WILLIAM JAMES

William Baxter James, 66, of Sand Fork, died Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Gilmer County, the son of the late Butcher and Lauuna Bonnett James.

He was a U.S. Army veteran and served on the First Army Rifle Team.

Surviving are his wife, Ruth James; one daughter, Mary Elizabeth James of Sand Fork; and
two brothers, Lee James of Glenville and Jerry James of Bedford, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Charles James.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg. Burial was in King Cemetery, Nicut.

ARISTOTLE BUTLER, JR.

Aristotle Butler, Jr., 64, of Orma, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Orma, the son of the late Aristotle Butler, Sr., and Mary Jane Cottrell Butler.

He was a carpenter and a farmer.

Surviving are three daughters, Vicky, Kelly and Brenda Butler; five sons, Ricky, Robert, Joseph, Kenneth and Randy Butler; three brothers, Charley Butler of Reedy, Thomas Butler, Sr., of State Road, N.C., and Milton Butler of Crestwell, Ore.; four sisters, Mae Cooledge of Leroy, N.Y., Louisa Yearian of Wilmington, Dela., Macel Carpenter of Spencer and Nina Conley of Chloe; 19 nieces; and 11 nephews.

He was preceded in death by one son; one daughter; four sisters, Lena, Iva and Nora Butler and Flossie French; and one brother, Victor Butler.

Services were held at Orma United Methodist Church, Orma, with Rev. David Weaver officiating. Burial was in Orma Cemetery.

LINDA KNOTTS

Linda Kay Smith Knotts, 55, of Mineral Wells, died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

She was born in Parkersburg, the daughter of Olandus Coleman and Nannie Mae McCoy Smith of MacFarlan.

She was a graduate of Harrisville High School and Parkersburg Beauty College. She worked as a hairdresser in Parkersburg for several years. She was a member of Pettyville United Methodist Church, serving in many leadership capacities.

Surviving in addition to her parents are her husband of 37 years, James Earl Knotts; mother-in-law, Hazel Knotts of Grantsville; one daughter, Aleacia Peer of Halifax, Va.; one granddaughter, Ashley Peer of Halifax; one sister, Diana Evans of Mineral Wells; two brothers, Robert Smith of Mineral Wells and Richard Lewis of Davisville; one brother-in-law, Thomas Knotts of Corning, N.Y.; one sister-in-law, Norma Shaffer of Grantsville; five nephews; seven nieces; and 12 great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Olandus “Buddy” Smith; father-in-law, Robert Joseph Knotts, Jr.; and one brother-in-law, Dallas R. Evans.

Services were held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, South Parkersburg, with Rev. James Arbogast officiating. Burial was in Sunset Memory Gardens.

GENEVIEVE LUDWIG

Genevieve (Granny Prue) Morgan Ludwig, 96, of Camp Barbe Road, Wirt County, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, in Ravenswood Care Center.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Elihue (Hugh) and Lillie Laughlin Morgan.

She was a former member of the Baptist Church at Liberty Hill. After moving to Wirt County, she attended Beulah Hill Presbyterian Church for more than 25 years and later attended Elizabeth Nazarene Church.

Surviving are one son, Chester Ludwig of Elizabeth; one grandson, Mark Ludwig of Elizabeth; one granddaughter, Suellen Calebaugh of Elizabeth; four great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, McKinley (Mack) Ludwig, in 1975; four brothers, Victor Morgan, Harley Morgan, Ernest Morgan and Charley Morgan; and one sister, Ethel Strong.

Services were held at Busch Funeral Home, Elizabeth, with Rev. Robert Stanley officiating. Burial was in Knights of Pythias Cemetery, Elizabeth.

MAUDE HILEMAN

Maude L. Hileman, 89, of Vienna, died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Arcadia Nursing Home, Coolville, Ohio.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Peter and Clara Wright Looney.

She had worked at O’Ames, Parkersburg.

Surviving are two brothers, Ralph Looney and Harold Looney, both of Parkersburg; one sister, Norma Ketchum of Hockingport, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy L. Hileman; two sisters, Mae Hicks and Pauline Boso; and one brother, Denzil Looney.

Services were held at Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg. Burial was in Varner Cemetery.

RUTH WITTE ELBON

Ruth Witte Elbon, 73, of Orlando, Fla., died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, in Orlando.

She was born at Milo, the daughter of the late Harriet Wallbrown and Carl Witte.

She formerly lived in the Norton and Doylestown areas in Ohio.

Surviving are three sons, Daniel of California, David of Florida and Donald of Iowa; several grandchildren; one brother, Hubert Witte of Akron, Ohio; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Val.
Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery, Akron.

OLIVE ALTIZER HORTON

Olive Altizer Horton, 88, of Los Lunas, N.M., died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003.

She graduated from Calhoun County High School in 1933 and completed Business College in Charleston. She taught elementary school in Calhoun and Roane counties. She was a graduate of Dolores Premier School of Beauty Culture in 1945 and owned and operated beauty shops and beauty schools from 1945-1966. She was a legal secretary for Paris Bell of Spencer and a secretary for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Civil Service, from 1966-1971.

Surviving are two daughters, Pamela Horton of Chesapeake, Va., and Patricia Horton of Los Lunas; two sisters, Zoc Powell of Roanoke, Va., and Hilda Hall of Bridgeport; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David P. Horton.

Services were held at French Mortuary, Albuquerque, N.M. Burial was in Fairview Memorial Park, Albuquerque.

RONALD CURTIS

Ronald R. Curtis, 54, of Parkersburg, died Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of Orbert Curtiss and the late Audra Erma Wears Curtiss.

He was a U.S. Army veteran during the Vietnam era and was a roofer for Tri-State Roofing for seven years.

Surviving in addition to his father are his wife of 27 years, Linda J. Thomas Curtis; two sons, Darold D. and Chris A. Curtis, both of Parkersburg; one daughter, Samantha J. Curtis Le and husband Phu of Belpre, Ohio; five brothers, Carl and Robert M. Curtiss, both of Parkersburg, Noble E. Curtiss of Massillon, Ohio, Patrick L. Curtiss of Mineral Wells and Frank D. Curtiss of Hannibal, Ohio; one sister, Diania D. Wells of Parkersburg; and five grandchildren.

Services were held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Pastor Mike Allen officiating. Burial was in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

DONALD ‘Bud’ GUNN

Donald “Bud” Gunn, 82, of Mt. Zion, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, at his home.

He was the son of the late Poe P. and Lottie Smith Gunn.

He was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran, serving in the theatres of North Africa, Italy and Sicily. He was owner and operator of Mt. Zion Grocery, lifelong farmer and polled Hereford breeder, active in the oil and gas production industry, and served many years on the board of directors for Calhoun County Bank. He was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church.

Surviving are one son, Donald Poe Gunn and wife Sherry of Mt. Zion; one granddaughter, Dayna Gunn of Easton, Md.; one sister, Eloise Divers of Grantsville; two step-grandchildren, Eric Thompson and Kelly Little, both of Grantsville; and one step-grandchild, Ryan Little of Grantsville.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Vonda Gunn, and two brothers, Forest and Dale Gunn.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Rick Swearengin and Rev. David Weaver officiating. Burial was in Mt. Zion Cemetery.

VIRGINIA McCARTNEY

Virginia Elenor McCartney, 74, of Avon, Ohio, formerly of Parkersburg, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Westlake, Ohio.

She was the daughter of the late Charles and Sarah Ellen Kelly Curry.

She was a member of Lauckport Baptist Church, Parkersburg.

Surviving are her husband, Carl McCartney of Marietta, Ohio; one daughter, Ellen Ponusky of Avon; one brother, Harry Curry of Mt. Zion; one sister, Ida Calhoun of Grantsville; and two grandchildren, Laura and Glenn Ponusky, both of Avon.

She was preceded in death by her second husband, Russell Swisher; five brothers; and two sisters.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Dobbie Thrash officiating. Burial was in Swisher Cemetery, Cisco.

DARL GLEN JONES

Darl Glen Jones, 47, of Statesville, N.C., formerly of Grantsville, died Friday, Jan. 17, 2003, at Davis Regional Medical Center, Statesville.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Harley and Rhoda Blanche Richards Jones.

Surviving are his wife, Carol Jones; two daughters, Tina Robbins and Melissa Richards, both of Statesville; three grandchildren, Timothy Nicholas, Tyler Robbins and Sierra Richards, all of Statesville; four sisters, Betty Jenkins and Shirley Taylor, both of Big Bend, Wanda Dye of North Carolina and Carol Ritchie of Georgia; and two brothers, Rusty Jones of Big Springs and Don Welch of Georgia.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Bill Welch.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Joe Sealey officiating. Burial was in Goodnight Cemetery, Big Bend.

