WILMINGTON — Wilma Reed, age 78 passed away peacefully at home in the presence of family October 14, 2024. She was born March 15, 1946 in Wilmington, NC to her loving parents Wilbur and Marjorie Jackson.
Wilma was raised in Wilmington, attending New Hanover High School and UNCW before becoming a devoted elementary education teacher, wife and mother.
Wilma enjoyed dancing, boating, laughing, and being left-handed and was sure to share her humor, interests and time with others. She had a sweet tooth for decadent, rich, chocolate desserts – plus an unusual attachment to M&M’s and ice cream. Despite this and her talents as a home-maker, she was not fond of the kitchen or cooking and was quick to encourage anyone to ‘take-over.’ Instead, she had a passion for primitive antiques and decorating her home and was also quick to help friends and family with her talents. It was important to Wilma, when people came into her home, that they felt peace and love.
Wilma had a similar passion for teaching. She was dedicated to her students and spoke fondly of them through the years. It was an incredible honor for her when she was awarded “Teacher of the Year” for her work in New Hanover County, and thought it was as much a reflection on the wonderful boys and girls she taught. But most of all Wilma loved her faith and her family. She was a dedicated Marine Corps spouse, supporting her husband and children through the moves, the long deployments, absences, and the daily needs.
She was dedicated to her faith and love for her Savior, Jesus Christ, both serving and sharing her testimony. She loved her church: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and her favorite Bible verse was Proverbs 3:5-6 – “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.”
Wilma is survived by her husband Bruce, their children Mark, Kimberly, Annie, Jeff, and Brent (Nikki), 5 grandchildren, her brother Wayne, as well as numerous extended family. She is predeceased by her first child Richard (1971), or Ricky as he was affectionately called.
We, the family, would like to thank everyone for their many, many acts of kindness through these last several years. Whether you prayed, cooked, cleaned, cared for, entertained and supported, we are very grateful for your outpouring of love as Wilma battled her Dementia illness.
The family will hold a private, graveside service at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, gifts should be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Please leave online condolences for the family here.
