Obituary of Wanda Elaine Roth

Wanda Elaine Roth, of Morgantown, peacefully passed away on, May 3, 2017, at home. She was born on April 22, 1928 on a farm in Eglon, WV, and was the daughter of the late John and Freda Root. She was married to Robert Roth for 73 years and worked a significant part of her adult life as a hairdresser, owning a beauty salon for many years that was located in the Suburban Lanes Plaza before moving the parlor into her house.

Wanda lived a full and fascinating life. Small in size, but large in personality, she was endearingly unique. She was fiercely religious, strong in faith and active in her church throughout life. She never missed a minute to try and save a soul. She was strongly devoted to family, helping raise and care for seven grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. Wanda especially enjoyed the family reunions, gatherings, and holidays that would bring the entire family together. She especially loved her husband Bob’s black walnut cake.

Wanda was an amazing guitar player, prolific songwriter, and a world-champion in the lost art of yodeling. She had written well over a hundred country and western and gospel songs. She was fortunate enough to have traveled to Nashville in her early adult life to record two records under the guidance of country legend Chet Atkins. She had the pleasure to share the stage with country music giants, Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, George Jones, and a young Dolly Parton (before the wigs, sequins, and spandex). She recently produced a CD of her greatest hits entitled “Rebellion, Redemption, and Revelation” that was selected by Tamarack for display of great works of West Virginia music and art.

Wanda is survived by two children: Diana Antonini (husband Jim) and Jeannine Branch (husband Dallas). She is also survived by seven grandchildren: James Antonini (wife Jenny), Jeff Antonini, Chris Antonini (wife Patty), Mark Downs (wife Lisa), Michael Downs (Emma), Jamie Downs and Candice Sell; eleven great-grandchildren; as well as one brother, Charles Root (wife Kitty).

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, and a son, Larry Roth, as well as her sister Gladys Radabaugh.

Immediate family will be received at a private viewing at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce Street, Morgantown, WV followed with a burial at East Oak Grove Cemetery.

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