Herbert Henry Jennings of Kearneysville, West Virginia, rose from early railroad and express jobs to become an industrial executive and assistant to Raymond J. Funkhouser. The biography traces his work in mill operations, chair manufacturing, and road-stone plants, along with his marriage to Louise Linthicum, their four children, and his return to the family homestead in Middleway.
Caskie Norvell II of Summit Point, West Virginia, and Gore, Virginia, was a radio announcer, Navy officer, public relations director, editor, and freelance writer. Born in New Orleans in 1912, he studied at Davidson and the University of Virginia, served in World War II, later worked for Funkhouser Industries, and married Elizabeth Jeanne Williams.
Charles Frederick Reininger, born in Charles Town in 1902, rose from shipping clerk to president and general manager of the Powhatan Brass and Iron Works in Ranson, West Virginia. A civic and political leader, he was active in Republican and industrial organizations. The biography also traces his marriages, children, and family connections in Jefferson County.
Raymond Joseph Funkhouser of Ranson, West Virginia, was an industrialist, publisher, philanthropist, and political activist whose business empire helped revive the Shenandoah Valley. Born in Cherry Run in 1893, he built and controlled numerous corporations, restored historic Washington family homes, founded charitable efforts through the R. J. Funkhouser Foundation, and married three times, fathering five children.
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.