Landlord Never Paid Me Back Security Deposit

Location: WV
Had a great landlord who ended up selling the property to a family member. The family member (new landlord) was fully cordial with me upon my request to terminate my lease and assured me over the phone there would be no problem getting me my deposit. I moved out July 15th. And sent a message July 9th informing him of my new residence to send my security deposit. He said he would be in touch. Months went by (I had family things going on and wasn’t as focused on this because I didn’t think there would be any problems). When I ask when I can expect the deposit in September, I am told a partial deposit would be sent that week. It wasn’t. When I asked again weeks later where was the partial deposit and when could I expect the full deposit, I was told I only get a partial deposit. I’ve sent them my lease stating the full deposit amount and have been very patient but have since been ghosted and no mail received. I was a great tenant, always paying on time even with having to mail rent to a different state. I left the place neater than when I had moved in too. I am considering sending a letter of demand and then if I don’t receive anything I will go to small claims court. I am living in a different state now so I don’t know how that would go over and if I have to be in person or what the process is. Should I send a letter of demand? Is it a loss cause? By law in WV the landlord is supposed to send deposit back within 60 days or provide reasoning for not (I.e. damages) but I haven’t received either. Would appreciate any help!
Edit: moved location to top