Larry Dale VanGilder, 77, of French Creek, WV, died Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Grafton City Hospital in Grafton, WV. He was born October 16, 1948, in French Creek, a son of the late William and Ella Dell Smith VanGilder. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Denise Lee (Leasure) VanGilder who died on April 20, 2023; four brothers, Harold, Donald, Gene and Willis VanGilder; brother-in-law, James “Jimmy” Hilderbrand and his lifelong best friend, Mike Haddix.  He is survived by one daughter, Brittany Exline and husband Danny of Buckhannon; two sons, Shaun Peggs and husband Brian Novak of Morgantown, WV and William VanGilder of OH; one grandson, Garett Exline of Buckhannon; one granddaughter, Lindsey Exline of Buckhannon; two additional grandchildren; two brothers, Roger VanGilder and wife Patricia of Gadsden, AL and Margel VanGilder and wife Rosalee of Spencer, OH; one sister, Avanell Marie Sturgil of Salem, OH; one sister-in-law, Tasha Hilderbrand of Mingo Junction, OH; cousin Bernard VanGilder and wife Tammy of French Creek and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family members. Mr. VanGilder served in the US Army and was a Security Guard for the Mines. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching Sci-fi movies. Larry loved animals, especially his many cats and dogs, Buster and Sparky. Mr. VanGilder loved spending time with his grandchildren. Friends will be received Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 3 PM Tuesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Wease L. Day officiating. The Upshur County Honor Guard will conduct Military Honors at the funeral home. Mr. VanGilder will be cremated following the funeral services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the funeral home to assist with funeral expenses. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. 

To watch Larry's funeral service click here.

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