Mary Jane (Gum) Staats

Mary Jane Gum Staats, 95, of Weirton, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Serra Manor. Born on February 17, 1930, in the family’s cherished log house on Robert’s Fork in Doddridge County. Mary entered this world surrounded by the deep roots and quiet beauty that would shape her long and meaningful life. She was the beloved daughter of the late Henry Brooks and Charlotte Rosalia Cole Gum.

On July 5, 1949, Mary married Orville Samuel Staats, in Weirton. Their time together was far too short, as Orville preceded her in death in 1966, yet Mary carried his memory tenderly throughout the decades that followed.

Mary’s faith guided her every day. As a devoted member of Memorial Baptist Church, she spent many years teaching the women’s Sunday School class, offering not just lessons, but comfort, wisdom, and a gentle example of Christian grace. With hands that were always busy and a heart always full, Mary poured love into every stitch of her sewing and embroidery. Her quilts—meticulous, colorful, and made with deep affection—became treasured gifts that wrapped her family in warmth long after they were finished.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children: her daughter, Janet Buchman (Robert) of Bowling Green, OH, and her son, Orville “Ed” Staats (Betty) of West Milford. She was blessed with nine grandchildren—Randy Staats (Stephanie), Russell Staats, Steve Staats, Bert Buchman (Haley), and her cherished granddaughters Shelby, Sophie, and Sydney Staats, along with Evelyn and Norah Buchman—each of whom brought her immense joy. Mary is also survived by her sister-in-law, Mary Ann Gum, along with several nieces and nephews who adored her.

Mary now reunites in Heaven with her beloved parents, her husband Orville, her sisters Pauline Maxwell Hall and Eleanor Ruth Nicholson (Dale), and her brothers Brooks Jay (Edwina), John, and Joseph (Sandee) Gum.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Serra Manor for the compassion, dignity, and kindness they showed Mary throughout her final years.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Davis Funeral Home – West Union, 212 Front Street, West Union, WV, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the start of the funeral service at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bob Marino officiating. She will be laid to rest at Lough (Loft) Cemetery.

Davis Funeral Home – West Union is honored to serve the Staats family.

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