Gerald Everett “Bud” McDilda Jr., 58 of Morgantown, Brookhaven Community, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019, at his home surrounded by family.
Bud was born in Morgantown on Dec. 11, 1960, son to Gerald E. “Bud” Sr., and Theirtha “Tiny” Husk McDilda.
Bud was a graduate of Morgantown High School and worked as a machinist for over 40 years, most recently with Swanson Plating for the last 27 years as a CNC operator. Bud had a work ethic like no other. It wasn’t unusual for Bud to put in as many as 16 hours a day. He took great pride in his work and was a responsible employee. He rarely missed a shift and would never make an excuse to call off.
He was a fan of NASCAR during the Dale Earnhardt years and loved trips to Myrtle Beach. It wasn’t the sand as much as the sound of the ocean that made this one of his favorite places. Bud could be spontaneous at times, planning trips or events for a family surprise but always humble and kind. He would often pick up the checks of veterans who were dining in the same restaurant and never say a word. His kind, compassionate spirit will be missed by those who knew him best and those he never met.
In the last four years, he and his wife would load up the Trike and travel as much as 1,400 miles in a weekend. They enjoyed the open road and simply being together.
He leaves to carry on his legacy his wife of 37 years, Mrs. Donna Boyd McDilda; his favorite daughter, Kristina M. “Miss Blue” McDilda and Jeremy Monk, all of Morgantown; one son, Gerald E. “Bud” McDilda III and wife, Crystal, of Waynesboro, Va.; one granddaughter, Ms. Abigail Dawn “Abs” McDilda; and three brothers, Robert Clendenin and wife, Madelyn, of New Port News, Va., Lee Clendenin and wife, Dixie, and Bert Clendenin and wife, Kathy, all of Morgantown.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Theirtha; sister-in-law, Susan J. Kempa; and a niece, Amber D. Merrill
The family will receive friends at Fred Jenkins Funeral Home from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, and from 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 21, until the 11 a.m. services with Pastor John Brosky officiating. Bud will be laid to rest at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens.
The family would like to thank nurse, Carrie Buzzo, and the staff of WV Caring Hospice for the compassionate care given to Bud over the last several days.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to WV Caring Hospice, P.O. Box 760, Arthurdale, WV 26520.
Condolences: fredjenkinsfuneralhome.com
