James D. McElhaney Sr.

James David McElhaney, Sr., 94, of Blaine Township, went to be with his Lord Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with his wife, Roberta, and daughter, Elisabeth, by his side.

Jim was born on January 5, 1932, on Greenside Avenue in Canonsburg, the son of Harry Bert McElhaney and Carrie Bell Ayres.

A 1950 Trinity High School graduate, Jim enlisted in the Navy after graduation. After basic training, he served with the Naval Air, Air Transport Squadron during the Korean War. Jim was a Flight Crew Member in charge of the passenger section of the aircraft transporting personnel and supplies from the Naval Air Station in Norfolk, VA, to Cuba. He was discharged on August 27, 1954, with a National Defense Good Conduct Medal.

Grandpap's work history included Acme Super Market, Cleveland Grafite Bronze, Fox Drilling, and a home TV repair shop. He was a Teamster for 30 years. At Suwak Trucking, he was the afternoon dock foreman before driving a tractor-trailer. He also drove for Best Refrigerated, CCC, and CRST before retiring from Blue Diamond. Grandpap also worked part-time for Light of Life Ministries and Serenity Village.

Jim and Roberta Grace Hughes were united in marriage by Brother Louis Fleming on September 12, 1970, at the Dutch Fork Christian Church. They enjoyed a loving relationship for 55½ years.

Having always believed you could make a difference, Jim organized the Buffalo Creek Conservation Committee in 1971 to protect the Blaine Township area. Later, he served for a long period as a Blaine Township Supervisor and as an Auditor. He was also a Democratic Committee Man.

Jim worked with and served as President of the Brush Run Restoration Association, sponsor of the Brush Run Revival. He conducted extensive research into the history of the Brush Run Church, providing documents that are now housed in the Bethany College Historical Department.

With his wife and daughter, Jim attended The School of Ministry at Milligan College for many years. He served as Secretary and as a Dean in 1996 and 2003.

The Colliers Christian Church, Colliers, WV, ordained Jim into the Christian Ministry on April 17, 1988, and he served as their minister for 20 years. Jim was later a member of the First Christian Church of West Alexander.

Preceding him in death were his parents; a daughter, Sherry; siblings Imogene (Jim) Fitzgerald, Leona (Raymond) Graham, and Harry, Jr. (Gayle); and a granddaughter, Christie, who died in infancy.

Jim is survived by his wife, Roberta; daughter Elisabeth (Travis) Perry; sons James Jr., Sam, and Larry (Candie); and daughter Linda. His grandchildren, Eli ("that pretty girl" Alaina) Taylor, Jeremy Taylor, and Lydia Grace Perry always brought a smile to his face. He is also survived by numerous other grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. Pap also enjoyed the company of several "chosen" grandchildren who helped celebrate holidays and Super Bowls in his home.

Jim would want you to remember, "Jesus is the Light of the World."

Special thanks to Sandy, Essie, and Brandi of Heartland Hospital for the amazing care they provided, and to the staff of the Greenery for their excellent care.

Friends and family will be received on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 219 Main Street, Claysville, PA 15323. (724) 663-7373 www.youngfhinc.com. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, officiated by Brother Bruce Graff at the funeral home.