MARTIN GAUGHAN
Martin Gaughan
Martin James Gaughan, 82, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2026, with his family at his side. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA, to Robert and Catherine Gaughan. He received his bachelor’s degree from West Liberty State College and master’s and law degrees from Duquesne University. He practiced law for 20 years until he was appointed Judge of the First Judicial Circuit in 1995 by Governor Gaston Caperton. During his 20 years on the bench, he presided over criminal and civil cases in Hancock, Brooke, and Ohio Counties. Judge Gaughan was recognized as a trailblazer within the West Virginia judicial system. He played a significant role in developing the Community Corrections Act of 2001, and implemented West Virginia’s first Mental Health Court, Adult Drug Court, and the specialized Re-Entry Court. He was also actively involved in the formation of the Child Protection Act of 2006. In addition, he was instrumental in obtaining funding for Day Reports Centers in the Northern Panhandle and throughout the state.
He earned the respect of colleagues, attorneys, and those who entered his courtroom for his thoughtful administration of justice and his sincere concern for the lives affected by the legal system.
His Catholic faith was a central part of his life. He was a faithful parishioner of Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church in Weirton.
Though his accomplishments were many, his greatest pride was his family.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 58 years, Ginny; his son, Kevin; his former daughter-in-law, Rebecca; his twin daughters, Amy and Beth; his grandchildren, Katie, Carter, and Evan Gaughan; his brother, Robert E. Gaughan, Jr.; his sisters, Susan Gaughan and Patricia (Tom) Russell; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Kathy Sweeney and Mary Gaughan, and his sister-in-law, Mary Lou Gaughan.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 PM on Friday, May 29, 2026, at St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, 229 California Ave, Weirton, WV 26062.
Rev. Fr. Dennis R. Schuelkens, Jr. will preside.
Entombment will follow at Saint Paul’s Cemetery in Weirton.
Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, Weirton Madonna High School, or to A Child’s Place, CASA. Share tributes at www.grecohertnick. com