Wilma Marie Atkinson

Wilma Marie Atkinson, Widow (Art Atkinson), beloved Sister, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Aunt, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2024. She resided in Prescott, Arizona for the past 27 years. She was born Wilma Marie Wilcox on February 1, 1933, in Winterset, Iowa. 

Wilma was known for her bubbly personality and forever smiling face, as well as those cute dimples. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Her remaining living sibling, Frances (Fran) Mullnix and her family are located in Colorado, Texas, and New York.  They will surely miss her.  

Wilma was a dedicated student and graduated from Des Moines Technical High School in 1951. She took great pride in her education and carried that dedication throughout her life.  She had 3  best friends in school, Colleen Evans, Marilyn Prendergast, and Dolores Backstrom that remained close friends throughout the years and enjoyed vacations, cruises, and game nights.  Her passion for learning continued as she embraced every opportunity to expand her knowledge into the computer age as a bookkeeper, office manager, medical receptionist and volunteer. 

She married Richard Boylan, her high school sweetheart later that year (1951).  They had 3 children Ronald Boylan (Connie), Rhonda Johnston (Mark), and Robin Wright. She loved her children unconditionally and always provided them with unwavering support. 

After her divorce, she married Art Atkinson in 1964, who had Rick and Rodney Atkinson from a previous marriage to add to the mix.  Together they lived a fulfilling life filled with love, travel, and family.  They cherished each other's company and shared countless memories together.  She always mentioned how Art made her feel secure and truly loved.  Together they designed and built a beautiful home on the lake of the Ozarks.  They lived in Iowa, Nebraska, Arkansas, Missouri, and then Arizona.  

Wilma was preceded in death by Art Atkinson, son Ronald Boylan, grandson Wesley Wright, and sister, