Patricia Marie Yeager Finney, 70, of Kenova, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a courageous battle with cancer that began in 2021. Born on March 9, 1956, in Amsterdam, New York, Patricia was the daughter of the late Joan Foley and James Yeager. Patricia proudly enlisted in the United States Army in 1984 and dedicated the next 24 years of her life to serving her country. Throughout her military career, she served as a Watercraft Operator, Human Resources Specialist, Administrative Specialist, and ultimately as a 42A Human Resources Sergeant. She was incredibly proud to be a soldier, and the friendships she formed through the Army became lifelong family to her. While cancer changed many things, it never changed who Patricia was. She faced every challenge with strength, grace, and unwavering positivity. She refused to let her illness define her and continued to find joy in making memories with those she loved. Patricia had a deep love for travel and adventure. Whether she was cruising to a new destination, taking a spontaneous road trip, attending music festivals, riding her Honda motorcycle, line dancing, playing darts, working in her yard, or remodeling her home, she embraced life with enthusiasm. She believed everyone should own and know how to read a paper map, and she was always ready for the next adventure. Above all else, Patricia was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and there was nothing she wouldn’t have done for them. She was fiercely loyal, endlessly supportive, and known for always helping anyone in need. If Patricia loved you, you never had to question it—she always had your back. She leaves behind her three sons, Jeremiah (Rebecca) Johnson, Justin (Veronica) Johnson, and Daniel Finney; her daughter, Holly (Robert) Pulley, with whom she made her home for the last several years; her beloved grandchildren, Finn, Amira, Peyton, Connor, Bryson, Harper, Rebecca, Samuel, Izzabella, and Taylor Mae; her sister, Bonnie Yeager; her brothers, Joe Foley and Bill Foley; countless cherished Army friends; and many other family members and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Sherrie Hensley, Timothy Thompson, Kaylee Ryder, Ashton Harriston, and Amelia Potter for the compassionate care they provided during Patricia’s final days. They also wish to thank the Infusion Center at St. Mary’s, Leila at Waffle House for always making sure she had her favorite bowl before treatments, and Hospice of Huntington for their exceptional care and kindness. More than anything, the family would like to thank Patricia’s Army family and lifelong friends who stood beside her with unwavering love and support throughout her journey. Your friendship, love, and devotion meant more to her than words can express, and your presence brought her comfort until the very end. A graveside service with military honors will be held at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery in Dunbar, West Virginia, on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend as they gather to celebrate Patricia’s life, honor her faithful service to her country, and remember the extraordinary woman she was. Patricia’s life was one of service, strength, compassion, and unconditional love. She was a proud soldier, a devoted mother and grandmother, a loyal friend, and a woman whose kindness touched countless lives. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of courage, generosity, and love will live on in everyone fortunate enough to have known her. Rollins Funeral home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
Wilma June (Wilson) Workman
Wilma June (Wilson) Workman, 95, of Huntington, West Virginia (formerly of Kenova, WV), peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
Born on January 14, 1931, in Prichard, West Virginia, Wilma was the daughter of the late Garland and Evelyn Wilson. She was also preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, Vernon “Cotton” Workman, with whom she shared many wonderful years, and by her beloved son, Gregory Workman.
Wilma devoted her life to her faith, her family, and caring for those she loved. She retired from Owens-Illinois Glass Company after many years of dedicated service and was a faithful member of First Independent Missionary Baptist Church of Kenova. Her quiet faith guided her throughout her life and was reflected in the kindness, generosity, and grace she extended to everyone she met.
Nothing brought Wilma greater happiness than being surrounded by her family. She cherished every gathering, every meal shared around the table, and every opportunity to create lasting memories with those she loved. She was an exceptional cook whose recipes and holiday meals will be fondly remembered for years to come. She also found joy in gardening, sewing, and making a warm, welcoming home for her family. Her gentle spirit, unwavering love, and selfless heart were gifts that blessed generations.
She leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her memory, including her daughter, Joan (Stephen) Barbour; her daughter-in-law, Sandra Workman; her granddaughters, Jennifer (Patrick) Roberts, Ashley (Brian) Dayton, and Dr. Jenna Barbour and her husband, Karl Garrett; her precious great-grandchildren, Ava Garrett, Oakley Dayton, Hudson Dayton, and Luke Mathews; brother-in-law, Arge Workman; three special nieces, Dody, Donna and Judy and many extended family members, dear friends, and church family who were blessed to know and love her.
While her family grieves the loss of her earthly presence, they find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those who went before her and is now at peace in the presence of her Savior. Her legacy of faith, unconditional love, hard work, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026 at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, a graveside service will follow at Docks Creek Cemetery at 12:30 PM with Pastor Scott Byard officiating. Online condolences may be expressed at rollinsfh.com.
