James Harry Farley, Sr., “Baye,” 92, of Chapmanville, WV, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 1, 2023, leaving from his earthly residence.

He was born January 6, 1931, at Shively, WV, a son of the late Nim and Sallie Farley.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Mattsman “Wig” Farley, Ray Farley, and Franklin Farley; daughter-in-law, Tina Farley; son-in-law, Eddie Holstein; his best friend, Warren Herald; and his beloved friend and companion, Connie Vance.

Baye, as he was affectionately known, was a retired coal miner. He spent over 40 years working in the coal industry as an operator. He was a decorated U.S. Army Veteran who bravely served in the Korean War, where he displayed extraordinary courage and resilience, earning him the esteemed Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his valor in combat.

As a devout Christian, Baye was a faithful member of the Chapmanville Church of Christ where he not only attended services but also spread the word of God. He was also a circuit preacher, touching lives and inspiring faith in others until his final days. An avid bowler, Baye was known in local alleys for his impressive skill that led to the remarkable achievement of seven perfect games. Music also played a significant role in his life. He was a talented musician who loved to strum and sing with his bluegrass band, the Big Creek Boys.

Not only was Baye a hero, a man of God, and a musician, but he was also known as the local handyman who could fix anything. He could find a solution to any and every problem, and his friends and family often relied on him for his expertise. He will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish his memory are one son, James Farley, Jr., of Chapmanville, WV; two daughters, Paula (Johnny) Webb of Madison, WV, and Beth (Kevin) Kitchen of Indian Trail, NC; his grandchildren and their families, Jamie (Brad) King and their children, Autumn and Eden, Joshua (Brittany) Farley and their children, Mady and Morgan, Dale Holstein, Rachel (Ricky) Smith and their children, Tyson, Henry, and Waylon, Jacob (Kristin) Kitchen, and Erin (YoonKi) Lee; two special granddaughters, Holly (Jacob) Elliott and Melissa Vance; and his very special friends, Scott and Margaret Vance. Additionally, Baye leaves behind a host of extended family and countless friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at the Evans Funeral Home Chapel at Chapmanville, WV, with John Steele officiating.

Burial will follow in the Farley Cemetery at Browns Run, Chapmanville, WV, where Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by the VFW Post 6153 and American Legion Post 103 of Chapmanville and DAV Post 39 of Harts. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday, December 4, 2023, at Evans Funeral Home at Chapmanville, WV.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Evans Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Chapmanville, WV.