William "Lou" Lewis Dirden, A Magnificent Soul

William “Lou” Lewis Dirden, 74 of Fairmont transitioned this earthly life on Friday, July 5, 2019 after a valiant and unflinching battle with cancer. William or “Lou” as he was affectionately known by all was born in Fairfield, Alabama on May 5, 1945. He was the third child born to Alphonso and Annie Rebecca Dirden of Fairmont, WV. Lou was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and loyal friend, who dedicated many years of his life to helping others. As a very young man Lou learned to work hard and to take on whatever job or task he was asked to do. After graduating from West Fairmont Senior High School in 1964, Lou joined the United States Airforce and served as an Airman. He served with honor earned several decorations and medals including National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Ribbon recognizing his expertise in Small Arms Marksmanship. Upon his return to private life in 1968, Lou joined Monongahela Power Company (now known as Alleghany or Mon-Power) as a Lineman and served with excellence in this role for over 30 years. Lou attempted to retire from Mon-Power three times; however, he was such an expert in his field that they retained him as both a Consultant to, and Instructor for its electrical lineman training program. Whether it was hunting, fishing or riding his custom Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Lou LIVED for these things, as they inspired, nurtured and gave him the most satisfying experiences of his life. Camping with his nephews and sons was a passion, as was watching and playing with his extended family of “babies” who affectionately refer to him as “Papa or Uncle Lou.” He loved children, loved spending time with family and was always up for having a good time. Lou was a member of the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, having served as a Trustee and member of numerous committees, including the Kitchen Committee. He was known for his culinary and cookery skills. Lou was also a founding member of the Magnificent Souls Motorcycle Club and a general member of the VFW Post 7048 and the National Rifle Association (NRA). Proud and honored to be the patriarch of the Dirden family, Lou always took care of his sisters and his children and did the best he could to teach and guide them. Lou is preceded in death by his parents Alphonso and Annie Rebecca Dirden, and sisters, Julia Frances Dirden Boone and Carolyn Yvonne Blackman Horton. He is survived by his sisters, Patricia Elise Blackman Smith (Gurtis), Jamele Antoinette Dirden Finney (Willie) and brother-in-law Frank Horton, his son Bruce Alon Dirden (Julia Miller), daughter Crystal Gail Barton (Ben) and grand-children Avalon, Teagan, Abigail and Benjamin. Lou was a good friend to all, a man who would give you the shirt off his back if that’s what you needed. He is fondly loved and remembered by a multitude of nieces, nephews, extended family and many good friends. Family will receive friends at Davis Funeral Home, 124 Olen Thomas Dr., Clarksburg, on Tuesday, July 16, 2019 from 2-8PM. Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, July 17, 2019 at 10:00AM at Mt Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Fairmont with Rev Dr. Mark A Staples presiding.  Lou will lie in repose one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Grandview Memorial Gardens where full military honors will be accorded by the Marion County Honor Guard and the US Air Force.  Online condolences may be sent to DavisFuneralHomeWV.com.  Davis Funeral Home is honored to serve the Dirden family.

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