James Lee Gorrell, 94, of Wheeling, formerly of Roanoke, VA, died Monday, December 15, 2025 at home.
He was born April 18, 1931, son of the late John William and Mary Virginia Gollner Gorrell.
Jim spent his teen years in Wheeling delivering groceries for Sutor’s Market and loading prefab homes at Scott Lumber.
After graduating from Triadelphia High School in 1951, he joined the Air Force and served four years. While stationed at Robins Air Force Base, he met his soon-to-be wife, Laura Jane O’Neal. They married and moved to Wheeling. Jim retired from C&P Telephone Co. after 32 years of service. After retirement, they spent 10 years in Florida then moved to Roanoke, VA to be with family and finally to Wheeling to live with his daughter and son-in-law.
Jim was known to play his guitar and mandolin. He sometimes entertained at an assisted living facility. He would often open with a John Prine song, “Please Don’t Bury Me”.
His love of planes carried through his adult life where he built and flew radio control planes. He was an active member of Wheeling Hillhoppers & Aero Modelers of Bedford, VA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Laura Jane; brothers, Charles and John Gorrell; and a sister, Ruth Wasemann.
He is survived by his children, Leigh Ann (Matt) Gossett of Wheeling and Frederick C. Gorrell of Roanoke, VA; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Valley Hospice, his nurse, Courtney, and caregiver, Chris.
Interment in Greenwood Cemetery, Wheeling, will be held at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements by Kepner Funeral Home, 166 Kruger St., Wheeling (304-242-2311).
