Barbara Ann Kercheval, 83, passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2021, in Fort Myers, Fla., after a short illness. Born on Oct. 6, 1937, in Richwood, Barbara was the daughter of the late Patria Annette Kercheval and Dr. Phra Kercheval.
She spent her early years in Kingwood, graduating from Kingwood High School, Class of 1955, as salutatorian. She was a drum majorette, a member of the school band and excelled in playing the marimba. At West Virginia University, she received a B.S. in health and physical education. Following graduation, Barbara taught school in Bound Brook, N.J.
Upon receiving her master’s degree in physical education at West Virginia University, Barbara traveled to Miami where she served on the faculty at the North Campus of Miami Dade Community College. For over 30 years she was a member of the Department of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Services, where she taught health and first aid courses and coached the fencing team. She was a sorority advisor, served on the Faculty Senate and acted as an academic advisor to countless students. Her professional activities included state, regional and national memberships in health, physical education, recreation and dance as well as Delta Psi Kappa.
After a successful career as an expert in the health field, Barbara moved to Fort Myers, Fla., where she enjoyed her retirement years. She loved to travel, have fun and dance. In fact, one of her colleagues remarked that Barbara was the best dancer he had ever danced with. She had the biggest heart and a generous spirit.
Survivors include her brother, Phra Kercheval Jr., of Kingwood; niece, Rhonda Kercheval Wade (Larry), of Ashland, Miss.; nephews, Ken (Karen) Kercheval, of Meridian, Miss., and Brad (Tonya) Kercheval, of Olive Branch, Miss.; godson, Kendrick Meek, of Miami; several great-nieces and nephews, her cat Paris and her long time, beloved, loyal friend, Kathy (Sauer) Moran, of Fort Myers, Fla.; as well as countless colleagues and friends.
Cremation and other arrangements are under the direction of Rotruck-Lobb Kingwood Chapel and Rotruck-Lobb Crematory. Private burial was held at Maplewood Cemetery in Kingwood.
You may send condolences to Phra Kercheval Jr., 224 East High St., Kingwood, WV 26537 or the funeral home’s website. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Preston County Humane Society, P.O. Box 395, Kingwood, WV 26537, in Barbara’s name.
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