Estel Lloyd Nelson

Estel Lloyd Nelson, 78, of Huntington, W.Va., passed away Thursday, September 25, 2025, in Huntington. Estel was born October 25, 1946, a son of the late Noah and Maltie Pack Nelson. He retired from Tennessee Gas Pipeline, where he worked as an electronic technician.

Estel was a dedicated Christian and lifelong student of the Bible. He was a member of Tri-State Baptist Church, where he faithfully taught Sunday school for many years, and in more recent years attended 13th Street Baptist Church in Ashland, Ky.

He had a passion for sports, both playing and coaching, and found great joy in encouraging young people. He especially loved coaching his son’s teams through Lavalette Little League and Buffalo Youth Basketball Programs, and in later years, he rarely missed one of his granddaughter’s basketball games. Estel was deeply supportive of his children’s pursuits, from attending nearly every one of his daughter’s music and dance performances to sharing in his son’s love of the outdoors with special yearly fishing and hunting trips. Some of his son’s fondest memories are of those times together. Just as lasting for his daughter are the many walks through the woods with him, where he guided her steps on the steep hills and shared his knowledge of nature. Whether outdoors with family or hiking alone, Estel found peace and joy in the woods.

Estel also enjoyed computer programming, applying it in both professional and personal ways. Above all, he loved his family and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. His steady presence, encouragement, and genuine care will be remembered by all who knew him.

The family extends special thanks to the staff of Madison Park Healthcare, who provided compassionate care during Estel’s last several months. His wife, Mary Ruth, was especially devoted, caring for him at home for as long as possible and continuing to visit and tend to him daily even after his move to Madison Park. Her unwavering love and sacrifice were a constant source of comfort to him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Aileen Bailey and Hester Bailey, and three brothers, Bobby, Don, and David Nelson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ruth Ferguson Nelson; a son and daughter-in-law, Nathan Lloyd and Janet Nelson; a daughter and son-in-law, Andrea Lenee and Zachary Marcum; a granddaughter, Alexandra Collins and her husband, Daniel; and three great-grandchildren, Brynlee, Ella, and Eli Collins. He is also survived by three sisters-in-law, Patty Nelson, Martha Nelson, and Dianna Nelson.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from Noon to 2:00 p.m., with his funeral service immediately following at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova, with Pastor Jim Byrd officiating. Burial will follow in Docks Creek Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Estel’s memory to the Dementia Society of America (www.dementiasociety.org)

Juanita (Kretzer) Chafin

Juanita (Kretzer) Chafin, born July 9, 1935 in Van Lear, KY, departed this life on September 18, 2025 at Life Care Center of Elyria, OH under the care of Crossroads Hospice. She was a resident with her son in Eaton Township in Lorain County, OH since 2020, but had been in long-term care since 2022. She celebrated her 90th birthday on July 6 along with her beloved family who joined to give thanks for her long and joy-filled life.

Juanita was a graduate of Ceredo-Kenova High School class of 1953 and soon afterward entered her career as a legal stenographer for Inland Mutual Insurance Company of Huntington, WV. During her early marriage to Rev. H. Thomas “Tom” Chafin, she resided in her adopted “hometown” of Ceredo, WV until later in life they settled in Huntington where she resided until moving to live with their only son, Rev. David T. Chafin of Eaton Township.

Because her father, William Wesley Kretzer, lost his life in a mining accident when she was 9 days old, she remained very close to her mother, Nannie (Cartmell) Kretzer, throughout her life until her passing in 1985. Her beloved siblings passed away over the years, but she was often remembering Clarence, William (Dolly Crossen), Josephine, Beatrice (Mordecai Eagleston), Robert (Alice Connell), and Homer (Maxine Ramey). She kept her eye on beloved Kretzer nephews and niece, as well as those of her Chafin family. Continue reading “Juanita (Kretzer) Chafin”

Alpha David Nelson

Alpha David Nelson, 74, 0f Prichard, WV, passed away Monday, September 8,2025. A memorial Service is planned for October 10, 2025, at Norway Avenue Church of Christ. Alpha was born April 2, 1951, in Dunlow, WV. He was a son of the late Noah and Maltie Nelson and was a member of Norway Avenue Church of Christ. He was employed with CSX as an engineer for many years. Alpha was an artist who loved to paint, draw, and sculpt. He was God fearing, a fierce competitor, and a friend to everyone he met. He had many talents including starting the football program in Buffalo, WV. He was preceded in death by his loving daughter, Christina Nelson. He is Survived by his loving and faithful wife, Dianna Nelson; his sons, Jeremy Nelson and Michael Nelson; his grandchildren, Jacob, Liam, Brody, Ashley, Jerred, Kristen, Garrett, Leasa, and Emily Nelson; and great -grandchildren James, Jason, and Annabella Nelson.

