William Ray “Bill” Vanscoy, 93, of Morgantown, passed away Thursday evening, January 9, 2025, in his home, surrounded by his family and under the care of West Virginia University Hospice. He was born September 23, 1931, in Elkins, a son of the late Ray Vanscoy and Eleanor Bosley Vanscoy.
On February 4, 1956, he married Betty Jean Newlon, who survives. They were together as a married couple for 68 years.
Also surviving are their children: Kathy Rae Smith and husband Mark of Fort Walton Beach, Fla.; Ted Vanscoy and wife Brenda of Montrose; M. Suann Gaydos and husband Mark of Morgantown; and W. Wesley Vanscoy and girlfriend Michelle Gilchrist of Morgantown; three brothers: Ed Vanscoy of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Julian Vanscoy and wife Jane of Tallmadge, Ohio; and Ivan Vanscoy and wife Kay of Ravenna, Ohio; grandchildren: Kristen and David Baker; Emilia Smith; Heath and Loryn Vanscoy; Alexis and William Gaydos; Ryan and Jordan Vanscoy; Drake, Austin and Drew Vanscoy. One great-grandson, Hendrix Vanscoy, also survives.
In addition to his parents, preceding Bill in death were one brother, David Vanscoy; and his aunt, Mary Catherine Scott.
Bill was a graduate of Elkins High School and a Korean War veteran serving in the United States Navy from 1951-1955.
He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Davis and Elkins College. He attained a Professional Engineer Certificate and retired from the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the Department of Environmental Protection.
He was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church of Morgantown and the First Baptist Church of Elkins.
Bill had a knack for growing plants and was an avid fan of the West Virginia University Mountaineers and Pittsburgh Steelers. During his last days, Chick-fil-a strawberry milkshakes brought a smile.
Bill’s request for cremation will be honored.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 412 Randolph Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241, in memory of Bill.
The Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for William Ray “Bill” Vanscoy.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com
