Donald Ray Messer
1942—2026

Donald Ray Messer, 83, of Kermit, West Virginia, died Sept. 1, 2026, at his home.

Born Nov. 4, 1942, he was the son of the late Freelin and Mary Evans Messer.

Donald was a retired surface mine worker.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Freida Messer, grandson Steven Ray Messer and several siblings.

Survivors include his daughters Susie (Ray Jr.) Messer, Debbie (Lincoln) Bragg, Virginia (Ron Blizzard) Muncy and Marylyn Renee Fannin; five grandchildren, Heather Denise (William Joel) Brewer, Samuel (Jessica Lynn) Salmons Jr., Crit (Brandy) Muncy, Grady (Sydney) Fannin and Veronica Ann Fannin; 12 great-grandchildren; and several extended family members and friends.

Funeral services were held Friday, Sept. 4, 2026, at the Old Jennies Creek United Baptist Church with Glen Messer, Ken Allen and Jerry Newsome officiating. Interment was at the Messer Family Cemetery in Kermit.