Elk Funeral & Cremation Service

05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day from all of us here at Elk. Today, we celebrate service, sacrifice, and selflessness. We can never bring back our fallen soldiers, but we can honor them in our daily actions.

05/20/2026

Carolyn Sue Newhouse, 84, went to be home with the lord on May 19th, 2026. She was born on July 2, 1941, to the late Henry Orville and Tressie Ethel Thomas Anderson.

Carolyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness and faith touched everyone who knew her. She was a lifelong member of the Davis Memorial Baptist Church, where she participated in singing with the choir and serving the community as a “ladies aide.” She also enjoyed attending Bible School.

Carolyn shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with the late Carl Newhouse. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and faith.

She is survived by her three daughters: Carla Harris, Regina Fridley, and Deborah Jarrett. Carolyn was the proud grandmother of Melissa Salyers (Nathan), Joshua McGinnis (Cierra), Brandon Harris, Brittany Casto (JC), and Zachary Fridley. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Jace Casto, Caroline Barron, Madden Casto, Amos McGinnis, Memphis McGinnis, Jaxson Mullins, and William Mullins III. She is also survived by her sister Brenda Parsons; brother-in-law, Robert Newhouse; sister-in-law, Shirley Newhouse; son-in-law, Gary Fridley, and extended family: Cathy Sanford, Allison Chapman, Nick Chapman, and William Mullins II.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Orville Anderson and Tressie Ethel Anderson; her siblings, Wilda Jeffries, Rebecca Sovine, James Anderson, Cebert Orville Anderson, Cora Anderson, Margaret Ashworth, Elma Handley, and Velma Perdue; and her husband, Carl Newhouse.

Carolyn will be remembered for her warm heart, unwavering faith, and the deep love she had for her family. She enjoyed simple pleasures, cherished time spent with loved ones, and lived each day with gratitude and grace. She found great joy in baking and cooking for those she loved, always making sure no one left her home hungry. She also enjoyed bowling and looked forward to spending time with friends and family at the lanes. One of her favorite traditions was attending the annual family picnic, where she cherished making memories, sharing laughter, and being surrounded by those she loved most.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the family members, friends, and loved ones who offered support, prayers, visits, meals, calls, and kindness during this difficult time. Your compassion, care, and presence brought comfort and strength in the days leading up to her passing and will never be forgotten. The family is deeply appreciative of everyone who stood by them with love and support.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. at Elk Funeral & Cremation Service, 2001 Pennsylvania Avenue, Charleston, West Virginia, with Travis Bradley officiating. Visitation with the family will take place from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, prior to the service. Burial will follow at Tyler Mountain Memorial Gardens, 5233 Rocky Fork Road, Cross Lanes, WV 25313.

Though she will be deeply missed, Carolyn’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Carolyn's family.

View Carolyn Newhouse's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/14/2026

John Paul Dennis, 50, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away on January 14, 2026. John was born to James Dennis and Kathy Gum Dennis on June 17, 1975.

There are no services planned at this time.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting John's family.

View John Dennis's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/10/2026

Happy Mother's Day from all of us here at Elk. Without our moms, none of us would be here, so make sure to let them know how appreciated they are today for all they do.
And if this is your first, fifth, or even fiftieth Mother's Day without your mom, feel free to take the time in the comments to share fond memories or encourage others who may be in the same boat as you. It takes a village, especially when you lose someone so special.

05/07/2026

James Foster “Pops” Robinson, 81, of South Charleston, West Virginia, passed away at Charleston Area Medical Center Memorial Division on May 2, 2026. James was born in Ogdensburg, New York, on July 26, 1944, to the late Ralph Foster Robinson and Anna Eugenia Needle Robinson. He is also preceded in death by his sister, Sandy Robinson, son, Ronald Ranson Jr., and his Beloved wife, Betty Gean Robinson. James is survived by his son, Sean Robinson, and Sean’s children Cassidy and Tiphanie Johnston. And his Beloved late wife’s children, Taletha (Steve) Walls, Robin Ranson, Beverly Rollins, and Kevin Ranson. His brothers, Arthur Robinson and Chris Robinson, along with many other grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A kind soul has left this world, but the memories of his laughter and love will never fade away. James Foster Robinson was more than just a father; he was a friend, a mentor, and a beacon of joy for those who knew him. His spirit will shine brightly in the hearts of many, proving that true kindness and a good sense of humor can leave a lasting impact on the world.

James was a gentleman in every sense of the world. He treated everyone with respect and warmth, making people feel valued and appreciated. Whether it was a stranger at the grocery store or a close friend, James always greeted them with a smile. His kindness was not limited to words; he often went out of his way to help others, whether it was volunteering at local charities or simply lending a hand to a neighbor. This genuine care for others created a ripple effect, inspiring those around him to embrace kindness as well. Humor was another gift that James brought to life. His ability to make others laugh was unmatched. Family gatherings were filled with jokes and funny stories, creating an atmosphere of joy and togetherness. Even during tough times, James had a way of finding lightness in the situation. His laughter was contagious, lifting spirits and easing worries. It is this humor that will be cherished, reminding everyone of the good times shared and the joy he brought into their lives.

