All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Jo Ann Blake

Jo Ann Blake, age 94, of Weston, WV, died Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at her home. She was born July 19, 1930, in Lewis County, WV, a daughter of the late Luther Dale and Vesta M. Smith Skinner.

On May 5, 1950, she married Wayne F. Blake, who preceded her in death. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one son, John Wayne Blake; three sisters, Virginia, Geraldine and Norma Jean and four brothers, Richard, Jim, Charles “Dink” and Jack.

She is survived by two daughters, Debra Helmick and husband Rex, and Loretta J. Blake, all of Weston; one grandson, Clinton Helmick and wife Tabatha of Weston; five great-grandchildren, Brayden, Bailey and Brynlee Helmick, Olvia Daly and Connor Murray, all of Weston; several nieces and nephews and her beloved dog, Marklea Joann.

Mrs. Blake was a School Cook in Lewis County, retiring after 28 years of service. She was a member of the Stonecoal United Methodist Church and of the East Lewis Lion’s Club. Jo Ann enjoyed bowling, clogging, loved people of all ages and especially enjoyed spending time with family.

Mrs. Blake’s family would like to extend a special thank you to West Virginia Hospice for their loving care. In honoring Mrs. Blake’s wishes, she will be cremated, and a Celebration Of Life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

My Buckhannon publishes obituaries free of charge as a courtesy to the family. Readers can support our publication by becoming a premium member.

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