Cecil McClanahan

CECIL MCCLANAHAN, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on November 24, 2025, in Abingdon, Virginia. Born on August 14, 1937, to the late Issac McClanahan and Polly Jane Coleman McClanahan in Grundy, Virginia, he lived a life characterized by dedication, hard work, and a deep affection for his family.
Cecil dedicated 25 years of his life to the coal mining industry, working for Tri-Star and Pittston Coal Companies. His commitment to his career was only matched by his passion for life outside of work. He had a love for fishing, spending countless hours enjoying the tranquility of nature and the thrill of reeling in a good catch. Beyond this, Cecil found joy in tinkering with Volkswagens, forging meaningful connections with the owners of these vehicles. However, his greatest pleasure came from the time spent with his beloved wife, Betty, enjoying life's adventures together.
In addition to his parents, Cecil is preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Betty B. McClanahan (passed in February of 2025); sisters, Omie Hutchinson, Georgia Fraley, Pauline Coleman, and Lilly St. Clair; son-in-law, Bill Brown; daughter-in-law, Theresa McClanahan; and brothers-in-law, Ray Blankenship and J.C. Blankenship.
Cecil is survived by his cherished family, including sons, Frank McClanahan (Michelle) and Cecil "Bo" McClanahan Jr. (Lynn); and daughters, Pauline Belcher (Terry), Betty Keen (Dwayne), and Tammy Brown; sisters-in-law, Bonnie Bower (Tommy), Anita Stanley (Larry), and Jacqueline Blankenship. He will also be lovingly remembered by his nine grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. Cecil also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, as well as his loyal fur baby, Samantha.
The visitation for Cecil was held on Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service from 3:00 PM at Farris Funeral Service - Main Street Chapel, located at 427 E Main St, Abingdon, VA 24210 with Minister Ron Musick officiating. A graveside service took place the following day, Monday, December 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Greenhills Memorial Park Mausoleum located at 11800 Governor George C. Peery Hwy., Cedar Bluff, VA 24609. where Frank McClanahan, Cecil "Bo" McClanahan, Jr., Terry Belcher, Justin Wimmer, Brenden Phillips and Dalton Phillips served as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Dr. Bruce Higinbothom, N.P. Sharon Gilbert, nurses Bonnie Finney, Chloe, Jill, Pearl, Amanda, Macella, Molly, Karlie, caregiver Nancy Barrett, Ron and Jean Musick, and his church family at Macedonia Church of Christ.
Cecil McClanahan's legacy of love, hard work, and dedication will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all.