Obituary of Ernestine O. Nigh

Ernestine O. Nigh, 95, of Fairmont departed this life on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. She was born in Wallace, WV on October 27, 1927, a daughter of the late Rev. Dr. J. William Bonner and Ovah B. Bonner. She is survived by her sister, June Eddy of Fairmont, two daughters-in-law, Kathleen Nigh of Fairmont and Rebecca Nigh of Parkersburg, four grandchildren, Jessica A. Hickman (J.T.) of Parkersburg, John C. Nigh (Mandi) of Fairmont, Emily A. Nigh of Raleigh, North Carolina, and James H. Nigh (Kelee) of Parkersburg. She is also survived by great grandchildren, Mitchell, Macey, Phillip, and Cecelia, step great grandchildren, Brady and Taylor, step great great grandchild, Delayney, her niece and great nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Ernestine was preceded in death by her husband, David M. Nigh, two sons Mark D. Nigh and John A. Nigh, a brother, John Bonner, great granddaughter, Julia K. Nigh, and a nephew, John W. Bonner. She was raised in Bridgeport before moving to Fairmont where she attended Fairmont High School. Later she graduated from Fairmont State College. Those who knew Ernestine would describe her as exceptionally intelligent, strong, creative, and opinionated, and as an unconditionally loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, neighbor, and friend. Ernestine was a Christian by faith and loved being active in church. Raised as the daughter of a preacher, her faith in God was very important to her, and got her through many difficult times throughout her life. Ernestine enjoyed working as a teacher, musician, and as a tax preparer. She helped many people in her community with their businesses and taxes for well over 60 years. She was extremely talented at playing the piano and organ. She served as the organist of the Baptist Temple for many years, and at home, was always filling her house with music for her children and grandchildren. Undoubtedly, her most valued role in life, was being a mother and grandmother. Ernestine was affectionately known to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, as Mamam. Her grandchildren will always treasure the time they had with her, as she made everyday things fun, and created games to play on the spot. The family will receive friends at Ford Funeral Home, 201 Columbia St., Fairmont, WV 26554, on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. A private committal service will be held at Shinnston Memorial Cemetery in Shinnston, WV at a later date. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.fordfuneralhomes.com.