Dennis Gene Shoemaker

Pastor Dennis Gene Shoemaker, 77, of Thomas, passed away on May 21, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his family. Born on November 7, 1946, in Elkins, he was the son of the late Jack Minear and Annabelle (Cussins) Shoemaker.

After graduating from Morgantown High in 1964, Dennis joined the United States Airforce, where he served in the Vietnam War and the 6-day War in Egypt. After his service, he worked as a coal miner at Laurel Run for 27 years and, upon retiring, Dennis and Diana owned and operated Wilderness Sports for 15 years. He was a lay leader for the United Methodist Church and, later, attended the Wesley Theological Seminary and was the pastor for the South Fork United Methodist Charge. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding four-wheelers.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Diana Jean (Howell) Shoemaker; three children, Janet Lynn Lambert of Martinsburg, Holly Ann Sponaugle-Sander and husband David of Elkton, VA, and James Michael Shoemaker and wife Crystal of Thomas; and six grandchildren, Madison Leigh Lambert, Dustin Anthony Sponaugle, Annabella Ivy Shoemaker, Emily Sarah Sponaugle, Addalean Nina Shoemaker, and Michael Cole Shoemaker.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Zachary Edward Lambert.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.

Friends will be received on Friday, May 24, 2024, from 4 to 7 PM at the Hinkle-Fenner Funeral Home, 567 Thomas Avenue, Davis. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 10 AM in the funeral home with Pastor John Callaway officiating. Interment will follow in the Rose Hill Cemetery.

The Hinkle-Fenner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Shoemaker family at this time.