Doris Sparks
Doris June Meredith Sparks, 93, of Raceland, KY passed away on June 26, 2026. Doris was born November 19, 1932 in Hubbardstown, WV a daughter of the late James and Bernice Hatfield Meredith. She spent her early years in Hubbardstown and then around the age of 12 her family moved to Fort Gay, WV where she graduated from Fort Gay High School. Doris married her husband, Hugh F. Sparks and together they raised four children. She enjoyed cooking, taking care of her family, and spending time with them. Doris was also an avid reader. She worked for the United States Postal Service. In addition to her parents, Doris was also preceded in death by her husband Hugh; two sons, Steven Lee Sparks and Fred Sparks; one daughter, Nancy Ann Phelps and her husband, Jack Phelps; a granddaughter, Angela Phelps; three sisters, Viola Hodge, Geneva Hagerman and Aveanell Hodge. She leaves behind one daughter and son-in-law, Tena and Dustin Haight; a sister, Connie (Bill) Conley; four grandchildren, Heather (Jake) Leibee, Mary Megan Sparks, Chris Haight and Lacey (Bobby) Fannin; three great grandchildren, Rowan, Draevyn and Riley; and one daughter-in-law, Cathy Sparks who will mourn her passing and remember how much she loved them. A graveside service will take place on Thursday July 2, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Docks Creek Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Andrew Tennant officiating. Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova, WV is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com
Vickie Ann Mays
Vickie Ann Mays, 69, of Cincinnati, Ohio, formerly of Kenova, W.Va. Passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer on June 22, 2026. She was the daughter of Thelma Jean Sparks and the late Fred Sparks of Kenova and she has one brother, Freddie Sparks also of Kenova. Vickie was a graduate of Ceredo Kenova High School where she was a majorette for four years. She continued her education at Marshall University graduating with a degree in Bachelor of Science. Vickie has two wonderful children who were by her side at her passing, Stephanie Mays (Brandon Jarett) and Christopher Mays (Abby), and three beautiful grandchildren whom she loved dearly, Callie, Bree and Bode. She has a special aunt, Geneva Tyson of Huntington and special cousins, Bob and Sharon Sparks of Kenova, along with many cousins, family and friends who will morn her loss. Vickie left the most meaningful gift possible by donating her body to science, the gift of knowledge and healing. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com
David Allen Nelson
David Allen Nelson, 51, of Catlettsburg, KY passed away June 23, 2026. He was born October 7, 1974 in Ashland, KY a son of Jennifer Nelson of Catlettsburg and the late Donald Hulett. David was a heavy equipment operator with River Metals Recycling. He married his wife of 30 years, Leeanna Nelson and together they raised two daughters, Summer Nelson and Josey (Isaiah) Caperton. David enjoyed shooting potato guns and listening to old time country music. He also enjoyed spending time with his family. David was an avid dog lover and enjoyed his eight dogs, Sadie, Tyson, Bandit, Dottie, Blue, Banjo, Brutus and Bitzy. In addition to his father, David was also preceded in death by his grandfather, John Nelson; grandmother, Mary Nelson and his step-dad, Steve Warnock. He is survived by his wife, Leeanna; his mother, Jennifer; daughters, Summer and Josey; and granddaughter, Eowyn Ward. A memorial gathering will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2026 at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova, WV. There will be no funeral service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
Gary V. Brafford
Gary V. Brafford Sr., 77 of Barboursville, WV passed away June 20, 2026 at the Emogene Dolin Jones Hospice House in Huntington, WV. Gary was born September 1, 1948 in Kenova, WV a son of the late Virdle and Juanita Perry Brafford. Gary worked for over 30 years as a dispatcher, police officer and a former Police Chief for the City of Kenova. He was a member of FOP Lodge 121 Kenova. He married Darlene Hodges Brafford and they raised two sons in the C-K Area. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his wife, Darlene and one son, Jacob Brafford. He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Gary Jr. and Rachel Brafford; four grandchildren, Rhiannon Brafford, Garrett Brafford, Rebekah Brafford and Skye Brafford; one sister, Mary Ellen Kalinoski and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be from Noon to 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2026 with a funeral service immediately following at 1:00 with Pastor Andrew Tennant officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
William “Bill” Neville Denman
William “Bill” Neville Denman, of Huntington, WV passed away on June 16, 2026, at The Village at Riverview. He is survived by his wife of almost 57 years, Dr. Sarah N. Denman (Newman), his daughter Katherine Denman, his sister Joan E. Denman (Leslie Innis), sister-in-law Sue Akers (Newman), brother-in-law Gary Akers, niece Jennifer Akers and his favorite fur baby Precious (the cat).
Bill loved teaching, he loved his family, but his life-long passion was the constant fight for civil liberties for all.
He was born in Los Angeles, CA on November 28, 1940, to Oscar Neville Denman and Marian Elizabeth Denman (LaRue). He graduated from California State University in 1962 and then went on to earn his Masters in 1966 from CSU as well. He joined the Marshall Department of Speech in 1965 and earned his Ph.D. from Ohio University in 1974. He met his wife Sarah at Marshall University and they married in 1969.
