W. Va. Code § 57-5-10: Affidavit of nonresidence; affidavit of publication in newspaper.

In any suit an affidavit that the witness or party resides out of this state, or is out of it, shall be prima facie evidence of the fact although such affidavit be made without previous notice. Where anything is required by any statute to be published in a newspaper, the certificate of the editor or publisher or affidavit of any other person shall be admitted as evidence of what is stated therein as to the publication.