Football legend Darryl Talley makes an appearance in Ravenswood

Legendary West Virginia University defensive lineman and NFL linebacker, Darryl Talley, will be at Connie’s new shop, Tracy Rae’s Timeless Treasures. The name was selected to honor Connie’s daughter who passed away in 2022 from cancer.

“I knew Mike a little when I was at Morgantown,” Talley said. “But I’ve gotten to know him very well in the last few years. He’s become a very close friend.”

It’s a friendship both men value.

“We probably talk or text once or twice a day,” Mike said with a laugh. “I know that if I need anything, I can call on Darryl and he can do the same for me.”

They both also respect and value each other’s athletic accomplishments.

“When he was up for the College Football Hall of Fame, I was with the West Virginia Hall of Fame and we supported him in the selection,” Mike said. “When he was chosen, he called me to share the good news. I was tickled for him.”

When Mike was inducted into the West Virginia Sports Legends Hall of Fame in July 2022, his friend came to the banquet. And he chose to sit with Mike rather than at the table set aside for West Virginia University players. Talley was there to honor his friend first and foremost.

“But he was so proud of everyone who was selected,” Mike said. “He stood and clapped for them all. It meant the world to me that he was there.”

And now the football great will be there as the new shop gets ready for customers.

Talley said when Mike told him of the new venture Connie was diving into, he knew he would help if he could.

“The timing worked out very well,” he said. “I’m going to be doing a charity golf tournament at the Greenbrier this week so this gives me time to spend Monday evening with Mike, his wife and his mom. Then we’ll head to the shop on Tuesday.”

Mike said there was one more incentive that sealed the deal.

“I told him mom would make him homemade biscuits and gravy,” he said with a smile. “He said ‘I’m there’. He loves my mom’s cooking. And we love hearing all the stories he tells. I consider him my brother.”

Most of all, Talley cares for his friend. He said throughout life, he has learned to gravitate to the ‘good, decent folks.’ That’s how he describes Mike Dunlap.

“You know, I was recruited to WVU by Frank Cignetti and played under the great Don Nehlen,” Talley said. “And no matter where I go, I find good people from West Virginia and fans of WVU. And that’s what Mike is. He’s a good person who does his best to help everyone. I’m glad to come to Ravenswood to lend a little support.”

Tracy Rae’s Timeless Treasures contains a variety of items, including Fenton and Blenko glassware, rare coins, gift items, antiques and much more.

Mike says he’s very proud of his mom whom he describes as the hardest working woman he knows. Because of his need for a kidney transplant, not only does she help his wife with his care, but she has also now opened a small business.

“And anyone who knows my mom knows she’ll do this her way and it’ll be a very nice shop,” he said. “I’m glad I can help her out by sharing the word and calling on our friend, Darryl.”

Talley will be at Tracy Rae’s Timeless Treasures, located at 257 Washington Street, beginning at 10 a.m. He will sign one item and give a photo opportunity for $25. For information, call Mike Dunlap at 304-532-8592. The shop will have its grand opening in June.