James Paul Little, Jr.
James Paul Little, Jr. of Ona, WV passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025 at St. Mary’s Medical Center surrounded by family.
“Jim” was born on December 2, 1945 in Charleston, WV to James Paul Little & Evelyn Selbe Bess. His father, who was also known as “Jiggs”, was a fireman with the Charleston Fire Department who tragically lost his life in the Woolworth Department Store fire in 1949.
Jim was a 1963 graduate of South Charleston High School. He then went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Marshall University in 1968. After his college graduation he married his high school sweetheart, Rebecca S. Whalen and moved to Baltimore, MD to start a life together that lasted until Rebecca’s death in 2021.
Jim started his career doing research in a lab at Johns Hopkins before moving to Columbus, OH where he transitioned his career to working for Nationwide Insurance Company. He later returned to Huntington, WV where he spent the majority of his career as a VP at Appalachian Life Insurance before retiring from Genworth.
Jim was the oldest of five children. After the death of his father, Jim was left to be a father figure to his siblings. Over the course of his life, Jim was a father figure to so many. He had such a kind and compassionate heart and he expressed that in all aspects of his life whether he was coaching a Little League team, an elder at St. Timothy Lutheran Church, attending school functions, caring for his family or a spectator at his kids and grandkids ball games and extra curricular activities. Jim was always present for those in need and was a source of inspiration for all his family. His love for his wife, children and grandchildren will always be remembered and cherished.
Jim was preceded in death by father, James Paul Little; mother, Evelyn Selbe Bess; sister-in-law, Betsy Little. Jim is survived by his daughters, Jamie Little and Jennifer Burko (Daniel); sons, James “Jay” Little, III (Crystal) and Josh Little (Tonya); granddaughters, Sydni Burko and Makayla Little; grandson, Dylan Burko; siblings Eddie Little, Rick Dearien (Janet), Cindy Giardina (Frank), Tim Bess (Cheryl); and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
We are promised in John 3:16, that us believers who put our faith in Jesus Christ will spend eternity with our Father in Heaven and be reunited with our beloved Jim.
Jim had multiple medical procedures and rehabilitation in his last year of life and the family expresses their appreciation to all the physicians, nurses and therapists who cared for Jim at St. Mary’s Medical Center, Thomas Memorial Hospital, Encompass Health, St. Mary’s Home Health and Hudak Family Medicine.
There will be no public services. The family will hold a private celebration to Honor the Life of James Paul Little, Jr. at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Charleston Fire Department.
Tennis Lester Sargent
Tennis Lester Sargent, known to all as Lester, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston, West Virginia. He was 72 years old.
Born on December 12, 1952, in Logan, WV, Lester made his home in South Charleston, WV, where he touched countless lives through his work, his faith, his music, and his kind, steady presence. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lula Carnesia Sargent and Tennis Alvin Sargent of Logan, WV, and by his wife, Martha Elizabeth Richardson.
Lester was a devout member of Green Valley Church of God, where his faith was a cornerstone of his life and a source of strength and purpose.
He earned a Master’s degree in Psychology from Marshall University, which he earned in 1992. Guided by a deep commitment to helping others heal and thrive, he went on to found Aspire Psychological Services in 2004—an organization that continues to make a difference in the lives of many.
Lester was a man of many passions. He found joy on the golf course, in creating music, and through his work. A devoted fan of Mountaineer Basketball, he rarely missed a game. But above all, he loved his work and the people he served through Aspire Occupational Rehabilitation, where he remained actively involved until his passing.
He is survived by his stepson, John Paul Richardson (Skye) of Belton, TX; and his four brothers: Clyde (Robin), Carl (Cindy), David (Shelia), and Arville (Elizabeth). Lester’s family and extended circle of friends, colleagues, and patients will remember him for his gentle heart, his tireless dedication, and his unwavering compassion.
A service to honor Lester’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Snodgrass Funeral Home in South Charleston, with Rev. Gary Bennett officiating. Family and friends may visit one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Graceland Memorial Park.
