Funeral Services Serving Alum Creek WV and Surrounds
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End-of-life planning is often a topic people prefer to postpone, but taking proactive steps today can provide peace of mind for tomorrow. One of the most meaningful ways families can prepare is by pre-arranging a mausoleum space. Beyond being a practical decision, this choice ensures that loved ones are spared from making stressful arrangements during a difficult time.

Why Pre-Arrangement Matters

Planning ahead for final arrangements offers both emotional and financial advantages. Families faced with sudden loss often make hurried choices under stress, which can result in overspending or selecting options that don’t truly reflect the wishes of the deceased. Pre-arranging allows you to carefully consider your preferences and communicate them clearly, ensuring that your legacy is honored the way you intend.

By choosing a mausoleum in advance, you can take the time to review different styles, locations, and architectural features without pressure. This foresight provides loved ones with clarity and relieves them from carrying the burden of making these deeply personal decisions on your behalf.

Benefits of a Mausoleum Space

Mausoleums offer a dignified and lasting alternative to traditional ground burial. They provide an above-ground resting place that protects remains from the elements while offering families a peaceful, serene environment for visitation. Many mausoleums are designed with elegant architecture, symbolic carvings, or stained glass that add to their sense of permanence and respect.

Choosing a mausoleum space can also reflect cultural traditions, religious beliefs, or family heritage. For those who wish to remain together, family mausoleums can accommodate multiple generations, becoming a lasting symbol of unity.

Financial Considerations

One of the strongest arguments for pre-arrangement is financial security. Purchasing a mausoleum space ahead of time locks in today’s pricing, protecting families from future cost increases. Funeral and memorial expenses can rise significantly over time, and pre-planning helps safeguard against inflation. Many cemeteries also offer flexible payment plans, making the process more manageable and accessible.

Personalization and Legacy

Pre-arranging a space also gives you the opportunity to personalize your final resting place. From selecting the type of mausoleum—whether private, community, or companion—to choosing inscriptions, artwork, or design elements, you can shape the narrative of how you want to be remembered. This personalization ensures your memorial reflects your life story, values, and heritage.

Peace of Mind for Families

Ultimately, pre-arranging a mausoleum space is an act of love and consideration. It removes uncertainty, minimizes conflict among family members, and allows those left behind to focus on celebrating life rather than managing logistics. Families can visit a space that reflects dignity and permanence, finding comfort in knowing that the planning was handled with care.

Planning ahead is never easy, but it is one of the most thoughtful decisions you can make for yourself and your loved ones. Pre-arranging a mausoleum space ensures that your legacy is honored, your family is supported, and your final wishes are carried out with grace. By taking the time now, you create a lasting gift of peace and clarity for generations to come.

James W. Songer

September 2nd, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (0 Comments)

James W. Songer, 68, of St. Albans passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House.

He will be cremated and there are no services.

Carolyn Sue (Deel) Hartwell

August 22nd, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (0 Comments)

Carolyn Sue (Deel) Hartwell, 83, of South Charleston went home to be with the Lord, Thursday, August 21, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Herman Hartwell in 2020. She was the last of seven children of the late Walter and Virgie Deel.

She loved cooking, sewing, gardening, and making crafts. She had taught Sunday School for kids over the years. She was a member of Independent Missionary Baptist Church, Alum Creek.

Carolyn is survived by two sisters-in-law, Kay Deel of Georgia and Nettie Turley of South Charleston; children, Dwayne Hartwell and Brian (Rhonda) Hartwell of South Charleston; grandchildren, whom she dearly loved, Michael (Ashley) Hartwell, Nicholas (Stephanie) Hartwell, Vivian (William) Robinson; great grandchildren, Ronan, Riley, Kollins; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 6-8pm, on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 11:00am, Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home with Pastor Daniel Dent officiating. Burial will follow at Shultz Cemetery, South Charleston.

The family would like to thank the staff at Genesis Teays Valley for their kindness and the staff at WVU Medicine South Charleston and Charleston. Also, thank you to everyone who came and visited her or sent a card.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Independent Missionary Baptist Church,
2309 Childress Road, Alum Creek, WV 25003.

Brian Kevan Graley

August 21st, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (1 Comments)

Brian Kevan Graley, 59, of Griffithsville, WV, was called Home to Glory on Thursday, August 21, 2025, after a short quiet battle with cancer.

Sheriff of Lincoln County and proud Air Force Veteran, Brian’s work for his community began over 20 years ago.  Former Circuit Clerk, co-founder of the McCorkle Outreach and Neighborhood Watch Programs, and 2007 Alum Creek Citizen of the Year were some of his most notable accomplishments.  But the most important achievement in his life was accepting Jesus as his Savior. Brian loved the Lord and his family with all he had. 

Brian is survived by his wife, Karen Ann, brothers, Barry (Brenda), Terry (Francis), and Fitz (Debbie) Graley, children, Matt (Kaity) Graley, Brandon (Meghan) Graley, Nolan (Destiny) Graley, Lauren (Chris) Boner, and Jacob Hall.  He is also survived by his grandchildren, Bronagh, Sebastien and Vada Graley, Keaton and Sam Boner, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George & Eloise Graley, brother, Roy Graley, and sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl & Howard Redman.

Service will be 4:00pm Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home with Pastors Darrell Searls and Dan McCormick officiating.  Visitation will be from 1:00pm until the time of service. 