MAUDE YOST ARNOLD

Maude Yost Arnold, 91, of Chloe, died Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2003, at Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Hershel and Ada Vincent.

She was an active member of Walker United Methodist Church, Chloe.

Surviving are her husband, Clay Arnold; four sons, Hershel Yost of Chloe, Jerry Yost of Rittman, Ohio, Hubert Yost of Columbus Station, Ohio, and Bernard Yost of West Salem, Ohio; and one brother, Robert Vincent of Chloe.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Tom Yost, in 1975, and three brothers, Kenneth, Johnny and Everett Vincent.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Tim Hickman officiating. Burial was in Lamb Cemetery, Chloe.

BERNARD ROBERTS

Bernard L. Roberts, 93, of Charleston, died Sunday, Jan. 26, 2003, at Veterans Hospital, Clarksburg.

He was born in Rosedale, the son of the late Dr. Luther E. Roberts and Mamie Stump Roberts.

He was a member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, Stumptown and was retired from the W.Va. Dept. of Human Services. He was a Navy veteran and received a commendation for saving the steamship James Buchanan when ammunition began exploding on the docks at Noumea New Caledonia in the South Pacific during World War II.

Surviving are his wife, Myrtle McCartney Roberts; two sons, Patrick of Sutton and Garland of Belleville; four daughters, Susan Bennett of Craigsville, Sharon Wiseman of Washington, Sandra Rentschler of Grantsville and Jill Roberts of Tucson, Ariz.; 10 grandchildren, Derek and Kami Bennett, Kristy Langley, Kara and Lynsey Wiseman, Melissa, Waylan, Jesse, Zachary and Shannon Roberts; and five great-grandchildren, Matthew, Caleb and Seth Bennett and Chad and Aric Langley.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Garland and Jerry Roberts. Memorial service was held at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church.

HARPER KING

Harper King, 73, of Shock, died Sunday, Jan. 26, 2003, at Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Dwight and Mary Parsons King.

He was a logger and a timberman.

Surviving are six sons, Dwight, George, Delbert and Lester King, all of Shock, Larry King of Front Royal, Va., and William Aaron Burrows of Hamlin, Va.; three daughters, Emeogene Cottrell of Shock and Lydia Dye and Sharon King, both of East Liverpool, Ohio; three brothers, Emery King of Big Bend, Delbert King of Nicut and Dale King of Grantsville; one sister, Ivy Sampson of Grantsville; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grand-children.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ocie King; one brother, Junior Bill King; two infant sons; and one granddaughter, Lisa Parsons.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Kenneth Heiney officiating. Burial was in Orma Cemetery, Orma.

SHARLENE SADLER

Sharlene Rae Sadler, 48, of Belpre, Ohio, died Sunday, Jan. 26, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

She was born in Grantsville, the daughter of the late Joshua S. and Minnie F. Bower Owens.

She was a 1973 co-valedictorian of Calhoun County High School. She graduated from Parkersburg Community College in 1976 with an associate’s degree in nursing, and from West Virginia University in 1990 with a bachelor of science degree in nursing. She was employed at Camden-Clark for 26 years as a registered nurse. She was a member of Grace Baptist Church, Parkersburg, and had been attending Bethel Baptist Church, Parkersburg.

Surviving are her husband, Robert A. Sadler, Jr., whom she married on July 3, 1993; five sisters, her twin, Darlene K. Roberts and husband Larry of Parkersburg, Carolyn Preston and husband Gary of Belpre, and Joyce Roberts and husband Forrest, Jean Godfrey and husband Kenneth and Greta Richards and husband Dewain, all of Grantsville; five brothers, Ronald Owens and wife Ellen and Charles Owens and wife Donna, all of Parkersburg, George Owens and wife Faye of Sunbury, Ohio, and Woodrow Owens and wife Phyllis and Joshua S. Owens, Jr., all of Ravens-wood; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Vonda Wiedenhoft, and one brother, Ottmer Owens.

Services were held at Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Rev. Robert A. Sadler, Sr., and Rev. Randall Kochersperger officiating. Burial was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Parkersburg.

ARNISE FOWLER

Arnise L. Fowler, 80, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Mt. Zion, the son of the late Walter and Pearl Roberts Fowler.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean War. He was the retired owner of a commercial refrigeration company and a member of Glenwood United Methodist Church, Westgate Masonic Lodge #623, AF&AM, Aladdin Shrine Temple and the Pool Club.

Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Gladys; two daughters, Cheryl McKenzie and Barbara Pepper; one son, Robert Fowler; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one sister, Lillian Bland.

He was preceded in death by one sister and four brothers.

Services were held at Schoedinger Hilltop Chapel with Masonic service. Burial was in Sunset Cemetery.

VANCE GAINER

Vance G. Gainer, 85, of Walker, died Friday, Jan. 31, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late A.D. and Sadie Knight Gainer.

He was a graduate of Wirt County High School and a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He retired from Pacific Intermountain Express in 1976 as a truck driver and was a member of Teamsters Union Local 24. He was a member of VFW Post 1212 and National Rifle Association.

Surviving are three sons, Captain Vance Glen Gainer, Jr., USN, stationed in Japan, Glenadine Scheifer of Gassaway and David Alvin Gainer of Burnt House; two daughters, Deborah Kae Jones of Freeport and Dienna Lynn Jeffries of Gassaway; eight grandchildren; two step-granddaughters; one step-great-grandson; three sisters, Thelma Smith and Jean Fowler, both of Parkersburg, and Pauline Newell of California; and one brother, Alvin Gainer of Michigan.

He was preceded in death by four brothers and sisters.

Services were held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Pastor Randy Dornon officiating. Burial was in Knights of Pythias Cemetery, Elizabeth.

HAROLD WILLIAM CRAWFORD

Harold William Crawford, 79, of Parkersburg, died Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2003, at Carehaven of Pleasants Nursing Facility, Belmont.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Steven William and Hattie Poling Crawford.

 He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran and retired from Quaker State Oil Refinery, St. Marys.

Surviving are his wife, Beverly Jean Curry Crawford; one son, Leslie Devon Crawford of Indianapolis, Ind.; two sisters, Juanita Cheuvront of Parkersburg and Evadeen Sellers of Kenewick, Wash.; one grandson, Steven William Hoyt of Washington; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by one daughter, Linda Diane Crawford Hoyt, in 1999; four brothers, Veon, Ted, Marvin and Woodrow Crawford; and two sisters, Ivalee Lee and Merle Huber.

Services were held at Kimes Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Pastor Doug Guinn officiating. Burial was in Independence Cemetery, Sandyville, with military graveside rites by American Legion Post 107, Ripley.

FRANKLIN JONES

Franklin D. “Rocky” Jones, 68, of Parkersburg, died Thursday, Jan. 30, 2003, following a pedestrian accident.

He was born in Calhoun County and was a member of St. Francis Xavier Porch Club.

Graveside services were held in Parkersburg Memorial Gardens with Rev. William K. Matheny,
Jr., and Rev. Jon Lands officiating.

SAVILLA ETHEL TROWBRIDGE

Savilla Ethel Trowbridge, 97, of Mt. Zion, died Sunday, Feb. 2, 2003, at Roane General Hospital.

She was born in Quaker Village, Pa., the daughter of the late Charlie and Maude Saye Fye.

Surviving are three sisters, Freda Bower of Florida, Vera Burns of Virginia and Dessi Montgomery of Pennsylvania; one daughter, Irene Marie and husband Edward R. Stuckwish of
Mt. Zion; one daughter-in-law, Betty Trowbridge; one granddaughter, Sherry and husband Charles Yamchuck; three great-grandchildren, Charlie and Ira Yamchuck and Samantha Stuckwish; and two great-great-grandchildren, Kylie and Ryan Yamchuck.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ira Clovis Trowbridge; one son, Allen Ira Trowbridge; one daughter, Iris McPherson; and one grandson, Edward A. Stuckwish.

No public service was held.

RUSSELL HOWARD SAMPSON

Russell Howard Sampson, 70, of Arnoldsburg, died Thursday, Jan. 30, 2003, at Charleston Area Medical Center.

He was the son of the late William R. and Gracie M. Jackson Sampson.

Surviving are three sons, Russell Lee Rogers of Massillon, Ohio, Dickie Lee Sampson of Elizabeth and Timothy Russell Sampson of Flint; one daughter, Melissa Jean Lane of Calhoun County; five grandchildren, Cody Joe Rogers, Ashely Anna Mary Sampson, Victoria Ann Sampson, Brandie Marie Sampson and Warren Scott Lane; two sisters, Stella Tanner of Massillon and Lerine Stanley of Ohio; two brothers, Robert and Harold Sampson, both of Arnoldsburg, and Elmer Sampson of Spencer.

