A well-known name in Wirt County sports has died at the age of 86. Jerald Ronald Vlach passed away January 3, 2025, at the WVU Medical Center Camden Clark, Parkersburg, WV. Born in Summit County, Ohio, to the late Joseph James and Katherine Rogers Vlach, Jerald moved to Wirt County at a young age and was raised by his grandparents, the late, Roy and Laura Rogers on Windy Ridge. In addition to his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Shannon Vlach Fasogbon.

A 1956 graduate of Wirt County High School, he played football and had many sporting achievements during his time as a Tiger to include playing in the north-south football game. Following graduation, he joined the United States Navy, where he served on the USS Randolph during several Mediterranean cruises. After being honorably discharged, he continued his involvement in Wirt County sports as he was instrumental in establishing Pee Wee and Pop Warner football for the younger athletes. His involvement in youth and high school sports didn't stop there; he helped coach football at Wirt County Middle School, Parkersburg South High School, little league baseball and high school girls' softball. Jerald lived his life on his own terms and definitely lived life to the fullest. There aren't many, if any, people who met or knew him that didn't have a story to tell. He dedicated most of his adult life to coaching and mentoring young people leaving a profound impact on many of their lives. In between his working with the youth and sports, Jerald was a boiler maker and ran his own excavation business. And he loved music and playing the spoons.

Jerald is survived by his companion of 21 years Melissa Smith; his children Kim (Larry) Wolfe, Linda Vlach, Ronnie Vlach and Robert Smith; grandchildren Kris (Jodi) Villers, Ashley Villers, Dustin Wolfe, Derick (Sandipa) Wolfe, Jordan (Courtney) Vlach and grandson of the heart Dillon Goodnight; great grandchildren Kendyll Villers, Brantley Herrington, Zani (Wyatt) Sargent, Zakoda Villers, Dawson Wolfe, Cole Cheuvront, Tyler Cheuvront, Zavion Fasogbon, Kiaunna Fasogbon, Quincy Fasogbon and Kyron Fasogbon and great great grandchildren Danny Cheuvront and Zion Sargent.

Visitation will be held at Matheny Whited Funeral Home, Elizabeth, WV, Wednesday, January 8, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm and Thursday, January 9 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 pm, officiated by Tammy Burton. Matheny Whited Funeral Home was honored to assist the Vlach family with arrangements.