Cecil H. Underwood

Cecil Harland Underwood (November 5, 1922 – November 24, 2008) was an American politician who served as the 25th and 32nd governor of West Virginia from 1957 to 1961, and again from 1997 to 2001. A member of the Republican Party, he was the youngest governor in the state's history when first elected in 1956 at age 34 and later became the oldest when re-elected in 1996 at age 74. His career spanned more than five decades, including multiple gubernatorial bids, legislative service, and roles in academia and business. Underwood was known for his work in civil rights, economic development, and tax reform.

Early life and education Underwood was born in Josephs Mills, West Virginia, to Della N. (née Forrester) and Silas Henry Underwood. Growing up during the Great Depression, he worked on farms to support his family.

He graduated from Tyler Consolidated High School in 1939

During World War II, he served as an Army Reservist before returning to teach high school biology in St. Marys, West Virginia (1943–1946). He later pursued a master's degree from West Virginia University, which he completed in 1965. He oversaw the last three executions in the state, all in 1959.

Between governorships (1961–1996) Because West Virginia's constitution prohibited governors from serving consecutive terms at that time, Underwood ran for the United States Senate in 1960, but was defeated by incumbent Democrat Jennings Randolph.

They had one son, two daughters, and six grandchildren.