John Henry Proellochs, Sr.

JOHN HENRY PROELLOCHS, SR., 92, of Wellsburg, WV, lovingly known as Pap, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026. Born on August 10, 1933, he was the son of Bill and Gladys Proellochs and lived a long, full life marked by devotion to family, service, and community. Pap was a proud husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle whose steady presence and quiet strength anchored generations. A graduate of Bethany High School, John was drafted into the United States Navy in 1955, where he served his country honorably for two years. His work ethic was unwavering throughout his life. He spent 20 years at Weirton Steel, later served as a county school bus driver, worked 30 years at Highland Springs Golf Course, and also a lifelong farmer -each role reflecting his reliability and strong connection to the community. John shared an extraordinary 70 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Nancy Proellochs. Their life together was a testament to commitment, partnership, and enduring love. An avid bowler, golfer, and card player, Pap found joy in friendly competition and shared laughter. He was a member of the First Christian Church of Wellsburg and a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge, where he proudly served as Past Master of Lodge No.69. Known for staying active and engaged well into his 90s, John embodied resilience, curiosity, and a genuine love of life. He leaves behind a large and loving family and relatives who will carry forward his legacy of loyalty, kindness, humor, and steadfast presence. Pap will be remembered not only for what he did, but for how he showed up. John is survived by his daughters, Jody Proellochs Ray and her husband, Kevin, Patricia Proellochs Griffith and her husband, Wayne, and Beth Proellochs (Klein) and her husband, Rikki Long; his son, John Proellochs, Jr. and Kathy; and his sister, Wanda. He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Gladys Proellochs; sister, Kay (Proellochs) Bowman; son in-law, Alan Klein; and daughter in-law, Stephanie Proellochs. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Lacy Gaston (Adam), ReeAnn Dulaney (Devin), and A.J. Klein (Becca), John Henry Proellochs III (JP), Aidan Antrim (Jessica), and Nat Ray and his great-grandchildren, Raylee Gaston, Wyatt and Charlie Dulaney, and Caroline Klein. Also, he is survived by several extended family members and countless friends who were blessed to know and love him. Pap’s life was long, well-lived, and deeply loved—and his presence will be missed beyond words. Visitation was held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Reasner Funeral Home, Wellsburg. The funeral service will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, at 11 a.m., at the funeral home with Pastor Gary Watt officiating. Interment will follow at Franklin Cemetery with full grave side military rites by the Ohio Valley Veterans Memorial Squad and the Navy Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Semper Fi & America’s Fund.