Roger Lee Marcum

Roger Lee Marcum, aged 81, of Chapmanville, peacefully entered his heavenly home on July 13, 2023. He was born on February 17, 1942, to his loving parents, Lafayette and Mabel (Fitch) Marcum.

Roger graduated from Scott High School in 1960 and answered the call to serve his country soon after. In May of 1960, he joined the military, embarking on a remarkable journey of honor and sacrifice. On October 2, 1960, he united in marriage with his cherished wife Linda Louise Marcum, the beloved daughter of Wallace and Mattie (Varney) Hill.

Following their joyous union, Roger reported for duty at Stuart Air Force Base in Newburgh, New York, in October of 1960. It was during their time stationed there that Roger and Linda were blessed with the arrival of their three children: Roger Keith, Amanda Louise, and Kenneth Lee. Together, they nurtured a loving and vibrant family within the embrace of the military community.

Sergeant Marcum's dedication to his duty led him to Nha Trang Air Force Base in South Vietnam in June of 1966, where he displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness. On February 20, 1967, his exceptional valor was recognized with the Airman's Medal, bestowed upon him for a daring act of heroism. Roger risked his own life to rescue injured souls from a crashed aircraft, fearlessly braving intense heat and the perils of exploding fuel tanks. He valiantly assisted with fire bottles until relieved by Air Force fire and police, leaving an indelible mark of bravery.

Roger dedicated his life to his family, working as an accomplished auto mechanic specializing in transmission service. Upon returning home to West Virginia, he embarked on a new chapter, forging a successful career in the Coal Mines, where he offered Westmoreland Coal Company many years of dedicated service. Later, he ventured into entrepreneurship, becoming the proud owner and operator of Aamco Transmission, where he completed his remaining work years.

In the early years of retirement, Roger and Linda embarked on exciting adventures, making their home in Mountain Home, Arkansas, followed by several years in New Market, Tennessee. They traversed the vast landscapes of the United States, exploring all fifty states and savoring the beauty and diversity of this great nation.

In addition to his parents, Roger was preceded in death by his brother, Danny Marcum (Becky), and his sister, Lana (Marcum) Mabe (Gary). He leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by his loving wife of 62 years, Linda (Hill) Marcum, and their children: Roger Keith Marcum (Takako), Amanda Cabell (Chuck), and Kenneth Marcum (Erin).

Roger is also survived by his dear brothers: Jesse Marcum (Janet), Thomas Marcum (Judy), Virgil Marcum (Nancy), and Jimmie Marcum (Lois). He will be fondly remembered by his cherished grandchildren: Candice Sharps (Josh), Cortney Browning (Reuben), Danielle Walls (Larry), Ryan Marcum, Kelsey Marcum, Alexander Cabell (Harli), and Madison Krah. His great-grandchildren, Jayden and Cayden Sharps, Nickolas Marcum, Caraline Cabell, and Wyatt and Brynleigh Walls, will continue to honor his memory with love and admiration.

The wake will take place at Handley Funeral Home in Danville, WV. The family will gather at 5 pm, followed by visitation from 6 to 8 pm.

A service to celebrate the remarkable life of Roger Lee Marcum, officiated by Johnny Barker and Douglas McComas, will be held on July 17 at 2 pm at Bible Baptist Church in Danville, WV, where Roger was a dedicated member. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Roger are invited to attend and pay their respects.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Roger. His valiant battle against cancer inspires hope for a cure to this devastating disease.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who provided unwavering support and compassionate care during this difficult time. Special thanks are extended to the dedicated staff of Handley Funeral Home for their exceptional care and compassion.

Let us join together in remembering and celebrating the remarkable life of Roger Lee Marcum. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.