Raymond Albert Pennybacker, born on August 14, 1941, in Wheeling, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, in Moundsville, West Virginia, at the age of 84.
Raymond Pennybacker was known to greet everyone with a smile. His laughter was contagious.
Ray was an avid sports fan and often asked his father or brother to read him the scores of local high school, college, and professional games he missed. He was known to banter about sports with his brother and nephews, but he stayed true to his beloved Mountaineers.
Ray had an ornery streak; his brother and cousins had endless stories and how they took the brunt of discipline for him. He loved his mother’s cooking, shopping, and trips to Atlantic City with her.
Those from McMechen may remember Ray from walking around town picking up trash cans and toys that were left out. You could catch him winning a game of Horse or Around the World at the McMechen playground.
Ray had a tremendous love of music; he often listened to Perry Como, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin. He had a great record selection, enjoyed singing, and occasionally dancing with his nieces.
The family wants to thank Moundview Health Care Center for almost 20 years of caring for the “Mayor of Moundview” as his brother affectionately nicknamed him.
Raymond was a cherished member of St. James Parish in McMechen, where he found community and faith. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, known for his gentle spirit and kind heart.
He is preceded in death by his father, John R. Pennybacker Sr., his mother, Cecelia (Brant) Pennybacker, and his brother, John “Jack” Pennybacker, along with Jack’s wife, Marina.
Raymond leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Leona Pennybacker; his nephews, Jeff Pennybacker, Shawn (Vicki) Pennybacker, Tim “Tug” (Tiffany) Pennybacker, and Jason “Jake” Pennybacker & Rebecca Kessler, his nieces, Jill (Mark) Eddy and Alicia (Rick) Derrow. He also leaves behind great-niece and nephews Justin, Jason, Josie, and Andrew, as well as several cousins.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 26th, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Altmeyer Funeral Home Benwood-McMechen Chapel. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 27th, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church in McMechen. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Youth Services System Inc. or Easterseals Rehabilitation Center.
Raymond will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his devotion to family. May he rest in eternal peace.