He was preceded in death by four brothers, Cecil, George, Andy and Ross Sampson, and two sisters, Mary Hall and Lisa Butler.

Private family service was held.

RONALD EUGENE JARVIS

Ronald Eugene Jarvis, 49, of Millstone, died Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Braxton County, the son of Virgie King Jarvis of Millstone and the late Cecil Jarvis.

Surviving in addition to his mother are five sisters, Vivian Finster and husband Francis of Weston, Dolores Lowe and husband Darol of Spencer, Susan Roberts and husband Gary of Millstone, Judy Rollyson of Millstone and Karen Roberts and husband Kenny of Five Forks; one brother, Roger Jarvis and wife Julia of Mt. Zion; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Donna Jarvis Brown of Pine Grove.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Kevin Church officiating. Burial was in Rosedale Cemetery, Rosedale.

THELMA POLING

Thelma Poling, 98, of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, died Thursday, Feb. 6, 2003, at Country Club Retirement Center, Mt. Vernon.

She was born at Reedy, the daughter of the late Dan and Hannah Wells Connolly.

She had been a resident of Mt. Zion and Parkersburg for many years before moving to Mt. Vernon in 1998. She was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church.

Surviving are three daughters, Loretta Godfrey, Sherra Nell Ferrell of Parkersburg and Bonel Zakarian of Chester, Md.; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Poling, four sisters, and one brother.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Rick Swearengin officiating. Burial was in Mt. Zion Cemetery.

MARGARET BAILEY

Margaret A. Bailey, 76, of Bramblewood Village, died Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2003, in Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

She was born at Buckeye and was a member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church.

Surviving are two sons, James L. Bailey of Huntington and William A. Bailey of Grantsville; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul M. Bailey.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Larry Jones officiating.

MARION WOOD

Marion J. Wood, 66, of Arnoldsburg, died Friday, Feb. 7, 2003, at her home.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late M.C. and Ica Carpenter.

She was a former nurse’s aid and had worked at Spencer State Hospital and Mile Tree Nursing Center, Spencer, and was a former employee of Norris Industries.

Surviving are three sons, Richard of Las Vegas, Kenneth J. of Arnoldsburg and Stephen of Mt. Zion.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Roger Carter officiating. Burial was in Orma Cemetery.

WILEY TAYLOR, JR.

Wiley Taylor, Jr., 77, of Grafton, Ohio, died Monday, Feb. 10, 2003, in Ohio.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Wiley and Mallie Yoak Taylor.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and an employee of Magnesium Aluminum Corp., Cleveland, for 15 years. He was a member of Eagles and VFW, both of Berea, Ohio, and AmVets, Elyria, Ohio.

Surviving are five sons, Danny Taylor, David Edward Taylor, Wiley Taylor III, all of Grafton, Stanley R. Taylor of Elyria and Charles Taylor of Brunswick, Ohio; two daughters, Bonnie Polinski of Tennessee and Debby Harney of Medina, Ohio; one brother, Gaylord Taylor of Clearwater, Fla.; 22 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two children, Toni Ann Taylor and Keith Allen Taylor; two brothers, Woodrow and Paul; and two sisters, Oleda and Omajean.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Larry Jones officiating. Burial was in Yoak Cemetery, Big Bend.

ROGER JARVIS

Roger Jarvis, 47, of Akron, Ohio, died Sunday, Feb. 9, 2003, at St. Thomas Hospital, Akron.

He was born in Akron, the son of Wilma June Jarvis of Spencer and the late Claude Jarvis.

He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and was a former employee of U.S. Postal Service.

Surviving in addition to his mother are one daughter, Rachel Jarvis of Columbus, Ohio; one son, Charley Jarvis of Akron; three brothers, David Jarvis of Savannah, Ga., and Ricky and Kevin Jarvis, both of Spencer.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Dewey Tanner officiating.
Burial was in Coen Cemetery, Nebo.

RUTH FREED

Ruth A. Freed, 81, of Waverly, died Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2003, at her residence.

She was born in Brohard, the daughter of the late William Henry and Emily Francis Westfall Veon.

 She was a homemaker.

Surviving are two sons, Robert Freed of Philippi and Ronald Freed of Waverly; one daughter, Barbara Perdue of Belleville; three sisters, Mae Maze of Brohard, Hazel Snider of Big Springs and Mary Winland of Parkersburg; one brother, Arnold Veon of Coolville, Ohio; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Tona Freed, Mar. 2, 1988; three brothers, James, Paul and Donald Veon; and one son, Tona Freed.

Services were held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, South Parkersburg, with Pastor Robert Cornell officiating. Burial was in Hartley Cemetery.

SHERI GRAHAM

Sheri L. Graham, 44, of Mineral Wells, died Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2003, at her residence.

She was born in Parkersburg, the daughter of the late George S. Wilson and Regina L. Marion.

She was employed by Calhoun County Schools for several years and was principal at Arnoldsburg Elementary School before becoming assistant principal at Jackson Junior High School in Wood County. She attended Mineral Wells Baptist Church.

Surviving are her husband, Tom Graham; two daughters, Heather Haught and Regina Davisson of Parkersburg; two step-daughters, Jennifer Davisson of Minnora and Sarah Graham of Parkersburg; one step-son, Todd Graham of Parkersburg; four brothers, Michael Wilson of Virginia Beach, Va., Rodney Wilson of Leachtown, G. Edwin Wilson of Alexandria, Va., and Jeffery Wilson of Vienna.

Services were held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Richard Summers officiating. Burial was in Bethel Cemetery.

RAY SWIGER

Ray Swiger, 71, of Nebo, died Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2003, in Roane General Hospital.

Graveside services were held at Coen Cemetery, Nebo, with Rev. Darius Arnold officiating.

WILLIAM LLOYD TAYLOR

William Lloyd Taylor, 67, of Troy, died Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Gilmer County, the son of the late Charles Franklin and Alma Bonnett Taylor.

Surviving are his wife, Carolyn Sue Taylor; five sons, Charles Taylor of Virginia, Brian Taylor of Glenville, Mark Taylor of Troy, William L. Taylor, Jr., of Wheeling and Bob Taylor of Cox’s Mills; five daughters, Cheryl Brookover of North Carolina, Jackie Tomblin of Wheeling, Oleta Taylor of Ohio and Nena Greathouse and Brenda Barrett, both of Missouri; three sisters, Maxine Sabatina of Elizabeth, Willadean McCalaster of Smithville and Kathy Blosser of Charleston; and four brothers, Jimmy Rae Bonnett of Copen, Harold Bonnett, Sr., of Glenville, Robert Roy Bonnett of Burnsville and Roger Taylor of Harrisville.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Norrene Browning, and two brothers, Charles Eugene Taylor and Cecil Taylor.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Gene Johnson officiating. Burial was in Troy IOOF Ceme-tery.

AGNES WHYTSELL

Agnes Whytsell, 76, of Sand Ridge, died Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at her home.

She was born in Goldbach, Germany, the daughter of the late Joseph and Anna Pheifer Emmerich.

She was a member of VFW Women’s Auxiliary and Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center Ladies Auxiliary.

Surviving are one son, Richard A. Whytsell of Sand Ridge; one daughter, Gisela Gibson of Sand Ridge; one brother, Hans Emmerich of Goldbach; and three grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roscoe Clyde Whytsell, in 1995.

Rite of Christian Burial was held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. David Glockner officiating. Burial was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Scripture Prayer Service was held at the funeral home chapel.

EDDIE RICHARD LEDFORD

Eddie Richard Ledford, 58, of Chloe, died Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Danville, Ky., the son of the late Tommie Bradley.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran and U.S. Army veteran of Vietnam. He was a member of Laborers International Union of North America and was a retired employee of the City of Akron, Ohio.

Surviving are one daughter, Tracy Miller of Frametown; three brothers, David Ledford of Live Oak, Fla., and Wayne Simmons and James Ledford of Akron; one sister, Joyce Horn of Watertown, Tenn.; one granddaughter, Brandi Miller of Frametown; one grandson, Josh Miller of Frametown; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother and one sister, Patricia Ledford.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Mark Murphy officiating. Burial was in Nebo Baptist Church Cemetery.

ROBERT STARCHER, SR.

Robert Starcher, Sr., 38, of Rosedale, died Sept. 11, 2002, at his home.

He was the son of Ralph Carpenter of Arnoldsburg and Barbara Goodrich of Spencer.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his wife, Sherry Lynn Starcher of Rosedale; his step-mother, Nancy Carpenter; three sons, William Andrew Starcher of Alabama, Robert Starcher, Jr., of Spencer and Howard Dudley Starcher of Rosedale; one daughter, Barbara Ann Starcher of Rosedale; three brothers, Charles Carpenter of Arnoldsburg, Eddie Miller of Spencer and Randall Starcher; three sisters, Roberta Carpenter of Newton and Vanessa Goodrich and Mildred Goodrich, both of Spencer; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and grandchildren.

