James Scarbro Obituary

James Alvin Scarbro, James Alvin Scarbro, of Loudendale, WV, formerly of Sylvester, WV, passed peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours of June 24th, at home, after a long battle with Black Lung and COPD. Born in Packsville, WV, to the late James Maloney and Florence Louise (Webb) Scarbro. The youngest of five siblings, he was preceded in death by Paul Scarbro, Opal Harless, Virgina Holstein, Lillian Marcum, and his great grandson, Hunter Mason Rhodes. He grew up during the depression in Rock Creek, WV (Raleigh County). He could not remember a time when he did not have work or a chore to do. He had to become the man of the house at an early age when his father was injured in a mining accident. He learned the value of hard work by hunting and farming to provide for the family.

Jim enlisted in the Army and served during the Korean War. He was a scout, staff sergeant, and sharpshooter, mapping out the trail for his unit. He did not talk much about his time during combat. He toured extensively throughout Europe rebuilding cities after WWII. He was a pole climber to reconnect the power to war-torn communities. He credited God for saving his life on a hilltop in Korea, surround by the enemy, when the RAF flew in dropping bombs in the valley below.

After he returned home, he lived throughout the US, driving trucks, working in factories, running Sunoco Stations, Playing Semi Pro Base Ball and played guitar in a house band with performers, including Kitty Wells and Roger Miller. But the mountains called him home to West Virginia, where he met the love of his life, Frances (Angel). They were married for almost 56 years when he went home to heaven.

Jim worked in the coal fields when he returned to West Virginia. He retired as the Maintenance Forman for the Preplant in Sundial, WV, in 1994. After retirement Jim spent his time cooking for the neighbors, cutting their grass and sitting on his porch swing, where his booming voice could be heard as he loved to talk to every passerby. He loved to hunt, fish, dig ginseng and ramps, which he enjoyed and had to have every spring.

He is survived by his loving wife, Frances (Angel), daughters, Frances Michelle (Chapman) and Janet Renee (Kidd). Five grandchildren, Chelsie, Emma, Thomas, Dylan James and Trey. Two great grandchildren, Cara "Reese", and Brady James.

Special thanks to Dr. Bradley Henry, his nurse Mandy, Visiting Angels and Hospice for their special care.

Jim's wish was to be cremated, and his ashes be buried with his wife, many years in the future. His Memorial Service will be July 6th, 2pm-5pm, at Marsh Fork Park, (9825 Coal River Road, Naomi, WV) in Raleigh County, located at the former Marsh Fork High School, where he went to school. Wear your favorite patriotic shirt or outfit to honor him, his service and love for his country. You always saw him with a red, white and blue patriotic hat or shirt, with a flag or eagle on it 99% of the time. We will be serving his favorite hot dogs, macaroni salad, baked beans, and coconut cake. Feel free to bring a dish to share. He loved the outdoors, sitting on the riverbank telling stories, so bring your favorite memory of him to share with us all. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a Veterans group of your choice, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.