Contributed BEQUEST — Accepting the bequest from the estate of the late Harold E. Vitalie were Jennifer Taylor, Valley Hospice philanthropy director, left; Mike Ramsden; and Deanna Herman, Valley Hospice philanthropy associate.

RAYLAND — The legacy of the late Harold E. Vitalie will live on thanks to his generous contributions to local organizations. A celebration of Vitalie’s life was held May 6 at Perkins in Moundsville, where nearly $1.5 million was bequeathed to four organizations.

Valley Hospice is honored to have received a bequest of $293,531 from Vitalie’s estate.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the generous donation made by Vitalie in honor of the care we provided for his beloved mother, Ruth, many years ago,” said Andrea Hale, Valley Hospice CEO. “His donation is a testament to the quality compassionate care Valley Hospice has provided for nearly 40 years.”

Vitalie, a retired social studies teacher, was a lifelong learner and educator. He transformed countless lives and had an iconic reputation within Marshall County Schools. Like Vitalie, Valley Hospice understands the importance of education and strives to be the community resource for end-of-life care and education.

“It is an honor to receive this transformational gift for Valley Hospice,” said Jennifer Taylor, Valley Hospice philanthropy director. “Vitalie’s generosity will support the mission of Valley Hospice in immeasurable ways well into the future.”

In appreciation of Vitalie’s gift, Valley Hospice will dedicate its two education centers, one at Liza’s Place Care Center South in Wheeling, and the other at their Central Administrative Office in Rayland, to Vitalie and his mother, Ruth Vitalie.

“It is our priority to be the resource and experts in serious illness and end-of-life care for our health care partners and community,” added Hale. “It is our honor to dedicate our education spaces to Vitalie, who dedicated his life to educating others and sharing his passion for learning.”