Louis Husson
Louis Ely Husson, 99, of South Charleston passed away at Hubbard Hospice House West on June 15, 2025. He was born on December 8, 1925, in Worcester, Massachusetts, the son of the late Very Rev. Raphael Husson and Josephine Haddad Husson.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane Duff Husson, his parents, Fr. Raphael and Josephine Haddad Husson and his brothers Ernest, Charles, Richard and sister Joan Husson.
He is survived by his brothers Raymond Husson of Arlington VA and Edward Husson (Eleanor) of Oakton VA; children Sandra Sowards (Steve) of Pataskala OH, David Titus (Gayle) of Racine WI, Susan (Titus) Hutchison of South Charleston WV, Nancy Titus of Dearborn MI; grandchildren Elizabeth Elberink (Jasper) of Charleston WV, Christopher Moore of Oak Park IL, Sarah Titus (Aaron Lenz) of Newburg WI, Sara Alqaragholy (Adheip) of Ferndale MI, Muhammad Alqaragholy (Noar) of Dearborn MI, and Zacharia Alqaragholy of Dearborn MI; and great -grandchildren Henry Moore and Clark Moore of Oak Park IL, and Marion Brent of Newburg WI. He is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews.
Louis and his family moved to Charleston when his father was the priest instrumental in forming the St. George Orthodox Church on Court Street. In his own words, “We came from a very close-knit family in Worcester (MA)…aunts, uncles, and grandparents…lots of love. Then we were sent to Charleston. As a newcomer with four kids, and not knowing anyone, my mom had the faith to know whatever God had in store for her she could handle. When we arrived at the Charleston Railroad Station, it was a whole new world for all of us. Then came World War II…and at 18, along with countless other young men from our church, I was drafted. For the first time in my life, I was separated from my security of home and church. When I returned home after 3 years in the Navy, I had seen the world.”
Louis was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, having served in the Pacific Theater in WWII aboard U.S.S. Douglas C. Munro DE 422 as signalman and helmsman. After the war, he entered the Mason School of Music in 1948. There he met his lifelong friend Leonard Stocker who served as director of the school.
He was a 1949 charter member of the Charleston Light Opera Guild and appeared in most shows throughout the years and was also active offstage in support of productions and as Board member. He met his wife Jane when they had leading roles in “Gypsy” and within a few short months, they were married. Louis’ signature performance was as Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof in 1978 and 1989. He also shared the stage as Sancho in Man of La Mancha with his good friend Bob Howell in the role of Don Quixote.
Louis’ life was full of music, fishing, and love of his family. He never failed to entertain and bring joy to all with an engaging sense of humor and enduring independence. He retired from the WV Department of Highways as overweight permits supervisor in 1988.
A service to Honor the Life of Louis Husson will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at St. George Orthodox Cathedral, Charleston with the Rev. Fr. Alex Mackoul officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, South Charleston.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 23, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be made in Louis’ memory to St. George Orthodox Cathedral Foundation, P O Box 2044, Charleston, WV 25327.
Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Arrangements are in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home.
Weldon Wayne Chandler
Weldon Wayne Chandler, 78, of South Charleston, WV, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, at CAMC Memorial Hospital after a courageous battle with long-term illness.
Weldon, who was better known to everyone as Wayne, was born on July 6, 1946, in Charleston, WV. He was a 1966 Graduate of Stonewall Jackson High School in Charleston, WV. Wayne was accepted into the United States Naval Reserve in 1964, and was honorably discharged in 1966.
After developing a love for electronics and radio communication, Wayne went on to DeVry University in Chicago Illinois to get his education in electronics. His education and experience led him to Thomas Memorial Hospital, where he worked for 27 years as a Bio Med Technician. In his spare time and during retirement, Wayne enjoyed listening to the radio, going to sporting events, day trading, watching his grandson play baseball, and spending time with his beloved dog, Toby.
Wayne is preceded in death by his father, Kiles Acra Chandler of Elkview, WV; his mother, Roma Marilyn Hayes of Fayette County, WV; and his wife of 53 years, the late Dawn Alee Donnelly, who passed away in 2024. Wayne is survived by his son, Carl Chandler, and his grandson, Dalton Chandler.
