Henry J. Wilding

Henry J. Wilding of Archbald passed away peacefully March 2, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Olyphant on July 14, 1929, he was the son of Bella Hughes Wilding and David Wilding. He was a United States Army veteran of the Korean War Era. His career was an agent for Western and Southern Life Insurance. He also was a bartender at Crotti’s in Olyphant and the Scranton Country Club, Scranton.

Henry was very devoted to his faith and believed in the power of prayer, especially reciting the rosary. He was an active member of Holy Cross Parish as a weekly usher for many years. If you could not find him at Holy Cross with Fr. Scott he was at Sacred Heart in Peckville with Fr. Andy. He belonged to the American Legion in Olyphant and Shopa Davey VFW in Peckville. 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Joyce Hopkins Wilding; a son, Thomas; grandsons, Michael Wilding and Patrolman John Wilding; as well as his parents; and five siblings, Edison Wilding, Ruth Wilding, David Wilding, Bernard Wilding and Margaret Jerome.

Henry is survived by his children, Debra Priorielli and husband, Louis; Kim Nichols; Michael Wilding and wife, Phyllis; Patrick Wilding and partner, Carol; Renee Tomcho and husband, John; as well as five grandchildren, Shawn, Patrice, Tomara, Quinn and John; three great-grandchildren, Sydney, Lola Mae and Johnny. In addition, three nieces, Ruth Jerome Ciaglia, Isabel Jerome Kime, Kathleen Hopkins; and one nephew, James Hopkins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Parish at St. Patrick’s Church, Delaware Street, Olyphant. Interment will follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Blakely.

Relatives and friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Hudak-O’Shea Funeral Home, 115 Garfield Ave., Olyphant.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Ann’s Monastery Basilica, 1233 St. Ann’s St., Scranton, PA 18504.

For directions or online condolences, please visit the funeral home website.