BURLINGTON, W.Va. — Edward Wright Weaver, 78, of Burlington, died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009 at the Winchester Medical Center, Winchester, Va.

Born on Dec. 22, 1930 at Headsville, W.Va., he was a son of the late George A. and Mary C. (Hickle) Weaver. He also was preceded in death by a sister, Marian Jones.

Mr. Weaver was a self employed paint and auto body mechanic having owned and operated Weaver's Garage in Burlington for over 40 years. He was a 1949 graduate of Keyser High School and was a life member of the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department, holding the distinction of being the last surviving member of the original Burlington Fire Department. He was a 57-year member of the Antique Automobile Club of America and was a founding member of the Upper Potomac Vintage Auto Club. Mr. Weaver was highly regarded as the "unofficial" historian of Burlington, and he was very proud of the many photographs and historical items that he collected and shared with the community of Burlington.

Surviving are his wife of 51 years, Catherine (Jones) Weaver; his children, George W. Weaver and wife Katie of Romney, W.Va. and Janie Roberts and husband Darren of Burlington; one sister, Ruth Weaver of Burlington; and six grandchildren, Robert, Amanda and Chris Weaver and Dylan, Michael and Chase Roberts.

Friends may call at the Smith Funeral Home, Burlington Chapel, on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be conducted at the Smith Funeral Home, Burlington Chapel, on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009 at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Preston J. Miller officiating.

Interment will be in the Headsville Cemetery, Headsville.

Condolences and personal reflections to the family may be left after Mr. Weaver's obituary at www.smithfuneralhomes.net.