Andrea Lynn Frame

August 18th, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (2 Comments)

Andrea Lynn Frame, 47, of St. Albans, WV, passed away Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Thomas Memorial Hospital, South Charleston, WV.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles “Butch” Byrd and Kathy Byrd.

She was a homemaker.

Andrea is survived by her husband of 28 years, John Frame, and daughters, Samantha Lynn Frame and Abby Lynn Frame, and brothers, Charles (Tirra) Byrd II and Willaim “Billy” Byrd (Anna Sneed).

There will be no service.

Loraine Gillispie

August 14th, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (3 Comments)

Loraine Gillispie, 87, of Alum Creek, WV, passed away at home on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, surrounded by her family.  She is preceded in death by her husband, William Elsworth Gillispie, parents, Mandy & Clyde Pauley, daughter, Tamera Stone, and her great-great-granddaughter, Laïzyla Nicholas. 

Loraine is survived by her children, Rosemary (Lawerence) Williams, Doug Gillispie, Diana Gravely (Artie Cole), Barbara (Jimmy) Blankenship, Brenda (Victor) Gillispie and Robin Gillispie, and sister, Tressie Barker, and brother, Sidney Pauley.  She is also survived by 17 grandkids, 26 great-grandkids, and 8 great-great-grandkids and lots of nieces and nephews.

Service will be 1:00pm Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home with Pastor Michael Graley officiating.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. 

Burial will follow at the Gillispie Cemetery, Emmons, WV

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to assist in offsetting the funeral costs. 

Kimberly Ann Martin

August 11th, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (0 Comments)

Kimberly Ann Martin, 59, of South Charleston, WV, passed away Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice House, Charleston, WV.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Franklin & Gretis Grover.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Bobby Martin, daughters, Haylee Martin, and Amanda (Blain) Salmons, granddaughter, Paisley Martin, and her beloved dogs, Diesel, Lil Diesel, Alyssa, and Sage, and a host of friends. She was a café worker at AVI.

She will be cremated per her wishes. 

George “Buddy” Evan Gibson, 90, Alum Creek, WV, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 11:00pm, at Thomas Memorial Hospital after a short illness.  He was preceded in death by his parents Wyatt (Hoot) & Lillie Mae Stotler Gibson and sisters, Margaret, Ruby, Mildred, Joann and Florence. 

He was retired from Dickinson Fuel Company, Inc. 

He is survived by his wife, Rebal Gibson and 7 children, Becky, Mark (Reginia), Keith (Cindy), George (Samatha), Brent (Madora). Dwight (Lori) and Jeffery (Debbie).  He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews including 2 nephews who were like brothers, Mike and Terry Gibson.

Buddy loved to work in his garden and was a beekeeper.  He was an avid outdoorsman and loved life to the fullest. 

It was Buddy’s wishes to be cremated.  The family will have a celebration of his life at a later date. Burial will be on the family property, Olcott, WV.

Virginia L. Given

July 31st, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (2 Comments)

Virginia Lee Starkey Given, 96, of St. Albans, WV, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at home with her loving family at her side.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Arnold J. Given, Jr.

Virginia was an active member of Highlawn Baptist Church in St. Albans, for many years. She attended Ohio State University and was a homemaker and receptionist for 29 years for Dr. Given.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Carolyn & Gary Kopco, sons, Robert and Dr. Arnold J. Given III, son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth & Peggy Given, and son and daughter-in-law, David & Susan Given.  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Lindsay and Lauren Kopco Bryant and  Michelle and Jeffrey Given, and several great-grandchildren.

There will be a private service 2:00pm Saturday, August 2, 2025, and a private burial will follow at Given Cemetery, Elkview, WV.

Robert L. “Bob” Hill

July 28th, 2025 | Posted by curryfuneralhome in Obituaries - (2 Comments)

Robert “Bob” L. Hill, 91, of South Charleston, WV, went home to be with the Lord Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Hubbard Hospice West, South Charleston, WV. He was preceded in death by his wife, Delores Ann Hill, parents, Earl & Nettie Gillispie Hill and grandparents, Frank & Fanny Pauley Gillispie.

He was a devout member and deacon of Brier Creek Baptist Church and served in the U.S. Army from 1956-1958. He was 2021 Citizen of the Year for Alum Creek.

Bob joined the Alum Creek Lions Club in 1972 and served as President 1975-1976, and served on Board of Directors from 1976 – 2025. He served Christmas Food Projects until he was disabled. Bob served as Cabinet District 29-0 Zone Chairman, Deputy District Governor and Lioness Chairman. He participated in International Conventions in Dallas, TX (1975), Honolulu, HI, New Orleans, LA (1977) Montreal, Canada, Atlanta, GA, San Francisco, CA, Dallas, TX (1985), New Orleans, LA (1986) and Denver, CO (1988). He was also a recipient of the Melvin Jones Award and the Leonard Jarrett Award.

He is survived by many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews whom he loved dearly and they loved him. At the age of three his mother passed away and he was lovingly cared for by his grandmother, Fanny, (who delivered him) and his father, Earl, where he lived for many years in Emmons, WV.

Bob & Delores enjoyed camping in the mountains, where he along with Delores built their cabin in Green Bank, WV. He loved hunting, fishing, and gardening.

“A Life Well Lived”

Service will be 11:00am Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Curry Funeral Home, Alum Creek, WV, with Pastor Charles Sisk officiating. Burial will follow at Forks of Coal Memorial Park.

Visitation will be Tuesday, July 29, 2025, from 6:00 – 8:00pm at the funeral home.