Gregory Allen Elkins

Gregory Allen Elkins, cherished husband, father, and esteemed member of the Lincoln County community, passed away on March 17, 2024, at the age of 61. He was born on May 12, 1962 in Huntington, West Virginia.

Greg will be missed by his loving family, including his wife Joanna; his daughter, Jessica Balestra and her husband, Brad; and his daughter, Rachel Elkins and her boyfriend, Zach Johnston. He also recently welcomed a grandson, Caden Balestra. He is preceded in death by his mother and father Barbara and Carl Elkins.

Greg's educational journey reflected his deep love for his home state. He graduated from Hamlin High School in 1980 and obtained his undergraduate degree from West Virginia University in 1984, where he also completed the athletic training curriculum. His passion for medicine led him to Marshall University School of Medicine, where he graduated in 1988. He continued his medical education at Marshall University, completing his residency in Family Medicine in 1991.

Greg was a beloved figure within the community, known for his tireless commitment to the health and wellness of others. As a physician, he returned to his hometown of Hamlin, WV, serving as the Chief Medical Officer at Southern West Virginia Health System (SWVHS) and playing a pivotal role in shaping the healthcare landscape of our region.  With over thirty years of medical experience, he provided exemplary care to his patients, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

He mentored medical students and residents, guiding them along their educational journeys as assistant professor at the Marshall University School of Medicine. Greg also dedicated himself to the safety and well-being of student athletes, serving as the chair of the National Federation of High School Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. He volunteered his time as team physician for both Hamlin and Lincoln County High School sports teams for many years. He also previously spent a year as team physician for WVU athletics. 

Greg was a devoted WVU fan and cherished spending Saturdays in Morgantown with family and friends as a longtime season ticket holder for both football and basketball. He loved golfing, reading, grilling, and smoking meats, as well as spending time at the beach with his family. Greg had a love for trivia and was an avid fan of Jeopardy. He was a foodie and amateur home chef with an award winning chili recipe, and he loved spending time in the kitchen and sharing his creations with others. He was a member of Hamlin United Methodist Church. 

Visitation for Greg Elkins will be held on Wednesday, March 20th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with the funeral service directly following, at Handley Funeral Home in Hamlin, West Virginia.

In honor of Greg, please wear your most fun Tommy Bahama-inspired tropical outfit or WVU apparel! 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Lincoln County High School Football Program. Donations can be mailed to Lincoln County High School or dropped off at the main office.

Greg's legacy of empathy, service, and dedication to the Lincoln County community will continue to inspire generations to come.