The family of Norman Harry McCracken of Duck, WV announces his passing, and invites all who knew him to remember him here.
Below, the simplest tribute: the truth of a life as it was lived.
Parenthood is the slow work of love. Norman did it well.
Norman Harry McCracken, 80, of Duck, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on May 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Norman was one of fifteen children born to Preston and Dorothy McCracken, and from an early age learned the value of hard work, family, and perseverance. He carried those qualities with him throughout his life. A dedicated and hardworking man, Norman spent his years as a farmer, logger, and construction worker. Whether working the land, in the woods, or building with his hands, he took great pride in providing for his family and living a life of purpose.
Norman was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose steady presence and quiet strength were a blessing to all who knew him. He shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Blanch Gail McCracken, a partnership built on love, loyalty, and unwavering commitment.
He was preceded in death by his son, Lance Norman McCracken, as well as his siblings: Margaret Ann Moore, Donley Lee McCracken, James Martin McCracken, Sherman Curtis McCracken, Russell Byrne McCracken, Betty Jean Robinson, Mary Lou Green, Mark Steven McCracken, Hazel Mae Adkins, and Arnold Wayne McCracken.
Norman is survived by his siblings: Murray Clifton McCracken, Arthur Blaine McCracken, Thomas Preston McCracken, and Susan Estel McCracken.
Norman is survived by his loving children: Cindy Gail Watkins (Dwayne) of Chloe, West Virginia; Benjamin McCracken (fiancé Melissa Reynolds) of Proctorville, Ohio; and Billie Jean Holman (Robert) of Jane Lew, West Virginia. He was a proud and cherished grandfather to Jeremy Watkins, Nathan Watkins, Katlyn Brewer (Blake), Ashley D'Andrea (Anthony), Benjamin McCracken (Tiffany), Ethan Adams, Joycelin Holman, Austin Holman, Elijah Holman, and Ava Holman. Norman also leaves behind his treasured great-grandchildren: Addison Watkins, Gannon Burdette, Lilith McCracken, Adalynn Brewer, Elizabeth Brewer, and Lilyana Brewer, each of whom brought him great joy.
A proud veteran, Norman served honorably in the United States Army for three years, including service during the Vietnam War. His bravery and sacrifice were recognized with the Purple Heart, a testament to his courage and dedication to his country.
Norman will be remembered for his love of family, his quiet resilience, and the legacy of strength and kindness he leaves behind. His life was one of service, devotion, and enduring love.
His funeral will be at 1:00 pm Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Roach Funeral Home, 708 Braxton Street, Gassaway, WV, with Pastor Kenneth Tanner officiating.
Burial with military rites will follow in the Old McCracken Family Cemetery, Obrion, WV.
His visitation will be two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.
Arrangements by Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway.
Words of comfort and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.
