Virginia Porter, a cherished member of her community, died on December 7, 2025, in Morgantown, West Virginia, at the age of 91. Known for her dedication to both her family and her work, Porter leaves behind a legacy that touched many lives in the Star City and McMechen areas.
Born on November 7, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Alex and Irene Fankhauser Hawkins. Throughout her career, Porter made significant contributions to the medical field, serving in the Medical Records department at Ohio Valley Medical Center (OVMC). Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life; she was an active member of the First Christian Church in McMechen and the Order of the Eastern Star, Moundsville Chapter #86.
Porter was preceded in death by her husband, Frederick Porter. She is survived by her three children: two sons, Frederick D. Porter of Marysville, Ohio, and Charles E. Porter of Star City, along with a daughter, Rena L. Carney of Columbus, Ohio. In addition to her children, she leaves behind six grandchildren: Nicholas Carney, Sydney and Chase Porter, along with Hannah, Hayley, and Shane Wilson.
Family and friends will gather to honor her memory on Thursday, December 11, from 14:00 to 16:00 and 18:00 to 20:00 at Grisell Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 400 Jefferson Avenue, Moundsville. A funeral service is scheduled for Friday, December 12, at 11:00, officiated by Pastor Rodney Hubbs. An Order of the Eastern Star service will take place on Thursday at 18:00. Following the ceremony, Porter will be interred at Halcyon Hills.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the First Christian Church – Disciples of Christ, at 100 Cobun Avenue, Morgantown, WV 26501, or the First Christian Church at 30 Fourth Street, McMechen, WV 26040. Those wishing to express their condolences can do so through the Grisell Funeral Home website at www.grisellfuneralhomes.com.
Porter’s passing marks the end of an era for her family and community, but her spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
