Famous People of West Virginia
The state of West Virginia is known for its lush, tree-covered Appalachian Mountains. The town of Harper’s Ferry, where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers intersect, is the site of a historic Civil War raid. Aside from these wonderful facts about WV, it is also home to many famous people. Some of them you may already know, while others may surprise you. Let’s discover these interesting and inspiring personalities:
Here’s a blog-style rewrite that brings warmth, storytelling, and flow to the original biography:
🎶 Remembering Bill Withers: The Soul Behind the Sunshine
Few voices in American music have resonated as deeply and enduringly as that of Bill Withers. Born William Harrison Withers Jr. on July 4, 1938, in the coal-mining town of Slab Fork, West Virginia, Withers would go on to become one of the most beloved soul and R&B artists of his generation. His songs—raw, heartfelt, and timeless—continue to echo through generations.
🌟 A Legacy of Soul
Withers’ musical journey spanned just 18 years, but in that time, he gifted the world with a string of unforgettable hits. From the haunting melancholy of “Ain’t No Sunshine” and the tender tribute of “Grandma’s Hands” to the empowering anthem “Lean on Me” and the breezy optimism of “Lovely Day,” his catalog is a masterclass in emotional honesty. Collaborating with jazz saxophonist Grover Washington Jr., Withers also co-created the smooth classic “Just the Two of Us.”
His artistry earned him three Grammy Awards out of nine nominations, and in 2009, his life and music were celebrated in the documentary Still Bill. Honors followed: induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (2005), the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2015), and most recently, the National Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame in 2025. Two of his most iconic tracks—“Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lean on Me”—have also been enshrined in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
🌄 Humble Beginnings
Withers’ early life was shaped by hardship and resilience. The youngest of six children, he was raised in Beckley, West Virginia, after his parents divorced when he was just three. His mother worked as a maid, and his father was a miner. As a child, Withers struggled with a stutter and often felt like an outsider. Yet these formative experiences would later infuse his music with a rare depth and authenticity.
In 2025, Beckley honored its hometown hero with a commemorative statue—a lasting tribute to the man whose voice helped millions feel seen, heard, and understood.
Bill Withers may have stepped away from the spotlight decades ago, but his music remains a beacon of comfort, compassion, and connection. His legacy reminds us that sometimes, the simplest songs carry the most profound truths.
Jennifer Garner
The actress says she wouldn’t trade growing up in West Virginia for anything. “I feel so fortunate to have grown up in a place where people look out for each other,” she says. “Community is the one thing people crave most, and it’s hard to come by. I grew up with such an excess of it that now wherever I go, the first thing I do is build my group.” Jen lights up talking about her home state, where her mom and younger sister, Susannah, still live. She visits often to see family and work with the nonprofit Save the Children. “I’m happy to be anywhere in the state,” Jen says. Among her favorite local treasures are the Vandalia Gathering, where “bluegrass plays from under every tree”; artisan Barbara Lantz, an accomplished quilter who made blankets for each of Jennifer’s children when they were born; and the New River Gorge class V rapids. “There is nothing better,” she says. From Southern Living
Kathy Mattea
Kathy Mattea is a popular bluegrass and country artist. She’s famous for the song “Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses”. Aside from her music, she’s also a prolific environmental and animal activist.
Jamie Noble
Mr. Jamie Noble has retired from his career as a WWE wrestler. Still, he is fondly remembered as The Authority’s security team: J&J security. Currently, he now works as a producer for WWE.
Joyce DeWitt
Veteran actress Joyce DeWitt is popular for portraying the role of Janet Wood in the sitcom Three’s Company. The well-loved sitcom aired from 1977 to 1984.
Deron Williams
Mr. Deron Williams is a pro basketball player and is part of the Dallas Mavericks team.
Jerry West
The basketball legend Jerry West was born in Chelyan, WV. He became the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers for 3 years after retiring from his basketball career.
Conchata Ferrell
Conchata Ferrell is a famous American actress. Many people know her as Berta the Housekeeper in the TV series Two and a Half Men. Conchata has two Prime Time Emmy nominations under her belt.
Don Knotts
Mr. Don Knotts, who played the well-known role of Deputy Barney Fife on the Andy Griffith Show, is a native of Morgantown, WV. The actor-comedian is considered one of the most loved actors of his time.
Brad Paisley
Country crooner Brad Paisley is a proud Mountaineer. Paisley is often spotted attending WVU games and also performs during half-time.
Heath Slater
Mr. Heath Slater works as a professional wrestler for the prestigious WWE. He is also a member of the Social Outcasts that also includes Bo Dallas, Axel Hennig, and Adam Rose.
Steve Harvey
Mr. Harvey currently hosts the ever-popular game show Family Feud. Aside from being a TV host, he is also an author and a comedian.
Steve Harvey is a comedian, television host, and author. He is the current host of the game show Family Feud.
Michael W. Smith
Micheal W. Smith is a popular singer in the contemporary Christian music scene. Mr. Smith has won an American Music Award and three Grammys.
Nick Saban
Mr. Nick Saban is one of the most famous coaches in college football. He coached the Miami Dolphins for two amazing seasons. Nick was born in Fairmont, West Virginia.
Randy Moss
Randy Moss is a former NFL player. He has played for various teams during his fourteen-year career. Randy has played for the New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, Tennessee Titans, and Oakland Raiders.
West Virginia is not only known for scenic places such as the New River or The Greenbrier luxury resort; it’s also home to the most talented and influential people you’ll ever know.
Related Pages:
Famous People from Morgantown, West Virginia
Things to do around West Virginia
Our Awards and Certifications
