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James Floyd Poling, 94, a resident of Philippi, passed away Friday, March 6, 2026, at his residence surrounded by his family.
James was born March 7, 1931, in Tucker County, son of the late Chester and Nora (Auvil) Poling.
James was united in marriage on May 10, 1999, to Carolyn Sue Shaffer, who survives at home.
James was a graduate of Kasson High School.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and was stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany.
James was a teacher and principal, having taught for over 35 years in Ohio at the Frontier Local School in Washington County, Ohio, and also taught Philip Barbour High School.
James was active in 4-H and was elected to represent West Virginia in Chicago.
James enjoyed fishing, camping and was an avid WVU fan.
He was a member of the Lion's Club, Kiwanis Club and Belington VFW.
James was a Methodist by Faith, in earlier years he was a member of Sand Hill United Methodist Church in Ohio and currently attended the Central Chapel Church.
Surviving is his wife, Carolyn Sue Poling; children, Douglas Poling of Manassas, Virginia, and Lois Poling of Locust Grove, Virginia; grandchildren, Jordan and Emilie Poling; sibling, Faye Haddix and husband, Burl, Joann Bolyard and late husband, Linwood, and Patty Bolyard and husband, Donald; sister-in-law Martha Alice Poling; several nieces and nephews.
James was preceded in death by his first wife, Patty Ruth (Reynolds) Poling; siblings, Pauline Price and husband, Bill, Rose Marsh and husband, Arthur, Esta Howdershelt and husband, Vernon, Leota O'Neal and husband, Harry, and Kenneth Poling.
The family received friends at Wright Funeral Home and on-site Crematory, 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi, on Sunday, March 8.
On Monday, March 9, James will be moved to the Central Chapel Church to lie in state from noon to 1 p.m.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m.
Interment will follow in the Central Chapel Cemetery, with military honors being accorded by the U.S. Army and American Legion Post 96.