FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Richard L. Pannell Sr., a former Fayette County magistrate and longtime Oak Hill resident, died Thursday, November 12, 2026, at CAMC Medical Center in Oak Hill. He was 81.
Pannell was born August 15, 1945, to the late Harry and Letha Burford Pannell. He graduated from Collins High School in 1963 and later served as a magistrate in Fayette County.
In addition to his public service, Pannell was active in his church, serving as a deacon at Fellowship Memorial Baptist Church in Oak Hill.
Outside of his professional and church responsibilities, Pannell enjoyed watching West Virginia University football and spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Donna Morton Pannell; daughter, Terri Murphy, and her husband, John; son, Richard Pannell Jr., and his wife, Holly; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Pannell was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, five sisters and an infant sister.
According to his obituary, Pannell’s body was donated to WVU Medicine.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at 2 p.m. at Fellowship Memorial Baptist Church in Oak Hill, with Pastor Roger Harding officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Paws for Promise Rescue, located at 745 Glade Creek Road in Danese.
Tyree Funeral Home in Oak Hill is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be submitted at www.tyreefuneralhome.com.
