Richard Dixon (Dick) Harrah
Richard Dixon Harrah (Dick), 91, departed this life at his residence in South Charleston on June 13, 2024. Dick was born on August 26, 1932, to Leon Alexander Harrah and Lorena Dawson Harrah in Charleston, WV. He was the oldest of three boys, gaining the late Rita Pinson Harrah as his loving step-mother during adolescence. Dick graduated from Stonewall Jackson High School in Charleston, where he excelled in football and track.
Dick married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Ann Haynes (Pat) in 1952. He found employment at Bell Lines Trucking Company, Inc., until called to duty by the United States Army in 1953 in Korea. He proudly served his country in North Korea near the 38th parallel, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was assigned Graves Registration Service, organized for the purpose of caring for deceased military personnel interred outside the United States. Dick was awarded the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the United States Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. Upon completion of his duty, Dick returned to Charleston and his work at Bell Lines until 1970. He and Pat began a family, resulting in four children.
Dick's natural mechanical inclinations and strong work ethics led him to General Truck Sales, Inc. of Charleston, WV, Cummins, and finally Jasper Engines and Transmissions, Inc. of South Charleston, where he was the owner for over 40 years.
Dick was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Charleston. He was an avid golfer, and enjoyed many golf outings and lunches with his buddies. As a result of his father's involvement with an Indy Car team, sponsored by Bell Lines Trucking, Inc., he attended the Indy 500 for many years, turning the trips into family trips, which instilled in his family a love of the " Greatest Spectacle in Racing." He liked to reminisce about family vacations taken with the Cunningham Family, something still treasured by both families.
Dick provided well for his family throughout the years and his children are who they are because of his hard work and dedication. He is known for quietly helping many in need throughout the years, too many stories to tell.
Dick is predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Patricia (Pat) Harrah; brothers, Allen (Bubby) Harrah and Jim Harrah; and the beloved family dog, Charlie Brown. He is survived by four children: Rick (Joyce) Harrah, Mark (Beverly) Harrah, Karen Lehman (Kim), and Dave Harrah (Susan).
Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Erin Harrah, Kelli Harrah, Lauren Woodward (Mark), Andrew Harrah, Natalie Harrah, Nicole Newsome (Bryce), and Neil Harrah. Dick also has three Great Grandchildren: twins, Amelia and Margot Woodward, and Harry Woodward. Three nieces also mourn his loss: Dianna, Donna, and Debbie Cunningham, as well as other nieces and nephews. Neighbor Diane Whelan, a nurse, was instrumental in checking on Dick, as well as Pat, throughout the years. His loving caregiver, Carla Walker, was dear to Dick, becoming a part of the family, and the Harrah family will be forever grateful for her.
Services for Dick will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Charleston. Visitation begins at 11 am followed by the service at 12 noon, with the Rev. Ron Stoner officiating and Rev. Frank Lawson assisting. Dick will be interred with military honors following the service at Sunset Memorial Park in South Charleston.
Memories of Dick may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Bonnie Jean DeHart
Bonnie DeHart, 83, of Charleston, WV, passed away on June 5, 2024.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Margaret Thompson; step-father, Eugene Bish Thompson; son, Joe DeHart; and daughter, Lisa DeHart.
Bonnie is survived by her children, David DeHart and Donna DeHart; grandchildren, David DeHart II, Maggie DeHart, John Robert DeHart, Katie Somerville, Bobby Richards, and William Richards; and her companion, Bill Freshour.
A committal service to Honor the Life of Bonnie will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 10, 2024, at Cunningham Memorial Park, Building E, St. Albans. Entombment will follow.
Memories of Bonnie may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Robert "Bobby" Brown
Robert “Bobby” Brown, age 71, of South Charleston, sadly departed this life on May 31, 2024, after a long illness.
Bobby was born to Lawrence Dallas and Stella Marie Brown on October 12, 1952. He lived in Charleston all of his life, graduating from Charleston Catholic High School and then working for UPS, Lester Raines Honda, Pauley Motor Car Company, and several other dealerships in the area. Bobby loved his work and serving his customers, whether it was delivering packages or selling cars. He would always keep everyone at ease and laughing with his tag line: “Downtown Bobby Brown”!
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; two older brothers; and the mother of his children, Nancy, with whom he shared a special bond.
