Hansel Ray “Hank” Means, 77, of Clarksburg, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, November 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at United Hospital Center.

Born on January 21, 1948, in Fairmont and grew up in the Northview area of Clarksburg. Hank was the son of the late Chester “Chet” Ray and Juanita Lee Shuman Means.

Hank graduated from Victory High School, Class of 1967, and went on to earn his Associate’s Degree from Fairmont State College. He proudly served six years in the Army National Guard, a commitment that reflected his lifelong sense of duty and honor.

He began his career working alongside his father at Cook Motor Lines as a truck driver from 1969 to 1981. Later, Hank found his true calling in banking, where he became affectionately known to so many as “Hank from the bank.” His career spanned over 28 years with Empire Bank, One Valley, and BB&T, where he built countless friendships through his kindness, humor, and genuine care for others. After a brief attempt at retirement, Hank returned to the workforce, sharing his warmth and professionalism at MVB Bank, Davis-Weaver Funeral Home, and Davis Funeral Home.

Faith was the foundation of Hank’s life. A devoted 50-year member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, he served in many capacities—Trustee, Deacon, Treasurer, Sunday School Teacher—and always found joy in cooking and serving meals at church events. His servant’s heart and steadfast faith touched everyone who knew him. He was also previously a member of First Baptist Church of Nutter Fort.

Hank’s love for his community extended beyond the church. He was a longtime volunteer and leader in the North Central WV Soccer Association, serving as a referee, coach, and league director. Generations of young athletes were shaped by his encouragement and leadership.

In his free time, Hank found peace in the simple joys of life— camping at Cedar Creek State Park, hunting with cousins in Wetzel County, caring for his fish and aquarium, and most of all, spending time with his family. His greatest pride and joy was his grandson, Jacob “Jake” Eli Means. There wasn’t a game, or event that Hank would ever miss—he was always there, cheering from the sidelines with love and pride. Hank’s pastime was taking his daily naps with his four-legged companion “Patch” who rarely left his side.

Hank’s life was one of quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love. He touched countless lives through his kindness, integrity, and devotion to family, close friends who were like brothers, and his community. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and service will live on in all who knew him.

Hank is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sharlene “Kay” Gillespie Means, whom he married on August 7, 1970; his two children, Heather Kay Means and companion, Chris Palmer and Richard “Scott” Means and wife Elizabeth, all of Clarksburg; his beloved grandson, Jacob “Jake” Eli Means; one sister, Linda Means Wolfe and husband Jim of Buckhannon; one brother, Michael Dwayne Means of Amarillo, TX; and several nieces, nephews and cousins who adored him.

In keeping with Hank’s wishes, he will be cremated. Family and friends will be received at Davis Funeral Home, 124 Olen Thomas Drive, Clarksburg, WV, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 2:00 PM until the time of his Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM with Pastor Bruce McBride officiating. We will share stories, memories, and laughter as we honor the life of an extraordinary man who gave so much to so many. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of 6 South at UHC for their love and compassion during his transition. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Hank’s memory to Cincinnati Children’s, Comprehensive Care PUV Clinic, PO Box 5202, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5202 or online at https://giving.cincinnatichildrens.org.

Online condolences may be sent to www.DavisFuneralHomeWV.com.

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