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Charles Michael “Mike” Woods

Charles Michael “Mike” Woods, 77 of Elkins, formerly of Webster Springs went home to be with the Lord on Monday, August 24, 2026 at WVU Hospital Ruby Memorial.

He was born October 1, 1948 in Webster Springs to the late Charles C. and Mary Margaret Losh.

Michael was a Member of the First Baptist Church of Webster Springs where he served as Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, enjoyed singing in the choir, and received the Deacon Emeritus for his many years of service to the Church. After moving to Elkins, Michael attended Beverly Methodist Church.

He loved reading his Bible, watching Gunsmoke, hunting, fishing and was a member of the Point Mountain Boys Quartet. He loved his daily text messages with his daughters. He loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren. He loved to tell stories and was known as the “Biggest Story Teller”. He was a United States Army Veteran.

Michael worked for 50 years for various mines including Peaker Run Coal, Julianna Coal, and Lady H Coal Mine. He was Owner and Operator of Mike Woods & Son Hardware for over 13 years.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving, devoted wife of 47 years Patricia Elkins Woods; daughters: Mary Gee, Terri (Kai) Ast, Carrie (Del) Herrington, and Shari Wince; son Mikey (Beth) Woods; sister Sarah (Phil) Sundstrom; aunts: Naomi Carpenter and Carol Rossa; 13 grandchildren; and many extended family, friends, and church family and friends.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Dodd & Reed Funeral Home, Webster Springs, with Pastor Ron Moore officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Miller Cemetery, Webster Springs, with Committal Service by Pastor Dennis McCoy.

Friends may join the family for visitation two hours prior to service time, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM, at the Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be left for the family at http://www.doddreedfh.com.

Dodd & Reed Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Woods family.

Claudia Ann Willey Toothman

Claudia Ann Willey Toothman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed gently from this world on August 13, 2026, in the comfort of her home after an extended illness. Born on July 30, 1961, in Fairmont, Claudia’s life was a remarkable tapestry woven with devotion, kindness, and a tireless spirit that graced every heart she encountered.

Claudia’s journey began in the hills of Fairmont, whereas a young girl she displayed curiosity, warmth, and diligence—qualities that blossomed as she forged her path through life. In her youth, she was part of a bowling league. A proud 1979 graduate of West Fairmont High School, Claudia knew that her calling lay in shaping young minds and hearts. In 1984, she fulfilled her dream by graduating from Fairmont State College with a bachelor’s degree in education. Never content to rest, Claudia’s passion for learning led her to achieve her master’s in education through the University of Arizona in 2010—a testament to her pursuit of excellence and the value she placed on growth, both for herself and for those blessed to learn from her.

Her teaching career began at the Bible Fellowship School in her hometown, but it was in Webster County that her legacy took root and flourished. Over thirty years in Webster County Schools, Claudia became more than an educator; she became a mentor, a confidante, and a cherished presence in countless lives. The ripple of her caring, loving, and thoughtful nature extended far beyond the classroom, with many students maintaining ties with her long after graduation—evidence of a soul whose impact could not be contained by mere walls or years.

Outside the classroom, Claudia embraced simple joys and quiet acts of love. Whether knitting, crocheting, playing cards, reading a favorite book, or sharing laughter and stories with her family—especially her treasured grandchildren—she brought gentleness and delight to every gathering. Her faith guided her steps, and membership at Emmanuel Assembly of God and Charity Baptist bore witness to her steadfast Christian values—an identity she carried proudly and humbly each day. Claudia loved to sign hymns, at any time of the day.

Family was the center of Claudia’s world. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Harold Toothman, whose partnership spanned seasons of joy and sorrow, creating a foundation of strength and affection. Claudia’s legacy continues through her sons Frank, Denny, and Patrick Toothman, whose lives shine with the wisdom and love she imparted, and through her cherished grandchildren: Draven, Addison, Frank Michael, Braylen, Olivia, and Lorelai, all of whom were sources of pride and happiness. Her daughters-in-law, Autumn Toothman and Ashtin Toothman, hold her memory close, reflecting the bonds nurtured through shared love and family. Her sisters, Laura Willey and Rebecca Macon, carry on the deep connection of siblinghood, honoring memories made and the unbreakable threads that bind them.

Claudia is now reunited with those who journeyed home before her: her father Frank Melvin Willey, mother Patricia Ann Lemasters Willey, and sister Sherry Clay. Their spirits, united in peace, hold her lovingly now that they are together again.