He is survived by his daughters, Alison (Travis) Horrocks and Kelly (Travis) Walker; four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, who all were his greatest loves in life.
A private memorial service to Honor the Life of Bobby was held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to HospiceCare (https://www.hospicecarewv.org/make-a-donation/).
Memories of Bobby may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Marilyn Sue Lanham
Marilyn Sue Lanham went home to be with the Lord on May 30, 2024, after a spirited fight with Dementia.
She was born in South Charleston, WV, on January 27, 1939, to the late Frankie and Malana Chandler. Being the only girl and surrounded by her three brothers, Blair Chandler, Jerry Chandler, and David Chandler, she grew up with much sibling love and protection.
Her father and mother died at an early age, and subsequently, Marilyn was raised by her Aunt Mae and Uncle Paul. They helped shape her attitude of a “strong will,” taught her to “give back” in life, and laid the roots of her biggest asset, the importance of family. These traits learned early on manifested themselves throughout Marilyn’s life.
Marilyn graduated from South Charleston High School, where she was a cheerleader and participated in other activities in school.
Her children, Terri Dent, Carolyn Dent, and David Dent Jr., learned the importance of Marilyn’s strong belief in family. She was active in their scholastic, extracurricular, and other various school activities, and she continued her growth as a family leader.
Marilyn and her husband, David Lanham, continued the family strength, and with her leadership, combined with the blessing of time, blending two families of five children together, with the addition of William Lanham II and James Lanham.
Marilyn was devoted to a love of travel as she and David traveled extensively. She also enjoyed her increased beach time! However, none of those activities decreased her pursuit of family time.
In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her three brothers, Blair Chandler, Jerry Chandler, and David Chandler.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, David Lanham; her five children: Terri Dent, Carolyn Thier (Jon), David Dent, Jr., William Lanham II (Annita), and James Lanham (Susan); brothers-in-law, Curtis Lanham and Paul Lanham; sister-in-law, Carol Hilliard (Ron); grandchildren: Thomas Poore, Todd Poore, Jessica Burgess, Jennifer Burgess, Melissa Ford, Hannah Guthrie, Andrea Dent, David Dent, III, Nathan Lanham, Nicholas Lanham, William Lanham III, Michael Lanham, and Kayleann Dent; 19 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the HospiceCare staff for their excellent care, especially Jo, Shelby, and Elizabeth. Also, a special thanks to all of Marilyn’s family who helped make it possible for her to remain in her home for her final days, especially her daughter and primary care giver, Carolyn Thier.
A Service to Honor the Life of Marilyn will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at the Elizabeth Memorial United Methodist Church, 108 Oakwood Road, Charleston, WV, 25314, with Rev. Jonathan Dierdorff and Rev. Frank Shomo officiating. Burial will be in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans, WV. Family and friends may visit from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, June 3, 2024, at Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, WV.
Memories of Marilyn may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Susan K. Cravens
Susan K. Cravens, age 84, of Kanawha City, passed away Saturday, May 25, 2024 at Hubbard House West, South Charleston.
Susan was a lifelong member of the South East Church of the Nazarene in Kanawha City. She was a 1957 graduate of Charleston High School and retired from BB&T.
She and her husband enjoyed many years of camping and beach vacations with family & friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jame R. and Mary Coleman; as well as a grandson, Daniel S. Teel and brother Larry R. Coleman.
She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Donald Craigo Cravens of Kanawha City; daughter, Dawn Coll (Randy) of Hurricane; son, Scott Cravens of Cowen; granddaughter, Ashlee Teel of Frederick, MD; grandson, Brian Cravens of Raleigh, NC; great granddaughter, Haley Clover of Tarboro, NC; brother, Doy N. Coleman (Vonnie) of Charleston, and by many nieces and nephews.
A service to honor Susan’s life will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 1:00 pm in the mausoleum chapel at Sunset Memorial Park, South Charleston, with Pastor Bart Hodel officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to HospiceCare at www.HospiceCareWV.org.
Memories may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements.
Sara Frances Riffe
Sara Frances Riffe, age 98, of Charleston, passed away on Saturday May 25, 2024, at Harmony of South Charleston.
She was born on November 9, 1925, in Sutton, the daughter of the late Clyde and Clara Shaver Kitts. She is also preceded in death by her husband, Jay Riffe; brother C.E. Kitts; and sister, Reva Kincaid.
