Rev. Carol (Cosner) Yerkey Krause, 86, of Maysville, W.Va., passed from this life to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, March 13, 2025.  

Born November 18, 1938, in Luke, Md., she was a daughter of the late John Harrison Cosner and Vera Virginia Valley Cosner. 

In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her first husband, Rev. Berma Yerkey in 2005; and her sister, June Elizabeth Waybright. 

She is survived by her husband, Rev David E. Krause; three stepchildren; brother-in-law, Rev. Stanley M. Waybright of Mount Storm, W.Va.; and one nephew, LaVerne Waybright of Mount Storm.

A proud graduate of Romney High School in 1956, she carried the lessons of her youth with her as she embarked on a path of service and ministry. She attended Bible School in Rhode Island and was an ordained minister with the Church of the Brethren. She pastored several churches including White Pine Church of the Brethren and Harness Run Church of the Brethren. She worked tirelessly to provide guidance, comfort and support to those in need. Carol and her husband attended Bethel Pentecostal Church in Petersburg, W.Va.

A graveside service and interment was Monday morning, March 17, at Lahmansville Cemetery, Lahmansville, W.Va., with the Rev. James Hawk officiating.  

Arrangements were by Schaeffer Funeral Home, Petersburg, W.Va. Condolences to the family may be left at www.schaefferfuneralhome.com       

(3-18-25)

James Paul (Buck) Geary, age 98, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, attorney, and community leader, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, at home in the loving embrace of his family.  

He was born September 2, 1926 in Amma, Roane County, West Virginia, son of the late Harley Clyde Geary and the late Gladys Gertrude (Caldwell) Geary.

He was also preceded in death by his wife of almost 27 years, Mary Jane (Smith) Geary, an attorney, his sister Rose Geary Young, a banker, and his brother John Matthew Geary, a Methodist minister.

Surviving Buck is Cynthia L. (Kotchek) Geary his wife of nearly 41 years.  He is also survived by his and Mary Jane’s children, James Paul (Jay) Geary II (Peggy), Mark Caldwell Geary (Barbara), Kelly O. Geary Heatwole (Michael), Kathy O. Geary Bowers (Jeffrey), and Matthew O. Geary (Carol). Also surviving are his dear grandchildren Lucas Geary (Claire), Dr. Mark C. Geary II (Kristen), Jonathan Geary (Dawn), Christopher Heatwole (Lynita), Nathan Heatwole (Whitney), Stuart Bowers (Jessica), Elizabeth Bowers Somerville (Devon), Daniel Geary (Sindy), Joshua Geary (Catie), and Timothy Geary (Chelsea).  Buck is also survived by his sixteen adored and adoring great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Buck spent his early childhood in Amma, where his family had a small country store, and later in his youth in Clendenin, Kanawha County, West Virginia, where his family had a furniture and appliance store. Throughout his childhood, he was an accomplished athlete and an avid hunter and fisherman.  In 1944, he graduated from Clendenin High School, and after graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve his country in World War II.  He served with distinction in infantry and ordinance from 1945 to 46, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was among the first American troops deployed to Japan, after the bombing of Hiroshima. He was honorably discharged, and was a life member of the VFW and the American Legion.   

On his return to West Virginia, he was recruited by Wake Forest College and then awarded a scholarship to play basketball.  He was a starting point guard on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons basketball team and was recognized as one of the top basketball players in the Southern Conference. He graduated from Wake Forest in 1951, then taught and coached for a year at Edward Best High School in Louisburg, North Carolina. 

In 1955, he graduated from West Virginia University School of Law, where he met Mary Jane Smith, also a law student.  They settled in Petersburg, her hometown, and they established the Geary and Geary law firm.  Buck excelled as a general practice attorney and became known for his proficiency as a litigation attorney and his skillful courtroom presence.  Their son, Jay, joined the firm in 1982. 

Active in local politics, Buck served two terms as Grant County Prosecuting Attorney, 1961-1969. He was a member and past president of the Grant County Bar Association, the West Virginia State Bar, the West Virginia Bar Association and the American Bar Association. He was also the President and owner of Landimer, Inc., a realty company, which he founded. 

