Harrison County Resident who Owned Restaurants, Other Businesses, Kenneth "Carl" Gaskins, Passes
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on September 10, 2026
Kenneth “Carl” Gaskins, 76, of Shinnston, passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at United Hospital Center.
Born on November 14, 1949, in West Union, West Virginia, Carl was the son of the late Basil “Carl” Gaskins and Violet Mae Lasure Gaskins.
Carl graduated from Doddridge County High School. He was a hardworking man who spent his entire life as a business owner, owning and operating several restaurants, bars, and a convenience store throughout the years. His strong work ethic and determination were an 
important part of who he was, but he also knew how to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
important part of who he was, but he also knew how to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Carl loved being outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, and enjoyed collecting guns, riding four-wheelers, taking his Harley out for a ride, and spending time boating. Some of his happiest moments were spent surrounded by the people he loved at family get-togethers. He especially treasured shooting pool with his sister, Lil, creating memories and sharing plenty of laughs along the way.
Above all, he valued family, friendship, hard work, and a life well lived. The stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will be lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Carl was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Ann Prahst Gaskins; his children, Chris Gaskins, Jason Gaskins (Jennifer), Traci Vires (Otis) all of Akron; several cherished grandchildren, Brianna, Bethany, Bladon (Kayla), Alyssa, Austin, Hanna, Ricky and Russell and great-grandson, Bladon Jr; his siblings, Lynda Kinney, West Union, Lillian Travis, Salem, James Gaskins and wife Lorraine, Good Hope, Jesse Gaskins, Salem; several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Carl was preceded in death by his sister, Virginia Zirkle and husband Bob; brothers-in-law, Richard Kinney, Steve Travis, Lawrence “Rick” Jenkins.
Family will receive friends at Davis Funeral Home - Salem, 1999 W. Main Street, Salem, on Thursday, September 10, 2026 from 12 Noon until the time of the Funeral Service at 3:00 PM with Pastor Mike Allen officiating. Interment will follow at Gaskins Cemetery.
During this time of sorrow, the family asks friends and loved ones to share online condolences at DavisFuneralHomeSalemWV.com.
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