Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A.

Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A. Full service funeral home in Cumberland, Maryland. Family owned and operated. The Upchurch Funeral Homes are currently owned by Gary and Wendy Upchurch.

With two locations, we proudly serve our surrounding communities of Cumberland, LaVale, Ridgeley, Carpendale, Wiley Ford, Short Gap, and Fort Ashby. We are proudly the oldest continually operating funeral home in Cumberland and in our surrounding area. We are a full service funeral home providing at-need and pre-need services. For more information on our services provided, feel free to contact us at either (301) 724-2250 (Cumberland location), or (304) 999-2010 (Fort Ashby location).

Cumberland, MD-Sean Austin Robey, 28, of Cumberland, MD, unexpectedly went to be with the Lord on November 23, 2025.He w...
11/26/2025

Cumberland, MD-

Sean Austin Robey, 28, of Cumberland, MD, unexpectedly went to be with the Lord on November 23, 2025.

He was born to Michelle Lambert and Todd Robey on November 16, 1997.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Royce and Norma Shatzer, August Robey, and Billie Bowman, all whom he loved and adored very much.

Sean was a jack-of-all-trades. He loved working on houses and cars. He was always asking around, trying to find projects, and posting his finished projects on Facebook for all to see. Sean has a dog named King he has left behind. King loved Sean and it showed. Sean had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He is already missed so much.

Sean is survived by his mother, Michelle Lambert, and fiancé Shane Thompson; father, Todd Robey; siblings Britney Robey and Dylan Lambert. He had a special love for his nieces and nephew, Ry’Lee Brooks, Amirah Brooks, Milani Robey, and Khyrie Bates. Special family members include Peyton Thompson, Richard Bowman (“Pap”), Cindy Galligher (“Grandma”), Cyndi Bowman (aunt), Becky Bowman (Granny Beck), David and Katie Bowman and family, Nichole Kasecamp and family, Rick Bowman, Jr., Mikey Grimm, and many others. Sean had a few special friends: Danny, Eli, and Ty, who are missing him dearly.

There will be a private service, with Chaplain Paul Demers, officiating.

Condolences and donations to offset funeral costs can be sent to Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A., 202 Greene Street, Cumberland, MD 21502.

Cumberland, MD-Mary Lou Corbitt, 67, of Cumberland, died November 25, 2025, at UPMC-Western Maryland.Born October 20, 19...
11/26/2025

Cumberland, MD-

Mary Lou Corbitt, 67, of Cumberland, died November 25, 2025, at UPMC-Western Maryland.

Born October 20, 1958, in Sparrows Point, MD, she was the daughter of the late Tiny Oxidine and Virginia Waybright Virts.

Before moving to Cumberland, Mary Lou managed apartment rentals.

She belonged to LaVale Baptist Church.

Survivors include her beloved husband of 23 years, Carlton Corbitt; two children, Belen Marie Waybright and Jose Alfonso Waybright; two granddaughters, Gabrielle Nicole Waybright and Adriana Elizabeth Waybright; siblings, Robin Cox, Alicia Virts, and Robert Waybright; and two nieces, Jennifer Grabill and Christina Morris.

Friends will be received at the Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A., Cumberland, on Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 2-4 PM. The funeral service will follow at 4 PM, with Pastor Jim Jeffries, officiating.

11/26/2025
Dr. P. Ward Hill, 90, of Ridgeley, WV, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, at home.Born February 9, 1935, in Al...
11/25/2025

Dr. P. Ward Hill, 90, of Ridgeley, WV, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, at home.

Born February 9, 1935, in Altoona, PA, he was the son of the late Louis Russell Hill and Anne Ward Hill. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Logan and Theodore Hill.

Ward was a graduate of Penn State University, having earned BS and MS degrees in Agricultural Engineering, and a Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics.

He began his career at the Hercules ABL plant in 1965, and continued as that company was purchased by Alliant Techsystems and later Northrup Grumman, serving in senior engineering positions in the Propulsion division. At Alliant’s Bacchus works, he led the project to produce an advanced Space Shuttle solid rocket booster.

Ward had a love for vintage British sports cars. Over many years he restored three Jaguar XK-Es and two Austin Healey 100-4s; his 1954 MG-TF was a national award winner. He played a leading role in the Queen City Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America, and he raced various cars as a member of the Sports Car Club of America. He also enjoyed sailing on Deep Creek Lake, Chesapeake Bay, and the Great Salt Lake.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 67 years, Edith; two sons, David Hill and Paul Hill and wife Eleanor; four grandchildren, Jonathan Hill, Harsin Hill, Yelkin Hill, and Jose Montes.