Buck put down deep roots in Grant County. By virtue of his legal skills, business acumen, wide network of friends, along with his personal charisma, he guided some of the area’s most important public institutions. He was a Board of Director and also Chairman of the Board of Potomac Valley Bank and then served as a Director for Summit Community Bank and Summit Financial Group. He was one of the core of local citizens founding Valley View Golf Course. He was a Trustee of Grant Memorial Hospital from 1961 to 1994 and Chairman of the Board from 1984 to 1994.  He was a member and officer of the Grant County Development Authority and Petersburg Industrial Development Corporation for many years, starting in 1958. He was also a board member of the Grant County Commission on Aging Family Service. He was appointed to the State Board of Education and served from 1971-1978, and was President of that Board from 1973-74. He was Chairman and a founding member of the West Virginia Education and State Employee Grievance Board from 1985-1995. In February of 1972, he was one of several attorneys flown to Logan County, West Virginia, to counsel and advise survivors of the Buffalo Creek flood disaster.

Long after he slowed down from the active practice of law, he was sought out by friends and former clients for advice.  He listened to others with an open mind and could question others acutely yet with great empathy. People trusted his understanding of the law, his deep knowledge of local history and customs, his strict confidentiality, and his ability to offer practical and realistic advice.   

Buck had a particular interest in land development and realty, and was co-founder of Meadow Ridge Subdivision, Timberline Resort and Development in Canaan Valley, Tucker County. After his marriage to Cynthia Kotchek in 1984 and wishing to learn more about his Irish heritage, they visited Ireland in 1986 and were thrilled by the beauty of the countryside. Putting his knowledge of land development to work, he purchased a farm near the village of Goleen, County Cork, Ireland, hired a solicitor, a contractor, and an architect, and created a development of homes on the Mizen peninsula, overlooking Dunmanus Bay.  The homes built there were made of traditional local materials, with modern conveniences inside.  The home that he built for his own family’s enjoyment there, Canty’s Cove House, was named for the infamous local pirate, Captain Canty.

Buck remained an avid hunter and fisherman until just a few years before his death. In the Geary and Geary office and in his “man cave” at home can be seen a few of his many game animal trophies from his numerous hunting trips.  These include bear, moose, pronghorn antelope, deer, and mountain lion. One can also see the impressive head of Chief Cornstalk, a buffalo bull, one of a small herd of buffaloes that he kept on a farm for many years, outside of Petersburg.  

His interest in sports continued after his college years.  While in his 70’s, he began playing basketball with Senior Olympics, his team frequently winning medals. He loved the fellowship of fellow athletes of all ages. He was always interested in and supported local student athletes.  Proud moments for him were the many times he was master of ceremonies for the Petersburg High School Sports Banquets. 

Buck’s family wishes to thank the caregivers who provided such skilled and compassionate assistance:  Anna Zimmerman, Millie Shockey, Lori Long, Gina McDonald, Kathy Kerns, and Kelly Haggerty.  Without them, Buck could not have lived out his last years in the comfort of his home.

Special mention must be made of Robert (“Robbie”) Barr and the extraordinary contribution he made to Buck’s care. Several decades ago, Robbie signed on to work for Buck proving himself to be a highly skilled workman. He surely did not foresee a role as caregiver, yet Robbie stepped up and without hesitation also provided care for Buck in his last years.

The family also wishes to thank Dr. Bruce Leslie, Dr. Ben Leslie, Dr. Steve Thompson, Dr. Carolyn Armstrong and Dr. Langley Regester, and all of the staff of South Branch Hospitalists.  Also deserving of special thanks are the doctors, nurses, aides, therapists, housekeepers, lab technicians, imaging technicians, pharmacists, cooks, and social workers who helped Buck in his hospitalizations at Grant Memorial Hospital.   

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 5, visitation with the family at 12:00 to 2:00, and memorial service 2:00 o’clock, at the Maysville Bible Brethren Church, in its Family Center, 7734 Lunice Creek Highway, Maysville, WV 26833, about 8.5 miles north of Petersburg on State Rt. 42.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to PHS Athletics, 207 Viking Drive, Petersburg, WV  26847; and Grant County Parks and Recreation, 5 Highland Avenue, Petersburg, WV  26847.

Arrangements are by the Schaeffer Funeral Home, Petersburg.       

(3-18-25)

Elizabeth Rose Alt, 62, of Petersburg, W.Va., passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at her home.  

Born March 28, 1962, in Harrisonburg, Va., she was the daughter of the late Emory Dean and Edith Mae (Waybright) Fleisher.

