Wilma's life began February 24, 1949 in Hackleburg, Alabama. She spent most of her life in the Southwest Michigan area where she worked for Whirlpool, cleaned houses, and tended bar at Babe's Lounge for several years. In her younger years Wilma enjoyed bowling, dancing, and singing karaoke. She looked forward to playing bingo with the residents at Tri-City Village in Watervliet but her greatest joy was spending time with her family. Wilma loved to cook and bring her family together to enjoy a meal.