Louise Edna Golden

1935-2026

Louise Edna Golden, age 90, of Hancock, Md., passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Born September 15, 1935, in Millstone, Md, she was the daughter of the late Roger Elwood and Kittie Irene Younker Weller.

She was a 1953 graduate of Hancock School.

She was a professional seamstress retiring from London Fog Factory after at least thirty years.

Louise was an avid quilter making numerous quilts for loved ones as well as missionaries.

Louise was also a devout Christian. She attended Hancock Assembly of God where she was a Sunday School teacher for over fifty years, helping to shape many many lives. She was also a Missionette Leader for the girls’ ministry for many years.

Louise is survived by her children, Paul Golden of Hancock and Barbara Hullinger of Hancock; granddaughters Karla Crosen (Mathias), Candace Hixon (Josh); and great-grandchildren Alexis Barney (Levi), Memphis Crosen, Kambri Crosen, Weslyn Hixon, Branten Hixon and great-great-grandchildren Kaisley Barney and Walker Barney.

In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her husband Paul “Pete” Golden, of fifty-nine years; and her sister Phyllis Weller.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 12 p.m., with two-hour prior visitation from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hancock Assembly of God, 431 N Pennsylvania Ave, Hancock, MD 21750. Pastor Don Preston will officiate. Burial will follow at Stonebridge Church, 14904 Orchard Ridge Rd., Hancock, MD 21750.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Louise’s name can be made to Hospice of Washington County or Hancock Assembly of God are appreciated.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grove-Rogowski Funeral Home, 141 W Main Street, Hancock, MD 21750.

Online condolences can be expressed to the family at www.grfuneralhome.net.

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by Jamie Harris

With heavy hearts but determined spirits, the Berkeley Springs Indians and Lady Indians Cross Country teams opened their 2026 season on Wednesday, August 26, at the University High School Cross Country Meet in Morgantown. The athletes continue to carry the memory of former teammate Josh Walls, dedicating this season to his life and legacy.

Under the leadership of second-year head coach Vickie Miller, both programs continue to build on a strong…

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Paul Edward Haber, Jr.

1941-2026

Paul Edward “Eddie” Haber, Jr., 85, of Berkeley Springs, W.Va., passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, August 27, 2026, surrounded by family.

Eddie was born on May 17, 1941, in Washington, D.C., to the late Paul Edward Haber, Sr., and Melvina (Robinson) Haber.

Eddie was a hard worker who built a good life for himself and the people he loved.

He was a driver for Gunther Charters & Tours providing transportation for groups throughout the Baltimore and D.C. area. Eddie was also a skilled glazier and the owner of Laurel Glass & Mirror, but his most beloved job was the time he spent serving our country in the U.S. Navy.

But Eddie was so much more than his work and accomplishments. He had a curious spirit and a way of finding enjoyment in the simple things. He loved to fish, play volleyball, work stained glass, enjoy good food in small diners, and, perhaps most importantly, spend time with his family. Eddie especially loved seeing his grandchildren. Their visits, time together, and the opportunity to watch them grow were among the things that brought him great joy. He cherished his family and the time he was able to share with them.

Eddie is survived by his four children, Patricia Haber of Frederick, Md.; Paul Haber III and his wife Leah of Strongsville, Ohio; David Haber and his wife Laura of Berkeley Springs, W.Va.; and Laura Beth Riley and her husband Jason of New Windsor, Md. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his brother, John Haber of West Palm Beach, Fla.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, John Haber; his sister, Louise Kraft; his brother, Raymond Haber; and his first wife, Judith Haber.

The years ahead will bring many moments when his family wishes they could call, sit beside, or share one more adventure with him. But his memory will live on in the stories they tell, the places they visit, the traditions they continue, and in the hearts of the grandchildren he loved so dearly. His journey may have come to an end, but the love and memories he has left his family will remain with them always.

A Celebration of Life service will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Giffin Funeral Home & Crematory, Capon Bridge, W.Va.

To view Paul’s tribute wall and leave a message for the family, please visit www.giffinfuneralhome.com.

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The 2026 volleyball season is officially underway, and the Paw Paw Lady Pirates, under the leadership of veteran head coach Holly Palmer, wasted no time showing the heart, hustle and competitive spirit that have become trademarks of the program.

Traveling to Petersburg on August 25 for a season-opening tri-match against Petersburg and Tygarts Valley, the Lady Pirates faced a challenging early-season test. While Paw Paw dropped its first match of the year…

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Joyce Ann Younker

1952-2026

Joyce Ann Younker, 74, of Hancock, Md. passed away on Friday, August 28, 2026, at her residence.

Born Saturday, March 15, 1952, in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., she was the daughter of the late George W. and Wanda L. Vanorsdale Fleece, Sr.

