Mary Catherine Oldaker

Mary Catherine Oldaker, 82 of Linn, WV; departed this earthly life in the afternoon hours of Monday, April 14, 2025 at the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston, WV; following an extended illness.

She was born on September 11, 1942, in Weston, WV; daughter of the late John J.  “Pappy” and Edna B. “Tip” (Elliott) Oldaker.

Mary graduated from Weston High School in 1960 and went on to earn her degree from Glenville State College. Her life was marked by a steadfast dedication to service, community involvement, and unwavering faith.

A devout Christian and longtime member of Troy Methodist Church, Mary lived her beliefs through decades of active participation and leadership. From 1978 to 2009, she served as Director of the Gilmer County Senior Center. During her years at the Senior Center, she served as a member of the West Virginia Directors of Senior and Community Services and played a key role in organizing a statewide Senior Citizens camp. Her leadership during those years left a lasting impact on the lives of countless seniors in the community.

Mary’s commitment to service extended across many organizations. She was a devoted member of Conings CEOS and proudly served for over 55 years with the Eastern Stars, where she held the position of past Worthy Matron. Her contributions were honored when she was named the Gilmer County Folk Festival Belle in 2013 and a Democratic Woman of the Year in 2016.

Her civic engagement included active roles with the Glenville Lions Club, Region VII Aging Service and Development Council, Gilmer County Park and Recreation Board, the Red Hats Society, Martha and Mary Society, Gilmer County Farm Bureau, Gilmer County 4-H programs, FFA sponsorships, the local American Cancer Society chapter, and various Democratic groups.

Mary is survived by her brother John J. Oldaker II and wife Pat of Alum Bridge; son Steve Ellyson of Cox’s Mills and companion Patty Lowther; daughter Mary Jo Roberts of Glenville and companion Greg Somerville; grandchildren Stephanie Haney (Luke), Amanda Trimble (fiancé Eric), Brittany Ellyson, Whitney McCallister (Chris), Bryce Roberts, and Payton Roberts; great-grandchildren Gunner, Delaynie, Duke, Ellyson, Cainen, Everleigh, and Tucker; dear friend and secret-keeper Darrel Ramsey; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other wonderful family and friends she cherished.

She joins in eternal rest her parents and beloved daughter Kathy Jo Ellyson Alfred, who she missed dearly.

A funeral service will be conducted at the Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., 2 Vanhorn Drive, Glenville, WV; 26351 at 11:00 AM; Saturday, April 19, 2025 with Pastor Bryan Groves officiating. Burial will follow in the Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 2397 US Hwy 19 N, Jane Lew, WV 26378. Friends will be received from 4:00 – 7:00 PM; Friday evening at the mortuary in Glenville.

Mary ‘s legacy is one of faith-filled service that will continue to inspire all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to FBC Cancer Fund for Gilmer County, First Baptist Church of Glenville, PO Box 237, Glenville, WV 26351.

Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., is honored to assist the family of Mary Catherine Oldaker with traditional burial arrangements.