 

Revia Cisco Robertson

Revia Cisco Robertson, 86, of Jacksonville, FL, passed away Monday, September 1, 2025 at Baptist Medical Center. Revia as born April 5, 1939 in Kenova, W.Va. a daughter of the late Lenzy and Eliza Nickell Cisco. Revia worked as a key punch operator employed by the C&O and CSX Railroads for over 35 years. She was a devout Christian and a member of the Church of Christ. In addition to her parents, Revia was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Bernard Robertson; a son, Charles David Robertson; a granddaughter, Terri Lynn Carpenter; two sisters, Virginia Kirk and Enith Crockett; four brothers, L.V. Cisco, Gene Cisco, Arnold Cisco and Sanford Cisco. Revia fiercely loved and was loved by her family and she spent her life enjoying their company. She was affectionately known by everyone as “Buddy.” She had a gusto for life and could often be found sitting in the floor playing games with her children and grandchildren and she especially enjoyed playing video games with the family and her best friend, Judy Ketchum. She was up for any adventure and it was not surprising to look out the door and find her playing ball or even building snowmen with her grandchildren. “Buddy” will be deeply missed by her family and everyone who knew her. She is survived by one son, John Stephen Robertson, and his wife, SunCha; two daughters, Remona Robertson McMullen and her husband, Todd and Cathy Hustus and her husband, David; grandchildren, Christopher (Amie) Robertson, Shane (Marcy) Robertson, Nicholas Griffith, Lenzy (David) Muns, Jessica Hustus, Savannah (Amos) Whitwam, Alexis (Nick) Hustus, Haley Hustus, Jamie Robertson, Amanda Robertson, John David Robertson and Justin Robertson; three sisters-in-law, Carol Griffith Cisco, Dreama Robertson Klaiber and Lolita Robertson Campbell; 24 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be from Noon to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. with Eulogist Stanley Wood officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com. Continue reading “Revia Cisco Robertson”

James E. Wyatt

In loving memorial of James E. Wyatt
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my beloved husband, Jim Wyatt’s, passing. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6th, following a short illness. This loss leaves an immeasurable void in our lives.
Jim’s life was a testament to his deep faith, unwavering kindness, and boundless love. He was a devoted husband, a cherished father and grandfather, and a loyal friend to many. His gentle spirit and generous heart touched countless lives. A steadfast member of the First Baptist Church of Kenova, he dedicated his time and energy to serving others, quietly and without seeking recognition. His dedication to his faith and community was truly inspiring.
While we mourn his absence, we find solace in remembering the beautiful life he lived. Jim’s request was to forgo a formal memorial service. Instead, he wished for a living memorial: a butterfly garden at our home. This space will serve as a tranquil sanctuary where we can gather to celebrate his memory and reflect on his life, surrounded by the beauty of nature, something he deeply cherished.
We would be deeply grateful for your thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Your calls, cards, and visits are a source of comfort. If you wish to honor Jim’s memory, you may choose to contribute to the creation of his butterfly garden; a project that reflects his love for God’s creation. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and will help us create a lasting tribute to him.
The words of 2 Timothy 4:7-8 resonate deeply with us now: “I  have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of life, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on the day of his coming—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” Jim’s faith, his strength, and his love will forever remain in our hearts.
(Melissa N. Wyatt)

Nancy Lou Norman Riggs

Nancy Lou Norman Riggs, 85, of Huntington, WV, passed away at home and was united with her Savior Wednesday, September 3, 2025. A graveside service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Dock’s Creek Cemetery with Pastor Jeffrey F. Canterbury of First Baptist Church Ceredo, officiating. Nancy was born April 14, 1940, in Kenova, WV, adaughter of the late Glen Sanford Norman and Mary Mayo Norman. She was a graduate of C-K High School, class of 1958.  She had many fond memories of her classmates and met her husband during her time there.  Nancy loved the Lord and served as a children’s Sunday School teacher for many years.  She loved her family, prayed for them faithfully, and enjoyed the time spent with them.  In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, Bernard David Riggs; her sister and brother-in-law, Juanita and David Foster; her brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Jo Ann Norman; her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Lee and Dennis Lyons; brother in-law, Glenn Kizzee, and three sisters-in-law, Elaine Craycraft, Marsha Riggs, and Wilda Milam. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law David and Tamela Riggs; daughter, Lora Billups; grandchildren, Emily Billups, Andrew Riggs, Kathryn Riggs, and Jenna Billups; sister, Margaret Kizzee; brother-in-law Willie Milam; and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank her caregivers, Tammy Ward and Karen Sammons, who Nancy loved and depended on during this last year. Donations may be made in Nancy’s name to the Good Samaritan Center in Kenova. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Lorne Daniel Copley

Lorne Daniel Copley,58, of Kenova, W.Va., passed away Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Funeral service will be conducted 3:00 P.M. Friday, September 5, 2025 at Rollins Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Porter officiating internment will follow in Dock’s Creek Cemetery. He was born December 31, 1966 in Huntington a son of the late Zoria Henry Copley and the late Phyllis Arlene Foster Morris. He was a drywaller and was a member of Christ Temple Church and also attended the Pentecostal Lighthouse Church. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death a brother George Copley. Survivors include his beloved wife Rhonda Smith Copley; son and daughter-in-law Josh Copley (Whitney); two daughters and a son-in-law Jess Baisden (John) and Jasmine Copley; two brothers and a sister-in-law David Copley (Angie) and Jim Copley; two sisters and brothers-in-law Linda Darlene Taylor (Jim) and Lisa Dawn Hardwick (Steve); three grandchildren Alissa, Ariana and Carson; one great-grandchild Wrenleigh and a host of other family and friends. Visitation will be from 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home. Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at rollinsfh.com.

