Walter Boyd Oliver, known affectionately as Boyd, passed away peacefully at his home in New Hope, PA, on January 13, 2024, at the age of 75. Born on May 22, 1948, in McKeesport, PA, Boyd’s journey was one marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering spirit of adventure.
Boyd graduated from McKeesport High School and Grove City College. He went on to excel as a Certified Public Accountant and began his career at Price Waterhouse. He then went into corporate auditing at Kinney Shoe Corporation where he was honored with the Executive Leadership Award. This was followed by a tenure at F.W. Woolworth Company in Manhattan. Boyd’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to New Hope, Bucks County, where he owned and managed Emberglo Gifts on Mechanic Street for 11 years. His business acumen continued in his role as a Comptroller for Rago Auctions.
Beyond professional endeavors, Boyd put his heart into community service. He devoted seven years as Treasurer for FACT Bucks County and spent several years volunteering at Fisherman’s Mark, aiding in food distribution during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Boyd’s zest for life was evident in his love for travel. Alongside his beloved husband, Tom, Boyd embarked on many journeys, exploring the enchantment of Europe, the vibrant cultures of Morocco, South Africa, Australia, and Tahiti, and embracing the tranquility and beauty of Cedar Key, Florida, and Palm Springs, California.
Boyd was an avid fan of General Hospital since its very beginning, April Fool’s Day 1963 - 60 years! He watched General Hospital followed by Judge Judy every day. He also loved Schitt’s Creek and Law and Order. Nobody loved a parade more than Boyd. He even dressed up for FACT Bucks County in New Hope’s pride parade and was a big supporter of all the local pride events.
Boyd and Tom enjoyed 46 years together, a testament to their enduring love and companionship. Boyd’s memory is cherished by Tom; sister-in-law Janis Richards; nieces Valerie and Allison Richards; cousins Johanna Winchester and Dru Pearson; step-sisters Sue Frankenstein and Nancy Korczynski; step-niece Amanda Frankenstein and surrogate son Robert Bozanovic; and a community of lifelong friends from all over the world that were considered family and brought immense joy to his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Boyd Oliver, Sr. and Naomi Oliver, and his cherished English setters, Iris, Lily, Scout, and Daisy.
A Celebration of Boyd’s Life will be held in New Hope in the spring with details to be announced. Additionally, a graveside service will be held at Mount Vernon Cemetery in McKeesport, PA also in the spring.
Memorial donations to honor Walter Boyd Oliver can be made to the Temple Lung Center (general fund). Boyd’s quality of life with COPD was greatly improved by the care and treatment that he received from this wonderful place. Online donations can be made at www.Giving.temple.edu/lungcenteror checks can be mailed to Temple Lung Center, P.O. Box 2890, New York, NY 10116-2890 with a note mentioning Walter Boyd Oliver.
Boyd, you have fought the good fight. Rest in peace. Farewell.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Van Horn-McDonough Funeral Home, 21 York Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530.
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