Claudia’s story will be celebrated with a visitation on August 17, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Emmanuel Assembly of God, Webster Road, Upper Glade, WV. Friends, family, and former students are invited to remember the warmth and wisdom she shared so generously. The funeral service will follow on August 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., also at Emmanuel Assembly of God with Reverand Marty Cowger and Pastor Josiah Yowell will be officiating. Claudia will be laid to rest at Grandview Memorial Gardens, Fairmont, WV—a final homecoming in the city so dear to her heart.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.morrisfuneralhomecowenwv.com

Services entrusted to the care of Morris Funeral Home.

Oleta Carpenter

Oleta Carpenter, 96 of Webster Springs departed this life on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at Webster Healthcare Center.
She was born April 16, 1930 in Hacker Valley to the late Ora and Leona Brake Cowger and was a homemaker. She attended school at Cowger Hill in the Community School House. On July 30, 1948 she was married to the late John Carpenter. Oleta never worked on public work; she was always a homemaker.
John and Oleta moved from Cowger Hill to Laurel Fork in 1995 and attended Jumbo Church and Upper Holly Church until their health gave way. In January of 2023 John was admitted to the Nursing Home and Oleta on February 1, 2023.
In addition to her parents, Oleta was preceded in death by her husband John who was 97 years of age; two infant children who passed away in the 1950’s due to spina bifida; one age three hours , Lynn Michel Carpenter, and the second at 14 months old, Alpha Franklin Carpenter; brothers: Delmer Cowger and Willard Cowger; sisters-in-law Linda Cowger and Helen Cowger; brother-in-law Tommy Simmons; nieces: Mary Jane and Monta Cowger; and nephews: Billy and Willard “Clarence” Cowger.
Left to cherish her memory are her brother: Doyle Cowger; sisters: Delcie Simmons, Alberta Cowger, and Dona (husband Mike) Spears; nephews: Robert Dennis, Chad, and Martin Cowger; nieces: Andrea Morris, Tara Mitchell, Cynthia Locala, Jackie, Bonita, Tilda, and Tammy; sister-in-law Eileen Cowger; and many extended family and friends to mourn her passing.
Friends may join the family for visitation on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at Dodd & Reed Funeral Home.
Services to celebrate Oleta’s life will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Dodd & Reed Funeral Home, Webster Springs with Pastor Curt Davis officiating. She will be laid to rest beside her husband John in Ware Cemetery, Hacker Valley.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.doddreedfh.com.
Dodd & Reed Funeral Home is honored to be serving Oleta’s family.

Stephen Allen Miller

Stephen Allen Miller, 71 of Webster County, WV passed away peacefully surrounded by those that loved him on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Born July 21, 1955, he was the beloved son of the late Walter “Monk” and Maxine Butcher Miller. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Travis Allen Miller and his brothers, Paul and Mike Miller.

He is survived by his daughter Stacey (Josh) Williams and his seven beloved grandchildren; Cody, Jaron, Jeffery, Damien, Levi, Eliza and Connor who brought endless joy and pride to his life. Also surviving are his siblings; Pam (Eddie) Taylor, David (Shirley) Miller, Robin (Garcie) Barnett, John Miller, Jeannie (Crystal) Miller, Melissa (Gary) Miller and Timmy Miller along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory.

A true West Virginian at heart; Steve was an avid WVU Mountaineer fan who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team. He had a passion for classic muscle cars and spent countless quiet hours enjoying watching his favorite westerns. Known for his quick wit, playful humor and a genuine art for bringing a smile to anyone’s face, Steve had a way of lifting the spirts of everyone around him. Above all he treasured his family and friends and the silly, caring moments they shared together.

True to his lighted hearted nature and ornery spirit Steve wouldn’t want those he loved to dwell in sadness but rather to remember the good times; share a laugh and hold on tight to happy memories. His legacy of love, warmth and pure laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Service will be 1:00 PM, Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Adams-Reed Funeral Home, Cowen with Bro. David Terry officiating. Burial will follow at Woods Cemetery, Kingfisher Rd. Friends may join the family for visitation one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.adamsreedfh.com

Adams-Reed Funeral Home, Cowen is honored to be serving the Miller family.

Ella Jean (Tanner) McCourt

Ella Jean (Tanner) McCourt, 76, of Webster Springs passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at United Hospital Center in Bridgeport.

Ella was born May 3, 1950. She was preceded in death by her parents: Leslie and Ida (Lough) Tanner; husband, Gary A. McCourt; and siblings: Albert “Buck” Tanner, John Tanner, Lloyd Tanner, Edith “Wimpy” Garvin, Lonnie Tanner, Glen Tanner, Howard “Junie” Tanner, Roy Tanner, and King Tanner; and Brittany Ginther that she claimed as a grandchild.

