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

Lawrence Alvin Wilson

Lawrence Alvin Wilson, age 77, of Rock Cave, the Gaines Community, went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.  He was born February 26, 1946, in Upshur County, a son of the late Bacel Edward and Waunita Kathleen Lane Wilson. 

He was united in marriage on November 18, 1964, to Tressie May Peck Wilson, who survives. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters:  Tammy Shingleton and Vickie and husband Thomas McClain; one son, Alvin and wife Robin Wilson. Lawrence will be missed dearly by his grandchildren; Randy Shingleton, Leah and husband Tony Chidester and Justin Wilson. Lawrence was so proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren; Owen, Tanner and Jase Chidester, Barrett and Brantley Wilson and Cason Burnside (Shingleton); sisters: Margaret Anderson, Karen and husband Gordon Baum, Pamela and husband Dallas Herndon; one brother, Timothy Wilson and companion Kelly Fisher; several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Jacob Wade McClain and his brother-in-law Loren Anderson.

Lawrence spent his life providing for his family. He was a kind man, who didn’t know a stranger, a friend to many. In his free time, you could find him tinkering in his garage.  There was nothing he couldn’t fix or rebuild. Throughout his life he acquired a collection of many unique things; hit and miss motors, old farm tractors, and quite a collection of antiques.  He built many friendships with those he traded with, bought from, or sold to. 

For many years Lawrence had a home-made ice cream maker that ran by a hit and miss motor.  He enjoyed making ice cream for his family, friends, and community.  Lawrence has left his family and friends with many fond memories, and he will be greatly missed by all. 

The family is honoring his wishes for cremation and a private family graveside service will be held at a later date. 

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

Ricky Allen Boyd

Ricky Allen Boyd, 61, of Buckhannon, a beloved member of the community known for his humor and longtime participation in Upshur County Special Olympics, died December 23, 2025, and will be cremated following visitation.

Buckhannon man charged with stealing package from ex-wife’s building, stalking

A Buckhannon man was arrested after allegedly stealing a package and contacting a woman against her will. Thomas Summers, 36, faces charges including entering without breaking, stalking, petit larceny and possession of a controlled substance.

Those pretty red leaves? They’re lying to you: The surprising truth about poinsettias

aoinsettias’ bright red “petals” aren’t flowers at all — they’re modified leaves called bracts, with the true flowers in the tiny yellow center. Learn about the plant’s Aztec roots, how it became a holiday staple, and simple tips to keep it thriving.

Buckhannon man charged with felony domestic battery after altercation over car keys

A Buckhannon man was arrested on a charge of domestic battery, third offense, after allegedly striking a woman when he was “extremely intoxicated” and they refused to give him his car keys.

West Virginia State Parks announces First Day Hikes for New Year’s Day

Twenty-one state parks and forests — including Audra and Canaan — will host free guided hikes on January 1 to help visitors kick off 2026 outdoors.

Mountain CAP to host free workshop for dads in January

Mountain CAP Family Support Center is hosting a free Key Behaviors Workshop for dads and male caregivers on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Buckhannon.

The Thread Lab opens Main Street storefront in Buckhannon for custom embroidery and apparel

The Thread Lab has opened a Main Street storefront in Buckhannon, giving customers an easier way to shop and order custom embroidered and personalized apparel. General manager Ashley Marple said a grand opening is planned after the holidays.

WVU doctors warn of whooping cough surge in West Virginia, highest in 15 years

West Virginia is experiencing its highest number of whooping cough cases since 2010, with WVU doctors warning about symptoms and risks. Untreated, the infection can linger for months.

Thomas “Tom” Jesse Riley

Thomas “Tom” Jesse Riley, 71, of Buckhannon, WV, a longtime trucker and owner of Riley Trucking and Repair, died December 19, 2025, and is survived by his wife Mary Ann, five children, grandchildren and siblings.

Michele Lynn Mellon

Michele Lynn Mellon, 78, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and Hallmark employee who loved faith, family and handwritten cards, died peacefully at home after an injury and subsequent stroke.

Leadership Upshur selects Appalachian Impact’s new interactive children’s museum on Main Street for its volunteer service project

Leadership Upshur is dedicating its volunteer service project to Appalachian Impact, helping prepare the group’s new Main Street children’s museum. The team plans to provide hands-on labor, raise funds for supplies and recruit business sponsors for interactive exhibits.

A small light can overcome great darkness: Buckhannon marks Hanukkah with menorah lighting ceremony

More than 100 people gathered Wednesday evening for a Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremony, with Mayor Robbie Skinner and organizer Daya Wright highlighting faith and perseverance. The night ended with the menorah lit in Jawbone Park, plus donuts, hot cider and dreidels.