Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A.

08/03/2025

Laura Marie Lea, 90, of Rawlings, died July 30, 2025, at Complete Care at Dawnview.

Born May 7, 1935, in Davis, WV, she was the daughter of the late Okey Alkire and Tola (Feller) Alkire Bright.

She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Aaron Lea, and her step-father, J.M. Bright.

Laura was a graduate of Keyser High School and attended Potomac State College.

She had been an agent with Long & Foster Realty Company, later working with Barbara Linthicum in West Virginia.

Laura had belonged to Trinity Lutheran Church, Keyser, and was Past Matron Martha Washington Chapter #10, OES (then Mountain Chapter #15, OES, followed by McKinley Chapter #12, OES). In the Grand Chapter of Maryland, OES, Laura had served as Grand Ruth (1982-1984), Grand Representative to California, and Deputy Grand Lecturer.

Among her survivors are her cousin, Richard Feller, and friends Wayne and Cindy Ketterman.

As per her wishes, there will be a private inurnment at MSVC – Rocky Gap for Laura and Aaron.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ali Ghan Shrine Transportation Fund, P.O. Box 1416, Cumberland, MD 21501-1416.

The Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., is assisting with arrangements.

08/01/2025

Fort Ashby, WV-

Roy “Peewee” Allen Aldridge, 56, of Fort Ashby, died Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at UPMC Western Maryland.

Born August 12, 1968 in Cumberland, he was the son of James R. Aldridge and Darlene M. (Brandt) Aldridge.

Roy was a graduate of Frankfort High School, class of 1986.

He was a hardworking Sheet Metal Journeyman for Local #100 for over 30 years. Most recently, he worked for Walter N. Yoder and Sons, Inc.

Roy enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially riding his side-by-side. He was always up for an adventure and enjoyed having a good time. If he wasn’t enjoying his time at the river, which was his happy place, you could always find him sitting on his front porch enjoying the views.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his children, Alicia Murray and husband Dylan, Hunter Aldridge and significant other Erika Fairgrieve, and Chase Aldridge; grandchildren, Ayva Murray, Blayze Murray, Jax Aldridge, Octayvia Aldridge, and Weston Aldridge; brothers, Buck Aldridge and significant other Katrina Varas, and Louis Aldridge and wife Tammy; and his grandpup, Miller Aldridge. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and many friends.

Friends will be received at the Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., 10182 Frankfort Highway, Fort Ashby, on Monday, August 4, 2025 from 5:00-8:00 PM.

A private burial will be in the Aldridge Cemetery, Fort Ashby.

All friends and family are welcome to join in a celebration of life at Roy’s house, 107 Gilmore Lane, Springfield, on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at 3:00 PM.

07/29/2025

Cumberland, MD –

Sonia Jean Beatrice Lewis, 54, of Cumberland, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025, at UPMC Western Maryland.

Born September 16, 1970, in Cumberland, she was the daughter of Alice M. (Campbell) Early and the late Lawrence Lee Lewis. She was also preceded in death by her stepfather, Robert Early Jr., and her sister, Nicole Early.

A 1988 graduate of Fort Hill High School, Sonia later dedicated her career to helping others as a Direct Support Professional for the ARC of Frederick. Her work reflected her giving heart and her passion for uplifting those around her.

Sonia was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister whose greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren — they were truly the center of her world. She loved her children passionately and unconditionally, and her love for them radiated in everything she did.

She was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan, loved playing BINGO, had a sweet tooth she never denied, and could often be found singing along to her favorite songs with joy.

She was a phenomenal woman — strong, selfless, and unwaveringly supportive. Despite her own health challenges, Sonia never hesitated to lend a hand, give what she had, or show up for anyone in need. Whether it was through a call, a text, or simply being present, she made others feel seen and cared for. She had a bold spirit and never shied away from speaking her mind — a quality that made her unforgettable.

In addition to her mother, Alice, Sonia is survived by her beloved children, Kiera Smith and Kieshon Britton, whom she loved so passionately; her grandchildren, Kiemarion, Kiemyla, Raiquon, Kamron, Kenyen, and Malasia; and her siblings, Lawrence Lewis Jr. and wife Jen, Kari Early, and Robin Brooks and husband Ray.

