Wilhelmina was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late John A. and Wilhelmina F. (Hummel) Rist. She spent her elementary and grade school years in Mandarin, Florida. At 15, Wilhelmina and family moved to Huntsville, Alabama where she attended Butler High School graduating in 1955.
At the young age of 5, Wilhelmina expressed the desire, love, and talent for playing the piano. Her father took her to the Baldwin Piano Company in Cincinnati, Ohio where she picked out her own new Grand Piano. She excelled in the art of music and began performing recitals at the age of 6. She also played for her church and other social events by ten years of age.
Wilhelmina never doubted her desire to major in music, which lead her, in 1956, to The University of Chattanooga to study under Harold Cadek. Upon graduating with a Bachelors in Music, Wilhelmina attended Florida State University, earning a master's degree in Piano Performance in 1961. Prior to graduation, Wilhelmina took the summer off from her music studies to work at Redstone Arsenal, in Huntsville. There she met the love of her life, Gerald Vigee.
After finishing her studies at Florida State University, on June 17,1961 Wilhelmina and Gerald were married. Through the years, she became a beloved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was also a favorite piano teacher of countless children for over 40 years in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. Wilhelmina was an active member of multiple musical organizations, including The Birmingham Music Teachers Association. She was also an active member of the choir at Shades Valley Lutheran Church and her local chapter of P.E.O..
In retirement, Wilhelmina enjoyed her family and traveling with Gerry. Willey and Gerry took many wonderful trips to Europe and within North America, drinking wine, eating local cuisine, and learning about the history and language of each destination. Her's was a life full of love, joy and faith.
She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend, Dr. Gerald Vigee. She is survived by her children, John E. Vigee (Annette), Dr. David G. Vigee (Alli), and Noelle Vigee Young (Barry), seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and too many close friends to count. Wilhelmina wanted to be remembered as a faithful believer and servant of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
A memorial service will be held at Shades Valley Lutheran Church on July 18, 2024 at 1:00 pm. Rev. Cory Lange will officiate. Internment will be at The Alabama National Cemetery.
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