Friends will be received at the Upchurch Funeral Home, Inc., Fort Ashby, WV, on Wednesday, December3, 2025 from 1 PM to 3 PM. A memorial service will follow at 3 PM, with Patrick Ashley, officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Nature Conservancy, Attn.: Treasury, 4245 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203 (preserve.nature.org)

Ridgeley, WV  Noah Ethan James Braithwaite, 24, of Ridgeley, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, after a brave ...
11/15/2025

Ridgeley, WV

Noah Ethan James Braithwaite, 24, of Ridgeley, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, after a brave and heartbreaking battle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

He was born on May 22, 2001, to Jason Moore and Sharon Braithwaite.

Though his time here was far too short, he is now finally free from pain and held in the gentlest peace.

Noah was a devoted father, partner, brother, and friend, whose heart stretched endlessly for the people he loved.

His greatest joy in life was his 4-year-old son, Liam. Noah lit up in his presence– every laugh, every hug, every tiny moment between them was a treasure he held close. Liam was his world, his purpose, and the source of his deepest strength.

Noah shared a close and loving bond with his girlfriend, Trinity, who remained at his side through every moment of joy, uncertainty, and hope. Their love was steady and unwavering, a quiet place of comfort in even the hardest times.

In addition to Liam and Trinity, he is survived by his brothers, Blair and Fleming, and by his cherished “adopted family”: Alexa and her boyfriend Devin, Keyona and her boyfriend Bryce, Braden, Dontae, Patricia, and Shantel, along with many more beloved friends and family who were touched by his life. Each person who knew Noah carries a piece of his laughter, his kindness, and his gentle spirit. Noah’s love also reached his pets – his cat Arlo and his dog Snoop – who brought him comfort, companionship, and quiet moments of peace, even on his hardest days.

Noah was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Beverly Bishop, and Sharon.

Throughout Noah’s long and courageous fight, he was cared for by incredible nurses and doctors who stood with him year after year. His family offers their deepest gratitude to every member of his medical team, including his doctor, Stacy, whose compassion, commitment, and heartfelt care meant more than words can express. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

Though his journey was marked by illness, Noah never lost the warmth of his heart or the love he felt for those around him. His strength, courage, and his endless devotion to the people he cared about will forever be remembered.

Fulfilling his wishes, Noah will be cremated, and his loved ones will honor him by carrying forward his love, his memory, and the light he brought into their lives.

His story does not end here, it lives on in every person who loved him, in every memory shared, and most of all, in his precious son, Liam.

Cumberland, MD-Kenneth “Kenny” James Harrison, 53, of Cumberland, formerly of Thomasville, NC, died November 11, 2025 at...
11/14/2025

Cumberland, MD-

Kenneth “Kenny” James Harrison, 53, of Cumberland, formerly of Thomasville, NC, died November 11, 2025 at UPMC-Western Maryland.

Born October 21, 1972 in Baltimore, MD, he is the son of David J. Alger and the late Irene (Harrison) Poffenburger.

He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Johnny Poffenburger; siblings, Robert Broyles, Jerry Harrison, Kevin Alger, Missy Harrison, and Laura Winter.

Kenny graduated from high school in Sykesville, MD.

He had been a carpenter.

While living in North Carolina, Kenny attended Clear Vision Church.

In his spare time, Kenny enjoyed playing the guitar, fishing, and deer hunting.

In addition to his father, he is survived by his stepmother, Patricia Alger; siblings, David Alger and wife Angela, Ricky Alger, Brian Alger, and Stacie Alger. He also has many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at On Fire Ministries, 477 Eastern Avenue, Cumberland, on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM, with Pastor David Lindsay officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Upchurch Funeral Home, P.A., 202 Greene Street, Cumberland, MD 21502.

11/11/2025

Cumberland, MD-

Daniel Vincent McGuire, 74, of Cumberland, MD, formerly of Baltimore, MD, died November 4, 2025, at UPMC-Western Maryland.

Born October 3, 1951, in Hampden, MD, he was the son of the late Wilmer and Shirley (Merson) McGuire.

Mr. McGuire was a graduate of Calvert Hall High School.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam Era, having earned two bronze stars.

Mr. McGuire had been a Baltimore City firefighter. Later he worked in the hotel industry as a maintenance engineer.

Survivors include his partner, Brenda Scribner and her family; his son, Daniel V. McGuire, II; two sisters, Leslie M. Kurz and husband Doug, and Kathleen M. Hampton and husband Steve; two nieces and a nephew.

Service plans will be announced when available.

Cumberland, MD-It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Susan Rae Bell Kelley, a devoted mother, sister, a...
11/07/2025

Cumberland, MD-

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Susan Rae Bell Kelley, a devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend. A remarkable woman of strength and grace, she left us peacefully on November 2, 2025.

Susan was born on August 8, 1941, in Cumberland, Maryland and her parents were Mary Gordon “Gordie” and Louis “Lou” Bell. She married Joseph “Joe” Kelley. Susan lived her life with an unshakable will and an unrelenting sense of purpose. She was proud, dignified, and steadfast in her values—a woman of class with a strong moral compass who faced life’s challenges head-on. Her family was her greatest source of pride and joy, and her support for them was constant, fierce, and unconditional. She was their biggest champion, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams and never compromise their integrity. She always put them first and never once turned her back on them.

