Lucinda M. (Stratton) Wilber, age 72, of Englewood, Fla., passed away peacefully at her home Friday, Oct. 7, 2022. Lucinda, known as Cindy, was born March 24, 1950 in Walton, to parents Robert and Lenora Stratton, who predeceased her. Cindy had an older sister Minya who also predeceased her, in 2003.
Cindy was interested in music at a young age, playing the piano and violin. The violin she played was made by her great-grandfather from New York City, who owned his own business. Her mother owned a ceramic studio where she taught ceramics in her home. Many classmates in Girl Scouts (Brownies) enjoyed making ceramic items. Cindy enjoyed water skiing, even owned her own motor boat, went snowmobiling with her husband and made lots of friends through her years.
Cindy graduated from Walton Central School in 1968. She and her close friend Donna Stephens received their cosmetology degrees from Edwards School of Beauty Culture, Oneonta in 1969, passing their state boards as licensed cosmetologists. They talked about moving to Florida and opening a beauty salon named Surfside Beauty Shop. Cindy worked for Charles Beauty Shop then later had her own shop in her home.
Cindy married Ronald Wilber Jan. 8, 1972. In 2022 they celebrated 50 years of marriage. They lived outside of Oneonta, in Emmons, until their son David was born on Aug. 9, 1977, then moved to be near her parents in Englewood, Fla. Cindy worked at the local school for a while and then pursued a degree to become a preschool teacher, which she enjoyed very much. Ron and Cindy took an active role in their son’s swimming competition; he was a great joy in their lives. She was the caretaker for her parents and helped them when was needed.
In 1997 Cindy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She fought a courageous battle to keep moving but in the last few years she had become bedridden.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband Ron, son David - the sunshine in her life, special cousin Edwin and his family, a longtime friend Donna, cousins and many friends.
There will be a committal at the Lemon Bay Dignitary Cemetery, 500 S. Indiana Avenue, Englewood, Fla., Oct. 31 at 11 a.m.
Donations may be made in memory of Cindy to The United Methodist Church Preschool, 700 East Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL 34223.