Services were held at Simmons Cemetery, Spencer, with Rev. Alvie Lloyd officiating.

MAE NEWELL McKOWN

Mae Newell McKown, 91, of Walker, died Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, in Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital, Parkersburg.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Tom and Francis Parsons Newell.

She was a former employee of American Viscose Co., Parkersburg, a co-operator of the family store at Orma for several years, and a member of Kanawha Baptist Church.

Surviving are two sons, Gary McKown of West Chester, Pa., and David McKown of Germantown, Md.; two grandchildren, Cathy Perez of Denver, Colo., and James McKown of Boulder, Colo.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leon “Onnie” McKown, in 1995; eight brothers; and one sister.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Jim Yoak officiating. Burial was in Orma United Methodist Church Cemetery.

GWENDOLYN HAUGHT

Gwendolyn H. Haught, 93, of Mt. Zion, died Thursday, Feb. 27, 2003, in Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center’s long term care.

She was born at Arnoldsburg, the daughter of the late James A. and Lydia Whytsell Hoskins.

She was a member of Brooksville Baptist Church and Mt. Zion Homemakers Extension Club.

Surviving are two daughters, Burdeal Wright and husband Keith of Lanexia, Va., and Dorcas Cain and husband Joseph of Big Bend; two sons, James Haught and wife Wanna Lee of Hagers-town, Md., and Leonard Haught and wife Carol of Lakewood, Ohio; one brother, Vere (Buster) Hoskins and wife Ivy of Arnoldsburg; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Horace L. Haught, and five sisters, Tressie Carey, Elaine Moneypenny, Harriet Hoskins, Ernestine Mace and Betty Jo Morehead.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Harry Siers officiating. Burial was in Liberty Hill Cemetery, Arnoldsburg.

WILLIAM LYNCH

William Bernard Lynch, 88, of Vienna, died Thursday, Feb. 27, 2003, at his residence.

He was born in Ritchie County, the son of the late James and Icle Varner Lynch.

He retired in 1979 after 40 years of service with Eureka Pipeline Co. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife of 68 years, Yetta E. Shanks Lynch; one daughter, Glenna Perry of Charleston; one brother, Jim Lynch of Mt. Zion; three grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one son, Richard Lynch; one brother; and three sisters.

Services were held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Vienna, with Pastor Jim Yoak officiating. Burial was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

DELBERT JUNIOR NICHOLSON

Delbert Junior Nicholson, 54, of Grantsville, died Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital, Parkersburg.

He was born at Gassaway, the son of Clara Nicholson of Arnoldsburg and the late Delbert L. Nicholson.

He was a former employee of Flying W Plastics and a member of Norman Ridge Community Church and NRA.

Surviving in addition to his mother are his wife, Carol Hardman Nicholson; his step-son, Delmar Ray Hickman, Jr., of Grantsville; two daughters, Nancy Schoolcraft of Arnoldsburg and Karen S. Jenkins of Gassaway; two brothers, Leonard Nicholson of King George, Va., and Tim Nicholson of Arnoldsburg; five sisters, Barbara Rienard of Woodbridge, Va., Sandra Hess of Glenville, Becky Nicholson of Lockney, Dolly Hickman of Grantsville and Donna Nicholson, address unknown; and seven grandchildren.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville. Burial was in Big Springs Cemetery.

EDITH MARIE McCUMBERS

Edith Marie McCumbers, 69, of Nicut, died Monday, Mar. 3, 2003.

She was born in Greenbrier County, the daughter of the late Charles Luther and Lethia Ellen Gould.

She was a homemaker.

Surviving are her children, Samuel J. McCumbers and fiance Beth Carr of Spencer, Brenda M. and Rockey Dickey of Rosedale, Peggy A. Craddock and companion Mike Hunt of Rosedale and Trevia J. and Glen Fulks of Millstone; one sister, Merida McCumbers of Indiana; one brother, Jay Randolph Gould of Indiana; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Ruffus Judson McCumbers, and two sisters.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Jerry Scott officiating. Burial was in Mt. Run Cemetery.

PAMELA SUE MARTIN

Pamela Sue Martin, 40, of Spotsylvania County, Va., died Sunday, Mar. 2, 2003, at Mary Washington Hospital.

She was the daughter of Richard and Judith Chalfant of Fredericksburg, Va.

She received her bachelor of arts degree in accounting from Mary Washington College and had worked in accounts receivable for Central Rappahannock Regional Library for eight years. She was a member of Knotts United Methodist Church, Grantsville.

Surviving in addition to her parents are one daughter, Melissa A. Merritt of the home; two brothers, Michael Chalfant of Fredericksburg and Charles E. Chalfant of Charleston, S.C.; maternal grandmother, Lenore G. Booher of Grantsville; two nephews; and one niece.

Services were held at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Sonny Gheen officiating. Burial was private.

PAUL TUCKER

Paul Tucker, 61, of Navarre, Ohio, died Wednesday, Mar. 5, 2003, at his residence.

He was born in Orma, the son of the late Edward and Susie Nicholas Tucker.

He lived most of his life in the Brewster, Ohio, area and worked at R.T.I., Massillon, Ohio, for 38 years.

Surviving are his wife of 38 years, Kathleen R. Carpenter Tucker; one son, Timothy W. Tucker of Navarre; one granddaughter, Christy L. Tucker of Navarre; two brothers, Euell Tucker of Arnoldsburg and Ottice Tucker of Brewster; and two sisters, Pearl Shock of Beach City, Ohio, and Ruby McCumbers of Palestine.

He was preceded in death by one son, Richard P. Tucker; four brothers, Holbert, Homer, Okey and Russell Tucker; and three sisters, Edna Duncan, Glady Sidwell and Lovell Woods.

Services were held at Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., Glenville, with Rev. Martin Wine officiating. Burial was in Orma Cemetery.

ENID SMITH

Enid F. Smith, 99, of Eustis, Fla., died Tuesday, Mar. 4, 2003, at the residence of her daughter.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Floyd and Sarah Cooper Fulks.

She was a homemaker and a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Orma.

Surviving are six sons, Calvin L. Smith of Clearwater, Fla., John W. Smith of Newark, Ohio, Emmons B. Smith of Arnoldsburg, Richard L. Smith and Edwin L. Smith, both of Springfield, Mo., and Jackie D. Smith of Elyria, Ohio; three daughters, Ruby Smith Thompson of Starksville, Miss., Patricia Smith Debow of Springfield and Dormal Smith Meeks of Eustis; 19 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Spurgeon Smith; one brother, Forrest Fulks; and one sister, Icy Fulks.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Carl Marks officiating. Burial was in Cooper Cemetery, Chloe.

ELEANOR DEWEES
Eleanor Dewees, 82, of Belpre, Ohio, died Sunday, Mar. 9, 2003, at Marietta Memorial Hospital.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Alvy and Lona Gay Freshour.

She worked for Doe Miller Sons for 25 years and retired in 1993. She was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Surviving are one daughter, Rita Woodyard of Little Hocking, Ohio; one son, Edward B. Dewees of Belpre; six grandchildren; two great-grandsons; two sisters, Eloise Nutter of Marietta, Ohio, and Geneva Lynn of Belpre; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Elza B. Dewees; one son, Maynard Dewees; five brothers, Gail, Paul, Denzil, Donald and Bobby Jean Freshour; and two sisters, Lucille Beall and Madeline Reynolds.

Services were held at Tatman Funeral Home, Belpre, with Pastor Robert Clegg officiating. Burial was in Rockland Cemetery.

JAMES MORRISON

James P. (J.P.) Morrison, 81, of Marietta, Ohio, formerly of Big Springs, died Saturday, Mar. 8, 2003, at Marietta Memorial Hospital.

He was a resident of The Heartland Nursing
Home, Marietta.

He was born at Freed, the son of the late Frank and Effie Smith Morrison.

He was a member of Prosperity Baptist Church, Big Springs. He graduated from Calhoun County High School in 1941 and worked for many years in the oil fields and retired from Buckeye Oil.

Surviving are his wife, Nancy Marie Morrison; three sons, Melvin of Smithville, Weldon of Springfield, Ohio, and Marshall of McConnelsville, Ohio; four daughters, Linda Daggett of Veto, Ohio, Ioka Echard of Valley Mills, Arma Swain of Murrysville and Helen Irvine of Waterford, Ohio; three step-sons, Richard Rouse of Charlotte, N.C., Robert Rouse of
Portland, Ore., and Tim Ross of Charles Town; one sister, Eloise Mullens of Glenville; 21 grand-children; six step-grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ada Mae Williams Morrison; one great-granddaughter; four brothers; and four sisters.

