Nell Lorraine (May) Brumfield

Nell Lorraine (May) Brumfield, 98, of The Woodlands in Huntington, WV, formerly a longtime resident of Ceredo, WV, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026.

Nell was born on April 28,1927, in Kenova, WV. She was a proud graduate of Ceredo-Kenova High School, where she fondly remembered her time as a majorette in the school band. Nell received her Undergraduate and Masters Degrees from Marshall University, and enjoyed a 20-year elementary education teaching career.

She was married to her beloved husband, Glenn Earl Brumfield, for 65 years. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, faith, and community. Glenn preceded her in death.

Nell is survived by her three children: G. David Brumfield of Hurricane, WV; James W. Brumfield (Anne), of Durham, NC; and R. Lynn (Brumfield) Adkins (Jerry), of Lavalette, WV. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Madeline Powell (Joseph), Houston, TX; Chris Brumfield (Shannon), High Point, NC; Jennifer Erwin (Matt), Richmond, VA; Mary Kathryn Souto (Lee), Durham, NC; Gretchen Adkins (Chris), Greensboro, NC; and ten great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

Nell greatly enjoyed playing golf and cards, attending the Marshall Artist Series, and faithfully supporting Marshall University football and basketball—both home and away—alongside her husband and dear friends. After Glenn’s passing, she continued attending games, maintaining the traditions they loved together.

She was active in her community, serving on the Ceredo Beautification Committee and volunteering as a docent at the Huntington Museum of Art. Nell was also a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Kenova, where her faith remained an important and guiding part of her life.

The family wishes to offer special acknowledgment and heartfelt thanks to Barbara Ragland for her years of tireless devotion to Nell’s care, health, and happiness. The family also thanks April Scaggs, as well as the entire staff of The Woodlands for their compassionate care.

Funeral services will be held at the Rollins Funeral Home, 1822 Chestnut Street, Kenova, WV, on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The family will receive visitors beginning at 12:00 noon, wiith services to follow at 1:00 p.m. Internment will follow at the Woodmere Cemetery in Huntington at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Nell Brumfield to the Marshall University Foundation, Inc., 519 John Marshall Drive, Huntington, WV, 25703. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Josie Mae Merritt

Josie Mae Merritt, passed away January 31, 2026 in the home that she loved so very much. She was born February 4, 1939, the daughter of Clyde and Vesta Graham. In addition to her parents she was also preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Merritt; a son Randy Thompson and a son-in-law, John Daniels. She is survived by two daughters, Pamela (Roger) Nelson and Kimberly Daniels; two step daughters, Marsha (Bill) Keyser and Janice (Larry) Disk; six grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren; neighbors, Todd and Keri Davis that were like family. A private family celebration will be held at a later date. Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Bernard Wilson Skean

Bernard Wilson Skean, 74, of Kenova, WV peacefully passed away on January 28, 2026. Bernard, known lovingly as “Bernie” was born on July 17, 1951 at Rife Hospital in Kenova and was raised by his parents Irena and stepfather Glen Irons. In life, he served our country faithfully as a Master Mechanic in the Navy for 18 years. The Navy fostered a lifelong love for aviationexemplified through his personal love of flying and constructing aircrafts in his spare time. His enthusiasm for flying could only be matched through his love of music. He could be heard playing music with his band “The Country Boys” at the former diners known as “The Chatterbox” in Kenova and “Dorthey’s” in Steptown. It was not uncommon to hear the twang of his guitars and banjos any day of the week, playing the melodies ofanything from Johnny Cash to Lynyrd Skynyrd. Bernie was the foundation of his family, personifying what it means to give your life to your loved ones. The workday never ended, and neither did the love for his family. He will be greeted in Heaven by his mother and father, his brothers Franklin and Gary Skean, his eldest daughter Crystal, and his beloved wife Ida Carol. In life he is survived by his daughters Courtney (Rhodney Kholer) Skean, Julia (Pat) Maloney, and Debra Freeman, his grandchildren Mackenzie Reffitt, Michael Reffitt, Hayden Wright, Parker McComas, Preston Tolliver-Skean, Zion Burnes, Malachi Burns, and Naomi Burnes, and his great-grandchildren Riley Reffitt, and Bentley Wright. He is also survived by many friends, fellow service members, bandmates, and loved ones who will forever sing a song and share in his memory. Continue reading “Bernard Wilson Skean”

