Obituary

Wilma Joan Holmes

1938 - 2013 | Obituary

Wilma Joan Holmes, 74, of Newton, entered eternal life to be with her Savior on September 10, 2013 while in the arms of her beloved husband of over 50 years.  Born on October 9, 1938, in Meade, Kansas, she was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and a brother.

She graduated from Meade High in 1956 and married Richard Holmes, also from Meade, in 1957. They were blessed with three daughters, Diana Bellin of Medford, Oklahoma; Carol Hammer (husband Tim) of Pittsford, New York; and Nancy Johnson (husband Todd) of Mulvane, Kansas.

She was a vocal advocate for anyone who ever knew her, and especially the many children that were taught and tutored by her in her 37 years at Hesston Elementary School.

Her spirit is carried on by her three daughters, four grandchildren (Jeremy Bellin, Jamie Underwood, Jordan Bellin, Natalie Hammer), three great-grandchildren (Ashlynn Bellin, Tace Bellin, Matthew Underwood), three surviving siblings (Katherine Borger, Elsie Schaben, Richard Blehm of Meade, Kansas), extended family and numerous friends.

Wilma never met a stranger and often talked for hours with someone she just met. She 'walked with God.' He was her strength and her shield. Her faith was her motivator… and she did a lot. Her jobs on earth were many: Christian, Wife, Mother, Daughter, Grandmother, Aunt, Baby rocker, Teacher, Friend, Choir member, Cook, Receptionist, Fund raiser, List maker, Prayer Chain leader, Antique lover, Card maker. She was always there when she was needed.

She found ways to savor the little things in life. Things like turning over pennies found tails up so the next person could find it heads up, for pennies found heads up meant God sent you an angel to remind you to pray. We are sure she will be sending pennies and relishing in the ability to watch over and care for her numerous loved ones on earth while being with her Lord in heaven.

Friends may call on Friday, September 13 between 5 and 9 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Petersen Family Funeral Home, 215 N. Main, Newton. Please join her family in a celebration of her life at 2 p.m. Saturday, September 14 at Zion Lutheran Church, 225 South Poplar St., Newton. Burial will take place on Sunday at 2 p.m. at Graceland Cemetery, Meade.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Zion Lutheran Church, Relay for Life, or Hesston Senior Center.