With deep love and honor we celebrate the life of Donald Blaine Handley, 91, who peacefully returned home on June 17, 2026, wrapped in the love of his family. Born April 16,1935, in Gypsy, WV, Don lived a full life defined by dedication – serving his country in the US Navy and spending his career not
only as a skilled electrician with the IBEW and UMWA, but also a master of many trades.
Above all, his greatest achievement was the beautiful 68-year marriage he shared with his wife and soulmate, Betsy Rose. Together, they built a beautiful family. He leaves behind his daughters, Carla (Todd) McCay and Monica (Brian) Wright; his sons, Don II (Missy) and Doug Handley; and his former daughter-in-law Sheri Handley. He is also survived by his beloved sister and brother-in-law, Sandy and Gary Mullenax, as well as his brother-in-law, John Roscoe.
He joins his beloved daughter, Renee Lynn Podesta, in eternity. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brothers, Otis, Jr., Monte, sister, Judy Jacobin, and brothers-in-law, Don and Mike Roscoe.
To his 14 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, he was their proud “Poppy”, and his spirit lives on through them and the laughter shared on his back porch. Don loved the simple pleasures of life, a long day of cutting his grass followed by one of the many great meals Betsy made for him over their 68 years; and either a baseball game or boxing on TV. He enjoyed his daily morning walks through his neighborhood. The neighbors also came to know and love him as “Poppy”.
Don was one of the hardest working men you could ever meet. He didn’t know a stranger, and his sense of humor would light up any room. If you had the honor of knowing Don or “Poppy”, you were truly blessed.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate his incredible journey at Perine Funeral Home, 1348 S. Pike St., Shinnston on Saturday, June 27th from 10am until the time of the memorial service at 12pm with Pastor Robert Shingleton officiating. Full military honors will be rendered at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St Judes Children’s Hospital or The Lord’s Pantry at P.O. Box 64, Shinnston, WV 26431. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.perinefunerals.com. The Perine Funeral Home is honored to serve the Handley family.
