Keyser, WV - James Milton Droppleman Sr., 81, of Keyser, W.Va., passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at his residence while under the care of WVU Medicine Hospice.

Born on July 9, 1944, in Elk Garden, W.Va., he was a son of the late William Bernard and Dorothy Virginia (Seaman) Droppleman. He also was preceded in death by two brothers, William Joseph Droppleman and Richard Wayne Droppleman; and a sister, Bonnie Kay Droppleman.

Mr. Droppleman graduated from Elk Garden High School in 1962, after which he proudly served four years in the United States Air Force. Following his basic training and advanced training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, he was stationed in Scotland and England for three years, being honorably discharged in August 1966.

After completing his military service, James worked at the Westvaco Luke Paper Mill for over 38 years. It was a good place to work, and he developed many lasting friendships there.

James was an active member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Kitzmiller, Md., until its closure. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, gardening and the great outdoors. He had a genuine love of helping others. He cherished his family above all else and especially enjoyed large family gatherings.

James is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Patricia Frances (Arthur) Droppleman; two sons, John Michael Droppleman and wife Christine, and James Milton Droppleman Jr. and wife Tammie; one daughter, Kristi Sue Droppleman Cassada and husband Edward; six grandchildren, Kaitlin Droppleman Frye and husband Seth, Sydney Droppleman, Jared Droppleman and wife Kelsey, Brody Droppleman, Riley Droppleman, and Olivia Cassada; four great-grandchildren, Kinslee Droppleman, Cambria Frye, Blakeleigh Droppleman, Luka Droppleman; and a great-grandson "on the way." He also leaves behind many other family members and friends who will greatly miss him.

Friends will be received at the Smith Funeral Home, Keyser Chapel, on Sunday, July 5, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m.

A funeral service will be conducted at the Smith Funeral Home, Keyser Chapel, on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 11 a.m., with Father Thomas Sebastian officiating.

Interment will be in the Kalbaugh Cemetery, Elk Garden, W.Va. Graveside military honors will be accorded.

The family wishes to thank Potomac Valley Hospital and Ruby Memorial Hospital of WVU Medicine personnel for their wonderful care, and a very special thank you to those at WVU Potomac Valley Hospice.