Joel Wilburn Birchfield

Joel Wilburn Birchfield, age 78, of Lester, WV went home to be with the Lord; passed away at Bower's Hospice House Saturday, August 15th, surrounded by family and friends.

He was the son of the late Victor and Ethel Keaton Birchfield.

Joel was a proud veteran of United States Army. He served in the Vietnam Conflict. Received two Bronze stars.Joel was a graduate of Glenville State, with a degree in Forestry.

He worked in the coal mines. Joel was in the first graduating class for correctional officers in Raleigh County. Joel also graduated from Raleigh County Vo-tech LPN class Retired from Beckley VA Medical Center. Joel was a member of First Church of God in Lester.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Karen Comstock Birchfield; three sons, Victor II (Michelle), Jarrod (Kristi), and Steven.

Joel is also survived by brothers Dale (Reta) and Dennis (Vicki), SIL Jacqueline Weyandt. He was the proud grandfather of two precious girls, Alanna and Kendall. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Joel was devoted to his family and church. He was a kind and compassionate person. He loved to go on hunting and fishing trips. He enjoyed time and conversation with family and friends.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Rahim and his staff for compassionate care. Thanks to CAMC nursing staff 6th floor, they were our true angels on earth. Many thanks to the staff at Bower's Hospice House. "Go rest high on that mountain, your work here is finished. We will see you again." 

Services will be 12:00 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Lester First Church of God with Pastor Dale Birchfield officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park. Friends may visit with the family from 10 a.m. until service time.