Hilda A. Witherite

1946 - 2025

Hilda A. Witherite

April 18, 1946 - March 1, 2025

Bellefonte, Pennsylvania - Hilda A. Witherite, 78, of rural Bellefonte, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. She was born in Lock Haven, on April 18, 1946, to the late Chester and Ruth Caris Wert. On October 3, 1970, she married Harry Martin, who preceded her in death on March 10, 2002. On December 2, 2005, she married her beloved husband Robert M. Witherite, Jr., who survives at home.

Hilda graduated from Sugar Valley High School in 1964 and then graduated from the Practical Nursing Program in Bellefonte. She started her career as a licensed practical nurse at Willowbank Hospital then moved to Brookline Village where she retired. Hilda was a very caring person who thought of others more than herself. She spent many hours helping others in many ways after retiring.

She also enjoyed doing the word jumble in the newspaper and watching game shows, especially Jeopardy and Family Feud with Steve Harvey. Hilda was a very active member of the Pleasant Gap United Methodist Church until her illness prevented her from doing so. She was a past chairman of the Bellefonte Community Lunch Program, a past treasurer of the United Methodist Women for many years, and she was also the funeral dinner chairman, cooking many meals for grieving families. She was known for her cooking and baking skills; her cherry berry pies and apple cakes were frequently requested.

In addition to her husband, Bob; she is survived by two children, Gregory Martin (Alissa), Andrew Martin (Jess); a stepdaughter, Sarah Witherite (Justin); by her grandchildren: Samuel Martin, Brandt Martin, Aiden Martin and Emmett Martin. Also surviving are three sisters, Evelyn Muthler (Keith), Miriam Caris, Eleanor Caris (Karl Kline); sister-in-law, Yuricho Caris; and her cousin and best friend, Beverly Martin.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband Harry; and a brother, Omie Caris.

The family would like to thank Geisinger and UPMC hospice for their assistance in allowing Hilda to pass in peace and comfort with grace and dignity. They were a blessing to Hilda and her family.

There will be a public viewing held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 10 until 11 a.m., at Pleasant Gap United Methodist Church at 179 S. Main Street, Pleasant Gap. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m., with Pastor Carrie Granche officiating. Burial will be held private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Hilda's memory to Pleasant Gap United Methodist Church (general fund), 179 S. Main Street, Pleasant Gap, PA 16823. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. Bellefonte.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.wetzlerfuneralhome.com