06/09/2026
Our prayers to the family of our Sister Aline Epps
Funeral Service Announcement - Ms. Aline Baskin Epps
Funeral Service will be on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Saint Paul Baptist Temple, 129 F Street. Beckley, WV 25801.
Visitation: 10:30 AM
Service: 12:00 (Noon) PM
Officiated By: Pastor Walter M. Leach
Services Entrusted to Durgan Funeral Home
Aline Baskin Epps was born on January 23, 1930, in Chattanooga, TN to the late Anna Mae (Ford) Smith and Samuel Patton. She entered this world surrounded by love, and throughout her life she gave that same love freely to everyone blessed to know her. Aline spent her early childhood between Chattanooga and Beckley, where she was raised by her mother, Anna Mae, and the man she affectionately called "Daddy," her stepfather, Charlie Smith. Her childhood was filled with support, family, and cherished memories that she would lovingly share with her grandchildren. She graduated from Stratton High School and soon after moved to Columbus, Ohio, where she worked in a local drug store. It was there that she met the late Henry Baskin, who was proudly serving in the United States Air Force. During their marriage, Aline embraced the adventure of military life, traveling and making homes and friends in places ranging from San Antonio to New York and Connecticut. Together, they were blessed with three daughters: Ella, Emogene, and Elizabeth. After their divorce, Aline returned home to West Virginia, where she was surrounded by the unwavering love and support of her mother, lovingly known to her daughters as "Mommy," and her stepfather, as "Granddaddy Charlie." Aline worked hard throughout her life and dedicated herself to many roles over the years, including positions with Raleigh County Head Start, the hospitality industry, and one of her favorite roles as a cook at The Glass House restaurant along the West Virginia Turnpike. She later married Willie Epps in 1974, and although they later divorced, Aline continued to build a life rooted in faith, family, and resilience. Aline was also a proud entrepreneur who spent 15 successful years as an Avon representative, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way. Some of her grandchildren's fondest memories were accompanying her on Avon deliveries during summer visits, riding beside her as she greeted customers and practiced one of her greatest skills, chit-chatting and making small talk, and offering encouraging words. Faith was the foundation of Aline's life. She was a devoted member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, where she joyfully lifted her voice in song with the Gospel Chorus and Choir. She was also active as a member and officer of the New Era District Music Singing Convention, where she especially loved singing Shape Notes. Her love for the Lord was evident not only in her worship but in the wisdom and generosity she shared with others every day. Aline affectionately called "Little Girl" by her family because of her sweet, childlike voice, found joy in life's simple and beautiful moments. She joined a bowling league, and even though she was left-handed, she could roll a mean ball. If you knew her, then you know she loved drawing, singing, reading-especially her Bible-and cooking meals for her family. Aline's specialty was fried apple pies, pancakes, and s***e meat. Her kitchen was a place of love, but you had better stay out of it while she was cooking. She delighted in sharing her many talents with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
To those closest to her, Aline was more than a mother and grandmother-she was the heart of the family. She was the storyteller, the family comedian, the sweet Granny who would make you laugh with a silly face (shared only with kids and grandkids), a phone call multiple times a day, or a treasured memory from her childhood. She never met a stranger and made several friends who eventually became adopted family members during her travels on the Amtrak train. Her sweet little voice is what captured your attention, but it was her huge heart, ready to share the love, that made her adored by all who were blessed to know her. Aline resided for several years in Maryland and Virginia with her oldest daughter, Ella, where she played an integral part in the lives of her granddaughter and her three children. Aline returned home to Beckley, WV, in May of 2023, where she joined St. Paul Baptist Temple. And staying true to her chatty and friendly nature, she enjoyed going to the Senior Center and fellowshipping with others. Aline leaves to cherish her beautiful memory her three devoted daughters: Ella Baskin Agee (J. Edward), Emogene Harris (the late Mark Sr.), and ElizabethWells. She also leaves behind five beloved grandchildren: Erik Harris (Fran), Monique Garrett (Lester), Kathryn Harris, Mark Harris, and Erika Harris; ten cherished great-grandchildren: Sierra Harris, Ronald Lee Blanks II, Erik T. Harris II, Ahsha McPhee (Jason), Semyra Harris, Joshua Bass, Jeremiah Bass, Ļauren Harris, Erin Harris, and Sinighya Harris. She is also survived by her sister, Monique Mitchell; her stepson, Ronald Lee Epps; her former sister-in-law Rosa Epps; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, all of whom were touched by her loving spirit. Though her earthly journey has ended, the love Aline poured into her family and those blessed enough to know her will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of those she left behind Her legacy is one of faith, strength, laughter, and unwavering love. She would always say, "There is none perfect but the Father, and He is in Heaven," and now Aline is with Him. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
