John Sheely
John Sheely, Jr. John Beckman Sheally Jr., 82, of Narrows, Virginia, passed away peacefully with family by his side on May 7, 2025, at Carilion Giles Community Hospital.
John was born on December 8, 1942, in Bluefield, West Virginia. He was the son of the late J.B. Sheally Sr. and Ida Dietz Sheally. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Glenn Sheally and Dale Sheally, and a special sister-in-law, Ann Sheally.
John proudly served his country in the Army Reserve and the National Guard for 22 years. He was a dedicated employee of Celanese Corporation for 37 years, serving the last 15 years as Supervisor of Jet Manufacturing and Jet Assembly.
He was deeply involved in his community and church, serving as Secretary of the First Baptist Church for over two decades and a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Narrows. He was also a proud and devoted member of the Fraternal Order of Masons. Raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on March 17, 1978, in Intermont Lodge #269, John was a lifetime member and served as both Worshipful Master and Secretary for many years. He was also a member of Giles Lodge #106 and Castle Rock Lodge #334, and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the 41st Masonic District in 1992 and 1993.
John found great joy in spending time outdoors, especially camping at Douthat and Claytor Lake State Parks with friends and family. He was an avid NASCAR fan and loved attending races with close friends, including Jimmy Stowers. More than anything, John loved being a "Papaw"—he never missed a chance to show up for his grandkids and cheer them on in everything they did.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Letha Lakeeta “Skeeter” Sheally of Narrows; daughter Katrina Orey; son WD Sheally; and three grandchildren, Carrie Keatley (Case), Hunter Orey (Courtney), and Kaylan Sheally.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church in Narrows. Pastors Jerry Sawyers and Taylor Hines will officiate. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Narrows. Masonic and Army military honors will be conducted at the graveside, with Masonic members serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends at the Church 2 hours before the service, from 11 - 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made to the Giles Rescue Squad, Pearisburg, VA 24134; or the Memorial Fund at the First United Methodist Church, Narrows, VA 24124.
The family is being served by Givens – Riffe Funeral Service in Narrows, (540) 726-2442, and online at riffefuneralservice.com.
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