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

Webster Memorial Hospital dedicates chapel in honor of Larry Lynch

WEBSTER SPRINGS — Webster Memorial Hospital (WMH) dedicated its chapel to Larry Lynch, a long-standing board member whose commitment and service profoundly impacted the hospital and the community it serves. The dedication ceremony was held on Tuesday, July 16, in the chapel.

Larry was an integral part of the WMH family for over 14 years, serving in various capacities and contributing significantly to the hospital’s mission. His thoughtful and intuitive nature supported numerous initiatives, including the acquisition of a new CT scanner and the hospital’s roof replacement project.

Staff, family, and friends gathered in the chapel to remember Larry’s service to the hospital, the community, and the patients.

“Larry was a pillar of our hospital,” said WMH CAO Bill Dempsey. “He wasn’t just a board member, he was a constant presence, a tireless advocate, and a voice of reason that guided us through hard times.”

“Larry possessed a deep understanding of the needs of our patients and the challenges faced by our staff. He understood the importance of offering comfort and support to those in need, not just physically, but also emotionally and spiritually,” Dempsey said to the audience.

The chapel, a place of solace and reflection for patients, families, and staff, is open to individuals of all faiths and backgrounds, offering a space for prayer, meditation, and quiet contemplation.

The dedication ceremony included remarks from Bill Dempsey, Gary Payne, and Shiela Adkins.

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Key to Adam debuts new original West Virginia Christmas song ‘Snowflakes Are Falling’

Buckhannon-based instrumental duo Key to Adam has released a new Christmas song titled ‘Snowflakes Are Falling,’ marking the first time they have added vocals to one of their original projects.

WVU Medicine names Forest Hannah vice president of finance for Central Region critical access hospitals

Forest Hannah will oversee financial strategy and operations for St. Joseph’s Hospital, Summersville Regional Medical Center and Braxton County Memorial Hospital.

Mountain CAP, WVU Extension offering free nutrition and cooking class in Buckhannon starting in January

The six-week “Eating Smart – Being Active” program begins January 7 at the Family Support Center in Buckhannon.

Richard (Dick) Small

Richard (Dick) Small, 81, of Buckhannon, WV, founder of Richard Small Paving, died December 17, 2025, leaving his wife Mary Ann, six children, 19 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and a legacy of faith and music.

Mary Ann Ketterman

Mary Ann Ketterman, 57, of Flemington, WV, died Dec. 14, 2025, at WVU Medicine United Hospital Center and will be cremated following a public viewing Saturday, Dec. 20.

This week’s Hank Ellis All-Stars: Abby Radabaugh and Jeremy Jett

Buckhannon’s Hank Ellis All-Stars for Dec. 8–Dec. 14 are Abby Radabaugh and Jeremy Jett. Radabaugh placed fourth with two pins at the Women of Ironman tournament, while Jett went a perfect 7-0 over the weekend.

Wesleyan women escape West Liberty with a 80-71 win behind Witt’s 30 points

Emma Witt’s 30-point, 10-rebound double-double keyed West Virginia Wesleyan’s 80-71 road win over West Liberty as the Lady Bobcats rallied late to improve to 5-2 (3-1 MEC).

Wesleyan men fall on the road to West Liberty, 101-65

Wesleyan’s Dandridge honored as MEC Female Basketball Player of the Week

West Virginia Wesleyan freshman guard Kilah Dandridge was named MEC Women’s Basketball Player of the Week after averaging 22.5 points and 4.0 rebounds in two wins, including a 30-point outing.