Judy Sharon Van Gilder Dover, 81, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Wendover Hospice House. She was born on August 1, 1944, in Owings, West Virginia, to the late Jesse Andrew Van Gilder and Laotia Bessie Van Gilder. Judy was blessed with an older sister, Sue, and an older brother, Paul, both of whom preceded her in death. She met the love of her life, the late Bill Dover, at church while he was stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., serving in the United States Army. Their love story blossomed into a devoted marriage of 56 years built on faith, friendship, and service to others. After Bill completed his service in the United States Army, they made their home in Shelby, North Carolina, where Bill worked for the Shelby Daily Star. Judy was employed by Dixie Industrial before she and Bill founded their own business.In 1979, Judy and Bill founded Dover Imprints, a family-owned business they faithfully operated together until 2018. Judy played an essential role in the company's success through her dedication to sales, marketing, and promotion, helping the business grow through her quiet but warm personality, genuine care for others, and strong work ethic. In their early years of marriage, Judy and Bill were active members of Second Baptist Church. Judy served as President of the WMU Baptist Women's Ministry. Later, they became active members of Elizabeth Baptist Church, where they faithfully worshiped and participated in senior adult missions, Bible studies, and church activities. Judy was especially devoted to the afternoon Baptist Women's Missions and the Christian Family Sunday School Class, where her faith, friendship, and servant's heart were a blessing to many.

A compassionate servant, Judy generously volunteered with the Neal Patrick Senior Center in Shelby, the Greater Cleveland Baptist Association, and the Hospice Thrift Store. Her life's mission was to help others. She faithfully visited shut-ins, served on the Benevolence Committee, sent encouraging cards, shopped for those in need, and quietly met the needs of countless friends and neighbors.

Judy enjoyed cheering for the North Carolina Tar Heels, especially watching basketball and football games with her husband, whom she affectionately called "My Sweet William." Together, they shared a deep love for God's Word and spent many hours reading and studying the Bible. Judy was a devoted Christian wife whose faith guided every aspect of her life.

Those who knew Judy will remember her sweet, loving, and quiet spirit. She greeted everyone with a warm smile and an encouraging word and was always ready to support others with genuine compassion. She had a joyful laugh and a cheerful attitude that brightened the lives of those around her.

She treasured her friendships and considered Carol Ledford as a sister. She shared a special friendship with Carolyn Reed and was also blessed with the cherished friendship of Becky Cook and Cheryl Lail.

Judy is survived by her sisters-in-law, Nanci Ellis, Carol Ledford, Joyce Whitten, and Mary Wilson (Ronnie), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Judy's favorite Bible passage was Proverbs 3:5-6, a verse that reflected the faith by which she lived:

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." -- Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

Judy's legacy is one of unwavering faith, selfless service, kindness, and love. She leaves behind an example of Christian devotion that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. While her earthly journey has ended, her family and friends rejoice in the promise that she is now at home with her Savior and reunited with her "Sweet William."

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Elizabeth Baptist Church.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Elizabeth Baptist Church with Dr. Rit Varriale officiating.

Burial will follow the service in the Elizabeth Baptist Church Cemetery

Memorials may be made to the Baptist Women's Mission Group of Elizabeth Baptist Church, 301 North Post Road, Shelby, NC 28150.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory.