Loretta Jean Pancoast

Loretta “Jean” Pancoast, age 88, a resident of Philippi and formerly of Erie, Pennsylvania, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Jean was born on October 12, 1938, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a daughter of the late James John and Edna Loretta (Wilbraham) Hurley. In October of 1956, she was united in marriage to Edward Holmes Pancoast Sr., who preceded her in death in 2015.

Jean was a woman of deep faith whose love for the Lord was the foundation of her life. She attended the Southern Baptist Church and found great comfort and joy in reading her Bible, spending time in morning devotions. Her faith was not simply something she practiced, but something she lived each day. Above all, her greatest wish for all her family to know Jesus and see her in heaven

An avid reader, Jean had a remarkable love for books and could often finish an entire book in a single evening. She also enjoyed journaling and was known for her attention to detail, carefully recording thoughts, memories, and the moments that mattered most. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, especially sitting by the window and watching the birds outside.

While Jean enjoyed many things throughout her life, nothing brought her greater joy than her family. She dearly loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. During the last several months of her life, she had the blessing of residing with her granddaughter, sharing precious time and creating memories that will forever be treasured. Her unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and love for her family will remain a lasting legacy to all who knew her.

Jean is survived by her four children, Sheila Hyde and husband Jason, Edward Holmes Pancoast Jr. and wife Liane, James Pancoast, and Leonard Pancoast and wife Stacy; grandchildren, Jessica and husband Jeremy, Valerie and husband Jeremy, Stephanie and husband Lenson, Naomi “Liz,” Danielle “Dani,” James, Dedria and husband Alex, Elsie, and Ethyn; great-grandchildren, Mitchell, Sean, Emma, Jason, Westley, Jackson, Hadley, and Benjamin; along with several nieces and nephews.

Jean’s family will welcome friends at the Wright Funeral Home and on-site Crematory 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi, on Wednesday October 21, from 5:00 -6:00 pm.  A reflection of Loretta’s life will be held at 6:00 pm with Pastor Jim Strawderman officiating.