Rock Camp, West Virginia, September 7, 2025
News Summary
The Rock Camp community is in mourning following the loss of three beloved individuals: Jerry McCracken, a dedicated railway employee; Robert Polskin, a talented handyman and athlete; and Jacqueline Smith, a compassionate healthcare worker. Their contributions to their families and neighborhoods are remembered as impactful, and memorial services are being planned to honor their legacies. Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate their lives and share memories during this difficult time.
Rock Camp, West Virginia – The community is grieving the recent loss of three cherished residents, Jerry McCracken, Robert Polskin, and Jacqueline Smith, who all made significant contributions to their families and neighborhoods throughout their lives.
Jerry McCracken: A Life of Service and Nature
Jerry Glenn McCracken, aged 72, passed away on September 3, 2025. Born on August 30, 1953, in Bristol, Virginia, McCracken dedicated 28 years of his life to the Norfolk Southern Railway before becoming disabled. A resident of Rock Camp, West Virginia, Jerry was known for his love of nature, often enjoying moments observing deer from his yard.
His passing leaves behind a family who deeply adored him, including his wife, Paula Prater, as well as his son Timothy McCracken of Rocky Mount, Virginia, and daughter Wendy Sanchez Ruiz, along with her husband, Tito, from Kernersville, North Carolina. He is also survived by two sisters, several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A service of remembrance is planned for a later date, with arrangements made by Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home in Peterstown, West Virginia.
Robert Polskin: A Man of Many Talents
Robert Nathaniel Polskin, aged 74, passed away on March 5, 2025, in Central New Jersey. Born on May 1, 1950, he was recognized not only for his athletic prowess in swimming and tennis but also for his practical skills. Robert enjoyed a fulfilling life where he remolded kitchens, repaired car engines, and even built an electric guitar during his time at summer camps. He was known for running a house-cleaning service during summers at Casa Kibbutz in Beach Haven, NJ.
He is survived by his daughter, Danielle Wynne, and her three sons, as well as his son Sean Livingston and his partner Lucy Robinson. In honor of his memory, family and friends are encouraged to contribute to the Jewish National Fund’s “Plant a Tree” initiative, a testament to Robert’s love for nature and the environment.
Jacqueline Smith: A Caring Professional
Jacqueline Elaine “Jackie” Dalton Smith, aged 71, passed away on August 29, 2024, after a lifetime of service in the care profession. Born at Travis Air Force Base on December 10, 1952, Jackie spent her formative years in Rock Camp, Ohio, and moved to Harmony, North Carolina, in 1975 after her marriage in 1973.
Jackie’s career included work at Rosewood Rest Home, where she ascended to administrator, and the Eden Gardens Alzheimer’s section. She also worked at the Statesville Dialysis Center and Wake Forest Baptist Hospital’s dialysis unit until her health declined due to Parkinson’s disease and heart issues. Family members believe she has been reunited with her mother in heaven.
Arrangements for Jackie will be announced later, under the direction of Nicholson Funeral Home. Jackie, like her peers, is remembered for her kindness and dedication to her profession and those she cared for.
Community Impact
The passing of Jerry McCracken, Robert Polskin, and Jacqueline Smith has left a significant void in the Rock Camp community and beyond. Each of them was well-loved, and their contributions, whether through work, family, or nature, will not be forgotten. Memorial services for all three individuals will provide an opportunity for friends and family members to gather, share memories, and celebrate their lives.
Background Context
The losses of these three citizens serve as a reminder of the bonds formed within communities and the legacies that individuals create. As friends and families come together to remember their loved ones, it is a time of reflection and gratitude for the moments shared and the impact made on the lives of others.
FAQ
What were the causes of death for Jerry McCracken, Robert Polskin, and Jackie Smith?
The causes of death have not been publicly disclosed for any of the individuals.
When will memorial services take place?
The memorial services for Jerry McCracken will be announced later, and arrangements for Jackie Smith are also pending. Robert Polskin’s contributions may be honored through donations to the Jewish National Fund.
How can the community participate in honoring their memory?
Community members are encouraged to attend memorial services and contribute to charitable efforts in their memory, such as planting trees through the Jewish National Fund.
Key Features Summary
| Name | Age | Date of Passing | Residence | Key Contributions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jerry McCracken | 72 | September 3, 2025 | Rock Camp, WV | Norfolk Southern Railway employee; nature enthusiast |
| Robert Polskin | 74 | March 5, 2025 | Central New Jersey | Athlete; skilled handyman; business owner |
| Jackie Smith | 71 | August 29, 2024 | Harmony, NC | Healthcare worker; administrator |
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Additional Resources
- Tukios Websites
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Restland Funeral Home: Robert Polskin
- Google Search: Robert Polskin obituary
- Nicholson Funerals: Jacqueline Smith
- Google Scholar: Jacqueline Smith obituary
- Tukios Websites
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rock Camp, West Virginia
- Snyder Funeral Homes: Thomas Samuel Knight Jr.
- Google News: Thomas Samuel Knight Jr obituary
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