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.

Share this obituary:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Have you heard the buzz? State expert shares honeybee swarm safety tips and fun facts

As honeybee swarm season begins, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture is sharing hive maintenance tips, safety advice, and removal services to help residents manage bee encounters and support pollinator health.

Congrats, grads! Fred Eberle Technical Center Class of 2025 celebrates achievements

The Fred Eberle Technical Center Class of 2025 celebrated their graduation at Wesley Chapel, recognizing outstanding instructors, scholarship recipients, and dozens of students who completed trade programs in fields ranging from welding to cosmetology.

Mary Lee Kriner

Mary Lee Kriner, 96, a retired nurse and longtime Buckhannon resident, died May 20 at her home and will be remembered with services at Holy Rosary Catholic Church and burial in Buckhannon Veterans Cemetery.

Mountain CAP Family Support Center to host free dinosaur-themed play group May 30 in Buckhannon

Mountain CAP Family Support Center is hosting a free dinosaur-themed play group for children, featuring take-home dinosaurs and activities, at 10:30 a.m. on May 30 at 30 East Main Street, with pre-registration required.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary awards 2025 scholarships

The St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary has awarded its annual $1,000 scholarships to Buckhannon-Upshur High School seniors Ellanora Hines and Kathryn Hamner, supporting their pursuit of healthcare careers and continuing a community tradition since 1990.

Upshur County Board of Education Agenda: May 27, 2025

The Upshur County Board of Education has released the agenda for its upcoming meeting scheduled for May 27, 2025.

Raising the Jolly Roger With… Braydon Osburn

Buckhannon-Upshur senior Braydon Osburn reflects on his athletic experiences in tennis and esports, his comeback victory, favorite classes, role models, future plans to become a preacher, and advice for aspiring Buccaneers.

Highland Landscaping continues to build lead in Bob Cupp Memorial Golf League

Highland Landscaping extended its first-quarter lead in the Bob Cupp Memorial Golf League to 15 points after a decisive 22-7 win over Lisa Cain Edward Jones during a weather-shortened week four round.

Five West Virginia Wesleyan College graduates recognized as outstanding seniors

Five West Virginia Wesleyan College graduates were honored as Outstanding Seniors for exemplary academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement during the Academic and Leadership Awards Ceremony.

David Robert Asson Jr.

David Robert Asson, Jr., 81, a devoted family man, Navy veteran, and active community volunteer in multiple states, passed away in West Virginia, leaving behind a legacy of service and cherished relationships.

Mother arrested for child neglect after police find wanted man, drugs in home

Latachia A. Weese, 30, was arrested and charged with felony child neglect after allegedly admitting to being high while caring for her two young children in a residence containing drugs and firearms.

Buckhannon man arrested for allegedly choking his mother

Timothy A. Tenney, 37, of Buckhannon, was arrested and charged with felony strangulation and misdemeanor domestic battery after allegedly attacking and choking his mother.