Joel Morgan King, 81, affectionately known as Fudge, of Ripley, passed away Jan. 10, 2013, at Hubbard Hospice House in Charleston.
He was a loving husband to his wife of 62 years, Phyllis. He was born on Sept. 1, 1931, in Fayetteville, to the late Ralph King and Vernia Marshall King.
Fudge was raised in Fayetteville, and was a graduate of Fayetteville High School. He resided in Ripley for 56 years, and was employed at Kaiser Aluminum for 37 years. He was also a member of the United Steel Workers of America. Fudge was happiest spending time with his family and cheering on the Mountaineers.
In addition to his wife, Phyllis, he was is survived by his children that he loved and devoted his life to, Michael King of Bedford, Ohio, Timothy King and his wife, Kathie, of Ripley, Mark King and his wife, Kris, of Burkburnett, Texas, and Angela Birthisel and her husband, Jamie, of Hockley, Texas; grandchildren, Joey and Erin Hunter of Teays Valley, Adam, Casey, Brooks and Cooper King of Bridgeport, Drew and Lindsey Birthisel of Cypress, Texas, Chase Birthisel of San Marcos, Texas, Trevor King and Allyn King of Ripley and Emily King of Burkburnett, Texas; his sister, Betty Gollihugh of Anderson, S.C.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Benji.
Fudge was preceded in death by his siblings, Wilbur, Maynard, Thomas, Maurice and Linda King; as well as his previously mentioned parents.
The family asks that donations be made to Bradley Family Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 129, 252 Ferrell Drive, Peytona, WV 25154.
Memorial service will be 2 p.m. today at First Baptist Church in Ravenswood, with the Rev. Mark Gerstell officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place at a later date at the Bradley Family Cemetery, Peytona.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com
Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, Charleston, has been entrusted with the arrangements.