Anita Louise Gullett Marcum

Anita Louise Gullett Marcum, 84, of Kenova, W.Va. passed away Saturday, August 30, 2025 at the Putnam Care Center in Teays Valley, W.Va. Anita was born October 15, 1940 in Paintsville, KY a daughter of the late Byron and Verlie Howard Gullett. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Roy L. Marcum; a son, Terry Lee Marcum; a daughter, Brenda Lee Hensley and her husband, Tim Hensley and several siblings. Anita graduated from Rock Hill High School. She was a member of the Catlettsburg Freewill Baptist Church in Catlettsburg, KY. Anita was a homemaker and spent her life caring for her family. She was also an accomplished seamstress, quilter and enjoyed making dolls. Anita is survived by her son, Roy Lee Marcum, II and his wife, Jennifer; grandchildren, Nathan Marcum, Desiree Ferguson and their daughter, Lainey Grace Marcum; Chassidy Marcum-Milum and her husband, Jeremiah, and their highly anticipated unborn daughter, Rynlee Louise Milum; Sara Beth Stone and her husband, Dustin and their children Bryson, Evan and Chase Stone; Lauren Hensley, Kamryn Crocket, and Julian Bell. Anita’s funeral service will be conducted at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova with Pastor Roger Branham officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service. Burial will follow in White Chapel Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Jonathan Matthew Davis

Jonathan Matthew Davis,36, of Prichard, W.Va., passed away Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at the Three Rivers Medical Center. Graveside service will be conducted 12:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Christian Cemetery, Prichard, WV with Pastor Roy Akers officiating.  Jonathan was born October 23, 1988 in Huntington a son of Ralph Davis the late Wanda Lee Davis. In addition to his father he survived by siblings, Andrew (Rebecca) Davis, David (Rhonda) Davis, Christie (Robbie) Davis and Zella Davis; eleven nieces and nephews Tanesha (Cody) Wood, Zachary Davis, Stephanie Davis, Brandon (Ashton) Davis, Braxton Davis, Kallie Davis, Keeley Brooks, Joshua Davis, Jacob Davis, Sidney Paynter and Logan Paynter and a number of aunts and uncles. There will be no visitation and no procession to the cemetery on Tuesday. Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at rollinsfh.com.  

Aveanell Ruth Hodge

Aveanell Ruth Hodge, 97 years old left her earthly body on August 14, 2025 to be welcomed into the open arms of her Lord and Savior in her eternal heavenly home. She was born on June 17, 1928 to the late James and Bernice Hatfield Meredith. She was the epitome of an angel here on earth to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, strength, beauty, selflessness, kindness, and above all, an example of what it means to be a Christian. She spoke often and without hesitation of her love for Jesus. She counted her time here on earth as a blessing and felt privileged to live the life she lived. In her own words, she lived with no regrets. She was preceded in death by her precious, loving husband, Luther Hodge Jr. , a daughter Sharon Ball, a daughter Laura Suzette Stevens, sons in law Timothy (Tim) Skaggs, Gregory (Greg) Workman and George Russell (Rusty) Stevens. She was also preceded in death by her sister Geneva Hagarman and sister and brother in law Viola and Homer Hodge. She is survived by her sisters Doris Sparks (late Buddy Sparks) and Connie and Bill Conley. She leaves behind a daughter, Sandra Workman and daughter and son in law, Shelia and James Copley who loved and cared for her deeply. She had a special love for each of her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great -great grandchildren. Brian and Valerie Ferguson with Cassie and Patrick Legg. Brad and Debbie Ferguson with Bradley Ferguson, Hayley (Ferguson) and Tucker Clay. Ben and Bobbie Ferguson with Catlyn (Ferguson) and Austin Castle and Naomi Ferguson. Kelly and Lee Ball with Brittany McDonald and Andy Slayton, Layden and Ryder Slayton. Rhonda (Stevens) and Mike Moore with Peyton Griffith and Izzy Moore. David Jason Skaggs. Michael Skaggs. Cynde and Kevin Bishop with Madison, Connor, and Lynden Marie Kelley, Reace (McKnight) and Jacob Lusby, Kiersten McKnight, Emilee Bishop, and Blake Bishop. Jennifer and Pat Roberts with Luke Mathews, Faith Roberts, and Dylan Roberts. Ashley and Brian Dayton with Hudson and Oakley Dayton. Special friends whom she dearly loved include Naomah Norris (who considered her a second mother) and Patricia Amis. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews whom she loved and spoke of fondly, many friends who were special and dear to her, and countless acquaintances along this walk of life. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 1pm-3pm to pay final respects. A private interment will follow for the family at Docks Creek Cemetery with Pastor Scott Byard officiating. Rollins Funeral Home will be assisting the family.