Paul Permelia

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 On January 15, 2022, Paul Permelia, Jr., finished his race surrounded by his family at the age of 96. Paul was a man of great faith, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He served many churches faithfully with his ministry of music over years and comforted many people with his prayers. He always desired to walk closely to the Lord and encouraged his family, church family, and neighbors to serve the Lord. He was a proud World War II veteran serving in the Navy onboard the U.S.S. Sanders. Many community members remember him fondly from his many years working at the Carolina Supermarket. Born March 10, 1925, in Rhodell, West Virginia to the late Paul and Mattie Permelia, he was also preceded in death by his late wife Grace Permelia, brothers John, Charlie, Elliott, Earnest, and sisters Hattie Elmore and Tommie Britt. Survivors include his wife of 43 years Connie Permelia, daughters Gloria Smith (Sonny) of Vermilion, Ohio, Donna Sumner (Richard) of Mabscott, WV, Melony Lester (Travis) of Crab Orchard, WV, son Ronald “Ray” Bennett (Cindy) of Crab Orchard, WV. Three grandchildren Tron Smith (Heather) of Vermilion, Ohio, Lydia and Jenna Lester of Crab Orchard, WV, and a Great Grandchild David Michael Smith of Vermilion, Ohio. A close family friend whom he considered family Larry Flint of Beckley, WV. The family would also thank his caregiver Tammy Rhodes of Coal City, WV. Paul is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews and the family would like to thank his nieces, Sharlie Permelia, Darlene Pyatt, and Joyce Permelia for the many heartwarming visits. Services will be held at Blue Ridge Funeral Home on Sunday, January 23, 2022, at 12:30 pm with the Rev. Vernon Sears officiating. Friends may gather with the family from 11:00 – 12:30. Close family and friends will serve as Pallbearers. Paul would encourage all to come to Christ and receive the gift of eternal life as he had no fear of death. To honor his memory please consider the words of John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Miracle Network.