; and four grandchildren, Jaclyn Hunter White, Matthew White and Wesley White, all of Elkins and Josh White of Clarksburg.

Preceding him in death is one half brother, Jack W. Elza.

Don attended the schools of Randolph County and was a graduate of Harman High School with the class of 1957. He was a graduate of Davis & Elkins College with the class of 1967 with a bachelor’s of science degree in biology and secondary education. He also worked in a master’s degree program at Marshall University.

Don joined the U.S. Marine Corps after graduation from high school in 1957 and after being honorably discharged and graduating from college, he joined the U.S. Naval Reserve and was a member of Patrol Squadron 68 for more than 20 years. He was an ordinance man on Combat Air Crew 4 and the squadron was the winner of four Combat E’s during the Cold War.

Don worked for the state of West Virginia for 13 years in various jobs, such as social worker and parole officer. He also taught school at Parsons High School for two years following college. In 1980, he became a locomotive engineer for CSX Transportation until his retirement in 2002.

He was a member of the H. W. Daniel’s Post 29 American Legion for more than 30 years, was a member of the Elkins Lodge 1135 B.P.O.E. and was currently the Leading Knight of the Lodge. He was also a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church at Beverly.

He was an avid golfer, boater, fisherman, biker and aircraft pilot and was a former bagpiper for the West Virginia Highlanders.

The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. On Saturday at 7 p.m. at the funeral home, the Elkins Lodge 1135 B.P.O.E. will conduct ritualistic services. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home chapel Sunday, Jan. 13, at 1 p.m. Pastor Leon W. Brown will officiate and interment will follow in American Legion’s Little Arlington Cemetery at Cravensdale where the H. W. Daniel’s Post 29 American Legion and the Tygarts Valley Post 3647 Veterans of Foreign Wars will conduct full military rites. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Don Allen White. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 11 Jan 2008.

Gerald D. Lance

Gerald Dale Lance, 68, of French Creek, died Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2008, in United Hospital Center at Clarksburg.

He was born May 26, 1939, at Crystal, Mich., a son of the late Dale R. Lance and Hazel Jones Lance.

On March 8, 1961, he was married to Carolyn Kay Beavers Lance, who survives at French Creek.

Also surviving are six daughters, Ruby Fowler and husband, Dale, of North Pole, Alaska, Jeri Lynne Long and husband, Perry, of Ellamore, Jennifer Lee and Junior Kenney, Rebecca L. McCartney and Lynda Garcia and husband, Eric, all of Buckhannon and Cassie Hamner and husband, Chris, of French Creek; one granddaughter, Amie Conner of Andrews Air Force Base, at Maryland; seven grandsons, Perry Dale Long of Ellamore, Jamie Keys of Minot, N.D., Eric McCartney and Brandon Lee of Buckhannon, Caleb Hamner and Cory Hamner of French Creek and Liam Garcia of Buckhannon; three great-granddaughters, Rachel, Brooklyn and Emma Rose; and three brothers, Larry Lance of Crystal, Mich., Gary Lance of Coppell, Texas, and Dennis Lance of Carson City, Mich.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Anita Lance.

He was a tool pusher for S.W. Jack Drilling.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, at the funeral home with the Rev. Gary Stackpole officiating. Interment will follow in French Creek Memorial Gardens at French Creek. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com.  From 11 Jan 2008.

Lena M. Bennett

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. today at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home chapel on Saturday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m. The Rev. Terry A. Burgess will officiate and interment will follow in Mountain State Memorial Gardens at Gilman. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Lena Margaret “Tiny” Bennett. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 11 Jan 2008.

Mable L. Davis

Mable Leona Davis passed away Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008, at her home with her family.

She was born Feb. 17, 1919, at Selbyville, the daughter of the late Martin Luther and Francis Lilly Daff Heater.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Londes R. “Buck” Davis, on Jan. 21, 1986.

She is survived by three sons, Thomas Ray Davis and wife, Sue, Bob Franklin Davis and wife, Sandy, and Michael Londes Davis, all of Buckhannon; three daughters, Mary Louise Zickefoose, Terry Eva Miller and Rebecca Lewis and husband, James, all of Buckhannon; 21 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 18 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Cleo Wingfield of Buckhannon; and a brother, Johnny Heater and wife, Nina, of Ohio.

She was preceded in death by two daughters, Virginia Hardy and Donna Lee Davis; a great-granddaughter; seven brothers; and two sisters.

Mrs. Davis was a loving mother and grandmother and will be missed by her family. She was a homemaker, loved camping very much and was a Protestant by faith.

Private family services will conducted and burial will follow in Upshur County Memorial Park. Tomblyn Whitescarver Funeral Chapel of Buckhannon is in charge of the arrangements for Mable Leona Davis.  From 11 Jan 2008.

Robert D. Plum

Robert Denzil Plum, 74, a former resident of Tucker County and a resident of Virginia, departed this life Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are under the direction of Lohr & Barb Funeral Home for Robert Denzil Plum. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 11 Jan 2008.

The Elkins Intermountain, 12 January 2008

Amos K. Ware

Mr. Amos Kermit Ware, 85, a resident of Route 1, Belington, and more recently a resident of the Barbour County Good Samaritan Center in Belington, departed this life early Friday morning, Jan. 11, 2008, in Davis Memorial Hospital at Elkins. He had been in declining health for the past three years.

He was born May 12, 1922, in Barbour County, a son of the late Samuel F.and Flossie Swick Ware.

On April 13, 1968, he was united in marriage to the former Margaret Helmick Loudin, who survives at their home on Route 1 in Belington.

