On Sterling Drive in Hurricane, the McCray family—Nathan, Justine, and their two boys, Lochlan and Breccan—have built a life centered on adventure, strong community ties, and cherished traditions. Whether exploring the outdoors, coaching youth sports, or enjoying a home-cooked meal together, the McCrays embrace every opportunity to connect with those around them.

Nathan and Justine’s story began in 2005 when they met while working at Old Navy in the Barboursville Mall. Nathan, a Hurricane native, was Justine’s sales trainer, and the two quickly formed a bond that led to marriage in 2012 at the historic Halliehurst Mansion in Elkins, Justine’s hometown. 

Now, 20 years after they first met, the couple continues to grow together, raising their two energetic boys in the same community where Nathan was raised. Lochlan, 10, and Breccan, 7, both attend West Teays Elementary and share their parents’ enthusiasm for outdoor adventures. They love playing soccer, baseball, and basketball, while all three McCray boys—Nathan included—are avid video gamers. Justine enjoys growing and caring for house plants, gardening, baking, and reading. Their home is also filled with the loyal presence of Carl, their 11-year-old West Virginia Brown Dog, who has been a beloved part of the family for years.

The McCray Family have called Hurricane home since they graduated college in 2008 and have lived on Sterling Drive for about seven years. One of the things they treasure most about their neighborhood is the strong sense of community. “Our closest neighbors look out for our children like their own and appreciate the wildness of our boys,” Justine shared with Stroll Hurricane. “We have built friendships here that feel more like family—we have dinner together, work out together, and play together."

Nathan and Justine are deeply involved in their children’s activities, with Nathan coaching both boys’ soccer teams since Lochlan was four. Justine volunteers extensively at West Teays Elementary, serving as the committee head for the school’s Harvest Festival for the past three years and as a homeroom mom for both boys. The family also spreads joy in the community by delivering holiday goodie bags to the residents at Teays Valley Manor.

Both Nathan and Justine have built careers centered on service and leadership. Nathan, a graduate of Hurricane High School and Marshall University, has worked at TC Energy for nine years and currently serves as a Project Manager overseeing infrastructure projects across the Western U.S.

Justine, who holds a Master of Social Work degree and is licensed in both West Virginia and Virginia, works for WVU Medicine’s Population Health Team. Her role focuses on providing crucial resources to individuals at risk for homelessness, food insecurity, healthcare access issues, and other challenges. “I strive to help people stay in their homes, healthy and happy,” she explained. “Connecting patients with the resources they need to improve their quality of life is incredibly rewarding.”

The McCrays love the outdoors and seize every opportunity to explore nature together. Whether hiking, tent camping, biking, or fishing, their family thrives in the fresh air. Their favorite getaway is Claytor Lake, Virginia, where they enjoy boating, paddle boarding, and taking in the scenic beauty of the area. Justine added, "Any outside activity helps us relax, going to the park or hiking at Meeks Mountain trails. We love going to the pool at Sleepy in the summer, we enjoy going out to dinner as a family or having dinner with friends. We enjoy running around the tristate area-visiting friends in Charleston at Fife Street and eating at Backyard Pizza in Huntington. We also love watching all the Marvel Comic book series on Disney.”

 Their home is also filled with cherished traditions. Halloween is a favorite, with all four family members dressing up in themed costumes each year. They also celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and the Harvest Moon, with Justine hosting an annual women ’s-only witch party to honor the strength and power of women. Christmas is another special time, filled with meaningful traditions that bring them closer together.

Even with their busy schedules, the McCray Family makes time for one of their most important traditions—family dinner. Whether it’s Justine’s famous meatloaf or spaghetti and meatballs, or Nathan’s smoked brisket and burnt ends, their nightly meals are a time for connection and laughter.

 As the McCrays continue to build memories and strengthen their ties to the Hurricane community, they remain a shining example of the power of family, friendship, and service. Through their love of adventure, dedication to their community, and commitment to each other, the McCrays have created a life full of purpose and joy in the place they call home.