Bridgeport, WV - Ethelyn Loretta (Cunningham) VanGilder, 89, was called home to the Lord on the evening of May 8, 2025. Surely waiting to greet her at Heaven's gate was her beloved husband of 65 years, David.

Ethelyn was born on May 28, 1935, one of ten children to Howard and Etta (Haynes) Cunningham. She and her nine siblings—each of whom preceded her in death—were raised in Devil Hole, Ritchie County, West Virginia.

After completing her reign as Miss Cairo and graduating from Cairo High School, Ethelyn worked at McCroy's Five and Dime while attending business college. She later took a position at Meadow Gold Dairy, where she met David. They were married on November 30, 1957, at Hammond Methodist Church in Clarksburg, West Virginia. Over the years, they built a joyful life together, attending countless family reunions, church events, school sporting events, and recitals.

A devoted member of Janes Memorial United Methodist Church, Ethelyn was active in the Ladies of Janes Circle, served on the church administrative board, and—alongside David—helped run the crafts table at the Mon Valley District's Celebration of Mission Event. She also held various leadership roles over a series of decades in the United Methodist Women, both locally and throughout the district, and developed meaningful friendships with women across the state. She enjoyed volunteering her time to shop for local school supplies and Christmas gifts for Operation Christmas Child.

Ethelyn had a gift for creativity and kindness. She enjoyed quilting, sewing, crocheting, and writing poetry, and was known for her thoughtful cards and handwritten notes. She was always delighted to visit with family and friends who stopped by.

She leaves behind a devoted family, including three children: Rodney (Lois) VanGilder of Fairmont; Todd (Margery) VanGilder; and Julie (Eddie) Gregory, both of Clarksburg. She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren: Zac Hardesty, Heather McDonald, Meghann (Shaun) Gregory, Tara (Josh) Phillips, Mitchell (Britney) Gregory, David N. VanGilder, Ory (Eliza) Cercone-VanGilder, Chelsey (Travis) Gregory, and Hadessah VanGilder. Ethelyn was also blessed with six great-grandchildren and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She shared a special bond with her cousin Tim of Texas and niece Joyce of Florida - both whom she loved dearly and spoke of often.

Ethelyn was also deeply grateful for her beloved neighbors, whose friendship and support brought her great comfort and joy through the years. Their caring presence was a source of strength, laughter, and love that she cherished.

Friends will be received at Burnside Funeral Home, 607 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport, on Sunday from 2 - 8 p.m., where services will be held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Michael Richards presiding. Interment will follow in Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.

Burnside Funeral Home, Bridgeport