Effie Mae Wilder

Effie Mae Wilder, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, in Manchester, Kentucky. She was born on September 29, 1963, in Hyden, Kentucky, the beloved daughter of Boyd and Sally Stidham.

Known for her kindness, steadfast love for family, and unwavering faith, Effie’s life was a testament to compassion and devotion. Throughout her years, she was a guiding presence and a source of strength for those blessed to know her. Her warmth, gentle spirit, and embrace of family traditions created a legacy that will be treasured by all whose lives she touched. 

She worked as a CNA at Home Health in Manchester, Kentucky for 25+ years and had a passion for caring for others. Never meeting a stranger, Effie always made friends wherever she went. While she wasn't caring for her patients, she would spend time with her grandbabies and family. Effie loved doing yard work in her flower beds, mowing grass or visiting local churches. 

Effie leaves behind her loving and devoted husband, Melvin Wilder, son: Jamie Wilder (Megan), one whom she loved as a daughter: Cindy Smith, brother and special sister-in-law: James and Barbara Stidham, Sisters: Ollie Couch and Evelyn Hicks, cousin whom she loved as a sister: Stacy Crabtree Guerrero; brothers-in-law: beloved mother-in-law, Geneva Sizemore, Shawn Sizemore, Gordon Brumley, Ricky Brumley, Hoylee Brumley, Anderson Hicks; Sisters-in-law: Lisa Brumley and Mildred Brumley; nieces and nephews: Clint and Anna Couch, Velma Couch, Diane Couch, Jonathan Hicks; Special nieces and nephews: Stephen and Heather Hensley, George and Tosha Smallwood, Adrianna and Dusty Henson, Dalton and Lexi Stidham. 

As a grandmother, Effie was a source of unconditional love and joy for her grandchildren: Hayden, Karleigh, and Amelia Wilder, as well as Brailyn, Peyton, and Aiden Smallwood. Her pride in their accomplishments and her nurturing guidance will remain a part of their lives forever. 

In addition to her family, Effie also leaves behind special friends: Diane and Robin Combs; Zetta, Alene, and Carrie Bowling; Tonya Davidson and Randy; Richard Jr. Davidson; Brittany, Wendy and their children whom she loved. 

Effie held dear the memory of those who preceded her in death: parents: Boyd and Sally Stidham; father- and mother-in-law: Robert and Mae Collins; daughter: Rhonda Wagers; step-daughter: Rhoda Wilder, and others who preceded her in death: father -in -law,Duane Sizemore,  Maude Brumley, Virginia Couch (McKinney) and Michael Sizemore. In addition to those who precede her in death, she is reunited with a precious grandchild lost during pregnancy. 

Effie’s passing leaves a profound sense of loss in the hearts of all who knew her, but her vibrant spirit, her loving nature, and the values she instilled continue to resonate through the lives of her many loved ones.

Effie’s legacy is one of love, faith, and quiet strength. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.

Family and friends are invited to join for visitation on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at Hal’s Fork Holiness Church, 32539 US-421, Bear Branch, KY 41714. The funeral service will be held at the same location on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., as the community gathers to honor and remember Effie Mae Wilder’s remarkable life.

VISITATION: TUESDAY, JULY 14, 2026 STARTING AT 5PM AT THE HAL'S FORK HOLINESS CHURCH IN BEAR BRANCH, KY

FUNERAL: WEDNESDAY, JULY 15, 2026 AT 2PM AT THE CHURCH

OFFICIATING MINISTERS: JAMES MCCALL, RYAN OSBORNE, TODD HICKS, AND PAUL MITCHELL

INTERMENT: ESTEP CEMETERY IN BIG CREEK, KY