Longtime Weirton Steel Pipefitter James Andrew Elias Dies at 83

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James Andrew Elias, an 83-year-old resident of Follansbee, West Virginia, passed away on February 26, 2026 at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh after a brief illness. Elias was a proud 1960 graduate of Follansbee High School, served in the U.S. Army, and dedicated 30 years of his career as a skilled pipefitter at Weirton Steel, where he was a member of the 25 Year Club. He was a devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Weirton and found joy in simple pleasures like fantasy football, trips to the casino, and tending to his vegetable garden.

Why it matters

Elias' story reflects the experiences of many longtime residents of the Weirton, West Virginia area, where the steel industry and Catholic faith have been central to the community for generations. His dedication to his work, church, and family highlights the values that have sustained the region through economic ups and downs.

The details

Elias was born on April 27, 1942 in Southview, Pennsylvania to Andrew M. Elias and Julia Ann (Lazorik) Elias. After graduating from Follansbee High School, he attended Steubenville Business College and then served in the U.S. Army as a Tank Crewman. Elias spent 30 years working as a skilled pipefitter at Weirton Steel, where he was a proud member of the 25 Year Club. He was a devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Weirton, serving as an usher for many years.

• Elias was born on April 27, 1942.
• He graduated from Follansbee High School in 1960.
• Elias served in the U.S. Army after college.
• He worked at Weirton Steel for 30 years, becoming a member of the 25 Year Club.
• Elias passed away on February 26, 2026 at the age of 83.