Wilma J. Millard

Wilma J. Millard, 85, of Jensen Beach, FL, passed away Saturday July 14, 2018 at home.

She was born March 24, 1933 in Follansbee, WV, a daughter of the late Harry and Dorothy (Evans) Poole. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David L. Millard, III on October 25, 2017; a daughter, Gail Handy in 2009; and a sister, Ellen Campbell.

Wilma was a beloved Mom, wife, Grandma, Aunt, Great Grandma and friend, beloved by all who knew her for her sparkling personality, compassion and love of fun.

Wilma was a soprano!  She grew up singing with her mother Dorothy, a contralto, her sister Ellen, an alto, and Dad Harry, a baritone.  Road trips were fun!  She loved to sing in the choir, and would burst into songs from her childhood whether you liked it or not!  

Wilma was an accomplished RN, (Ohio Valley 1953) and practiced for 40 years, both as a floor nurse and in the mission field in Rhodesia.  Doctors in Gwelo loved and respected her, as she would admit patients, make a diagnosis, start treatment, and let them sleep uninterrupted until morning.  On the other hand, her 4 kids would drive her crazy by fighting or making noise when she was trying to sleep after a long night call.  Sorry, Mom!  Son Dan credits his medical career largely to her influence. 

Wilma was the wife of a preacher, and they were missionaries in Rhodesia, in south central Africa.  Because of them, her kids saw much of the world during their formative years, and grew up Rhodesians.  Happy days!

She loved jigsaw puzzles and card games of all kinds, and by her own admission was an accomplished cheat; much hilarity ensued when her friends caught her at it!

Wilma loved lobster bisque loaded with sherry, Chinese food, and margaritas as big as her head!  She loved costume jewelry, the gaudier, the better!

Wilma will be sorely missed!  Requiescat in pace, Mom!

Surviving are a son, Dr. Dan Millard and his wife Patricia Ponder of Daphne, Alabama and their three daughters, Jessica, Erin, and Katy; a son, David Lee (Susie) Millard III of Brilliant and their children, David Lee IV, Jeremy and Amanda; a daughter, Linda Millard of Port St. Lucie, FL; and his late daughter Gail’s son, Jonathan Millard. Wilma also has twelve great-grandchildren. 

In following with Wilma’s wishes there will be no services. Private burial at Oakgrove Cemetery in Follansbee, WV.

Arrangements were entrusted to Wheeler Funeral Homes.

Offer condolences at www.wheelerfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wilma J. Millard, please visit our floral store.