William "Kelley" Atherton

William "Kelley" Atherton, a man whose spirit resonated through the lives of many, was born on September 5, 1950, in Bellaire, Ohio. He captured the hearts of his family and friends throughout his remarkable journey, sharing his life with the world until his passing on November 28, 2025, at Liza's Place Valley Hospice.

Kelley was a man of diverse talents and interests, a true renaissance soul within a modest exterior. His professional life was rich and varied; he dedicated years working as a salesman in retail, specializing in furniture at Oak & More furniture, and left an enduring mark in the community as a part-time security worker and a retired Walmart associate in Moundsville, where he concluded his career in 2019. His technical prowess was nothing short of extraordinary—he installed over 1,500 big satellite dishes and was affectionately known as "Radar" during his time as a coal miner. Kelley's commitment to service extended into his personal life, where he was a Master Mason since October 19, 1992, as well as a member of the Bridgeport Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #452 since 1993, 12-year member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles (Elm Grove Lodge #1891), He was a faithful blood donor for the American Red Cross. 

A graduate of St. John Central High School in 1969, Kelley was not merely content to be a student; instead, he embodied adventure, often riding his Harley to school—adventures that signified the free spirit that he held within. In a world that often moves too quickly, Kelley was known for his reserved yet kind demeanor, a conservative man whose gentle nature left a profound impact on all who were fortunate to cross his path.

His skills extended beyond sales and installations; he had an innate ability to fix almost anything, from cars to homes, and was adept at restoring old furniture, breathing new life into the forgotten and the dilapidated. His love for life shone brightly in his hobbies; he enjoyed riding his beloved Harley Davidson motorcycles and traveling with his wife Lois, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime. Kelley was never without a canine companion, ensuring that each dog found a loving and welcoming home under his care.

Kelley is survived by his devoted wife Lois Jane (Guyer) Atherton, who shared in countless adventures and stories with him, three sisters, Clare (Gerry) Hobbs, Amy Atherton, and Sally Atherton, a niece, Sara Windom, and a nephew, Jeff Hobbs. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him—the gentle man who could fix anything, find joy in every Harley he wheeled, and grace amidst the vibrant tales he wove with those he cherished.

Though preceded in death by his parents, Charles William and Margaret Eileen (Younger) Atherton, Kelley's legacy continues to flourish in the hearts of those he loved. His proudest accomplishments will forever echo through stories of the numerous Harley's he owned and the multitude of cars that park in his driveway—a testament to a life well-lived.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Kelley's life during visitation from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 5:00 PM on December 14, 2025, at Schuetz Funeral Home, located at 4719 Jacob St., Wheeling, WV. Pastor Bill Burris officiating the funeral. 

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com