Services were held at Prosperity Baptist Church, with Rev. Ken Heiney and Rev. Frank Plybon officiating. Burial was in Mt. Zion Cemetery, near Brohard.

ALTA DUNCAN

Alta V. Duncan, 94, of Canal Fulton, Ohio, died Sunday, Mar. 2, 2003, at Chapel Hill Community.

She was born at Freed, the daughter of the late William and Lena Shimer Snider.

She was a 60-year resident of Canal Fulton, and a member of Canal Fulton Baptist Church and Canal Fulton Farm Women’s Club.

Surviving are one daughter, Joan Stephan of Canal Fulton; four sons, James Duncan of Prescott, Ariz., Robert Duncan of Mt. Dora, Fla., David Duncan of East Canton, Ohio, and Gerald Duncan of Canal Fulton; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bernard and Colvin Snider; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, James W. Duncan, in 1986; four sisters; and two brothers.

Services were held at Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home of Canal Fulton. Burial was in Union Cemetery, Canal Fulton.

VERA SHILLER

Vera M. Shiller, 88, of Regency Place, Scott Depot, formerly of Vienna, died Monday, Mar. 3, 2003, in Putnam General Hospital, Winfield.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Robert and Izora Johnson Osborne.

She was a former employee of Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. and was a homemaker.

Surviving are several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Shiller, in 1984.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Alfred Hickman officiating. Burial was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

CLYDE HOUCHIN

Clyde C. Houchin, 84, of Arnoldsburg, died Wednesday, Mar. 12, 2003, at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Parkersburg.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Grover C. and Stella Metheney Houchin.

He was a retired operator for International Union of Operating Engineers, Ohio Local No. 18, and was a member of Minnora IOOF and Beech Church.

Surviving are five daughters, Barbara Powell and husband Jim of Parkersburg, Janet Marks and Connie Lane, both of Arnoldsburg, Phyllis Evans and husband Lee of Mt. Zion, and Pauline Ferrell and husband Jim Oak of Grantsville; four sisters, Bernice Laughlin, Opal Jett, Marie McKown and Madge McKown, all of Arnoldsburg; one brother, Grover Houchin, Jr., of Arnoldsburg; 12 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Obal Laughlin, in 1987; one brother, Forrest Houchin; and two sisters, Ruth Simmons and Eula Kerns.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Rick Metheney officiating. Burial was in Houchin Cemetery, Arnoldsburg.

JAMES TAYLOR

James P. Taylor, 73, formerly of Minnora, died Wednesday, Mar. 12, 2003, in Findlay, Ohio.

He was born in Kanawha County, the son of Thelma Foreman Taylor of Morgantown and the late Cecil M. Taylor.

He was a graduate of Clay County High School and attended University of Charleston. He was a U.S. Army veteran and served in Alaska, and was a member of Minnora United Methodist Church.

Surviving in addition to his mother are five daughters, Linda Duskey and husband Gaylen of Grantsville, Pamela Postalwait and husband Allen of Elkview, Ruth Hale and husband Hale of Huntington, Mary Ansley and husband Brett of Zebulon, N.C., and Jane Taylor of Berea, Ohio; two brothers, Bernard Taylor and wife Kathryn of Morgantown and Joseph Taylor and wife Penny of Minnora; one sister-in-law, Janice Frame Taylor of Alaska; 10 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by two sons, James Taylor and Timothy Taylor; one grandson, Joseph Clotier II; and one brother, Robert Foreman Taylor.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Tim Hickman officiating. Burial was in Foreman Cemetery, Oak Hill Ridge, Clay County.

NINA HUNT

Nina L. Hunt, 63, of Clover, Roane County, died Monday, Mar. 17, 2003, in Charleston Area Medical Center.

She was born at Martens Ferry and was a former employee of Trexler Rubber Co., Ravenna, Ohio.

Surviving are her husband, Charles E. Hunt; one son, Charles Hunt of Spencer; one daughter, Linda Pipes of Ravenna; one sister, Joyce Pickens of Oregon; one brother, Hugh Pickens of Las Vegas, Nev.; and two grandchildren.

FLO LAUGHLIN STARCHER

Flo Laughlin Starcher, 81, of Spencer, died Tuesday, Mar. 11, 2003.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Lewis and Lovie Townsend Laughlin.

She was a member of Otto Advent Christian Church for nearly 50 years and was a member of Spencer First Advent Christian Church. She was a founding member of Otto Senior Citizens, member of Roane General Hospital Auxiliary Unit and member of Bluegrass Riding Club. She was employed at Kellwood Co., Spencer, for four years and was a homemaker.

Surviving are one sister, Florence Hall of Arnoldsburg; two brothers, Brice and Gene Laughlin, both of Arnoldsburg; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John M. Starcher; two sisters; and four brothers.

Services were held at Taylor-Vandale Funeral Home, Spencer, with Rev. Mike King and Rev. Darius Arnold officiating. Burial was in Otto Cemetery.

VERA BLAKE

Vera Blake, 81, of Reedy, died Friday, Mar. 14, 2003, at Roane General Hospital.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Curtis Lee and Icy Mae Church Starcher.

 She was a homemaker, secretary of Blake and Blake Construction, Springdale, Ohio, and former employee of Spencer Hospital and Kellwood Corp., Spencer. She was a member of Order of Eastern Star, Cincinnati, Ohio.

Surviving are two sons, David Miller of Pembroke Pines, Fla., and Steven C. Miller of Elizabeth; one daughter, Emeline Guess of Reedy; two brothers, Holly Starcher of Naples, Fla., and Kenneth H. Starcher of Akron, Ohio; one sister, Beth Safford of Parkersburg; 10 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd G. Blake; two brothers, Ivan and Ed Starcher; and one sister, Tessa Thelma Webb.

Private burial was in Eventide Cemetery, Spencer.

VIVIAN MANSON

Vivian E. Manson, 78, of Parkersburg, died Monday, Mar. 10, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

She was born in Grantsville, the daughter of the late Tillman and Pansy Trippett Starkey.

She was a graduate of Calhoun County High School, Marietta Beauty College and Charleston Beauty Academy. She was a beautician and retired from V.I.P. Hair Salon, Grantsville. She attended Parkview United Methodist Church and was a member of Knotts Memorial United Methodist Church, Grantsville.

Surviving are one son, Nicholas Furr of Virginia; one grandson, Chris Furr and wife Kelly of Little Hocking, Ohio; one great-grandson, Levi Furr; and one brother, William Starkey of Grantsville.

Memorial services were held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Pastor Larry Crawford officiating. Burial was at the convenience of the family.

LENORE BOOHER

Lenore Booher, 91, of Millstone, died Saturday, Mar. 15, 2003, in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Parkersburg.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Chapman Ray and Nona Stalnaker Johnson.

She was a 1930 graduate of Calhoun County High School and retired with 35 years of service as a registrar from Calhoun County Health Dept. She was a member of W.Va. Retired Employees Association, Order of Eastern Star, Grantsville, The White Shrine, Rebecca Lodge, Grantsville, and Knotts Memorial United Methodist Church, Grantsville.

Surviving are her husband, Charles Booher; one daughter, Judy Chalfant of Fredricksburg, Va.; one daughter-in-law, Oleva Gainer of Elizabeth, Pa.; one brother, Morford Johnson of Vienna; six grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one daughter, Patricia Ann Gainer; one son, Larry Gainer; and one granddaughter, Pamela Martin.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Mary Zimmer officiating. Burial was in Bethlehem Cemetery.

MEGAN GESQUIERE

Megan Hill Gesquiere, 24, of Green, Ohio, died Wednesday, Mar. 5, 2003, at her home.

She was born in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, the daughter of Pete Starcher of Mesa, Ariz., and Judith and William Guertal of Akron, Ohio.

She was a 1996 graduate of Central Hower and had attended University of Akron. She had been employed by Tops Market and was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church.

Surviving in addition to her parents are her husband of five years, Robert; one daughter, Madeline Elizabeth; two brothers, Zachary Hill of Akron and C.R. Starcher of Mesa; and other relatives, including an aunt, Margie Nester of Mt. Zion.

Funeral Mass of the Resurrection was held at St. Paul Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. John Valley officiating. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery.

JAMES ROBERT RIGHTMIRE

James Robert Rightmire, 87, of Parsons, retired W.Va. State Trooper, died Tuesday, Mar. 18, 2003, at his home.

He was born at Parsons, the son of the late Vernon and Jesse Watkins Rightmire.

