John Wade Wyatt

John Wade Wyatt walked down his dirt road for the last journey home on March 10, 2026, after fighting a heroic battle for two weeks at Raleigh General Hospital. He was born on June 26, 1947, to the late Russell Haywood and Josie Thelma Kenney Wyatt on Loops Road in Fayette County. His soul departed, but our loss is Heaven's gain.

John's music played by his bedside, touching people's hearts and promoting new converts by his strength during the three days before his death. His legacy will be remembered by his faith in miracles happening and his touching of countless lives.

He was a champion for communities and churches. John inspired the lost to find Christ through prison ministry and outreach. His love of music was literally an implement to lead people to God. There was not an instrument that John didn't enjoy playing. He previously served on Rainelle town council and was an active member of the Greenbrier County Republican Executive Committee. There is no way to list every organization or person John helped.

John was a United States Army Veteran serving during the Vietnam Era. He was also a member of the American Legion. He retired from C&O Railroad. His life was devoted to serving those who needed him in any way he could. John pastored several churches and filled in for many pastors when necessary. He traveled doing missionary work spreading God's word. Some will remember his music shop in Rainelle where he sold his recorded music, stories and various musical instruments and accessories.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his younger brother Fred Owen Wyatt.

Those left to cherish John's love for music and memories are countless. He is survived by his oldest brother Gary Gene Wyatt (Vickie), younger brother Russell Alan Wyatt (Mary), and sister Emma Lou Fox; nephews Jim Wyatt, Johnathan Fox, Justin Wyatt; niece Katherine Wyatt Brownsberger; and a whole slew of great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Thanks to everyone who cared for, sang to, visited him, prayed for or just kept John and our family in your thoughts; your love and support mean everything to our family.

Rest in peace our brother, uncle, cousin, friend, pastor, and the "Storyteller of our beloved Appalachia." We love and will miss you, until we meet again.

The family will receive neighbors, friends, and associates on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Smathers Funeral Chapel, Rainelle.

Funeral Services will be on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 1:00pm at Smathers Funeral Chapel, Rainelle with Pastor Randy Burdette officiating. Interment will follow at Sims Cemetery on Loops Road.

The directors and staff of Alderson Funeral Services and Smathers Funeral Chapel are honored to have been entrusted to care for our dear friend and his family during their great time of need.

Online condolences may be made at www.smathersfuneralchapelinc.com