SALUDA WILDER

Saluda Catherine Wilder (Saludie), 79 of Miracle, Kentucky passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

She was preceded in death by parents William Gillis Lee and Lucy Lee Cheek, as well as six brothers Jim Henry, Jow, W.G., Charles, Josh and Boyd Lee, and one sister, Hassie Brown.

Saludie is now reunited in Heaven with the love of her life Ralph Wilder.

Saludie leaves behind a special brother Billy (Gloria) Lee, who is the only surviving sibling out of nine children. She raised Billy from the time he was four months old, her only being nine years old herself. Even though they were children themselves, when their father passed, they had to seek work outside the home and raise the family. They were raised like many were during that time – a hard living – but their home was never lacking in love.

Left to cherish her memory, her daughter Regina (Ishmael) Richardson of Duffield, Virginia, one son, Jackie Wilder of Miracle, Kentucky, four grandchildren Caleb Richardson, Callie Rittenberry, Caitlyn Short and Ethan Wilder, two great-grandchildren Easton and Riley Short, and two bonus grandchildren which were her nephews, Jason and Adam Lee, whom she helped raise and loved as her own.

Saludie was a pure, kind, loving soul with a big heart. She was always willing to help others with any problem, from hemming a pair of pants to providing counseling on various topics. Saludie was extremely honest, and if you came to her with any problem, you better expect honest answers – that’s what made her so lovable and one of a kind. She loved to cook, garden and simply being outside sitting on her porch. Quilting was also one of her passions, producing stacks of beautiful handmade creations.

Deciding many years ago to give her heart to the Lord, her only prayer was to get out of that sick body and to let her go home. Her prayer was answered and she no longer is suffering with earthly pain. We can't wait to see her again.

The family wishes to express the most heartfelt gratitude and thanks to Bluegrass Navigators Hospice staff for their exceptional love and care during her illness.

The family of Saludie Wilder will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026 at Green Hills Funeral Home.

A Celebration of her life will be held at 3:00 p.m. with her family speaking memories to remember her by.

Graveside Services to immediately follow at the Cubbage Cemetery, Miracle, Kentucky.

Green Hills Funeral Home, Middlesboro, is honored to serve the Wilder family.

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