She was a graduate of Allegany High School, Class of 1959. Susan worked at Bauer Home Center and retired from WMHS working as a secretary in the Emergency Department at Memorial and Sacred Heart Hospitals before retiring. She also worked for Dr. Arrisueno for a couple of years after retirement.

Susan also had a zest for life and an appreciation for its finer moments. She loved any sport and could light up any room with her laughter and competitive spirit. Whether enjoying a night at the casino, watching her golf, or just having a drink with friends and family, she brought energy, charm, and style wherever she went.

Susan had an enormous heart for animals—especially those in need. She took in several cats in need of a good home and cared for them well. Katrina, Mama Cat, Del, and Crazy will be forever grateful.

A fighter to the end, Susan met every obstacle with grace, courage, and determination. Her strength was matched only by her love and her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched—both human and animal alike.

Susan is survived by her loving children, Krista Kelley and wife Jackie Lalonde, and her son and caregiver, Jimmy; brother, James “Gus” Bell and wife Sherri; loving sister and caretaker, Cheri Morton; sister-in-law, Mary Lou Dawson and husband Raymond and family Karen, Brian, and Steve; nieces Jennifer and Joey Gibbs and their son Carter, and Katie and Elijah Stair and their son Grayson; and many dear friends.

Susan had a strong and loving group of caregivers that we would like to thank: Debbie Welsh, Jennifer Boling, Gail Harvey, Patricia Pettit, Cynthia B., Sarah Stratton, Angela Bartlett, Julie Mills, Michelle Peters, and Jessica Blizzard -- a special call out to Jessica Blizzard. Mother developed a strong bond and kinship to Jessica and considered her part of the family. We would also like to thank her hospice nurse Areeon who was there day and night if needed.

A memorial mass and Celebration of Life will take place in the Spring of 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations be made to the Allegany County Animal Shelter (P.O. Box 566, Cumberland, MD 21501-0566), Shriners’ Hospitals for Children (3551 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140), or your favorite charity.

Fort Ashby, WV-Donald LeRoy McTaggart, 77, of Fort Ashby, died October 22, 2025, at UMPC-Western Maryland.Born May 4, 19...
10/28/2025

Fort Ashby, WV-

Donald LeRoy McTaggart, 77, of Fort Ashby, died October 22, 2025, at UMPC-Western Maryland.

Born May 4, 1948, in Cumberland, he was the son of the late Charles Aliven McTaggart and Mary Alice (Moreland) McTaggart.

He was also preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Rexrode, and a brother, Bernard McTaggart.

He was a graduate of Fort Ashby High School.

For over 15 years, Mr. McTaggart owned and operated Knobley Mountain Builders.

Survivors include his wife, Cheryl; children, Chris McTaggart, Shane McTaggart (Sherry), Todd McTaggart, and Jennifer Springer; sister, Laurette Michaels; brother, Glenn McTaggart; and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The Upchurch Funeral Home is assisting with the private arrangements.

Fort Ashby, WVRuth “Carol” Huggins, 85, of Fort Ashby, died peacefully at home on October 20, 2025.Born January 13, 1940...
10/27/2025

Fort Ashby, WV

Ruth “Carol” Huggins, 85, of Fort Ashby, died peacefully at home on October 20, 2025.

Born January 13, 1940, in Marlinton, WV, she was the daughter of the late Richard Thomas Friend and Mary Louise (Spedden) Friend.

She was also preceded in death by beloved husband, Grover Allen Huggins in 2014, a sister, Virginia Winters, and a brother, Richard Friend.

Carol was a graduate of Mountaineer High School, Class of 1957.

She had been a dispatcher for the West Virginia State Police. Carol then worked for West Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, becoming a regional manager in Romney.

In her spare time, Carol enjoyed being in her yard and tending to her flower beds.

Carol loved spending time with her family. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Dana Huggins, Kathy Huggins Phares, and Michael Huggins and wife Seunghye; grandchildren, Zac Phares and wife Holly, Jacob Phares, Haley Huggins, and Hannah Huggins; great grandchildren, Nolan Phares and Demi Phares; her sister, Rebecca McDowell, her brother, William Friend, and several nieces and nephews.

As per her request, Carol will be cremated.

A graveside service will be held at Davis Cemetery, Davis, WV, on November 8, 2025 at noon, with Pastor Michael Leedom, officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1:00 PM in the Shay Room at Blackwater Lodge (1584 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, WV).

In lieu of flowers, friends may honor Carol with a donation to WVU Hospice-Potomac Valley, 100 Pin Oak Lane, Keyser, WV 26726.

Address

202 Greene Street
Cumberland, MD
21502

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