Ms. Alt attended Franklin High School and was a Christian by faith. She had previously worked at the BP Grove Street Station in Petersburg and later at Mountain State Dispatch. In her free time, she enjoyed making crafts and baking for her family and friends. Elizabeth’s life was a testament to her deep love for family, her animals, and the special bonds she nurtured with those around her.  Her kindness, warmth, and devotion to her family will always be remembered. She leaves a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Her love for her animals and the joy she found in family moments will forever be cherished in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She is survived by one son, Chadwick Alt and wife Beth of Morgantown, W.Va.; one daughter, Melissa Berg and husband  Jason of Elm City, N.C.; one granddaughter, Raelynn; and five bonus grandchildren, Dalton, Gieni, Mark, Roman, and Greyson.  She also leaves behind a special family friend, Roger Shirk, as well as two brothers, Michael Waybright and Emory Fleisher both of Franklin.

A funeral service was held Monday morning, March 17, in the Basagic Funeral Home chapel, Petersburg, with Pastor Harley Mayfield officiating.  Interment was in Blue Grass Cemetery, Blue Grass, Va.   

Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.        

(3-18-25)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kooper Alan Turner, age 4, of Petersburg, W.Va., on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, following a tragic accident.

From the moment Kooper entered this world on January 8, 2021, he was the embodiment of joy. His parents, Ethan and Kelly Turner cherished every moment with their son, watching him grow and explore the world around him with wonder.  

He was a beloved son, a doting younger brother to Kohen Alexander Turner; a cherished grandson to Kelly and Debbie Turner and Eric and Cindy Phares; great-grandson to Dorothy L. Weese; and nephew to Eric and Brittany Phares, Courtney and Steven Funk; and several great aunts and uncles and several cousins.

Kooper was everyone’s boy. His smile would light up any darkness. His presence brought an irreplaceable warmth to family gatherings, and his memory will continue to unite his family in love and remembrance. 

Kooper’s love for the outdoors was matched only by the love he shared with his adoring family. Kooper was his brother’s shadow, he loved him so much and was always by his side whether they were on the farm, playing, sleeping or exploring outdoors. 

Kooper’s untimely departure leaves a void that can never be filled. However, his spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the hearts of those who loved him. He was always full of energy. He loved and was so loved.

A funeral service was conducted on Sunday afternoon, March 16, in the chapel of the Schaeffer Funeral Home, Petersburg, with Pastor Steve Snyder officiating. 

Burial followed in the Turner Farm Cemetery on the homeplace. 

Memorial donations may be made to the family, c/o Ethan and Kelly Turner, 75 Yokum Hollow Road, Petersburg, WV 26847.        

Condolences to the family may be left at www.schaefferfuneralhome.com

(3-18-25)                                     

Sherwin Dale Kimble, 75, of Upper Tract, W.Va., passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Sentara RMH in Harrisonburg, Va. 

He was born October 6, 1949, in Harrisonburg, the son of the Elma Violet Roberson of Upper Tract, and the late Roosevelt Kimble (1991).

Mr. Kimble was a 1969 graduate of Franklin High School and a member of the Cornerstone Family Fellowship Church in Petersburg, W.Va. He was a professional painter and owned and operated Kimble’s Painting, where he painted numerous homes in Virginia and West Virginia. Sherwin had a passion for sports, especially softball, basketball, and shooting pool. He had a zest for life and he loved making his friends smile and sharing and making memories with them. He leaves behind a legacy to be treasured.

In addition to his mother, Sherwin leaves behind to treasure his memory: a daughter, Stephanie Kimble of Upper Tract; a son, Steven Kimble of Upper Tract; a sister, Cindy Klane of Winchester, Va.; two brothers, Ronald “Ronnie” Kimble of Upper Tract and  Kirk Kimble of Virginia Beach, Va.; and the mother of his children, Shirley Davis Hoover of Franklin, W.Va. 

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his companion of 38 years, Brenda Louise Humphreys.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 12, 5-7 p.m., at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin. Funeral services will be Thursday, March 13, at 11 a.m., in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor PJ Landis officiating. Interment will be in Ruddle Cemetery, Ruddle W.Va. 

Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com. 

(3-11-25)

Rev. Roger Alan Harrison Sr. died at his home in Petersburg, W.Va. on Saturday, March 1, 2025.  

Roger was born at 706 Beech St., Grafton, W.Va. June 17, 1939, to Winifred Dunham Harrison and JoAnne Harrison. 

He was predeceased by daughter, Kelley Jo Harrison Clarke in 2015; brother, George Michael Harrison and wife Dina Kay Harter Harrison; and mother-and father-in-law, William Wallace Welker and Eloise Sandbower Welker.

