Wilma's life journey began on October 14, 1926, in the humble setting of her parents' “dirt” farm, where she, the eldest of four siblings, learned the values of a modest life and hard work. Taking on a nurturing role within her family, she guided her younger brothers and sister as they grew, forging deep bonds with them. Her intellect shone brightly, earning her a reputation as the wisest among her siblings.
As she ventured beyond her childhood home, Wilma's path led her to various states. Fate had a plan when she embarked on a double date opposite a young man named Bill Bradley. Bill became so enamored with Wilma that he requested his friend to let him ask for a date with her. Little did she know, this chance encounter would blossom into a profound love-story. Just a year after their initial meeting, and following Bill's graduation, they decided to get married. In Bill, Wilma found the love of her life, embarking on a partnership that would last forever.
Throughout their marriage, Wilma and Bill traversed the globe due to his job, a journey she didn't always relish. Nevertheless, this nomadic lifestyle nurtured her resilience, honing her skills in negotiation and the art of haggling to get what she wanted. Wilma's dedication to her family was a dependable constant. She was their bedrock, the unwavering support they could always turn to in times of need.
Wilma was known for her extreme commitment to order and cleanliness, ensuring that her household was always meticulously arranged. Each morning, she diligently made her bed, regardless of the weather or her own health. Her passion for staying informed and engaged with the world through the news was unceasing, even when it stirred her emotions. The anchors on the screen became her companions in her quest to understand and guide the next generation.
Wilma was an ardent reader, especially drawn to captivating works of fiction that allowed her to escape into different worlds. She passed on her love for creativity to her children, who each found their unique artistic outlets, from LuAnn's quilting and sewing to Debra's painting and Carol's cross-stitching. Wilma's love extended to crafting beautiful, personalized pieces of art that her loved ones could cherish. Quilting was her true passion, and she dedicated over 30 years to perfecting this craft, creating quilts for every occasion, including those yet to be born.
Wilma's love extended to her children in the form of tailored clothing, sewing matching outfits for her eldest and teaching them the importance of attention to detail. She excelled not only as a mother but as a devoted wife, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Wilma always made time for those she loved, leaving a legacy of love, creativity, and unwavering support that will continue to inspire her family for generations to come
In addition to her parents, Wilma was preceded in death by her brother, Willard Louis Stowell.
She is survived by three daughters, Carol Adell Bradley Mello (George), Debra Jean Bradley Seagraves (Albert) and LuAnn Bradley Walden (Lyle); seven grandchildren, Maximilian Bradley Mello, Cheri Adell Seagraves Chamberlain, Albert Edward “Skip” Seagraves, IV, Chad William Seagraves, Kaitlyn Taylor “Kate” Westfall Swansson, Nicholas Bradley “Nick” Walden and Margaret Morrigan “Maggie” Walden; 10 great grandchildren, Theodore Bradley Mello, Liliana Mae Mello, Adell Eliza Chamberlain, Beckett Alan Chamberlain, Albert Edward Seagraves, V, Monaco Michelle Seagraves, Carter William Seagraves, Jackson David Seagraves, Kennedy Taylor Swansson and Crew James Swansson; and her siblings Iva Jo Stowell and Robert Dean “Bob” Stowell.
A service celebrating her life will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel with the Rev. Bob Disher officiating. The family will receive friends after the service.
