The Parkersburg, West Virginia community is mourning the loss of Carroll Jett, a longtime sports editor and youth sports advocate who died February 16 at a hospital in Morgantown. Jett, 75, served as sports editor for The Parkersburg News and Sentinel and was widely recognized for his dedication to local athletics across multiple decades. His passing marks the second loss of a former sports editor from the newspaper in less than a month.
According to Ken Davis, a fellow sports writer at the News, Jett was mentored by Brad Kincaid and James Snyder, whom Davis described as “the two greatest sportswriters ever in Parkersburg history.” Jett distinguished himself as the only sportswriter on the staff who had worked under both legendary editors, Davis noted.
Carroll Jett’s Impact on Local Youth Sports
Beyond his journalism career, Jett made significant contributions to youth athletics in the Wood County area through various roles. He served as a coach, official, statistician, and historian for Parkersburg High School football, maintaining his involvement even after retirement. His commitment to documenting local sports history helped preserve decades of athletic achievements in the community.
Mike Hayden, who coached football at both Parkersburg High and Parkersburg South, praised Jett’s expertise and friendship. Additionally, Hayden highlighted Jett’s excellence as a volleyball referee, calling him “one of the better ones we had in this state.” Jett’s officiating skills extended across multiple sports, demonstrating his comprehensive knowledge of athletics.
Chronicler of Parkersburg Sports History
Jim Wharton, a retired sportscaster at WTAP, emphasized the historical importance of Jett’s work alongside fellow editor Dave Poe. “Those guys were the chroniclers of local sports for 30 to 40 years,” Wharton said, underscoring their role in documenting athletic achievements throughout the region. The former sports editor helped create a comprehensive record of local sporting events that spanned generations.
Jett’s passing on February 16 came just two weeks after Poe’s death on February 1, representing a significant loss for the local sports community. However, both men left lasting legacies through their decades of service to Parkersburg area athletics and journalism.
Community Service Beyond the Press Box
The Wood County Recreation Commission highlighted Jett’s extensive volunteer work with their organization on social media. According to the commission, he played a vital role in organizing and running the WCRC volleyball program, dedicating countless hours both behind the scenes and on-site. His efforts ensured young athletes had opportunities to learn, compete, and develop their skills.
Meanwhile, the commission emphasized that Jett’s commitment to recreation was never about seeking recognition. “It was about showing up and doing the work so that others could thrive,” the organization stated on its Facebook page. This selfless approach characterized much of his community involvement throughout his life.
In contrast to many who retire completely from their passions, Jett remained active in local sports long after leaving his position at The Parkersburg News and Sentinel. Davis confirmed that Jett continued his involvement with various athletic programs and maintained his role as a historian for Parkersburg High School football.
Jett is survived by his son and two grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are currently pending at Vaughan Funeral Home in Parkersburg, though specific details have not yet been announced by the family.
