Lynda Ruth (Burgess) VanderBilt

Lynda VanderBilt, 62, passed away at Geisinger Hospital in Danville after a long, brave, 8-month battle with Auto-immune induced Meningitis. She was surrounded by friends and family who will continue to live her legacy by living their lives to the fullest. 

Lynda was born on May 22nd, 1959 to her loving parents, Bill (late) and Joyce Burgess in Warren, Pennsylvania. She also is survived by her brother, Guy (Renee) Burgess. Shortly after, they made Michigan their home where she spent much of her youth. She moved back to Pennsylvania in 1987, though Michigan always had a special role in her heart where many of her best friends reside. 

In 1978, Lynda met the love of her life, her husband and best friend, Marvin VanderBilt, in Michigan where they had an instant connection that only strengthened and deepened over the years. After initially being told they couldn’t have children due to Lynda being diagnosed with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), Lynda and Marv went on to have a daughter, Jessica (Gavin) O’Brien. Jess and Lynda shared a deep bond and friendship that even when separated by proximity, their souls were deeply connected.

Lynda was a true lover of life. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her knew her infectious joy she displayed despite the many bouts with Auto-immune disorders she often faced. She was a walking example of her love for God that extended way beyond the four doors of a church building. She epitomized the concept of altruism; giving to others so freely brought her so much joy and she never expected anything in return. She enjoyed meeting people from all walks of life, always having an open mind and an open heart. She had an incredible ability to form connections wherever she went. 

Lynda found such joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was most at peace outside and going on adventures. She enjoyed feeding her birds, loved wildlife, and hiking with her friends and family. One of her biggest joys was traveling to the Outer Banks every year to enjoy the serenity of the ocean and to have invaluable family time. She spent time traveling to California, Michigan, and Washington; her heart yearned to see all the beauty this world has to offer. 

Though the world of the friends and family of Lynda VanderBilt has been dimmed with her passing, Lynda would undoubtedly want the light she bestowed on everything and everyone to shine on. She truly lived by the “no day but today” philosophy and lived to inspire others to do the same.  

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm on May 29th, 2022 in Hillsgrove, PA at 2627 RT 87 (by Becky’s Ice Cream). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Gofund.me that is set up in her name. https://gofund.me/7f8edd10.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hughesville Funeral Home & Cremation Svc Inc, 5069 Route 220 Hwy, Hughesville.  To share a memory or condolence for the family please visit www.hughesvillefuneralhome.com

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