William “Ghi Ghi” Carrere, 92, of McConnell, WV, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 4, 2025, leaving from his earthly residence, surrounded by family. 

He was born October 20, 1932, at Dehue, WV, a son of the late Guiseppe and Marianna Molina Carrere. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Mac Christopher Carrere and William Kimberly “KC” Carrere; and siblings, Earnest, Charlie, Josephine, Katherine, Lena, Maggie, and Virginia.

Known for his unwavering dedication to service, both in his professional life and personal endeavors, Ghi Ghi, as he was affectionately known, left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of those he touched. His career was characterized by his role as the Director of Maintenance at Southern West Virginia Community & Technical College, where his leadership and expertise were instrumental in the institution's growth and success. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own a construction company, through which he contributed to the development of the local infrastructure. His work at a coal prep plant laid the foundation for his robust knowledge of the industry and his commitment to the region's economic vitality. 

Beyond his professional achievements, Ghi Ghi was deeply involved in his community. He served as the Region II Development leader for PRIDE. His passion for service extended to his faith as a Deacon of the First Baptist Church of Logan, where he and his loving wife, Dorthy, were married on August 14, 1953, and he was also a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of McConnell. His spiritual leadership and devotion were sources of comfort and guidance for many. Ghi Ghi’s commitment to community service was further evident in his membership with The Gideon’s International and his tenure on the Board of Directors of the Salvation Army. As a former member of the Lions Club, he worked tirelessly to support the organization's vision and goals. His leadership skills shone brightly as he guided Boy Scout Troop 17 in Dehue for many years, shaping the lives of young men with his wisdom and example.

In the realm of labor, Ghi Ghi's voice was influential and respected. He served as Union Secretary at U.M.W.A. Local 17 and was a proud member of the U.M.W.C., advocating for the rights and well-being of workers in his community. His zest for life extended to the athletic field, where he played softball for many years with the Amherst Coal Fastpitch team. His strong athletic capability was recognized when he became a WV Fastpitch champion in 1959, a testament to his competitive spirit and teamwork. His dedication to his country was exemplified by his service in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1953 to 1955. Ghi Ghi's patriotism and sense of duty were hallmarks of his character, and his time in the reserves was a period of growth and pride. 

Ghi Ghi’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and compassion. He will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will live on through the countless lives he enriched with his generosity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 72 years, Dorthy McCormick Carrere; one son, Earnest “Earnie” Carrere; one daughter-in-law, Melissa "Missy" Carrere; grandchildren, Ryan, Kasey, Joey, Kelly, Kalyn, Jonah, Jonathan, and Preston; great-grandchildren, Courtland, Joe, Isabella, Braxton, Guilana, Alessandra, Graysen, Trent, Nicalus, Sophia, Laurel, Adiranna, Olivia, Rowan, and Kyli Molina; great-great-grandchildren, Taytum and Blakely; and one sister, Aileen (Adalgisa) Sauscerman, age 98. Additionally, Ghi Ghi leaves behind many nieces and nephews along with countless other family members and friends. 

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Logan with Rev. Michael Hatfield officiating. 

Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery at Pecks Mill, WV. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Friday, May 9, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Logan. 

in lieu of flowers, donations are requested in honor of William “Ghi Ghi” Carrere to The Gideon’s International at www.gideons.org

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