Jefferson County

Biography of Herbert Henry Jennings

History of the Shenandoah Valley

Herbert Henry Jennings, born on August 7, 1887, in Middleway, West Virginia, rose from modest beginnings to become executive assistant to industrialist Raymond J. Funkhouser. After early jobs with the R.F. and P. Railroad and American Express, Jennings took over his family’s mill business in 1913. He later ventured into manufacturing, notably with Funkhouser’s granulated stone plants and chair factories. During World War II, he built a plant producing airplane parts. Jennings, a Republican and Christian, married Louise Linthicum in 1914 and had four children. He resided in his rehabilitated family homestead in Middleway.

Biography of Caskie Norvell, II

History of the Shenandoah Valley

Caskie Norvell II, born October 13, 1912, in New Orleans, Louisiana, had a varied career in radio, public relations, and freelance writing. He graduated from the Virginia Episcopal School and Davidson College, and studied law at the University of Virginia. Norvell served as a U.S. Navy officer during World War II. Post-war, he worked for Breyer Ice Cream and later Funkhouser Industries, and wrote for numerous periodicals. He married Elizabeth Jeanne Williams in 1946 and had a daughter, Laura. His other daughter, Anne, from a previous marriage, died in 1949. His residences were in Summit Point, West Virginia, and Gore, Virginia.

Biography of Raymond Joseph Funkhouser

Raymond Joseph Funkhouser

Raymond Joseph Funkhouser, an influential industrialist, publisher, and philanthropist from Ranson, West Virginia, played a crucial role in the economic development of the Shenandoah Valley. Born in Cherry Run, West Virginia, in 1893, he planned his career meticulously from a young age, culminating in ownership of numerous businesses, including the O’Sullivan Rubber Corporation. Funkhouser’s impact extended beyond business to public service, restoration of historic landmarks, and political activism. His philanthropic efforts are highlighted by the R. J. Funkhouser Foundation, supporting various charitable endeavors. Funkhouser’s personal life included three marriages and five children.