Phillip Todd Carnell

Phillip Todd Carnell, 63, of Keyser, WV, passed away peacefully at the WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, WV, on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Todd was born in Keyser, WV, on October 20, 1962, to Philip Lorin and Mary Agnes (Hanlin) Carnell of New Creek. He was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Thomas and Irene Okel.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Linda (Okel) Carnell; his cherished daughter, Clarissa Katherine Kimble and husband Tristan Scott Kimble of Keyser; his adored granddaughter, Eloise Katherine Kimble and another grandchild "on the way." He also leaves behind his brother, Corey Allen Carnell and wife Lora of New Creek, and their daughters, Emily and Cristin Carnell. Additionally, he is survived by his sisters-in-law, Ladean Rodak and husband Michael of Benwood, WV and Leslie Rodak and husband Patrick of Valley Grove, WV; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Todd was also the proud companion to his faithful canine friend ,"Clover."

Todd was a 1980 graduate of Keyser High School and a 1982 graduate of Potomac State College. He furthered his education by earning a BS degree in Forest Resource Management from West Virginia University in 1984. For the following 41 years, he served his community as a Mineral County Service Forester at the West Virginia Division of Forestry. Todd was a registered professional forester and a dedicated member of the WV Forestry Association.

Known affectionately as "the man with the big garden," Todd was an avid gardener, hunter, and fisherman. He was a member of the Mountaintop Hunting Club and was well known for his passion for the great outdoors. Todd was considered an "old soul," a man who reveled in one-on-one conversations and recounting tales from the past. A voracious reader and a wealth of knowledge, he was always willing to share his expertise or advice when asked. Though a man of few words, when Todd spoke, people listened. He constantly worked behind the scenes for the good of his community.

Friends will be received at the Smith Funeral Home, Keyser Chapel, on Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m.

A funeral service will be conducted at the Smith Funeral Home, Keyser Chapel, on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Lori Evans officiating. The family will also receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be in the Queen's Point Cemetery, Keyser.

Condolences may be left at smithfuneralhomes.net.