A Service to Honor the Life of Wayne will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, with Pastor Paula Napier officiating. Burial will be in Tyler Mountain Memory Gardens, Cross Lanes. Family and friends may visit one hour prior to the service.
Memories of Wayne may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Douglas John "Doug" Skaff Jr.
Douglas John “Doug” Skaff Jr.
November 10, 1976 – June 10, 2025
Beloved husband, father, son, brother, nephew, public servant, Mountaineer, and community champion
Douglas John Skaff Jr., 48, of South Charleston, West Virginia, was a devoted husband and father, proud son and brother, respected public servant, and passionate West Virginian. He was deeply committed to his church, his community, and to lifting up those around him through both service and kindness.
Doug was born to Doug and Maryann Skaff on November 10, 1976, in South Charleston, WV. From being their first child, to a big brother, and then so much more—the titles continued to grow for Doug. He was destined for greatness and lived that promise with unwavering character and love. A passionate Black Eagle at South Charleston High School, Doug served as student body president, a role he embraced with enthusiasm and leadership. He carried that momentum forward to West Virginia University, where he found his lifelong purpose as a leader and advocate.
Doug earned a bachelor’s degree in Marketing in 2000 and a master’s degree in Industrial Labor Relations and Business Management in 2002 from West Virginia University. In 2012, he was honored with an Honorary Degree in Public Service, recognizing his ongoing commitment to leadership and community.
At WVU, Doug’s influence was unmistakable. He was affectionately known as the “Godfather” of the Mountaineer Maniacs—the university’s famed student athletic booster club—which he founded to unite students in spirit and promote responsible behavior at athletic events. He also co-founded WVUp All Night, a late-night campus program, and led a Youth Summit with Senator Robert C. Byrd for high school leaders.
Like many young professionals, Doug left the Mountain State for a time to pursue career opportunities elsewhere. He spent several years working for Owens Corning, gaining valuable experience and skills. Throughout that period, Doug maintained a strong connection to West Virginia and expressed a heartfelt goal to return home. Recognizing his passion and potential, Owens Corning supported his desire by facilitating a position back in West Virginia, allowing Doug to settle back in the Mountain State and pursue his political calling.
Doug’s love for West Virginia extended into his political career. Elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2008, representing Kanawha County, he served multiple terms, including as House Minority Leader from 2020. His independent spirit and dedication to bipartisan progress led to the decision to run for Secretary of State in 2024. He had also announced his campaign for the West Virginia State Senate in 2026. His legislative focus included economic development, education, and innovation, and he was known for working across the aisle to get things done for the people of West Virginia.
Beyond politics, Doug was an accomplished businessman. He was involved in the Skaff Family enterprises and Building Remodeling Warehouse, and served as President of HD Media, guiding the Charleston Gazette-Mail through a critical period. Doug also co-owned Fazio’s, a cherished Charleston restaurant, further rooting his legacy in the local community. Doug was also a member of The Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch in the Antiochian Orthodox Church and a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity at West Virginia University.
Doug’s passion for giving back was evident in his charitable work. He organized Guys Night Out to raise funds for Sojourners Shelter and helped establish the West Virginia Kids Cancer Crusaders. His service extended beyond the community to his church, where he was a proud member of the St. George Orthodox Cathedral in Charleston, WV. Doug’s faith was a cornerstone of his life—he was actively involved in church activities and outreach programs, embodying a commitment to service that reflected his spiritual foundation.
Alice Kristine Cassis
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Alice “Kristine” Cassis, who passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 76, in Jacksonville, FL. Born in Spokane, WA, Kris was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a dedicated teacher for 30 years at various schools, and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking, skiing, dancing, and crafts.
Kris is survived by her husband, Michael Cassis; her children, Matthew (Nicole) and Adam (Nancy); her grandchildren, Jacob, Paul, Ethan, and Isaac; and her sister, Freda Painter (Jim Richards). She was predeceased by her parents, Fred & Alice Painter; and siblings, Lorna, Marilyn, and Daniel.
A Service to Honor the Life of Kris will be held at 12 Noon on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the St. George Orthodox Cathedral in Charleston, WV, with Rev. Fr. Alex Mackoul officiating. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Park, South Charleston. A visitation for Kris will be held at the church on Monday, June 9, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and also one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. George Cathedral (https://stgeorgecharleston.org/donate/) or Community Hospice, Jacksonville, FL (https://thefoundationcares.org/give/).
