George Ray VanMatre, 83, of Mason, WV, passed away January 17, 2026, at Pleasant Valley Healthcare Center, Point Pleasant, WV, following an extended illness.

He was born October 19, 1942, in Mason, WV, a son of the late, Howard Pete and June Theresa (Tucker) VanMatre. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Alice (Byus) VanMatre; daughter, Debra VanMatre.

He was a graduate of Wahama High School and a United States Air Force veteran. He was a former employee of Foote Mineral and a member of the United Steelworkers Union and retired from A.E.P. with 25 plus years of service and was a member of the United Mine Workers Association. After his retirement from AEP, he worked for many years for Auto Options in Mason, WV. He was a 61-year member of the Mason Volunteer Fire Department and a founding member of the Mason County Ambulance Service. He was a member of the Mason United Methodist Church and enjoyed hunting, fishing, his golf cart and especially his service with the fire department.

Survivors include his son Kevin Wayne VanMatre and Stephanie Roush of New Haven, WV; daughters, Melinda Sue (Brian) Decker of West Columbia, WV and April Lynn Parsons of Middleport, OH; sisters, Carolyn (Ross) Roush of Mason, WV and Joan (George) Hoffman of Middleport, OH; 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank three very special people for all their help and care, Lisa Stewart, Anita Turner and Jo Ann Taylor.

Service will be 1 p.m. ~ Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Foglesong-Casto Funeral Home, Mason, WV. Burial will follow in Graham Baptist Church Cemetery New Haven, WV with military and fireman rites provided. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the funeral home.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.foglesongfuneralhome.com