He was a 1933 graduate of Parsons High School and retired in 1970 from W.Va. State Police as a Corporal with 28 years of service, including some in Calhoun County. He was a member of W.Va. State Police Retired Members Association, Fraternal Order of Police and Parsons Lions Club, and had attended Parsons Presbyterian Church.

Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Margaret Faye Taylor Rightmire; one son, James Robert “Bob” Rightmire II of York, Pa.; one daughter, Jo Ann Rightmire of La Plata, Md.; and one sister, Dorothy Paugh of Baker.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Frank Rightmire, and one sister, Ruth Tamurini.

 Services were held at Barb & Greenlief Funeral Home, Parsons, with Rev. Ellen Thomas and Rev. Neil Parsons officiating. Burial was in Parsons City Cemetery.

JUNIOR GROVES

Junior Groves, 75, of Orma, died Monday, Mar. 24, 2003, at Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center.

He was the son of the late William and Lena Suttels Groves.

Surviving are three brothers, Worden Groves of Arnoldsburg, Tomas Groves of Akron, Ohio, and Robert Groves of Grantsville.

He was preceded in death by two brothers.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Glenville McBride officiating. Burial was in Summers Cemetery, Orma.

ERMA LEE McGUIRE

Erma Lee McGuire, 60, of Cairo, died Thursday, Mar. 27, 2003, in Cairo.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Holly and Bernice Jackson Miller.

She was a cook and supervisor at Pineview Continuous Care Facility, Harrisville, for 13 years.
Surviving are six sons, Randy Bunner of Creston, Bill Bunner of Waverly, Terry and Jeff Bunner, both of Parkersburg, Joe McGuire of Cairo and Jeff McGuire of Vincent, Ohio; three daughters, Pamela Cloudy of Petroleum, Tammy Bunner of Parkersburg and Jennifer Black of Cairo; three brothers, George Smith, Donald Miller and Ronald Miller, all of Calhoun County; one sister, Geneva Groves of Grantsville; 20 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Alice Hoffman.

Services were held at Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville, with Rev. Bob Roth officiating. Burial was in Hunt Cemetery, near Brooksville.

WAITMAN MAXWELL STEVENS

Waitman Maxwell Stevens, 68, of Vienna, died Friday, Mar. 28, 2003, at his home.

He was born in Wirt County, the son of the late Waitman and Olive McDonald Stevens.

He was a former employee of Gatewood Products Co., Parkersburg.

Surviving are his wife, Diane Stevens; three sons, Richard Stevens and David Stevens, both of Walker, and Michael Collins of Elizabeth; one daughter, Crystal Stevens of Elizabeth; four brothers, Frances Stevens of Parkersburg, Okie Stevens of Pullman, Clifford Stevens of Reedsville, Ohio, and William (Bill) Stevens of Plaines, Ohio; three sisters, Maxine Murphy of Elizabeth, Leonna Jenkins of Macfarlan and Dolly Yoak of Pullman; several grandchildren; and special friend and caregiver, Janet Cross.

He was preceded in death by one son, Ricky Stevens, and his second wife, Enid Cole.

Graveside services were held at Hartley Cemetery, Brohard, with Rev. Raymond Ray officiating.

MONA SHOOK

Mona Ruth Shook, 74, of Little Hocking, Ohio, died Saturday, Mar. 22, 2003, at her home.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Eskey and Essie Ingram Harper.

She was a member of Porterfield Baptist Church, Little Hocking.

Surviving are her husband of 55 years, James S. “Jim” Shook; four sisters, Lorene Bloxham of Waterford, Ohio, Mary Wilson of Burton, Ohio, Lee Peters of Aurora, Colo., and Molly Houghton of Cairo; two brothers, Clem Harper of Rocky River, Ohio, and Robert Gifford Harper of Ft. Wayne, Ind.; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Lucy Hall.

Memorial services were held at Porterfield Baptist Church with Rev. Phil Newhart and Rev. Mark Eaton officiating.

ERIC GLEN NICHOLAS

Eric Glen Nicholas, 32, of Orma and Louisburg, N.C., died Sunday, Mar. 30, in an automobile accident in Franklin County, N.C.

He was the son of Mary B. Nicholas of Orma and the late Earlie Nicholas.

He was employed by CTC Construction Co.

Surviving in addition to his mother are two sons, Dylin and Skylar Nicholas of Dunbar; five sisters, Margaret Haynes of Reedy, Sible DeWeese of Orma, Donna Epling of Spencer, Dwanna Carpenter of Cleveland, Ohio, and Regina Falls of Smithville, Ohio; three brothers, Roger McCumbers of Smithville, and George Nicholas and Frederick Nicholas, both of Louisburg; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Mark Gerwig officiating. Burial was in Orma U.M. Church Cemetery.

ROBERT LEON LYNCH

Robert Leon Lynch, 57, of Arnoldsburg, died Wednesday, Mar. 26, 2003.

He was born in Kanawha County, the son of the late Woodrow and Glenna Garrett Lynch.

He was a resident of Jessie’s Run for over 30 years. He was an oilfield worker, a member of Walnut Grove Community Church, Barnes Run, and a volunteer at Arnoldsburg Fire Dept.

Surviving are his wife of 33 years, Earline Nester Lynch; one sister, Dortha Lea Offutt of Noonan, Ga.; one son, Robert Woodrow Lynch; two daughters, Shannon Welch and husband Steve and Cindy Castle and husband Thomas; and three grandsons, Jordan, Brandon and Taylor Welch.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Pastor Carl Marks officiating. Burial was in Gibson Cemetery, Adam/Altizer Road.

LOIS CARPENTER

Lois Marie Somerville Carpenter, 72, of Parkersburg, died Sunday, Apr. 6, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

She was born in Revere, the daughter of the late Arley and Iva Boyce Bush.

She worked for American Viscose and for Bureau of Public Debt, Parkersburg, and was a member of South Parkersburg Baptist Church.

Surviving are seven children, Marie Newberry of Chesapeake, Va., Gary Somerville of Williamstown, Pat Paintiff of Parkersburg, Connie Sue Tooker of Davisville, Carol Lynn Ratliff of Jane Lew, Brenda Ball of Walker and Kathy Nutter of Parkersburg; 15 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and eight brothers and sister, Margaret Dunbar of Vienna, Richard Lee Bush of Tanner, Ruby Maxine Weaver, Christine Miner and Cletus Bush, all of Williamstown, Roberta West of Nobe, and Donna Grogg and Donald Bush, both of Revere.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Raymond Somerville; her second husband, Denver Clyde Carpenter; one daughter, Jacqueline Somerville; two granddaughters; one sister, Mildred Arlene Yoak; and two brothers, Robert Ray Bush and James Donley Bush.

Services were held at Lambert-Tatman Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Rev. Ed Rogers officiating. Burial was in Evergreen South Cemetery.

WILLIAM RAY RITCHIE

William Ray Ritchie, 63, of Spencer, died Saturday, Apr. 5, 2003, at Roane General Hospital.

He was born in Grantsville, the son of the late Denver and Mary Sole Ritchie.

He was a 1958 graduate of Calhoun County High School, a U.S. Army veteran having served in Korea, and was employed by Kellwood Co., Spencer.

Surviving are one son, Brett A. Ritchie of Five Forks; one daughter, Nicole Hopkins of Indiana; one brother, Eugene Ritchie of Five Forks; and his companion, Delores Harper of Spencer.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Harold Francis officiating. Burial was in Hunt Cemetery, Big Bend.

FREDDIE EUGENE WHITE

Freddie Eugene White of Channelview, Tex., died Sunday, Dec. 22, 2002, in Channelview Hospital.

He was born at Glenville, the son of Nettie Starcher Kerby and the late Greely White of Channelview.

He attended Calhoun High School and Mt. Zion United Methodist Church. He served four years in the Navy aboard the USS Chambers and retired as a mechanic from Auto Handling, Houston, Tex.

Surviving in addition to his mother are two daughters, Leto Wood and Fresa Jennings, both of Houston; two sons, Freddie White, Jr., and Roger White, both of Houston; one sister, Freda Booher of Orma; one brother, Frankie White of Barberton, Ohio; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one sister, Enda Carpenter.

Burial was at the convenience of the family.

EMILE COEN

Emile B. Coen, 86, of Creston, Ohio, died Saturday, Mar. 15, 2003, at her home.

She was born in Chloe, the daughter of the late Oka and Myrtle Jarvis Conley.

She was a resident of Creston for 57 years and retired from Nabisco Brands, Seville, Ohio, in 1989.

Surviving are three daughters, Eva Clevidence of Wadsworth, Ohio, and Wanda Halpin and Sandy Flickinger, both of Creston; nine grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one brother, Carsie Conley of Chloe; and three sisters, Orda Offutt of Creston, Mildred Lewis of Charleston and Oleta Yentz of Wadsworth.