She is survived by her niece, Clara Poe (Glenn) of Tornado, WV; nephew, Jerry Kitts of Valdosta, Ga.; and several great nieces and nephews.
The family will have a private service at the Shaver Family Cemetery, Sutton, WV.
The family requests donations be made in her memory to HospiceCare at HospiceCareWV.org.
Friends may share condolences at our website www.snodgrassfuneral.com.
Snodgrass Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements.
Wilma O. Ellis
Wilma O. Ellis, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on May 24, 2024. Born on October 22, 1941, in Teays Valley, WV, Wilma was a dedicated and accomplished businesswoman and Realtor, with over 40 years in the industry. For many of those years, she was among the top Realtors in the state, passionately serving her clients and the community.
Wilma is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 54 years, William T. Ellis; her sons, Jason (Kelly) Ellis of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Damon (Kerry) Ellis of Charleston, WV; her step-daughter, Melissa Ellis of Charleston, WV; and nine cherished grandchildren. She also leaves behind her siblings and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Woodrow Eggleton and Margret Eggleton.
Wilma was a devoted wife and fiercely protective mother. She loved spending time with her family, traveling to Florida, and enjoyed the excitement of playing slot machines, often sharing stories of her winnings. Her generosity and kindness were well-known, and her legacy of love and dedication will not be forgotten.
A private burial will be held, with a celebration of her life to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Wilma's memory. If there were more people like Wilma, the world would undoubtedly be a better place.
Daniel Bundy Wells
Daniel Bundy Wells, a lifelong resident of Charleston, WV, and dearly loved father and granddad, peacefully departed this earth on Tuesday, May 21, at HospiceCare of CAMC Memorial Hospital, after a long illness. He was 84.
“Danny” was well known in the Kanawha Valley and around the state as a longtime sportswriter, columnist, and sports editor at The Charleston Gazette and serving in the West Virginia House of Delegates for five terms between 2005 and 2014, representing the 30th and 36th districts. He also served as director of the Charleston Distance Run from 1989 to 2001 and co-hosted sports talk radio shows on WCHS and WBES.
He was born on March 15, 1940, and grew up on Abney Circle in South Hills. He spoke often and lovingly of his experiences attending Fernbank Elementary School near his home, Thomas Jefferson Junior High School, and Charleston High School, from which he graduated in 1958. He was a lifelong member of Saint Marks United Methodist Church in downtown Charleston.
In 1962, he graduated from West Virginia University, where he was Sports Editor of The Daily Athenaeum student newspaper. That summer, Danny joined The Charleston Gazette’s Sports Department. He met Sandy O’Shea of Huntington, who became his wife of 40 years, when she was hired at the Gazette in 1963. Danny was named Sports Editor in 1989 and remained in the department until his retirement in 2001. He enjoyed covering several Super Bowl and WVU bowl games in New Orleans and other colorful locales.
As a columnist, Danny was known for his witty, irreverent, and sometimes caustic takes on the WVU and Marshall University athletics programs, staff, and players. He also wrote many lighthearted, entertaining columns highlighting the hijinks of his South Hills neighbors, Gazette co-workers, his boating buddies at Summersville Lake, and his beloved family.
Encouraged by former longtime Gazette Publisher William E. “Ned” Chilton III, Danny gravitated to investigative sports journalism, bringing to light questionable practices and corruption in college and secondary schools’ athletic programs. In 1980, 1991, and 1993, he was chosen by his journalistic contemporaries as “West Virginia Sportswriter of the Year” through the former National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (now known as the National Sports Media Assn.) in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Danny was well-known for his dry, observant, often off-the-wall wit and youthful, fun-loving ways well into his middle and senior years. He loved listening to music, reading, boating at Summersville Lake, riding his bike with family and friends along the Greenbrier River Trail, in the Monongahela National Forest, and in Canaan Valley, whose scenery, serenity, and eclectic mix of residents and visitors he adored. Starting with the inaugural Charleston Distance Run in 1973, which he championed, Danny completed 20 of the 15-mile road races and started several more.
Danny was endlessly proud of his children and grandchildren. He found great joy in hiking, biking, experiencing live music and whitewater rafting adventures with son, Shannon, and daughter, Shea, an experienced guide on the New and Gauley rivers.
