Jim Midkiff, 89, of Alum Creek, died surrounded by his family on April 18, 2026, at CAMC Memorial Hospital after an extended illness. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold Midkiff and Esther McClure Midkiff, his brother Bill Midkiff and his sisters, Patsy Lowery and Helen Lewis.
He is survived by his wife of almost 67 years, Ruth Rabel Midkiff; daughter, Jackie Midkiff of South Charleston; son, Charlie Midkiff of Lancaster, SC; sister Mary Ann Maurer of Taylors, SC; brother Jerry (Donna) Midkiff of Hamlin and many nieces and nephews who were very special to him. Also, our neighbor and very good friend Jeremy Skeenes who has been a special help in every way.
Jim lived a life grounded in service and care for others. After graduating from Duval High School in 1955, he began that journey in the United States Air Force where he served as a clerk in the Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) office while stationed in Hokkaido, Japan. When he returned home, Jim built a long and proud career at Union Carbide, later Rhone-Poulenc, where he played an integral role in several start-up projects before retiring after 30 years in 1989.
In 1963, Jim began helping occasionally at Curry Funeral Home, a place that soon felt like a second home. He considered all the Curry brothers his extended family. To friends, neighbors, and grieving families in Alum Creek and beyond, Jim was a steady and compassionate presence. He continued working at the funeral home until 2021, serving others well into his later years.
Jim never worried much about himself, but he devoted himself fully to the people he loved, always putting the needs of family and friends ahead of his own. Above all, he found joy in trips to Pocahontas County, keeping his yard in flawless condition, and tending to his garden—simple pleasures that reflected the care he brought to every part of his life.
Curry Funeral Home in Alum Creek, WV, will handle arrangements. Services will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 1:00 pm with Randy Curry and Pastor Seth Greenlee officiating. Visitation will be 1 hour before the service. Interment will follow at Graceland Memorial Park, South Charleston.
Dear Ruth and family, Jim was a gentle friend to us. It is a privilege to have known him. May he rest in peace. We will be in prayer for you and your family. May our Lord comfort you during this time of loss.
Gale and Pat Pauley.
Charlie,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your father. It sounds like he lived an amazing life and I’m quite certain he was 100% proud of the person you are. I’m hopeful you are able to spend time with family and enjoy the wonderful memories you all had together. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bob and Family
Charlie,
I was so sorry to hear about your dad. A life of quiet devotion to family, putting others ahead of himself, being a steady and compassionate presence for so many people — I see so much of you in that, and it’s clear where those qualities came from.
Working alongside you for more than twenty years has been one of the great privileges of my career. You showed me, more by example than by instruction, how to sit in a room full of strong and differing opinions and still find a way forward that respected everyone in it. I learned from you how to disagree without damaging, how to lead without pushing, and how to bring people along rather than drag them. That’s a rare gift, and I’ve carried it with me ever since (you were always better at it than me).
Your dad clearly left his mark on you, and through you, on all of us lucky enough to know you. I’m holding you, your mom, Jackie, and the rest of the family in my thoughts during this hard time.
With deep sympathy,
Kevin
Charlie & Family. So sorry for your loss. James appears to be a kind sole who lived a full life. Take this time to celebrate the good times.
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
May you feel comfort, strength, and peace in the days ahead, and may the love around you carry you through this sorrow .my sincere condolences to my dear friend Charlie and your family