Aught Kenneth “Ken” Walker

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Aught Kenneth “Ken” Walker, 91, of Huntington, WV. passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at his home. Ken was born March 5, 1934 in Huntington, WV. son of the late Aught and Lilly McGinnis Walker. He was retired from the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife Freda Fuery Walker; son Jeffrey Scott Walker; grandson John Kenneth (JK) Walker, II.; sister Gail Patricia Tweel and brother David M. Walker. He is survived by two sons John Kenneth “Kenny” Walker (Kim) and Dwayne Walker (Kathy); granddaughter Lacey Walker; grandson Stephen Walker; five great-grandchildren Beckham, Bronson, Bristol, Sawyer and Lennix and his beloved dog Griz. In keeping with his request all services will be private with interment taking place in the Walker Family Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Bradley G. Heck

Bradley G. Heck, 54 of Ceredo, WV passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington after a sudden illness. He was born September 24, 1971 a son of JoAlice Bradley Heck and the late Larry J. Heck. Bradley was a graduate of Ceredo Kenova High School and earned his Masters Degree at Marshall University. He had been employed by the Wayne County Board of Education where he was a teacher for 16 years at Wayne High School. In addition to his beloved mother, he leaves behind a devoted wife, Heather Figlar Heck, cousins, a nephew and nieces. He is deeply loved and will be sorely missed. Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family with private family services. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Ethel Christine Dean

Ethel Christine Dean, 88, of Prichard, W.Va. passed away January 9, 2026 at Cabell Huntington Hospital. She was born November 5, 1937 in Crum, W.Va. a daughter of the late Grant and Juanita Perry. She was a loving mother and grandmother and took great pride in her family. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe Dean; daughters Lorie Nelson and Vicki Taylor; sister Barbara Ferguson; and a grandson Joe Hite. She is survived by two daughters Mary (Tim) Marcum and Sue Gillispie, as well as a host of grandchildren. There will be a memorial service held at 3:00 P.M., Saturday January 24, 2026, at Spirit of Faith Church on 18th & Sycamore St. Kenova, W.Va. with Rev. Tim Crabtree officiating. Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Nancy Ellen Fannin

Nancy Ellen Fannin, 78, left this earthly home for paradise at the Emogine Dolin Hospice House on Friday, January 9, 2026. She leaves behind to mourn her passing her husband of 58 years, Ronnie, a daughter Rhonda Fannin-Burks, grandchildren Kayla Burks and Hunter Fannin.  Nancy was proceeded in death by her beloved son Ricky Fannin, parents Elmer Stewart and Edna “Frosty” Duncan, stepfather Homer Duncan, twin sister Ruth Eaves, brothers James “Fred” Stewart and Ernest “Butch” Stewart.  Additional survivors include her sisters Cookie (Jack) Stevens and Dottie Hatten, daughter-in-law Bridget Fannin, many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She was a member of the Oakview Baptist Church, Kenova and attended faithfully until her health prevented her from doing so.  Moses wrote in Exodus 35:25, “the skilled woman spun with her hands and brought what she had spun” as a free-will offering to God. And that was Nancy. She loved to cross-stitch, and her immense joy was working alongside her twin sister Ruth and their mother as they made custom drapery.  They would continuing the work after the mother’s passing at Edna’s Custom Drapes until Ruth’s passing. She loved much and will be missed much.  Services will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Kenova Church of Christ, 1801 Chestnut Street, Kenova, WV, with her nephew Minister Chris Stevens officiating.  Visitation will begin at 11:30 AM and funeral services will begin at 12:30 PM.  Graveside services to follow at Spring Valley Memorial Gardens. The family wishes to thank the staff at Rollins Funeral Home for their assistance and care during this time. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

Dorothy Lee Doss Sherwood

Dorothy Lee Doss Sherwood, 96, of Kenova, WV passed away Friday January 9, 2026 at her home. She was born December 29, 1929 in Lewisburg, WV a daughter of the late Robert and Roxie Godby Doss. Dorothy “Dot” as her coworkers called her worked for many years at Big Bear in Ceredo and then Foodland in Westmoreland as a deli clerk and was very respected by her fellow coworkers. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother and she loved her family with a passion. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with her girls and their families and is known for never missing a birthday for members of the family. She is survived by five daughters, Donna (Hoover) Hicks, Marsha Bailey, Beverly (Jessie) Maynard, Pamela Spence and Heather (Mark) Mathis. In addition she is survived by nine grandchildren, Dawna, Jamie, Angie, Clinton, Amber, Misty, Cassie, Courtney and Erica; 17 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. In addition to her parents she was also preceded in death by a great grandson, Tanner Harr. For many years Dorothy attended the First Baptist Church of Kenova. A Memorial Gathering will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova and a Celebration of Life Service will begin at 3:00 with Pastor Scott Byard officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hoops Family Children’s Hospital 1340 Hal Greer Blvd. Huntington, WV 25701 or Shriners Children’s at Shrinerschildrens.org. Online condolences may be made at www.rollinsfh.com.

