When Justin and Derek French-Kazee moved to the Laurel Woods neighborhood in Barboursville in 2019, they were drawn by its serene, wooded setting and small-town charm. Since then, they’ve built a beautiful life together, raising their three children and two energetic dogs while immersing themselves in the community.

Justin and Derek's story began at Adena Hospital in Chillicothe, Ohio, where Justin was completing his ER residency and Derek was an Assistant Principal with Olentangy Local Schools in Lewis Center, Ohio.  Their connection grew from there, and today they’re partners in every sense—building a life filled with love, laughter, and shared values.

Thanks to their three children, the French-Kazee household is always bustling with activity. Carlie French, 11 years old, is the family’s oldest. She’s a 6th grader at Barboursville Middle School (BMS), where she shines on the tennis team and participates in the Musical Theater Club, Art Club, and gymnastics at AMP. Derek shared, “She will be playing the role of Flounder in BMS' production of The Little Mermaid next month.”

Silas French, 7, is the middle child and a 2nd grader at Village of Barboursville Elementary (VOBE). He’s just completed a season of Barboursville Buddy Basketball and received the Jason Hensley Sportsmanship Award. He also enjoys gymnastics at AMP. According to Derek, “Silas has an adventurous spirit and loves trying new activities.”

Carlie Kazee, the youngest recently turned 7, is a 1st grader at VOBE and a vibrant cheerleader on Barboursville Youth Cheer D Team. She also takes gymnastics at AMP, making it a family favorite activity. The family’s furry companions, Hank, a sassy 3-year-old Long-Haired Dachshund, and Pearl, a spunky 3-year-old French Bulldog, add even more joy and energy to their household.

Justin is an ER physician at St. Mary’s Medical Center, a role he’s held since completing his residency in 2019. “I love the fast pace of the ER and the opportunity to help people when they need it most,” Justin shared. Derek, on the other hand, is a 2nd-grade teacher at Oakview Elementary School in Ashland, Kentucky. With 24 years of experience in education, including four years as an assistant principal, Derek says his passion for teaching stems from his love of working with children and the inspiration he found from his teachers.

For the French-Kazee family, time together is a priority. Whether splashing around in their pool during the summer or enjoying seasonal activities in the fall and winter, they make every moment count. “We especially love trips to Clearwater, Disney World, and Universal Studios,” Derek said, reflecting on their favorite vacations. Their Myrtle Beach trip last July is a recent highlight, as are cherished memories of attending football games, including Marshall vs. Ohio State and OSU vs. Nebraska. “Our family bonds over sports, and it’s always a blast to cheer for our favorite teams,” said Justin, a Marshall graduate, while Derek proudly supports his alma mater, Ohio State.

The French-Kazees are avid supporters of local businesses. “We love dining at Pullman Square, especially The Peddler & Backyard, which catered our wedding,” Derek said. Another favorite is the Huntington Ale House, where Derek can’t resist the Peanut Butter Chicken and Waffles. When it comes to advice for new neighbors, Derek and Justin suggest embracing the small-town charm of Barboursville. “It has everything you need but still feels like a close-knit community,” Derek shared.

The French-Kazee family is grateful for the warmth and friendliness of the Laurel Woods neighborhood. “We love the peace and sense of community here,” Derek said. “Whether it’s spending time with neighbors or enjoying local events, there’s always something to love about Barboursville.” If you see the French-Kazee family around town—perhaps at a gymnastics class or cheering on their favorite teams—be sure to say hello. They’re always ready to share a smile, a laugh, and their love for the Barboursville community.