She was  preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, Lester “Buss” Coen, who died Mar. 22, 1983; four brothers, Claret, John, Ray and Harley Conley; and one nephew, Harley Conley, whom she raised.

Services were held at Murray Funeral Home, Creston, with Rev. Homer Watson officiating. Burial was in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.

ROSE ANN TAYLOR

Rose Ann Taylor, 83, of Cremo, died Wednesday, Mar. 26, 2003, at Mile Tree Health Care Center, Spencer.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Charles and Jannetta Cummings.

She was a homemaker.

Surviving are two sons, Dale Starcher of Stinson and Joe Starcher of Leroy; five daughters, Idice Conway of St. Maries, Idaho, Juanita McCumbers of Orma, Mary Durfee of Ellisville, Miss., Jane Parker of Laurel, Miss., and Kathleen Cash of Cremo; one brother, Robert Cummings of Looneyville; one sister, Emma McKinney of Wallback; 42 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Everett Starcher of Rush Run in 1958, and her second husband, Harrison Taylor in 1969.

Services were held at Carl Wilson Funeral Home, Clay, with Minister Fred Patterson officiating. Burial was in Elswick Cemetery, Clendenin.

LEO (Jim) RIGGS

Leo V. (Jim) Riggs, 81, of Spencer, died Tuesday, Mar. 25, 2003.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Park and Roxie Riggs.

Surviving are his wife, Claris; caregiver, Patti; one daughter, Robin; two sons, Jimmy and Benny; four step-children, Larry, Tim, Vicky and Judy; two sisters, Milly and Helen; two brothers, Burl and Leon of Mt. Zion; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Services were held at Taylor-Vandale Funeral Home, Spencer. Burial was in Mt. Zion Cemetery, Roane County.

ESTA GIVENS

Esta O. Givens, 90, of Big Springs, died Friday, Apr. 4, 2003, at her home on Yellow Creek.

She was born on Yellow Creek, the daughter of the late Ruben and Margaret Conley Richards.

She was a member of Spruce Hollow Community Church.

Surviving are three sons, Ralph Givens of Williamstown, Charles Givens of Walker and Roger Givens of Big Springs; three daughters, Joan Porter of Bluff City, Tenn., Margaret Ann Fleming of Parkersburg and Donna Sams of Little Hocking, Ohio; one sister, Peggy Layfield of Cairo; nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charley W. Givens.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville. Burial was in King Knob Cemetery, Smithville.

FREEDA BUSH

Freeda M. Bush, 69, of Spencer, died Tuesday, Mar. 25, 2003, in Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital, Parkersburg.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of Lawrence Hale Goodnight of Brohard and the late Dessie Mae Richards Goodnight.

She was a homemaker, president of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 21, Spencer, Roane County chairperson for Rhododendron Girl’s State, and member of Roane County Democratic Women’s Club and Zion United Methodist Church, Spencer.

Surviving in addition to her father are her husband, Robert E. Bush, whom she married May 22, 1953; three daughters, Roberta Board of Spencer, Janet Murray of Ripley and Kristina Starcher of Walton; one son, William E. Bush II of Spencer; two sisters, Mavarine Butler of Bowie, Md., and Deloris Dye of Smithville; three brothers, Arthur Goodnight of Ravenna, Ohio, Ronzel Goodnight of MacFarlan and Delmas Goodnight of Brohard; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Services were held at John H. Taylor Funeral Home, Spencer, with Rev. Daniel R. Whited and Rev. John W. Lowe officiating. Burial was in Nobe Cemetery, Nobe.

MARVIN MOSS

Marvin L. Moss, 68, of Vienna, died Sunday, Apr. 6, 2003, at the Arbors, Marietta, Ohio.

He was born in Roane County, the son of the late John Earl and Hazel B. Straight Moss.

He retired from the U.S. Navy after serving from 1955-1975. He was a member of Fleet Reserve Association, Blinded Veterans Association, Moriah Lodge No. 38 and Disabled Veterans.

Surviving are his wife, Nancy Norman Craig Moss; one son, Marvin Douglass Moss of Reedy; one brother, Holly O. Moss of Parkersburg; four step-children, Leah Offutt of Mt. Zion, Lynn Chapman of Glenville, Lisa Barker of Spencer and Norman Graig of New Albany, Ohio; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Services were held at Taylor-Vandale Funeral Home, Spencer, with Rev. Rick Perrine officiating. Burial was in Spencer Memorial Cemetery.

ROBERT ROBINSON

Robert R. Robinson, 79, of Tanner, died Friday, Apr. 11, 2003, at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

He was born on Frozen Run, the son of the late Gray and Holly Bailey Robinson.

He was an Army veteran of World War II, serving under Gen. George Patton and participating in the
Battle of the Bulge. He retired from General Motors in 1978.

Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Emogene “Jean” Newell Robinson; one daughter, Bobbi Jean Moss of Palestine; two granddaughters, Marcie Benslay of Ft. Bragg, N.C., and Mistie Davis of Morgantown; one great-grandson, Logan McBride Benslay; and one sister, Geneva Lawson of Arnoldsburg.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Evangelist Corley Miller officiating. Burial was in Orma Cemetery.

RONZEL DEWEESE

Ronzel Deweese, 85, of Spencer, died Saturday, Apr. 12, 2003, at Roane General Hospital.

He was born in Milo, the son of the late Balis and Emily Bailey Deweese.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and retired from Roy G. Hildreth & Son as a construction worker and oil field worker with over 20 years of service.

Surviving are two daughters, Darlene Metz and Debbie Wagoner, both of Spencer; one sister, Golda Deweese of Chloe; one brother, Donzel Deweese of Chloe; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Thelma Wilson Deweese; his second wife, Marry Irene Reynolds Deweese; two sisters; and six brothers.

Services were held at Taylor-Vandale Funeral Home, Spencer, with Rev. Jackie Roberts officiating. Burial was in Bailey Cemetery, near Arnoldsburg.

ALVA WHIPKEY

Alva F. Whipkey, 90, of Waterford, Ohio, died Monday, Apr. 7, 2003, at the Arbors, Marietta, Ohio.

He was born in Grantsville, the son of the late Jay and Emily Holbert.

He was self-employed as a lime vendor and was a member of Eagles Club, Beverly, Ohio.

Surviving are his wife, Marilyn Whipkey; one daughter, Lenora Mulinex of Athens, Ga.; one brother, Bernard Whipkey of Truth or Consequences, N.M.; two sisters, Janet Allen of Parkersburg and Malinda McMillan of Las Vegas, Nev.; six step-children, Joanne DeEmila of Orlando, Fla., Loise Holland of Marietta, Douglas Dick of Parkersburg, Theresa Amos and Valerie Schmidt, both of New Matamoras, Ohio; and Nancy Dick of Athens, Ohio; four grandchildren; 13 step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 13 step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Freda Ayers Whipkey, in 1993; four brothers, Alfred, Alton, Samuel and Daniel; and three sisters, Ruby, Dola and Ethel.

Services were held at Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Evangelist Tom Butterfield officiating. Burial was in Big Tygart Cemetery.

CARRY HAROLD SAMPSON

Carry Harold Sampson, 67, of Arnoldsburg, died Saturday, Apr. 12, 2003, at Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center.

He was born in Orma, the son of the late William and Gracie Jackson Sampson.

He was an Army veteran, having been stationed in Germany in the late 1950’s, and had been a foreman at Stalwirt Rubber, Bedford, Ohio. He had been a companion and caregiver to Ruth Dawson of Arnoldsburg for the past 10 years.

Surviving are one daughter, Rose Gibson of Grantsville; two sons, Rick and Bill Sampson, both of Arnoldsburg; 12 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Elmer Sampson of Spencer and Robert (Rob) Sampson of Arnoldsburg; and two sisters, Stella Tanner of Massilon, Ohio, and Lorine Stanley of Streetsboro, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, six brothers, and two sisters.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Arnoldsburg, with Rev. Roger Carter officiating. Burial was in Orma United Methodist Church Cemetery.

LEONA TAYLOR

Leona C. Taylor, 85, of Newark, died Tuesday, Apr. 8, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

She was born in Ritchie County, the daughter of the late Charley and Jane Wagoner.

She retired from ETC, Solon, Ohio, after 15 years of service. She was a member of Ladies Auxiliary, VFW Post 6608, Elizabeth, and attended House of Prayer Church, Newark.