Deloris Avonell Perdue Napier

Deloris Avonell Perdue Napier, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and child of God, went home to be with her Lord on Friday January 9, 2026. Avonell was born on December 28, 1935 in Wayne County, W.Va. She married the love of her life, the late Donald Lee Napier, and was a pastor’s wife for over 40 years supporting his ministry. She also worked for Corbin Limited as a seamstress. Avonell was a wonderful mother to her six children, five girls, Melany Butcher, Melissa Wyatt, Michelle (Bret) Hanshaw, Marsha Napier and Monica Pennington and one son, Manuel Brent (Sherry) Napier. In addition to her children Avonell is also survived by her sister, Pauline McNeeley; 12 grandchildren, Nancy (Rick) Blankenship, Susan Butcher, Kyle (Beth) Butcher, Lee (Leigh Ann) Lester, Amy Cloke, Ashley Heck, Nicholas “Nick” (Megan) Hanshaw, Sarah (Corey) Gue, Michael (Natashia) Hanshaw, Kelsey Hunt, Caleb (Kenzi) Pennington and Joshua (Brooke) Pennington; and 23 great grandchildren Tori Blankenship, Isaac Sadler, Grace Butcher, Silas Butcher, Elise Butcher, Addlyn Butcher, Dylan Lester, Erica (J.P.) McGuire, Ryder Cloke, Jaley Wyatt, Joseph Heck, James Heck, Jenson Heck, Dominick Hanshaw, Izabella Hanshaw, Barrett Hanshaw, Duke Hanshaw, Ben Gue, Will Gue, Eli Hanshaw, Isaiah Hanshaw, Emilia Pennington, and Easton Pennington. Avonell spent her life caring for her family from being a devoted wife, a wonderful mother, to a blessed GranGran. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her. She enjoyed cooking, loved to sing and being with her family. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Kenova where she sang in the choir. Visitation will be at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday January 11, 2026 with the funeral service to follow at 6:00 p.m. with Pastor Tony Cicenas officiating. There will be a private family burial. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Huntington, 1101 6th Avenue Huntington, WV 25701 or the Dementia Society of America, at Dementia Society.org

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.

John Keith Maynard

John Keith Maynard, age 81, of Somerset, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026 at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital.

John was born on September 5, 1944 in Wayne County, West Virginia to John Maynard and Brookie Perry Maynard, who welcomed him into a loving family that shaped the man he became. He had a lifelong love for cars and took great pride in being part of Somernites Cruise, where he enjoyed time spent with friends who shared his passion. John was also active in the community, serving on the Somerset City Board of Variance.  He spent many hours with his buddies at the Somerset Fitness and Rocky Hollow Recreation Center. A devoted UK sports fan, he rarely missed a chance to cheer on his team.

Above all else, John was a Christian and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family and friends were the center of his world and enjoyed evening phone calls with his beloved brother, Steve and dear friend, Jerry Weigel and others.  He will be remembered for his kind heart, special friendships, and the quiet strength he carried throughout his life.

John is survived by his wife of more than sixty years, Donna Lykins Maynard, whom he married on June 29, 1963 at Centerville Baptist Church in Wayne County, West Virginia. He leaves behind his pride and joy and beloved grandson, Hayden Christopher Roberts of Fort Mitchell, Kentucky; two daughters, Theresa Maynard of Lexington, Kentucky and Dr. Kelly Rae Maynard of Lexington, Kentucky; one brother, Steve A. Maynard of Wayne County, West Virginia; two sisters, Betty Jean Adkins of Parsons, West Virginia and Milla Flaugher of Proctorville, Ohio; and many nieces and nephews. John will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Brookie Maynard.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, January 10 beginning at 2 PM, with remarks at 3:30, at Rollins Funeral Home in Kenova, West Virginia. Burial will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery in Wayne County, West Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests expressions of sympathy be made to Somernites Cruise.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.