Alvin Dwight Marchant

In Loving Memory of Alvin Dwight “Poppie” Marchant

March 4, 1952 – July 26, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alvin Dwight “Poppie” Marchant, on July 26, 2025. Poppie was surrounded by his two loving daughters when he peacefully left this world after a courageous battle with cancer. Throughout his journey, he never lost his radiant smile, his signature two thumbs up, or his unwavering faith in the Lord.

Born and raised in Bluefield, West Virginia, Alvin spent his entire life in the community he loved. He was a proud and dedicated conductor for Norfolk and Southern Railroad until his retirement, cherishing the camaraderie and friendships he built along the tracks. In his later years, Alvin found fulfillment serving as a Southern Conservation District Supervisor, where he enjoyed working with a wonderful group of people who shared his passion for the land and community. He valued the friendships and experiences he gained during this time.

Alvin’s greatest joy was his family. He was a fiercely protective and caring father, always there with loving guidance, a listening ear, and a warm embrace. He was over the moon about his grandsons, Andrew “Scooter” and Alex, and adored his great-granddaughter, Charlotte “Lottie”. Alvin treasured every moment spent with his daughters and grandchildren, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

One of Alvin’s most remarkable gifts was his ability to uplift, encourage, and inspire those around him, leaving everyone he loved feeling valued, hopeful, and deeply cherished. He found happiness in simple pleasures—fishing with his brothers, lending a helping hand with repairs at Willowbrook Baptist Church, and visiting with his sisters. Alvin’s kindness, humor, and generosity touched everyone who knew him.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, Wanda Ratcliff Marchant and Dave Marchant, and his brother Calvin Marchant. He is survived by his daughters, Danielle Miller of Bluefield, WV, and Alese Holzmeyer (Nathanial) of Patoka, Indiana; his grandsons, Andrew Miller and Alex Miller of Bluefield, WV; and his great-granddaughter, Charlotte Miller. He is also survived by his brothers, Emory Marchant (Cathy) of Lerona, WV, and Elvin Leland “Chip” Marchant (Mary Dillow) of Bluefield, WV; his sisters, Virginia Hampton, and Dana Farley (Jimmy) of Princeton, WV; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Alvin also leaves behind his dear lifelong friends, James “Jimmy” and Jane Painter of Bluefield, WV.

Alvin’s legacy is one of love, faith, and strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM at The Cravens-Shires Funeral Home Chapel in Bluewell, WV. His brother, Pastor Emory Marchant, will be officiating.

Visitation services will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell, WV.

To honor Alvin’s love for Willowbrook Baptist Church, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Willowbrook Baptist Church, 118 Willowbrook Road Princeton, West Virginia 24739, in Alvin’s memory.

Cravens-Shires Funeral Home is serving the Marchant family.