Gary and Ella worked for several years at Central Funeral Supply, Gilboa; delivering caskets, vaults, and setting up tents for funerals.

Ella is survived by her son, Gary (Ronda) McCourt of Camden on Gauley; two grandsons: Walker McCourt of Camden on Gauley and Dalton McCourt (Maggie Cochran) of Charleston; two sisters: Elma “Tyke” Tucker and Evelyn “Junebug” Stoneman, both of High Point, NC; many nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends to mourn her passing.

During her stay at UHC, it was charted in her progress notes that she would be talking and no one in the room. When Ella was asked to whom she was talking, she would say “My Lord”. Ella loved her family and her friends, and she loved the Lord. Her heart belonged to her two grandsons: Walker and Dalton. She was endlessly proud of the men they have become and she loved and adored them beyond measure.

Ella’s sister, Junebug said they called Ella “Goosie” when she was little on account of how she talked all of the time. Ella never met a stranger; and she could strike up a conversation with anyone in the checkout line.

The family would like to invite all friends and family to bring your fondest stories and memories of Ella to share at 2:00pm, on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Dodd & Reed Funeral Home, Webster Springs, with Pastor Doug Martin and Pastor Steve White officiating. Burial will follow at Isaac McCourt Cemetery, along the Elk River. Friends may join the family for visitation 12 Noon until service time.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.doddreedfh.com

Dodd & Reed Funeral Home, Webster Springs is honored to be serving the McCourt family.

Joy Hinkle Bean

Joy E. Hinkle Bean, 79 of Cowen passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2026. Joy was born December 27, 1946 in Camden on Gauley and was the daughter of the late Elvern and Ethel Collins Hinkle. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Richard W. “Dick” Bean, Sr; son, Bob Bean; daughter, Kristel Bean; siblings, Agnes Morris, Betty Miller, Ella Dukes, Linda Mills, Kathy Cobb, Vernon Hinkle, Edwin Hinkle Enos Hinkle and Arnold Hinkle and Jimmy Hinkle.

Joy was a long time member of the Emmanuel Assembly of God Church, Upperglade. She loved taking care of her family; especially her grandchildren, she loved going to their ball games or whatever activity they were in. She enjoyed quilting, singing, bird watching, writing stories and poems for her family, even having several of them published. Joy had a kind, loving spirit and loved helping people anyway she could.

Surviving are her children; Bertie (Jesse) Bennett, Jeannie (Paul) Brulinski, Patty (Jerry Lewis) Bean, Dickie Bean, Paul Bean and Keri Travis; 25 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; 1 great great granddaughter; son in law, Richie Hinkle; sisters, Jane Garrison and Monabeth Clay and many extended family members, church family and friends.

Service will be 3:00 PM, Sunday, August 2, 2026 at Adams-Reed Funeral Home, Cowen with Pastor Marty Cowger officiating. Burial will follow at Woods Cemetery, Cowen.

Friends may join the family for visitation 1:00 PM, until service time at the funeral home on Sunday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.adamsreedfh.com

Adams-Reed Funeral Home, Cowen is honored to be serving the Bean family.

Patricia Sue “Patty” Gillespie

Patricia Sue “Patty” Gillespie reached her long-desired home in the early morning hours of August 6, 2026. Born on January 13, 1935, in Webster Springs, WV, Patty was the youngest child and only daughter of William Marston Gillespie and Rosalie Geneva Frazee Gillespie. She graduated from Webster Springs High School and retired from United Hospital Center, though she was a homemaker at heart.

Patty planned to attend flight attendant (“stewardess” in her day) school, but instead, elected to marry the love of her young life, Jennings Dale Hamrick. Together, Patty and Jennings had “six kids in seven years”: Connie Sue (Sherman Goodwin), Ronald Dale “Pete” (Vicki), Cynthia Ann, Karen “Diane” (Jeff Alastanos), Jennings Daniel “Danny” (Lori), and Peggy Louise (Marcus Williams). Patty and Jennings committed their lives to ministry with the greatest harvest of their planting being the salvation of their own children. Forever, we will hold dear memories of singing hymns in the evening hours while working together in our backyard garden.

When Patty was 34 years old, Jennings was tragically killed in a work-related accident. With five children ranging from 13 to 6 years of age, Patty had little time for grieving. One of her first big challenges was obtaining her driver’s license. While she faced her fear and became a licensed driver, we will forever laugh while remembering our first trip to our grandparents’ home with mom as driver. We were not allowed to speak or move (breathing was allowed out of necessity) on what should have only been a two-hour trip that stretched much longer.