Joyce attended Berkeley Springs School. She enjoyed playing bingo, knitting, quilting and visiting friends at the Senior Life Services Center in Berkeley Springs, W.Va. Joyce had a love for nature and enjoyed watching animals.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband of thirty-three years, Rodney A. Younker of Hancock, Md.; one son, Kenneth L. Hendershot, Jr. of Berkeley Springs, W.Va.; two daughters, Cheryl Green of Florida and Alice “Mickey” Lyons of Berkeley Springs, W.Va.; three brothers, George W. Fleece, Jr. and wife Alice of Berkeley Springs, W.Va., Vernon L. Fleece and John G. Fleece both of Ohio; one sister, Karen L. Burns of Berkeley Springs, W.Va.; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Joyce is preceded in death by one sister Phyllis M. Hall and one daughter Rhonda Weedle.

Private services for Joyce will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grove-Rogowski Funeral Home, 141 West Main Street, Hancock, MD, 21750.

Online condolences can be expressed to the family at www.grfuneralhome.net.

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The Berkeley Springs Lady Indians volleyball team opened the season by proving they are ready to compete with anyone, earning a hard-fought road victory over longtime regional rival Frankfort before nearly knocking off another tough foe, Petersburg, in a five-set marathon.

The Lady Indians hit the road on Tuesday, August 25, and traveled to Ridgeley to square off against the Frankfort Falcons in a matchup that featured two familiar regional rivals.

Berkeley…

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James William Hardisty

1956-2026

James W. Hardisty, age 69, of Great Cacapon, W.Va., was called home on Saturday, August 22. 2026.

He was born to the late Clayton Leroy Hardisty and Harriet (Wells) Hardisty, and shared 39 years of marriage with his beloved late wife, Loretta (Murray) Hardisty.

He is survived by his cherished son, Clayton Thomas Hardisty (Courtney).

In addition to his wife and parents, James was predeceased by his sibling, Jesse Hardisty.

He enjoyed being in nature and spending time with loved ones. He loved all forms of racing— sprint car, NASCAR and drag racing.

His memory will live on through those touched by his dedication to his wife, incredible work ethic and willingness to go out of his way for family and friends.

A visitation will be held at 9 a.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Plata, Md.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in James’ memory may be made to The Dale Earnhardt Foundation or Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.

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The Berkeley Springs Indians experienced both ends of the soccer spectrum this week, suffering a tough loss to a regional powerhouse before rebounding in impressive fashion to secure their first victory of the season and the first varsity win for new head coach Jamie Hiles.

The week began on Tuesday, August 25, when the Indians traveled to rival Frankfort for an early-season regional showdown. The Falcons demonstrated why they are considered one…

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Ira Melvin Manley

1936-2026

Ira Melvin Manley, age 90, of Berkeley Springs, W.Va., passed away on Saturday August 29, 2026, at Valley Health Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, Va.

Born July 30th, 1936, in Berkeley Springs, W.Va., he was the son of Eva Lavina Fox and was raised by his beloved grandmother Martha (Mae) Fritzman.

At an early age he made the decision to enlist in the United States Army and was proud to serve for 21 years. During this time, he received many commendation medals and was most proud of the Bronze Star Medal. The other service medals or badges earned during his career include the following: Army Commendation Medal; Good Conduct Medal (Awarded 3 times); National Defense Service Medal; Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Vietnam Service Medal; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device; Driver and Mechanic Badge, Sharpshooter Badge, and Marksman Badge.

After retiring from the United States Army, he worked at Massey Ford in Hagerstown, Md, as a service director for 11 years.

Then he and his brother-in-law, Herbert Johnson, opened Herb’s Auto Mart in Berkeley Springs, W.Va. For over 30 years they had a successful used car business and repair shop.

Ira enjoyed golfing, hunting, working in the yard, the outdoors, listening/dancing to music, traveling, and was an avid WVU football fan. For over 40 years, Ira officiated high school football and basketball for the Eastern Panhandle Basketball and Football Associations.

He is survived by his loving wife Therese of 70 years, his beloved daughter Tanya (Scott Butts), and his beloved granddaughter Lydia Butts. He is survived by his siblings; Carolyn Michael, Barbara Johnson, Diane (Susi) Barker (Ronnie), and George Fox, Jr. Many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, mother and brother, Vernon Kuykendall.

No funeral services will be held at his request.

Memorial Contributions can made to Blue Ridge Care, 333 West Cork Street, #405, Winchester, VA 22601 or the Morgan County Humane Society, 5366 Valley Road, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411.

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The 2026 football season kicked off Friday night, August 28, beneath the lights of the Morgan Field, as the Berkeley Springs High School Indians welcomed the Keyser Golden Tornado for their season opener. Despite several early highlights and explosive plays through the air, the Indians fell to a talented Keyser squad, 54-12, in the first game of the regular season.

Berkeley Springs showed flashes of promise offensively, particularly in the passing game.…

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