He is survived by Rev. Ann Wallace Harrison, his wife of 64 years; son Roger Alan Harrison Jr. and wife Rachel Kose Harrison of Broomfield, Colo.; daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” Loise Harrison Day and husband, Jamie Day of Petersburg; grandchildren, Kylie Harrison Ebert (Caleb), Ana Harrison, Noah Harrison, Peyton Day and Addison Day; great-grandchildren, Olivia Lewis, Melanie Ebert, Abriella Ebert and Hayden Blosser; nephew, Michael Dunham Harrison (Trish); son-in-law, Jeffrey Clarke (Valerie); and cousins, Jane Cost (Jared), Dr. Todd Gerkin and Eric Gerkin

Roger attended Fairmont State, West Virginia Wesleyan and graduated with a BA in religion and philosophy from Salem College.  He attended Asbury Seminary, Methodist Theological School of Ohio and Princeton Theological Seminary. He was an associate member and ordained deacon of the United   Methodist Church. He began ministry in 1963 and retired in 2001 from St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Oakland, Md. after serving a total of 24 churches in West Virginia, Kentucky and Maryland.

Roger was Pastor of the Year in 1988 in the Weston District of the UMC. Later his church in Weston would also be the Church of the Year. Roger served as a parish coordinator and was selected as an approved interim pastor of the West Virginia Conference.

He was a member of the U.S. Navy. He was a member of Grant Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and formerly served on the GMH Board of Trustees. His hobby was gardening, which was commended for his skill by quite a few Tri-County Fair blue ribbons.

Visitation at Schaeffer Funeral Home, Petersburg, WV will be on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. 

Graveside services were Sunday afternoon at Lahmansville Cemetery, Lahmansville, W.Va., with the Rev. Larry Hakes officiating. The funeral followed at St. Paul United Methodist, Williamsport, W.Va., with the Rev. Cheryl George, Kristian Yeager and Joyce Stewart officiating. Pianist was Cyril Price.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be presented to St. Paul United Methodist c/o Treasurer, Lucille Stewart, 200 Lemon Drop Kid Dr., Lahmansville, WV 26731.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Schaeffer Funeral Home, Petersburg. Condolences to the family may be left at www.schaefferfuneralhome.com

(3-11-25)

Earl David Armentrout, 82, of Seneca Rocks, passed away Sunday, March 2, at Grant Rehabilitation and Care Center in Petersburg.  

Born July 14, 1942, in Harrisonburg, Va., he was a son of the late Foster and Viola (Stonesteet) Armentrout.  

He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis (Nelson) Armentrout on January 20, 2021.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a sister, Rose Rohrbaugh.

Mr. Armentrout was a 1961 graduate of Circleville High School and was a member of the former Pleasant View United Methodist Church. He was a certified welder, a professional concrete finisher, and retired from American Woodmark.

He is survived by step-daughter, Goldie Pearl Teter of Daytona, Fla.; two stepsons, Dan Kisamore of Seneca Rocks and  Craig Kisamore of Circleville; a one brother, Carl Armentrout of Seneca Rocks; and five stepgrandchildren.

Funeral services were held Thursday morning at the Basagic Funeral Home, Petersburg, with Pastor Theodore Bennett officiating.  

Interment followed in North Fork Memorial Cemetery, Riverton.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.   

Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.       

(3-11-25)

 Dylan Scott Reed, 27, of Maysville, died at his home, Thursday, June 20. 

Born Dec. 28, 1996, in Petersburg, he was the son of Billy Joe Reed of Maysville and Tammy Dawn Mongold of Chippewa Falls, Wisc., but was raised by Charles “Chuck” Reed of Maysville.

In 2015, he graduated from Petersburg High School and attended Elkhorn Chapel, Dorcas. He was currently working as a home health aide and faithfully attended 3D Recovery in Moorefield.

He is survived by his wife, Amber Nicole Reed; one daughter, Katherine Reed of Parsons; one son, Braxton Pritt-Reed of Parsons; two sisters, Felicia Reed and Brittany Reed, both of Petersburg; one niece; and two nephews.

The family will receive friends today (Tuesday) 12-2 p.m., at the Basagic Funeral Home, Petersburg. A memorial service will follow at 2 p.m., in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Glenn Vance Jr. officiating.

Memorials may be made to the family c/o the Basagic Funeral Home P.O. Box 400, Petersburg, WV 26847. Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com or on Facebook at Basagic Funeral Home.

(6-25-24)