In addition to his wife, survivors include one son, Jerry Ware of Norton; stepchildren, Paula Gwin of Williamsburg Va., Joyce Ann Loudin Rogers of Klamath Falls, Ore., James Paul Loudin of White Marsh, Va., George R. Loudin of Anderson N,C., Mary Francis Yeager of Elkins and Roxanne McMillian of Muscle Shoals, Ala.; one sister, Anna Claire Blake of Belington; and two brothers, Gerald Ware of Junior and Otis Ware of Water Falls, Pa. Also surviving are 11 stepgrandchildren and four stepgreat- grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Wendell Ware; one stepson, William J. Loudin; two brothers, Ted and Denzil Ware; four sisters, Emma Jean McKinney, Thelma Ware Zelma Vanscoy and Zona Bibey; and one great-grandchild.

Mr. Ware attended the schools of Barbour County and was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Army. He was a former coal miner before being employed by Masketeers Inc. in Belington from which he retired. He was a Protestant by faith.

Friends will be received at Talbott Funeral Home at 210 Brandenburg St. in Belington from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 13, and on Monday until 2 p.m., the funeral hour, when final rites will be conducted from the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Arden Beck and the Rev. Robert Baer Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Trinity Cemetery near Belington where full military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post 44 of Philippi. Talbott Funeral Home in Belington is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Amos Kermit Ware. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.talbottfuneralhome.com.  From 12 Jan 2008.

Don A. White

The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins where Elkins Lodge 1135 BPOE will conduct ritualistic services at 7 p.m. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home chapel Sunday, Jan. 13, at 1 p.m. Pastor Leon W. Brown will officiate and interment will follow in American Legion’s Little Arlington Cemetery at Cravensdale where H.W. Daniels American Legion Post 29 and Tygarts Valley Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3647 will conduct full military rites. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Don Allen White. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 12 Jan 2008.

Donald Clevenger

Donald Rex Clevenger died Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008, at his home.

He was born Dec. 16, 1930, at Richwood, to the late Cecil and Erma Cogar Clevenger.

He joined the U.S. Navy on Feb. 5, 1952, and served until Feb. 4, 1960, as a chief engineer mechanic.

He leaves his wife of 48 beautiful years, Shirley Deal Clevenger; a son, William Clevenger and wife, Tammy, of Buckhannon; two daughters, Cheryl Clevenger Marlow and husband, Jeff, of Houston, Texas, and Teresa Clevenger Bennett and husband, Bill, of Martinsburg; eight grandchildren, William Clevenger Jr. and wife, Tiffany, of Auburndale, Fla., Amber Clevenger of Auburndale, Fla., Ryan and Chelsey Bennett of Martinsburg, Dylan and Alexis Marlow of Houston, Texas, and Zane and Noah Clevenger of Buckhannon; three brothers, Cecil Clevenger of Glenn Ferris, Delmer Clevenger of Summersville and Dorian Clevenger of Diana; two sisters, Vercie Gregory of Mt. Vernon, Okla., and Joy Jones of Galesburg, Mich; and a special aunt, Mary and husband, Clayton, of Kieffer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Eugene Clevenger, Kenneth Clevenger and Wilmer Clevenger; and one sister, Karen Ramsey.

Donald was loved by everyone and loved helping others. He leaves behind many nephews, nieces and loving friends who will miss him very much. He loved going to watch his grandchildren play their ballgames, dance recitals and other activities and his yearly fishing trip to Canada. He was a very active sportsman and enjoyed being with his family. He was a faithful Christian and is now at peace with this Lord.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13, at Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with the Rev. Ralph Miller and the Rev. J. Edward McDaniels officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Nebo Church Cemetery. Buckhannon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3663, Frank B. Bartlett American Legion Post 7 and Disabled American Veterans Chapters 5 and 36 will conduct military honors at the graveside. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.  From 12 Jan 2008.

Robert D. Plum

Robert Denzil Plum, 74, a former resident of Tucker County and a resident of Virginia, departed this life Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008, in UVA Medical Center at Virginia. Death was attributed to cancer.

He was born Monday, June 12, 1933, at Hambleton, a son of the late Elmer G. Plum and Nellie M. Nestor.

He was twice married. First he married the former Betty Hinkle, who survives. On June 12, 1974, at Arlington, Va., he was married to the former Micki M. McGarity, who survives at Virginia.

Also surviving are one son, John F. Chandler and wife, Leah, of Stafford, Va.; two daughters, Sandra Lee Triplett and husband, Michael, of Holly Meadows and Robin Lynne Robinson and husband, Michael, of Raleigh, N.C.; four brothers, Walter Plum of Tunnelton, John Plum and Pat of Elkins, Jack Plum and Carol of Hambleton and Elmer Plum and Rose of Parsons; three sisters, Dorothy Scott of Thomas, Elma Jean Paolone of Girard, Ohio, and Barbara Teets and Glen of Manassas, Va.; five grandchildren, Nick Chandler, Renee Cutright, Adrianne Triplett, Kristin and Michael Robinson; and one great-granddaughter, Olivia Cutright.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Dave Plum, and one sister, Helen Ours.

He was a graduate of Parsons High School with the class of 1951. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He owned and operated Plumb Construction Co. of Northern Virginia for more than 35 years. He was an aviation pilot and owned and operated a helicopter. He was an avid outdoorsman.

The family will receive friends at Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Parsons on Monday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Final rites will be conducted at the funeral home parlor on Tuesday, Jan. 15, at 1 p.m. The Rev. Dick Gadd will officiate and interment will follow in McNeeley Cemetery at Hendricks where H.W. Daniels American Legion Post 29 will present the American flag. Lohr & Barb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements for Robert Denzil Plum. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.lohrbarbfuneralhome.com.  From 12 Jan 2008.