ALLEN CLYBURN

Born October 20, 1949, in Rich Creek, Virginia, to the Reverend Billy J. Clyburn and Hazel E. Clyburn (Parker), who would, ultimately, raise him in Moundsville, Marshall County, West Virginia; Allen became a fixture to the Ohio Valley community, being a friend, father-figure, businessman, entrepreneur, and silent benefactor to those who may find themselves in need of a hero in that moment.

On October 5, 1968, Allen married his wife of over 56 years, Mary Ellen (McPeek), which bore him three (3) adoring children: Melissa “Missi,” (Jason) Ross; Tracey (Scott) Grow; and Brent (Danielle Watt) Clyburn; which, in turn, bore him many grandchildren who will miss him terribly: Joshua Grow, Maddie (Dylan) Hall, Alex Grow, Kenzie Ross, Jason Ross, Jr., Griffin Kritz, and Brent II — referred to by nickname, “Brock.”

In and around 1974, Allen chose to stop-short his career as a mine foreman for Consol Coal Company; and, instead, pursue private enterprise, joining his father’s excavation business, while adding additional services in the form of waste management. As the latter wing of the corporation gained traction, many would come to recognize the distinguishing mark on his trucks — the skunk holding its nose.

Determined to keep his business afloat, a work ethic to beat the band, and a determination to never repeat the poverty he experienced as a child, Allen would find additional employment as an over-the-road truck driver; both, for himself, independently; as well as with the United Parcel Service (“UPS”).

Living family members, not mentioned above, Allen has a sister, Bonnie Bell, and his Aunt Gypsy Clyburn and cousin, Ronnie Parker.

Meanwhile, Allen is predeceased by his parents, the Reverend Billy and Hazel; a sister, Brenda Hill; a brother-in-law, Richard (Bonnie Bell); and his grandson, Michael A. Grow.

Allen loved life. And, those who knew him, you loved life while you were in his company. And, this goes well beyond the fact that he never let anyone pick up the check.

Al Clyburn was, likely, one of the most generous human beings that ever walked this Earth. Just ask anyone having the good fortune to know him, especially in times of crisis.

Allen was such a fan and major contributor to Ohio Valley high school sports; particularly, football and basketball. Wheeling Central, Cameron, and Shadyside were just some of his favorite schools to root for.

NASCAR was, also, a favorite, which sent him up and down the east coast to “experience the race,” as it were. And, he did.

Warmer climates during the winters became sought-after destinations; but it was his pool and super-charged man-cave/pool-house during the summers. The latter is a sight to behold, for sure.

Unfortunately, for those of us he’s left behind, we must now figure out our own fixes, repairs, and updates to life’s varied problems. If he didn’t have a tool, he had a guy.

It goes without saying, Allen loved his family with his whole heart. And, while he may have had a gruff facade, his love was pure and enduring. We shall all miss that glow.

Family will receive friends on Friday, November 29th from 12-4pm and 6-8pm and on Saturday, November 30th from 11am until the time of the Funeral Service at 12noon at Grisell’s Funeral Home & Crematory, 400 Jefferson Avenue, Moundville, WV with Jim Oliver officiating.

Interment will follow at Halcyon Hills Memorial Gardens, Sherrard, WV.

Sympathy expressions at grisellfuneralhomes.com.