Surviving are one daughter, Virginia Forren and husband Don of Newark; four brothers, Ora Wagoner of Seven Hills, Ohio, and Paul Wagoner and wife Grace, Ernest Wagoner and wife Betty, and Hatzel Wagoner and wife Bonnie, all of Big Bend; two sisters, Nellie Sims and husband Fred of Big Bend and Margie Sims of Parkersburg; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Herbert H. Taylor; one son, Denzil C. Taylor; four brothers; one granddaughter; and one great-granddaughter.

Services were held at Spruce Hollow Community Church, Yellow Creek, with pastors Charlene Spaur and Jim Baker officiating. Burial was in Taylor Cemetery, Big Bend.

RONALD HUSTEAD

Ronald “Grumpy” Hustead, 55, of Grantsville, died Saturday, Feb. 1, 2003, at Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center, Clarksburg.

He was born at Weston, the son of the late Francis E. Hustead and Berniece Jarvis Hustead.

He was a graduate of Jane Lew High School and was a U.S. Army veteran. When the family lived in Jane Lew, they attended Broad Run Baptist Church.

Surviving are two sisters, Frances Jane Hustead of Huntington and Penny Hustead Stalnaker of Jane Lew; and one nephew, Willie Stalnaker of Jane Lew.

There were no services.

ROBERT HARDMAN

Robert F. Hardman, 71, of Tanner, died Sunday, Apr. 13, 2003, at the home of his daughter in Vienna.

He was born in Gilmer County, the son of the late Earl and Elizabeth Hersman Hardman.

He was a U.S. Navy veteran and was a former owner and operator of Hardman’s Store, Tanner, for 10 years. He was a member of Knights of Columbus of Phythias Lodge, Tanner.

Surviving are his wife, Leona Frymier Hardman; two daughters, Beth McMilleon of Vienna and Tami Ann Hardman of Mineral Wells; two sons, Robert E. Hardman of Tanner and Eric V. Hardman of Rockport; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grand-children.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Robert Nicholas officiating. Burial was in Mt. Liberty Cemetery, Tanner.

CLIFFORD BURROWS

Clifford R. Burrows, 85, a resident of Ohio Valley Health Care nursing facility, died Friday, Apr. 11, 2003, at Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital.

He was born in Clarksburg, the son of the late Wattie A. and Bertha Fredrick Burrows.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and had retired in 1980 from Johns Manville Corp. as a tender with 27 years of service. He was a member of Prosperity Baptist Church and life member of American Legion Post 15, Parkersburg.

Surviving are one son, Edward Burrows of Bryon, Ohio; three daughters, Jeannette Wright of Belpre, Sandra Sue Parsons of Amelia Island, Fla., and Jeannie Winans of Parkersburg; two brothers, Myrul Burrows of Pennsylvania and Gerald Burrows of Cleveland, Ohio; four sisters, Oleta Dye of Spencer, Juanita Hefler of Parkersburg, Reva Hanshaw of Cleveland and Leota Leslie of Tennessee; 13 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth N. Malona Burrows, in 1977; one son, Carl Burrows; one daughter, Betty Hobby; three brothers, Burl Burrows, Thurl Burrows and Earl Burrows who died in infancy; two sisters, Geneva Burrows and Virginia Burrows who died in infancy; and one great-grandson, Logan Wright who died in infancy.

Services were held at Kimes Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with Pastor Lloyd Winans officiating. Burial was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery with military graveside rites by American Legion Post 15.

NILAHMA ‘GRACE’ FREDERICK

Nilahma “Grace” Frederick, 72, of Bramblewood Village, near Grantsville, died Wednesday, Apr. 16, 2003, at the home of her nephew.

She was the daughter of the late Homer and Elvira Wilson. She was a member of Prosperity Baptist Church.

Surviving are one son, Richard Lynn Busch, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Harley and Soney Wilson, and two sisters, Eula Mae and Ona Gay.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Ken Heiney officiating. Burial was in Nobe Cemetery.

DORA STARCHER

Dora M. Starcher, 86, of Palestine, died Tuesday, Apr. 15, 2003, at home.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Grant and Nancy McCartney Richards.

Surviving are one son, Nolan Harris of Palestine, and three daughters, Velma Kirby of Grantsville, Sharon Shuman of Elizabeth and Leveda Wright of Palestine.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Starcher; two daughters, Carol Ann Starcher and Rena Sidwell; and three sons, Delmas, Jimmy and Buddy Harris.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Farley Blankenship officiating. Burial was in Big Springs Cemetery.

DELPHA DAVISSON

Delpha J. Davisson, 94, of Minnora, died Tuesday, Apr. 15, 2003, in Charleston Area Medical Center.

She was born in Calhoun County, the daughter of the late Homer and Ruie Hall Miller.

Surviving are two sons, Glen Davisson of Orrville, Ohio, and Melvin Davisson of Minnora; one daughter, Iva Brannon of Fountain Hills, Ariz.; two brothers, Oscar Miller of Ivydale and Ottice Miller of Minnora; 12 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Davisson; one son, Jennings Davisson; and
two brothers, Ezra and Greenville Miller. Burial was in Clark Jarvis Cemetery, Chloe.

WESLEY SAMPSON

Wesley Sampson, 62, of Arnoldsburg, died Wednesday, Apr. 16, 2003, at Miletree Health Care
Center.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Cecil and Nellie Booher Sampson.

He was a factory worker for Krondite Brick Factory with 25 years of service.

Surviving are two sons, Wesley Sampson, Jr., of Florence, S.C., and Andrew William Sampson; one daughter, Susan Reip of Reedy; their mother, Xenia Jones; two brothers, Delmer Sampson of Massillon, Ohio, and George Sampson of Newberry, S.C.; two sisters, Wanetta Rogers of Massillon and Florence Rogers of Grantsville; and four granddaughters.

He was preceded in death by one son, Matthew John Sampson, and two brothers, Bernard and Bill Sampson.

Private family services were held.

MARGARET RIGHTMIRE

Margaret Faye Taylor Rightmire, 92, of Parsons, died Wednesday, Apr. 2, 2003, at Davis Memorial Hospital, Elkins.

She was born at Beverly, the daughter of the late N. Phay and Ida Mae Stutzman Taylor.

She graduated from Elkins High School and Davis & Elkins College and was an educator in Tucker County. She attended Parsons Presbyterian Church for many years.

Surviving are one son, James Robert “Bob” Rightmire II of York, Pa.; one daughter, Jo Ann Rightmire of La Plata, Md.; and one brother, William B. Taylor of Elkins.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, James Robert Rightmire, a former State Police officer in Calhoun County, and four brothers, Roland, Dale, Odin and Jim Taylor.

Services were held at Barb & Greenlief Funeral Home, Parsons, with Rev. Neil Parsons officiating. Burial was in Parsons City Cemetery. Lambda chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority conducted ritualistic services.

JUANITA WAGGONER

Juanita Mae Waggoner, 75, of Deerfield, Ohio, died Friday, Apr. 4, 2003, at Woodlands of Robinson, Ravenna, Ohio.

She was born in Grantsville, the daughter of the late Rev. Clovis D. and Glada Ritchie Harris.

She was a longtime resident of Spencer before moving to Ravenna and Deerfield.

Surviving are her husband of 42 years, Earl Waggoner; one son, William R. Harris of Ravenna; one brother, William Harris of Grantsville; and one sister, Oleta Heiney of Ravenna.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Rev. Ray N. Harris, and one sister, Leota Fultz.

Services were held at Wood-Kortright Funeral Home, Ravenna Chapel, with Rev. Jody R. Hill officiating. Burial was in Grandview Memorial Park, Ravenna.

DENZIL LEACH

Denzil Leach, 80, of Grantsville, died Monday, Apr. 21, 2003, at his residence.

He was born in Calhoun County, the son of the late Burton and Myrtle Workman Leach. \

He was a U.S. Army veteran and retired from Hope Gas Co., now Dominion, with 34 years of service as a mechanic. He was a former member of Grantsville Volunteer Fire Dept.

Surviving are his wife of 24 years, Patricia (Peeps) Godfrey Leach; two sons, Bernard Leach of Grantsville and David Leach of Oklahoma; two grandsons, Jessie and Wyatt Leach of Oklahoma; one great-grandson, Logan Leach of Oklahoma; one sister, Melvie Davidson of Barberton, Ohio; and one nephew, Dane Davidson.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rita Collins Leach.

Services were held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, with Rev. Carroll McCauley officiating. Burial was in Bethlehem Cemetery, near Grantsville.

DON BAILEY

Don Bailey, 80, of Parkersburg, died Saturday, Apr. 26, 2003, at his residence.

He was born in Beech, the son of the late Paris and Lelia Gae Starcher Bailey.

He retired from Union Carbide Co. after 23 years of service and was known on C.B. radio by his handle, “Millstone.” He was a member of South Parkersburg Baptist Church.

Surviving are his wife of 57 years,