Claud Raymond Coberly, 92, of Glenville, passed away on June 9, 2016, in the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, WV. He was born in Gilmer County on December 29, 1923, a son of the late Bernard R. Coberly and Clara Carson Coberly.
Claud was a veteran of World War II, serving in France, Germany, and Belgium. He was attached to a heavy weapons platoon as a platoon runner near Saint Lo, France, and fought with the platoon from Saint Lo to Nancy, through the Saar River Valley, and into the Belgian Bulge. While wading through a 32” snowfall at night to contact one of the division’s companies, he was overcome by a German patrol. With only a carbine rifle he worked his way out of danger through the dense forest. He then saw several German tanks and notified his company. This resulted in an end to a phase of the European war. On January 5, 1945, he was severely wounded in the Battle of the Bulge, and spent nine months in the Ft. Sam Houston Army hospital. For his brave and dedicated service, Claud was awarded a Purple Heart.
Claud, a master electrician and plumber, was founder and owner of Coberly’s Electric & Plumbing Service. He was an honest and well-respected businessman, and made many life-long friends. He operated the business for forty years until retiring in 1985. Claud was also an expert in home remodeling.
He was a great outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, and gardening. He was a life member of the DAV, VFW, American Legion, and NRA. He was a Methodist, and served as president of the Pisgah Church Cemetery Board for many years.
His wife of nearly 70 years, Gladys Stalnaker Coberly, preceded him in death on January 26, 2016. He is survived by daughter, Kay Yohey, of Clarksburg, grandsons Matthew Yohey (Stephanie) and Kevin Yohey (Catrina) of Virginia, and one sister Wilma James of Glenville. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ray Coberly.
Claud’s wishes for cremation were honored. A graveside service in the Pisgah Methodist Church Cemetery will be held at a later date.
Tributes in Claud’s memory may be made to the Pisgah Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 34, Glenville, WV 26351.
Ellyson Mortuary Inc. is honored to assist the family of Claud Coberly with arrangements.
