Donald Hager, 88, of Dunbar, WV, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, September 20, 2025 in the Hubbard Hospice House after a long battle with cancer.

He was born on November 1, 1936 in Williamson, WV to his parents, Frank Hager and Dorothy Stinson Hager.  At 17 years of age, he was hired in the sports department at the Charleston Daily Mail Newspaper, where he worked until retiring as Sports Editor in 1995.  On October 23, 2022, he was inducted into the WV Legends Sports Museum by Tex Williams.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Dorothy Hager of Charleston, WV, and his brother and sister-in-law, Larry and Linda Hager of Roanoke, VA.

Surviving relatives include sister, Patricia Sampson (Fred) of Nitro, WV, and the loves of his life, his nieces, Melissa Holestin and Sara Sampson Topping, as well as extended family.

Donald was loved and respected by all who knew him.  His kindness and generosity knew no bounds.  He spent his life helping others, donated to numerous charities and saved countless animals.  He will be dearly missed.

According to Donald's wishes, there are no services scheduled.

In lieu of flowers, he asked that a donation be made to Little Victories Animal Rescue, 1168 Wire Branch Road, Ona WV 25545; Phone: 304-743-5802; Website: https://www.littlevictories.org.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.
www.kellerfuneralhome.net