James also had an incredible love for life. He approached each day with excitement and curiosity, encouraging others to do the same. His passion for exploring new places and trying new things was inspiring. Whether it was hiking in the mountains or traveling to new cities, James taught the importance of embracing life’s adventures. The zest for life encouraged many to step out of their comfort zones and seek out their own experiences.

As the memories of James Foster Robinson are shared, it is clear that his legacy will continue to live on. Through Kindness, humor, and a love for life, he touched countless lives and created a beautiful impact. His spirit is now with God and Betty in heaven, bringing joy to those who have passed before him. The lessons learned and the love shared will always be remembered, reminding everyone to spread kindness, find joy in laughter, and cherish every moment. James Foster Robinson will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and love for life. His legacy serves as a reminder of how one person can change the lives of many through simple acts of goodness. As the world grieves his loss, it also celebrates the life he lived and the love he shared. Let his spirit inspire others to carry on his legacy of kindness and joy.

I love you dad.

James (Pops) was known to wear many hats as an occupation or at home throughout his life. He was a husband, friend, dad, grandpa, uncle, Town Crier, teacher, security guard, traveler, worked in the retail trenches, author, storyteller, provider, carpenter, and many more. Pops was a member of Shining Light Celebration Church along with his late wife and family, where he attended until his health failed him. Jesus was his Lord and Savior, and he was ready to go to his heavenly home. So, when you think about Pops, just know he is in no more pain, and he is in Heaven rejoicing and singing praises to his Savior.

Per James wishes, he was cremated and wanted no formal services; he wanted his cremated remains buried on his property out in the country under an apple tree.

Family requests that anyone who can donate, please do so, to help with the cremation cost, which can be found under his obituary on Elkfuneralservice.com.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting in fulfilling Pops wishes.

View James "Pops" Robinson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/07/2026

Charlotte Anne Warrick, 73, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away on April 22, 2026. Charlotte was born on August 10, 1952, to Victor Parcell and Grace Tyo Parcell.

There are no services planned at this time.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Charlotte's family.

View Charlotte Warrick's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/07/2026

Lanetta Janell Rakes, 63, of Elkins, West Virginia, passed away on April 22, 2026. Lanetta was born in Welch, West Virginia, on September 8, 1962, to Tyler Rakes and Claudia Lusk Rakes.

There are no services planned at this time.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Lanetta's family.

View Lanetta Rakes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/30/2026

Clarence Alvin Jones II, 48, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away on February 9, 2026. Clarence was born on July 3, 1977, to Clarence Jones and Dale Southhall.

There are no services planned at this time.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Clarence's family.

View Clarence Jones II's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/12/2026

Thomas Leon Shaffer, 80, of Big Chimney, West Virginia, passed away on April 9, 2026, at home. Thomas was born in Charleston, West Virginia, on July 12, 1945, to the late Dorsel and Altha Hughart Shaffer.

Thomas was an electrician before retiring. He was a former member of the West Virginia Army National Guard.

Along with his parents, Thomas is also preceded in death by his brothers Larry, Jack, Danny, and Harold Shaffer.

He is survived by his brother Joe Shaffer; sisters Carol Knupp, Jerri Newhouse; daughter Jamie Doughty; granddaughter Grace Doughty, and his girlfriend and partner of over 45 years, Kathy Cantley.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Elk Funeral & Cremation Service, 2001 Pennsylvania Ave, Charleston, WV, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM with a funeral service to follow at 3:00 PM.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Thomas’s family.

View Thomas Shaffer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/01/2026

Leslie Thompson, 50, of Charleston, West Virginia, passed away on February 23, 2026. Leslie was born on December 11, 1975.

Leslie was loved by his large extended family. Leslie’s late father was Leslie Leroy Thompson Sr. He is survived by his mother, Jennie Hewitt (mom), his stepmother Carol Thompson (mommy), and his brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his full brother Rocky Shrader, half-brothers Travis Thompson, Shane Thompson, Leslie(We know him as Bubba), Shawn Thompson, and Lance Thompson. He is survived by his half-sisters Jan Howell, Tena Kern, Melissa Thompson, and Tabitha Phillips (Thompson).

Leslie has two children who survived him, his daughter Amy Shifflett (his two grandchildren), and his son, whom he named Skyler Lee James Thompson, but his name was changed to Ryan Justin Alexander.

He is survived by his nieces and nephews, along with many other family members.

Leslie was a sweet man and a great son. He was loved by many. He was a free spirit with a Gypsy heart. He would show up to his siblings and his mothers all the time unannounced, and he always made great memories.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Leslie's family.

View Leslie Thompson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/31/2026

Carl Hames, 61, of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on March 15, 2026. Carl was born on April 5, 1964, in Trenton, New Jersey, to Bessie and Arthur Hames.

Carl is survived by his wife, Marjorie Alfaro-Hanes.

Carl was a security officer in asset protection

There are no services planned at this time.

Elk Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to be assisting Carl's family.

View Carl Hames's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.