On May 30, 1991, Patty married the wonderful Larry R. Gillespie and gained another daughter, Pamela Ann (Tommy Swiger). Patty and Larry created a wonderful life together in their Nutter Fort home. She loved their home and found contentment within its walls. We are so thankful God allowed her to take her last breath there before taking her first breath in the place that He had prepared for her.

We were blessed with a wonderful mother and are incredibly grateful for every moment with her. We especially thank God for these most recent months during which we shared so many laughs, tears, and unfiltered thoughts. In His loving grace, God gave us just what we needed to “loosen our grip” and simply walk her home. Her 6 children and their families, including 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren look forward to the day she welcomes us all to our new home in the presence of the One she encouraged us to love.

In addition to her first husband, parents, and stillborn daughter, Cynthia (whom Patty looked forward to seeing for the very first time in heaven), Patty was preceded in death by her brothers, William “Bill” and George and her beloved grandson, Dean Madison Stire. We have no doubt that each of these were among those who greeted her when she reached her long-awaited home.

Family and friends may call at the Amos Carvelli Funeral Home, 201 Edison Street, Nutter Fort on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The service will be held at the conclusion of the visitation at 1:00 pm. Interment will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at http://www.amoscarvelli.com.  A service of Amos Carvelli Funeral Home.

Mark Anthony Woods

Mark Anthony Woods, aged 61, of Cowen, departed from this world unexpectedly on July 19, 2026. Born and raised by his parents, Carmon and Linda Greene Woods of Cowen.

A proud alumnus of Webster County High School, class of 1984, he devoted 24 years as a respected foreman at Blythe Development. Before moving to North Carolina, Mark was employed by his Uncle Junior at Woods Dairy, he cooked at Camp Caesar and was a clerk at Leslie’s Y-Mart. Mark returned to WV to take care of his parents. Beyond his work, Mark’s heart was anchored by the ocean, his generous spirit—always ready to assist others—and his affection for both his cat and a passion for working on vehicles.

Surviving him are his loving parents, Carmon and Linda Woods, and his cherished siblings: twin brother Jeffery Woods, Michelle and Ernest Westfall, Shawnee and Dell Roberts, and Sherry and Everett Cogar, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who felt the warmth of his kindness.

In honoring Mark’s wishes, cremation has taken place without formal services. Condolences can be shared online through http://www.morrisfuneralhomecowenwv.com. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Morris Funeral Home, Cowen, WV.

Michael Stephen Young

Michael Stephen Young, 55 of Bolair, Webster County, WV passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born December 15, 1970, at Fort Stewart, Hinesville, GA, Michael was a beacon of joy and strength to all who knew him.

Michael was a cherished son of Carolyn Sue Young and the late David Paul Young, Sr., who preceded him. He was also preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Haley Marie Young.

His surviving family includes his devoted wife, Anna Margaret Young, with whom he shared an unwavering love and partnership, solidified by their marriage on March 28, 2023, at Summit Lake. In this union, they created a beautiful, blended family, which Mikey embraced wholeheartedly.

He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Carolyn Sue Young; brother David Paul Young, Jr., Brandi Young; and sister Emily S. Meador. He leaves behind his children: Anthony Michael Marks and Nicole Renae Jarrell, along with her husband Robbie.

Mikey’s heart was especially full with love of his three granddaughters: Emily Anna, affectionately known as “Twinks”; Jazlyn Faith “Jazzinator”, and Katie Grace “Bug”; his nephew Sawyer Young; and nieces: Abby Meador, Ryleigh and Traycen Young will also miss him dearly.

Michael dedicated over three decades to his career at Central Regional Jail, retiring on December 31, 2025. His commitment and integrity were evident in every task he undertook, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike. Beyond his professional life, Michael was a valued member of the Emmanuel Assembly of God in Cowen, West Virginia, where his faith and fellowship were sources of inspiration and comfort.

Known for his infectious humor and ability to bring joy into any room, Mikey had a unique gift for crafting whimsical songs that never failed to elicit laughter and delight. However, it was the previous moments spent with his granddaughters that he cherished most, finding immense joy and fulfillment in their company.

Mikey’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those he held dear.

As we celebrate Mikey’s life, we remember a man whose love knew no bounds, and whose spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Friends may join the family for visitation on Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 6-9 PM at Emmanuel Assembly of God in Cowen.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Emmanuel Assembly of God with Pastor Marty Cowger officiating. Interment will follow in Young Cemetery.