John Owbra Nary

On Saturday, March 9, 2019 John Owbra Nary passed away at Bower’s Hospice House, Beckley, WV.

He was born on August 28th, 1938 to James Madison Nary and Lillian Voies Nary at West Wickham, Beckley, WV.

John attended Woodrow Wilson High School and served four years in the US Navy.  He worked for several years out west opening Dennies Restaurants.  When he returned to WV to live he worked for several years as a boss in the coal mines.  He became disabled in 1981. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, James M Nary Jr, Barbara Lilly, Patsy Kirk and Mary Spangler.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Virginia Cole Nary. Also by a special nephew who he loved as a son, Billy (Drema) McNeal of Beckley and a step-son Jerry Connor Jr of Staunton, VA.

He was Paw Paw to Ashley McNeal Frye (Jason) of Daniels, Emilee Madison McNeal of Beckley and Jerry Conner III and his fiancé Callie Broughman of Waynesboro, VA.  He was a great Paw Paw to Thea Quinn Frye who was the apple of his eye.  Before his death he was told he would be Great Paw Paw two more times, (Ashley & Callie).

He is also survived by his sisters Janet McNeal of Crab Orchard, Betty Surratt (Roger) of Beckley, Sandra Sue Vandall of Beckley and a sister-in-law, Pauline Nary of Piney View, WV.  He left behind many nieces, nephews and cousins.  Also, a very special friend Sharon Perrine of Ashburn, VA.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 13, 2019 at 5 PM at Melton Mortuary.  The family will receive friends for one hour before the service.

His family greatly appreciates all the love, prayers and support received during his illness and this difficult time.  We request any expressions of sympathy be sent to Bowers Hospice House, PO Box 1472 Beckley, WV 25802-1472 to help continue the wonderful work they are doing.

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