Obituaries

Donald J. Kniceley, 84, of Bridgeport passed away on November 4, 2026, from an extended battle with dementia. Even though a failing mind and body took him from this world, he leaves behind a legacy of love of family, friends, and his dedication to his lifelong profession, education.

Don was born in South Charleston, WV, on May 21,1942, son of Delbert and Sara Moss Kniceley. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Carole D. Kniceley, and their sons and daughters, Heather Cortellesi and her husband Brian; Shawn Kniceley and his wife Jules, Shannon Kniceley, Amy Suzanne Linder, and daughter in law Barbara Linder.

He was a very proud “Pappy” to ten grandchildren; Hunter and Isabella Cortellesi, Lance Kniceley, Daniel and Ruby Kniceley, Liam and Maddie Eakle, and Aspen, Nate and Grant Linder. Don had two great grandchildren; Elizabeth and Autumn Kniceley.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Gregory Linder, and his brother, Rev. William G. Kniceley, whose wife, Ruth Ann, survives.

Don was a graduate of Bridgeport High School, class of 1960. He received a bachelor’s degree from Salem College in year 1965, and a master’s degree in Secondary Education in 1973.

In his thirty-two-year tenure with Harrison County Schools, he served as teacher/counselor at Washington Irving High School, Assistant Principal at Shinnston Grade and Junior High School, Assistant Principal at South Harrison High School, and County Administrative Assistant for Adolescent Education.

One of his proudest achievements was to help establish the Academic Achievement Awards Banquet for outstanding high school students and assist with the Frank Loria Awards Dinner. He was the recipient of the FBI Directors Award in 1997.
Don enjoyed hunting and fishing with his dear friend, Dale Taylor. He also searched for Indian artifacts and acquired an extensive collection which he donated to the West Virginia Cultural Arts Center for exhibition and educational purposes. He studied Civil War history and researched family genealogy.

The family thanks Sisters Elder Care owners and staff for their exceptional care and compassion for Don, and their concern and warm hospitality for his family.

Don was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he held various offices over the years.

Family and friends may call to Amos Carvelli Funeral Home, 201 Edison Street Nutter, WV on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. where funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. with Dr. Ken Ramsey officiating. Burial will follow at Trinity United Methodist Church in Brushy Fork, WV.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Trinity C.E.O.S. Scholarship Fund.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at www.amoscarvelli.com A service of Amos Carvelli Funeral Home.