Memories of Kris may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
William "Bud" Turner
William “Bud” Turner, 82, of Winfield, West Virginia, passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on June 1, 1943, Bud was a proud graduate of South Charleston High School. A retired business owner and lifelong member of Local 80, he was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and deep commitment to his community and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Joann Turner and Bill Turner; and his brother, Robert “Hoppy” Turner.
Bud is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Turner; daughter, Debbie and Greg Rice, with children Brittany and John Rice, with his wife Alex, and their children River and Reece; daughter, Robin and Mark Johnson, and their daughter, Taylor Johnson; daughter, Stacy and Marshall Hoff, with children Haleigh, Savannah, Bryson, and Erika Martinez, with her husband Aaron, and their children, Mia and Ava; also surviving are his niece and nephew, Matt Turner and Christy Spindler.
A Memorial Service to celebrate the life of William “Bud” Turner will be held at 5:00 pm on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Snodgrass Funeral Home in South Charleston. Following the service, family and friends will be able to visit and share memories of Bud at the funeral home from 5:30 to 7:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/.
Snodgrass Funeral Home of South Charleston is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.
Jo Ann Sparks
Jo Ann Sparks, 90, of Charleston, WV, passed away on May 30, 2025, at her home. She was a devoted Christian, coming from a family of strong Christian faith.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Sparks; daughter, Pam Brown; son, Michael Workman; brothers, Orvill Syner, Johnny Syner, Clyde Syner, and Paul Syner; and her parents, George and America Syner.
Jo Ann is survived by her son, Jerome Sparks; grandchildren: Paul David Brown, Allen Brown, Chris Brown, Amy Wilson, Sabrina Elswick, and Samantha Sparks; as well as great grandchildren, cousins, and friends.
A Service to Honor the Life of Jo Ann will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, WV, with Pastor Don Toler officiating. Family and friends may visit one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Union Mission (https://unionmission.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate).
Memories of Jo Ann may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Paul G. Williamson
Paul G. Williamson, 101, passed away on May 31, 2025, at home in Charleston. He was the beloved son of E.L. and Beulah Williamson of Kentucky. He was a member and trustee of the Oakwood Baptist Church and the men’s progressive class. He was a member of the Kanawha Valley Business Association.
Paul was employed by Universal CIT, Charleston National Bank, and retired from Putnam County Bank.
He was a World War II veteran, serving in the European Theater with the Army Air Force 851st Aviation Engineers and the 15th Combat Engineers of the 9th Infantry Division, and was awarded 2 Bronze Stars.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Harold and Lexford; sisters-in-law, Ethyl Williamson and Mary Ruth Williamson; and special cousins, Ina Bogar and Deloris Smith. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Helen, and sons, Lexford (Patricia), Mark (Fonda), and Chet Williamson. He was a grandfather and a great-grandfather.
The family would like to thank Dr. William Harris and his staff for their years of excellent care.
A private service will be held at the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery in Dunbar on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 1:00 PM, with Pastor Kenneth “Chip” Tucker officiating.
Memorial donations can be made to Kanawha HospiceCare (https://www.hospicecarewv.org/make-a-donation/).
Memories of Paul may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
James Hoyt Hunter
James Hoyt Hunter of Red House, West Virginia, passed away on May 18, 2025, at his family home.
James was born in South Charleston, WV, on February 12, 1957. James attended Poca High School, where he cultivated a passion for popular culture and music, and became an accomplished piano player. He went on to graduate from the University of Kentucky in 1979 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, and the University of Virginia with a Master of Arts degree. James had an extensive freelance writing career, published in the New York Times and Rolling Stone Magazine, among others. He interviewed and wrote pieces on artists as diverse as Bono, Prince, Tim McGraw, Carly Simon, and Alan Jackson.
James was predeceased by his parents, Lewis Hoyt Hunter and Fern Blackwell Hunter. He is survived by his sister, Jill H. Pullen (Robert).
A private service will be held later this summer.
Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.