She is also survived by her cherished niece, Marissa Siefers, who was like a miniature version of Sonia — full of spirit, strength, and love — and great-nephews Treyson and Markhi.

Sonia’s love extended deeply to her many nieces and nephews: Jazmyne , Teneya, Larrkel, Haylee, Azriel, Zion, Zaiden, and Pharoah, all of whom she loved and supported like her own. She held close bonds with her cousins Danny and Krystal, who were more like siblings than relatives. She also treasured the lifelong friendships she shared with Andrea, Claudia, and Debi, whose love and support never wavered through the years.

She is additionally survived by her Special Friend, Larry, whose companionship brought comfort and joy to her life.

Friends will be received at Solid Rock Independent Baptist Church, 12510 Corrigan Dr., Corriganville, MD, on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 11:00 AM to noon, with a service to follow at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A., 202 Greene St., Cumberland, MD 21502, to help assist the family with funeral expenses.

Sonia will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and fierce love for her family and friends. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her memory and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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A Prayer in Her Memory

O God, Who has commanded us to honor our father and mother,

have compassion in Thy mercy, on the souls of my father and mother;

forgive them their sins, and grant that I may see them in the joy of eternal brightness.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

07/18/2025

Fort Ashby, WV-

Peggy Ann Seeders, 86, of Fort Ashby, died Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown.

Born November 17, 1938 in Fort Ashby, she was the daughter of the late William P. Adams and Mary P. (Fisher) Adams.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Harry” Seeders; daughter, Kim Seeders; and 10 siblings.

Peggy was a graduate of Fort Ashby High School.

She had worked in York, PA as an inspector for AMP, Inc.

Ms. Seeders was United Methodist by faith.

Peggy was a generous and devoted supporter of many charitable organizations, which included Veteran’s assistance, and local fire and police departments. She always enjoyed her time spent outdoors. Peggy was a wonderful mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. She was loved by all who knew her.

Survivors include her son, Tim Seeders and wife Lynne; granddaughter, Sydni Thorne and husband Will; great-granddaughters, Harper and Charlotte Thorne; step-grandchildren, Michael, Darren, and Billy Perry; sisters, Shirley Elkins, and Nancy Gentzler; many nieces and nephews, including special nieces and nephews, Linda Bailey, Toby Peer, Tony Peer, and Zac Gentzler.

The Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., Fort Ashby, is handling the private arrangements with burial in Fort Ashby Cemetery.

07/12/2025

Fort Ashby, WV-

Loren E. (“Buck”) Dent, Jr., 76, of Fort Ashby, WV, departed this earth on Sunday, July 6 at Complete Care at Dawnview, after a 5-year battle with cancer.

Born March 14,1949 in Petersburg, WV, he was the son of the late Loren E Dent, Sr and Bernice (McKenzie) Dent.

Buck graduated from Charles Town High School. He worked for CSX Railroad as a carman until retirement; then he spent most of his time enjoying life -- hunting, fishing, riding his motorcycle, or playing pool with his sons and friends. From 1978-1987, Buck led his family’s bluegrass band, “Short Grass”, playing local venues and occasionally performing on WELD radio station. Though he didn’t play much music in recent years, he still enjoyed playing guitar or bass on occasion and listening to his kids play music. He later became active in the boxing world where he assisted with training young fighters with the Has-beens Boxing Club in Cumberland, Md. Later he opened The Winners Circle boxing club at his home, where he spent many years training amateur boxers (including his sons Kevin, Travis and Luke) and tough man fighters.

Buck was a very loving and dedicated father and grandfather. He is survived by his children (Tracey Rohrbaugh and husband Jack; and Lee Dent and wife Melissa; Kevin Dent and wife Heather; Travis Dent and wife Jeanette; Lucas Dent; and one step-daughter Shanna Loftus and husband James.) His grandchildren Andrea, Abigail (Dakota), Jacob (Makala), Dalton (Keyonia), Courtney, Josh, Kierra, Marissa, Maddox, Braxton, Kallie, Knox, Haley (Julian), Ryan, Mariah, Addisyn and Savannah, Elyssa and Daniel; great grandchildren, Addilena, Lakin, Braylen, Riley, Emma, Maddie, Abbie, Summer, Liam, Alexander and Walter. One brother, John Dent (Debra); and one sister, Sylvia Baker.

