James R. Wolfingbarger SFC, Sr.

James R. Wolfingbarger SFC, Sr. Retired, born on July 8, 1951, peacefully passed away Monday December 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. A proud graduate of Dupont High School, Class of 1969, James went on to serve his country with honor, dedicating 24 ½ years to the U.S. Army before retiring. He later retired from the State of West Virginia with 19 years of dedicated service, most notably with WorkForce WV.

James enjoyed a distinguished career as an embalmer and funeral director, serving with compassion and expertise across multiple funeral homes. He devoted 19 years to Stevens & Grass Funeral Home, spent several years with BC Hooper Funeral Home, and shared his skills with Snodgrass Funeral Home, Matics Funeral Home, Barlow Bonsal Funeral Home, and others over the course of his career. His unwavering dedication to his community in these roles earned him deep respect and appreciation.

His dedication extended beyond his career to lifelong affiliations, including membership in the Kappa Alpha Fraternity, the Masonic Order (32nd degree), York Rite, Beni Kedem Shrine (past President and captain of the Patrol), Founding member of Beni Kedem Highlanders, and as a Kentucky Colonel. He was a cherished member of the Eastern Star, Rotary, Legion of Honor, Steel Workers Union, and Teamsters, and was honored with the Connolly Award twice in recognition of his outstanding service in the Army.

As we remember James, we’re reminded of the words from “In My Life” by The Beatles, words that also echoed in his own final sentiments:

"Though I know I'll never lose affection

For people and things that went before,

I know I'll often stop and think about them,

In my life, I love you more."

James was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Twila Martha Smallridge Wolfingbarger and Clyde Mitchell Wolfingbarger, as well as his brother, Herman Lonnie Wolfingbarger. He is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Dreama Lane Wolfingbarger, who was his steadfast partner through life’s many journeys. He also leaves behind his brother, Dale Wolfingbarger (Deborah), his sister, Valrie Jill Beckner (Joe), his son, James R. Wolfingbarger II (Tina), and his daughter, Jessica Dawn Wolfingbarger Belcher (Marshall). James found immense joy in his grandchildren, James R. Wolfingbarger III, William A. Wolfingbarger, and Nathan H. Moss (Sarah), who carry forward his enduring love and values.

Beyond his human family, James had a special place in his heart for his loyal fur companion, Angel Wings, who brought him comfort and joy. His family and friends remember him as a man who took immense pride in his relationships and embraced life with warmth, humor, and a contagious laughter that brightened every room. He valued helping others and showed a deep commitment to uplifting those around him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Shrine Children's Hospital and the West Virginia Cancer Crusaders, causes close to James’s heart. His memory will live on in the laughter, love, and care he shared so freely, leaving an enduring mark on the lives he touched.

His final words to all were, “I hung the moon.”

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday December 13, 2024 at Stevens & Grass Funeral Home, Malden with Pastor Greg Hudson officiating. Burial with Military Rites and Masonic Rites will follow at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery, Dunbar.

A visitation with family and friends will be held from 6 to 8 PM on Thursday December 12, 2024 with an Eastern Star Service beginning at 7:30 PM.

The online guest book can be accessed at www.stevensandgrass.com.