Bernie Clark Belcher

Bernie Clark Belcher, 86, of Westover, West Virginia, passed away early Saturday morning on October 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a life devoted to hard work, family, and the simple joys of the outdoors.
Born May 29, 1939, in Gilbert, West Virginia, Bernie was the son of James Wesley Belcher and Myrtle Cook Belcher, and the biological son of Pauline Cook. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Peggy Belcher Ellis, and her husband Eugene Ellis, and their son, Nicky Jerome Ellis.
On April 26, 1958, Bernie married the love of his life, Janet Lee (Stanley) Belcher, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and steadfast partnership. Together, they built a life rooted in family, faith, and the values of integrity and kindness.
Bernie is survived by his wife, Janet, and their three children: • Veronica Leigh Stanley (Robert Stanley) and grandchildren Jason Robert Stanley (wife Kellen) and his children Lucas and Kezia, and Leah Nicole (husband Chris) Holbrook and their daughter Adaline; • David Clark Belcher (Annette [Burns] Belcher) and grandchildren Brandon Clark and Colby David; • James Wesley Belcher (Michele [Lue Chen] Belcher) and grandchildren Aiden James, Aubrey Michele, and Kristen Elizabeth.
Bernie and Janet made their home in Morgantown in 1959 after living in St. Augustine, Florida. He worked as a mechanic for Consol Coal Company from 1959 until his retirement in 1998, where he was respected for his skill, dedication, and work ethic. An avid outdoorsman, Bernie found his greatest peace in nature. He especially loved hunting and trout fishing, and when he wasn't outdoors, he could often be found enjoying time with family or watching his favorite western movies. He also cherished the family's annual trips to St. Augustine, where many of his happiest memories were made.
Bernie will be remembered for his quiet strength, his deep love for his family, and his steady, dependable spirit. He had a gift for sharing stories that painted the past in vivid color, for offering heartfelt hugs and gentle, reassuring words during difficult times, and for lighting every room with his contagious smile.
A private family viewing will be held immediately and interment will be held at a later date in St. Augustine, Florida. Bernie's life will be forever engraved in the hearts and minds of those who loved him. He is deeply missed and profoundly loved.
Smith Funeral & Cremation Care of Westover (304-292-9494) is providing compassionate professional services to the family, and condolences may be offered at www.smithfcc.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bernie, please visit our floral store.