He attended Old Furnace Church of the Brethren.

At his request, Buck will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in his memory to: Horses with Hearts, PO Box 2186, Martinsburg, WV 25402; or a charity of your choice.

07/09/2025

Cumberland, MD-

Lisbeth “Ann” Buskirk, 87, of Cumberland, died Monday, July 7, 2025.

Born July 8, 1937 in Cumberland, she was the daughter of the late Millard Buskirk and Rosalie Elizabeth (Cole) Buskirk.

She was also preceded in death by her sister, Beverly Buskirk.

Ann was a proud graduate of her beloved Allegany High School. Go blue!

She was retired from the Cumberland Nursing Home, where she had been a nursing assistant.

Ann loved the New York Yankees and rarely missed watching a game.

Survivors include her best friend, Randa Murray and husband Clarence, and their son, David Murray; and close friends and neighbors, Pam and Reuben Lease. She is also survived by her faithful furry companion, Holly.

The Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A., Cumberland, is handling the private arrangements.

Inurnment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens.

07/09/2025

Cumberland, MD-

Charles “Chuck” David Andrews, 72, of Cumberland, died July 6, 2025, at Devlin Manor, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born March 25, 1953, in Cumberland, he was the son of the late Gordon and Nelda (DeNeen) Andrews.

Chuck was a graduate of Allegany High School.

He served in the U.S. Navy during the Viet Nam Era. He was awarded a special certificate in recognition of his academic excellence at the Naval Training Center, prior to his service on the USS Theodore E. Chandler and as a Naval Reservist.

Chuck had been employed by the City of Cumberland, retiring after many years as Director of Water Filtration, and ending his employment career at Allegany Motor and Pump Services. His many skills allowed him to also be a mechanic and a jack-of-all trades willing to help others.

He was a lifetime member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church. He was a member of the St. Luke’s Church YMCA Basketball Team winning the 1966-1967 Championship. He also belonged to the Mason-Dixon Lions Club; Ft. Cumberland Post #13, American Legion; and Boy Scouts of America, serving as an Eagle Scout’s Dad.

Chuck had many interests and enjoyed farming, bowling, snow skiing, camping, canoeing, being an auto racing mechanic, “mechanical tinkering,” traveling, and spending time with his family, friends, and pets. All will miss his wit and humor.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Carolyn Clauson-Andrews; son, Charles “C.J.” Andrews and wife Savannah; grandchildren, John Andrews and Katharine Andrews; siblings, Kristi Casteel (Kenneth), Mark Andrews (Nancy), and Frances DeWitt (Jeremy); an aunt, Beverly Andrews; and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Friends will be received at the Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A., Cumberland, on Sunday, July 13th. from 5-7 PM.

The funeral service will be held at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church on Monday, July 14th. at 11 AM, with Pastor Lark Muncy, officiating.

Burial will be at M.S.V.C. Rocky Gap on Friday, July 18th. at 2 PM, where military honors will be accorded by Post #13 Veterans Honor Guard.

To honor Chuck, donations may be made to either St. Luke’s Lutheran Church (Roof Fund), 1601 Frederick Street, Cumberland, MD 21502 or to the Mason-Dixon Lions Club, P.O. Box 414, Mt. Savage, MD 21545.

07/04/2025

06/28/2025

Short Gap, WV-

Sondra Sue Iser, 85, of Short Gap, died Thursday, June 26, 2025 at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown WV.

Born February 3, 1940 in Charleston, WV, she was the daughter of the late Ralph McCloud and Pauline A. (Reynolds) Bowles.

She was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years, Arnold L. Iser.

Sondra was a big Pittsburgh sports fan and especially loved the Pittsburgh Penguins. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, shopping, movies, and thoroughly enjoyed a spicy Bloody Mary. She was an excellent cook, having mastered the art of spaghetti and meatballs.