During this time at Marshall, he directed and acted in various theatrical productions and worked with the speech team starting in the 1970s before taking over as director in the1980s. In 1986, he became the founding director of the newly created Society of Yeager Scholars.
He also served as Chair of the Department of Communication Studies and Interim Director of the Integrated Science and Technology program at Marshall. His scholarship focused on the role of rhetoric in shaping societies and his teaching had a profound impact on the lives of generations of students. He was named the third John Deaver Drinko Distinguished Fellow at Marshall in 1996 and received the Sid Bell Memorial Award granted by the West Virginia American Civil Liberties Union in 2010. Bill was also proud of his decades long service on the WV-ACLU Board of Directors, after twice serving as President.
He spent his entire academic career at Marshall University, finally retiring in 2003. He spent the next years reading books, listening to opera, taking naps and enjoying traveling with his wife, mostly visiting their daughter in Washington, DC.
Per his wishes, no services will be held, and a celebration of life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to honor his memory can make a donation to the following funds: Marshall University’s Society of Yeager Scholars or the Marshall University Thundering Word Speech and Debate Team via Marshall University Foundation at 519 John Marshall Drive Huntington, WV 25703; the ACLU of West Virginia PO Box 3952 Charleston, WV 25339, or the National Legal Aid & Defender Association 1901 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20006.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Hospice of Huntington and The Village at Riverview for their compassionate care of Bill and support for his family during the past year. Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
Patricia Hazelett
Patricia “Patti” A. (Price) Hazelett, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, generosity, and love for her family.
Born in 1941 to Rex Eugene Price and Mary “Justine” Cook Price, Patti was a lifelong learner who approached life with deep curiosity and an open heart. She graduated from Huntington East High
School in 1959 and later attended Marshall College, where she continued to pursue her love of learning.
Patti dedicated many years of service to Century Lubricants, where she built a respected career before retiring in 2004. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she was known for her
compassionate spirit and commitment to helping others. She generously volunteered her time at St. Mary’s Hospital, reflecting the kindness and concern for others that defined her life. A woman of strong faith, Patti read her daily devotions faithfully and found strength, comfort, and
guidance in her relationship with God. Her faith was evident not only in her words but also in the way she lived—offering encouragement, generosity, and love to those around her. She had a huge heart and was always willing to help someone in need. Patti was preceded in death by her father, Rex E. Price, and her mother, Mary “Justine” Cook Price. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Terri Lynne Kilgore; grandsons, Christopher Dale Kilgore
and Eric Scot Kilgore; great-grandson, Jude Wyatt Kilgore; and her brother, Rex E. Price, Jr. Patti will be remembered for her warm heart, generous nature, unwavering faith, and genuine interest in the world around her. Her life was a blessing to all who knew her, and her memory will continue
to inspire those she leaves behind. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Medical Intensive Care
Unit at St. Mary’s Medical Center for their compassionate care and support during Patti’s final days. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Though she will be deeply missed, Patti’s legacy of faith, kindness, and love will remain forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
Joan Alberta Gibson
Joan Alberta Gibson, 64, of Kenova, WV passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 at King’s Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, KY. She was born September 7, 1961 a daughter of the late, Mitchell and Roberta Hatten Gibson. She grew up in Kenova and was a graduate of C-K High School class of 1979. Joanie loved music and enjoyed listening to it with both her friends and family. She loved Betty Boop and had a vast collection of Betty Boop items. Most of all Joanie loved her family and spending time with them, they were the bright lights in her life. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Steve Wilkes; her twin brother, John Gibson; a sister, Brenda Gibson Rutherford and a nephew, Mitchell Grant Gibson. Those left to cherish her life and memories include her beloved daughter, Stephanie (John Green) Wilkes, a brother, William Mitchell (Butch) Gibson and his wife, Leslie; special nieces and nephews, Kenny (Amy) Underwood, Heather (Tony) Serrano, Amanda Gibson and her husband, Michael Stamey, John (Megan) Gibson, Hannah (Blair) Gibson, Joseph Gibson and Ryan Johnson and other great nieces and nephews, an aunt and uncle, Boots & Guy Wellman, a cousin, Shelly Ferraro and two loved friends, Harley Mattox and Tonya Jones. Joanie will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova with Pastor Tim Crabtree officiating. Visitation will be two hours before the service. Burial will follow in Docks Creek Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
Charles Allen Hogan
Charles Allen Hogan, 62, of Kenova, WV, passed away May 20, 2026. He was born October 21, 1963, a son of the late Clarence and Alela Finley Hogan. He was also preceded in death by sisters Crystal Staley, Emogene Stevens, Imogene Sexton, Trisha Ann Hogan, and one brother Eugene Shannon. He is survived by two sisters Rosemary Porter with whom he lived and Lynn Stevens. Charles was a member of Kenova Church of Christ where there will be a celebration of life, June 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Minister Chris Stevens officiating. He loved his family and never met a mean soul. Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.