William C. "Butch" Janney Jr.

William Conrad “Butch” Janney, Jr., 67, of Crab Orchard, W.Va., died unexpectedly Monday, Dec. 13, 2021.

Butch was born Nov. 4, 1954. A resident of Crab Orchard for most of his life, Butch was a zealous West Virginian. As a boy, he loved sports, cowboys and James Bond. As he grew up, he also developed a strong work ethic, holding a job at Webb’s Florist as a teenager.

After graduating from Sophia High School in 1972, Butch attended a military prep school for West Point in Fort Belvoir, Va., but a persistent injury led to an honorable discharge. He then attended Fairmont State University, majoring in physical education.

Just before graduation, he received a job offer in Dec., 1976, to become a gym teacher. He served Raleigh County for 33 years as either a teacher, coach, or principal at Beaver Elementary, Independence High School, Richmond District School, Piney View Elementary and Beckley Stratton Middle School.

Butch had many hobbies, including listening to music, history, WVU Sports, fishing, whitewater rafting, and harassing friends and family on social media. He loved silliness of all kinds, and it will be sorely missed.

He was preceded in death by his father, William C. Janney, Sr., in 2006, and his mother, Patra Ellen Janney, in 2019.

Survivors include a daughter, Sarah Beth Janney, and a grandson, Kedric Branford, both of Crab Orchard; a son, Michael Janney, of Shepherdstown; numerous family, friends, and his beloved dog, Max.

Friends will be received from 2-3:45 p.m., Dec. 28, at Beckley Stratton Middle School to meet the family and offer condolences. A service will follow at 4 p.m. at the school

In lieu of flowers or other gifts of condolence, please send donations in Butch’s name to the Raleigh County Humane Society.