Winifred Garst

Winifred Long "Winnie" Garst of Hagerstown, Maryland, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, at Star Community.

Born on November 25, 1942, in Harrisonburg, Virginia, to Bessie Long Garst and Herbert Samuel Garst, Winnie grew up on the family farm in Bridgewater, Virginia, where she spent her early years surrounded by the love of her parents and her sister Carolyn. She attended the Church of the Brethren and Bridgewater Elementary School, where she began her education in the close-knit community she called home.

During her childhood, Winnie became disabled due to an unknown cause that prevented her from completing her education and living independently. The family now believes she had Rett syndrome, a rare neurological disorder affecting development and communication. Despite these challenges, she lived a full and joyful life, lovingly cared for by her devoted parents in the tranquil farm setting where she found comfort and peace.

As an adult, Winnie attended a day program for developmentally disabled adults in Broadway, Virginia, where she received therapy to increase her independence in daily activities. When her parents aged, she became a resident in the Pleasant View group home, continuing to receive compassionate care and support. After her parents passed away, she moved to Star Community (formerly Anita Lynne Home) in Hagerstown, Maryland to be closer to her sister.

At Star, whose country setting was reminiscent of her family farm, Winnie thrived in an environment designed to celebrate and support individuals with disabilities. The campus offered a full schedule of activities and vocational programs, and she was cared for by skilled and attentive staff members who became like family. She lived in a home with three other adults, forming bonds and sharing daily life together. She participated actively in the horticulture program, tending plants and enjoying the therapeutic work of nurturing growing things. Upon retirement, she continued her engagement through the day program, always eager to participate in the community outings and regular trips and vacations that Star organized. Winnie enjoyed visits and FaceTime calls from her sister Carolyn, maintaining their close connection.

Throughout her life, Winnie touched the hearts of all who knew her with her gentle spirit and quiet presence. She found joy in simple pleasures and brought light to those who cared for her.

She is survived by her loving sister, Carolyn Garst Dinst; two nieces, Elaine Dinst Ebaugh and Diane Dinst Distefano; two great-nieces, Dara Janelle Distefano, and Danielle Distefano Sammartino; and a great-nephew, Stuart Randall Oates, Jr. She was predeceased by her parents, Bessie Long Garst and Herbert Samuel Garst, who devoted their lives to her care and happiness.

Winnie was laid to rest at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Bridgewater, Virginia, next to her parents, in the community where her journey began. A memorial service will be held at a future time in Bridgewater, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Star Community, 13757 Broadfording Church Road, Hagerstown, MD 21740, to support their work uplifting people with disabilities.