She was a beautiful and elegant lady, and a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Survivors include her children, Gary Iser, David Iser, Edward Iser, Debra Tephabock and husband Lane, and Malinda Iser; grandchildren, Chad, Jori, Jessica, Brittany, Tiffany, Sam, Benajmin, Kelly, Michael, Samantha, Kyle, and Chris; great-grandchildren, Marley, Mason, Hudson, Bradley, Nathan, and Joel; and brother, Sam McCloud.

Friends will be received at the Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., Fort Ashby, on Thursday, July 3, 2025 from 1:00-2:00 PM.

The funeral service will follow in the funeral home at 2:00 PM, with Pastor Kris Lengel officiating.

Entombment will be in Potomac Memorial Gardens, with the committal officiated by Pastor Greg Moreland.

06/25/2025

Fort Ashby, WV-

Matthew Scott Athey, 43, of Fort Ashby, died Saturday, June 21, 2025 at his home.

Born April 28, 1982, he was the son of Deborah L. (Ganoe) Welsh and Michael S. Athey.

Matt was a graduate of Frankfort High School, class of 2000.

He worked for Absolute Patriot Construction.

Matt enjoyed time camping, floating the river, and going on cruises with his wife. Most of all, he loved spending time with his kids.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, Deborah E. Athey; children, Haley, Noah, Regan, Lucas, and Isaiah Athey; siblings, Lauren Athey, Brooke Athey, Cole Mannebach, Kurt Mannebach, Kaya Welsh, and Katie Lutz; stepmother, Helen Testa; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and many close friends.

A memorial service will be held at the Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., Fort Ashby, on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 11:00 AM.

06/21/2025

Green Spring, WV-

Douglas Scott Fairley, 70, of Green Spring, WV passed away on June 14th, 2025.

Doug, born in Baltimore Maryland on July 29th 1954 to Frances and J. Donald Fairley, graduated from Frostburg University with a degree in Economics and many friends that would last a lifetime. He spent his career doing project management, most recently at The American University.

Doug was preceded in death by his wife, Pam. He is survived by his sister Donna Fairley, his children Allison Bowen (Erik) and Evan Fairley, his two grandchildren Zack and Maggie, his girlfriend Kelly Stickley, and his beloved German Shepard Bella.

Doug will always be remembered for his passion for all things outdoors, his selflessness in always helping others, and enjoyment of time spent with friends and family. Doug loved to fish and play frisbee golf. He spent many hours riding his motorcycle, watching all sports, with a definite preference for the Baltimore Teams, and he always made time for a good donut.

Doug touched the hearts of many people that knew him and will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the MDS Foundation at https://www.mds-foundation.org/donate/ or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society https://leukemiarf.org/donate/ in Doug's Name.

06/18/2025

Romney, WV-

Edward W. Lease, 87, of Romney, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, June 16, 2025 at the Hampshire Center.

Born August 6, 1937 in Romney, he was the son of the late George W. Lease and Myrtle I. (Wagoner) Lease.

He was also preceded in death by his wife of 32 years and mother of his children, Bernice (Puffinburger) Lease; wife of 21 years, Shirley Puffinburger Lease; and siblings, Vernon Lease, Dorothy Lease, and Leona Lease.

Mr. Lease retired from the Potomac Valley Transit Authority, Romney. He also worked for Tarmac in Sterling, VA, and was employed for many years at Aurora Stone, Short Gap.

Over the years, he attended Graceland Baptist Church, Heritage Baptist Church, and Grace Valley Baptist Church.

He loved family get togethers, bluegrass music, working in the garden, and homemade ice cream.

Survivors include his children, Edward A. Lease and wife Teresa, Victoria Shipley and husband Tim, and Penny Clayborn and husband Dave; stepdaughter, Linda Densmore and husband Bill; 9 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great granddaughters. He is also survived by his siblings, Ernest Lease, Hazel Coker, Maxine Caneco, Shirley Twigg, Barbara Presley, and Anna Beverlin; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received at the Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., Fort Ashby, on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 PM and Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 10:00-11:00 AM.

The funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Kris Lengel officiating.

Interment will be in Fort Ashby Cemetery.