John Wayne Scites

With great sadness we announce the passing of John Wayne Scites at the age of 70, on February 11, 2025. He was born on June 5, 1954, in West Hamlin, WV. 

John spent his life working as a heavy equipment operator for the coal mines and was an avid outdoorsman. Having had a lifelong passion for hunting he never missed an opportunity to a share a hunting story with anyone willing to listen. John never found anyone as a stranger, as he had a knack for storytelling and known affectionately as 'Honest John.'

John was preceded in death by his mother, Nora Jane Johnson-Scites; his father Freeman Scites; and his brother Eddie Scites.

John is survived his beloved wife, Olita E. Scite; son, John W. Scites II; stepdaughters, Jenny Beth Perry and Amy Rice (Arbie); brothers, Jeff and Leslie Scott Scites; sister Linda Price; and sister-in-law Robin Scites. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Lindsey Brunty (Toad), Kayley Scites (Jon), Taylor Scites (Roman, Raven or Rufus), Thomas Scites, Megan Scites-Withrow (Aaron), Amanda Price-Clark (Tommy), and Becky Dial (Philip). His legacy extends to 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, with another on the way.

Though he is no longer with us, his stories, his lessons and his passions will remain with his family and friends forever. In loving memory of John, Papaw, and Uncle, we love you.

Service will be 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 15 at Handley Funeral Home in Hamlin, WV with Jonah Adkins officiating.  Burial will follow in Enon Cemetery, Salt Rock, WV.

Family and friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home in Hamlin.