ST MARYS, W.Va. - Russell W. Gorby, 88, died at home on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009.

Son of the late John H. and Ala A. Baker Gorby, he was born on Sept. 26, 1920, in Tyler County, W.Va.

A resident of Chester for much of his life, Russ worked as a Maintenance Supervisor at the former Harker China Co. and had worked as a welder at the former Crucible Steel.

He proudly served our country during WWII with the Army in the Pacific Theater and was a lifetime member of the Chester VFW No. 6450 and Chester American Legion No. 121.

Preceding him in death was his first wife, Elizabeth Mae Dailey Gorby; his second wife, JoAnn Gorby; a daughter, Millicent Gorby; three sisters, Ruby Wilson, Helen Hammontree and Susannah Baker; and one brother, John Gorby Jr.

He is survived by two daughters, Kathleen Smith, of St Marys and Michelle Swope, of Paden City, W.Va.; three granddaughters, Elizabeth Fairbanks, Alexandra and Lara Smith; and beloved friend Linda Reynolds.

Friends may visit at the Arner Funeral Chapel in Chester on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or attend the graveside service at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009, at the Pierpoint Cemetery in Tyler Co. where Pastor Jimmy Cooley will officiate.

Email condolences may be sent to: arnerfc@arnerfuneralchapel.com