Denzil Paul McGraw

Denzil Paul McGraw, 98, of Bolt passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 26, 2020. Paul was born in Bolt, West Virginia, on May 25, 1922, and was the son of the late Cora Snuffer and Bert McGraw. He was a lifelong resident of Bolt.

Paul graduated from Trap Hill High School in 1941 where he excelled in mathematics and agriculture. He spent his life as a building contractor, farmer, and conservation volunteer.

Paul served in the United States Army during World War II, earning a Combat Infantry Badge and four Bronze Service Stars for campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. His combat service included the Battle of the Hurtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge. He considered his service to his country the greatest honor and privilege of his life.

Paul served 39 years as a District Supervisor for the Southern Soil Conservation District, during which time he was acknowledged multiple times for his distinguished and dedicated service to the conservation district and the people of West Virginia.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 71 years Julia (Judy) McGraw, daughter Linda Abshire of Bolt, son David McGraw and his wife Mary Jo of Bolt, daughter Dr. Tammy McGraw of Beckley, as well as grandchildren Jack Massey (Lora), Jeffrey Massey (Kristan), Stefanie McGraw, Allison Pugh (Matt), and Beth Severt. Paul had eleven great grandchildren, Joshua Massey, Jayden Massey, Ceanna Canterbury, Gabriel Canterbury, Sara Canterbury, Tyler Harris, Talan McGraw, Caroline Pugh, Charlie Pugh, Annie Pugh, and Kinley Cox. In addition, “adopted” daughters Nancy Rinehart and Betty Blair.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 1, 2020, at noon at Breckenridge Missionary Baptist Church in Bolt. Masks and social distancing will be observed. A graveside service with military honors will be held immediately following at Sunset Memorial Park in Beckley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Trap Hill High School Alumni Scholarship Fund at 129 Main Street, Suite 301, Beckley, West Virginia 25801.

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