FAYETTEVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A longtime pillar of the Fayetteville community is closing its doors.
Dodd-Payne-Hess Funeral Home, which has operated from its historic 1888 building since 1930, announced its closure in a heartfelt message expressing both sadness and thanks.
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“For over a century and generations of change, we have stood as a place of comfort, reflection, and togetherness,” the message read. “We are saddened to close this chapter, but we also feel immense gratitude.”
Over the years, the funeral home has served as a place where families found support and peace during difficult times.
“It has been more than just a workplace; it has been a home for healing, remembrance, and community,” the statement continued.
Brian Gunnoe, who served as funeral director for the past decade, shared his appreciation for the community’s trust and support.
“It has been my honor and privilege to serve as your funeral director,” he wrote. “Though this chapter at Dodd-Payne-Hess is coming to a close, I want you to know that my commitment to serving families remains strong.”
Gunnoe will continue his work in funeral service as the new General Manager of Blue Ridge Funeral Home and Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens in Beckley.
He will be joined by Sierra Neubert, who will complete her funeral director training at Blue Ridge, and Matthew Bradford, who will continue in his role as an attendant.
He also extended thanks to key staff members from Dodd-Payne-Hess, including Rebecca Lacy and especially Dorlina Kincaid, who served the funeral home and community for 25 years.
“Her dedication, compassion, and presence have meant more than words can express,” Gunnoe wrote.
The announcement closed with a message of appreciation to the community: “With heartfelt thanks—for the memories, the moments, and the many lives we’ve been honored to serve. Though the building may now be quiet, the memories and connections created here will always remain.”
