Rev. Howard Mander Hager, 96, of Prenter, WV, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on September 9, 2026. Heaven welcomed him home with open arms. He was a hardworking, spiritual filled, mountain of a man. His strong faith and beautiful soul will carry on through his family for years to come.

He was a retired operator from Big Mountain Coal and a proud member of the UMWA. He was a long-time member and pastor of Whitten’s Baptist Church. From woodworking, machining metal, long evening drives looking for wildlife or picking berries, his life was filled with love for everyone and everything.

He was a loving husband, father, brother, popaw, great-popaw, and great-great-popaw.

Howard was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Betty Francis Lovejoy Hager, and their baby, James Thomas Hager; parents, Albert and Tiny Hager; brothers Gum, Elmer, and Coon Hager; sisters Doushel Hager, Dolly Smith, and Lena Plumley Smith; and son-in-law, Narvel King Sr.

He is survived by his brother, Doug (Shirley) Hager. The legacy he leaves behind is his children: Barb and John Cantrell Jr., Connie King, Ann and John Buffington, Kelly and Missy Hager, Howardy Dean and Ashley Hager; and his grandchildren: Johnny Cantrell, Tiffany (Brian) Gard, Eddie Cantrell, Narvel (Angela) King Jr., Kevin (Angela) King, Shana (Robby) Runion, Danielle (Charlie) Green, Jonathon (Faith) Buffington, Nick (Katlyn) Hager, Jillian Hager, Kendall Hager, Caleb Hager, Zachary (Lindsey) Stephens, and Hailey Stephens. Howard also leaves behind 22 great-grandchildren and 18 great-great grandchildren; and his lifelong friends, Beacher and Judy Adkins.

He will truly be missed by a family and a host of friends.

Services for Rev. Howard Hager will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 14, 2026 at Handley Funeral Home in Danville, WV, with service officiated by Eddie Johnson. Burial to follow in Drawdy Cemetery in Drawdy, WV.

Visitation will be held Sunday evening, from 6:00-8:00 p.m., at the funeral home.