Following retirement from the Gazette in 2002, he worked at the Information Desk at the State Capitol Rotunda. The energy and camaraderie inspired him to run for office. A proud Democrat, he was first elected to the WV House of Delegates in 2005. An active and outspoken legislator, Danny championed bills aimed at enhancing environmental protections, bicycle and pedestrian safety, and expanding educational opportunities. He served on the Judiciary Committee, as chair of the Committee on Enrolled Bills and co-chair of the Parks and Recreation Committee, among other appointments.
Danny was preceded in death by his wife, Sandy; his brother, Linwood T. Wells Jr.; his mother, Virginia Bundy Wells; and his father, Linwood T. Wells Sr.
He is survived by his son, Shannon, of Pittsburgh; daughter, Shea, of Fayetteville, WV; grandchildren, Keller Stowers and Nash Mulcahy of Fayetteville; nephew, Teddy Wells of Richmond, VA; and nieces, Carrie Wallace of Huntington, Shelly Kelley of Tallahassee, FL, and Linette Wells of Roanoke, VA.
A visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, May 30, 2024 at Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, with a Memorial Service immediately following. A Celebration of Life for Danny will follow the service at a location to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the MPN Research Foundation, dedicated to pursuing new treatments and a cure for blood cancers known collectively as myeloproliferative neoplasms.
Memories of Danny may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Madeline H. Miller
Madeline H. Miller, 96, of Hurricane, WV, passed away on May 23, 2024.
Madeline was born on August 2, 1927, in Vinton, VA, to Shelton and Mary Harrison. She graduated from South Charleston High School, class of 1945. Madeline retired from C&P Telephone Company and was a life member of the WV Pioneers.
As a member of the First Baptist Church of Hurricane, Madeline served on and chaired many committees. She was also the Worthy Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star from 1957-1958.
Madeline is preceded in death by her parents, Shelton and Mary Harrison; her husband, Charles Donald Miller; brother, Shelton Harrison (Phyllis); sisters, Mary Wright (Marvin), Catherine Cook (Wendell), her twin, Geraldine Kidd (John); and nephew, Shelton “Pete” Harrison.
She is survived by eight nieces and nephews. Madeline was deeply loved by all of her family. Also, many thanks to the staff of English Meadows and Lavender Hill for their loving care.
A private graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, with her longtime friend and Senior Adult Pastor, Jerry Losh, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made to a local animal shelter of your choice, or to the First Baptist Church of Hurricane, 2635 Main St., Hurricane, WV, 25526 (https://giving.ncsservices.org/App/Giving/fbchurricane).
Memories of Madeline may be shared by visiting http://snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.
Anita G. Lorenzo
Anita G. Lorenzo, 67, of South Charleston, died peacefully on May 19, 2024, from breast cancer, at home surrounded by family.
Anita was born on June 22, 1956, in Boone, NC. She grew up on a farm with her parents, 2 great-aunts, and 3 sisters. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the School of Pharmacy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Anita then earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from the College of Pharmacy at the University of Texas at Austin, where she met her husband, David Elliott. She worked as a clinical specialist pharmacist in various healthcare settings for over 40 years, primarily in West Virginia. Anita was a mentor to many during her career and loved to teach.
More than anything, Anita valued family. Her most cherished roles in life were wife, mother, sister, and daughter, and she was overjoyed to become a grandparent in June. Anita gave her family the greatest gift: unconditional love. In life, she enjoyed gardening, crafting, playing piano, making biscuits, spending time with her dogs, and practicing her faith. She was a member of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church and their church choir and handbell choir.
Anita was preceded in death by her mother, Viola; her sister, Luisa; and her great-aunts, Crettie and Almedia. She is survived by her husband, David; her children, Matthew, Sarah, and Mary; her sisters, Linda and Tina; her father, Manuel; and her dogs, Lucy and Ruby.
A Funeral Mass to Honor the Life of Anita will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 24th, 2024, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in South Charleston, with Fr. John Finnell presiding. Family and friends may visit before the service at 10:00 am and after the service during a provided luncheon at Blessed Sacrament. Anyone unable to attend in person may join via the service livestream, https://youtube.com/@blessedsacramentwv?si=jMEXKugMmTTLEisL.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the CAMC foundation to help support the CAMC Med Rehab Unit. Donations may be mailed to the CAMC Foundation, 3414 Staunton Avenue SE, Charleston, WV 25304. Please note in memory of Anita Lorenzo.
Memories of Anita may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, is handling the arrangements.