Bridgeport Man, former Youth Coach, Leader in Mine Safety, Eric M. Tennant, Passes Away at Age of 58

Eric M. Tennant, 58, of Bridgeport, WV, formerly of Barrackville, WV, passed away peacefully at home on September 17, 2025 with his family lovingly by his side, holding his hands, as he said farewell to one world and ventured out into another. He was born on October 26, 1966 in Fairmont, WV to Patricia and David Tennant.

Along with his parents, Eric is survived by his loving wife Rebecca Tennant (Cavallo), son CPT. Arryn Tennant and his wife Jaimee, his daughter, Amiya Tennant, his faithful dog Molly, and his grand-dogs Georgia and June. He is also survived by his brother Steve Tennant, his sister Crystal Tennant, and several nieces and nephews, as well as many other family members and numerous friends who will all miss him dearly.

Eric was a proud 1984 graduate of North Marion High School and a 1997 graduate of Fairmont State University, where he earned his B.S. degree in Safety Engineering Technology. He was well known throughout the region for his skill as an electrician, electrical inspector, and his mining safety knowledge.

Eric began his electrical career with Summit Electric, and then went on to become a Safety Inspector for over 12 years with Middle Department Inspection Agency. Throughout his career Eric was very active as he served as the Safety Inspector/Safety Technician for CONSOL Energy, Loveridge Mine in Fairview, WV, Safety Specialist for CLIFFS Natural Resources, Oak Grove Mine in Adger, Alabama, Safety Director for Metinvest, Carter Roag Mine (Pleasant Hill Mine) in Tallmansville, WV, Safety Consultant, JH Consulting, LLC, in Buckhannon, WV, and Safety Instructor at the WV Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training in Westover, WV, where he was currently employed for over 8 ½ years.

Eric was also a proud member of the WV Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training – Northern Team Region 1 Mine Rescue Team. He took great pride in his job and being a part of the Mine Rescue Team. His coworkers at the WV Office Of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training weren’t just coworkers, they were family and his presence in the office and as the team Briefing Officer will be truly missed.

He was an avid Mountaineer, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Steelers fan. If you knew Eric, you know he loved bowling, wiffle ball, and softball. Some of his favorite stories to tell were from his days playing softball for Bill’s Exxon.

Eric found great joy in being a dad, cherished his children, and took pride in coaching their various sports teams throughout their lives. He made sure that Becky, Arryn and Amiya always had everything they needed and ensured that they always took a yearly beach trip together. Eric loved taking them on hikes and adventures across the state and beyond, and he was always up for a lunch at Biggie’s or a vanilla ice cream cone. His family would often joke that no matter where they traveled or how far, Eric would run into someone he knew.

Even though Eric faced a serious medical challenge, he always had a smile and a joke for those around him. That smile will forever be missed.

Eric was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Charles A. Cavallo, Sr.

The family would like to thank Dr. Salman Osman and all of the staff and infusion nurses at the UHC Cancer Center, Dr. Reddy, Dr. Fryer, WVU Home Health nurses, Jenn, Vanessa, and Shawna, WVU Hospice, and the Office of Miners’ Health Safety and Training for all the support particularly over the last 2 ½ years.

Memorial contributions may be made in Eric’s memory to the Harrison County Humane Society, PO Box 4397 Clarksburg, WV 26302, or to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, https://www.cholangiocarcinoma.org/.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Ford Funeral Home, Allen Chapel, 215 East Main Street, Bridgeport. In accordance with Eric’s wishes cremation services will occur. He was a simple man and did not desire any formal services. Rather, he asked that everyone have a drink in his honor. “Carry on, my wayward son. There’ll be peace when you are done. Lay your weary head to rest. Don’t you cry no more.”

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.

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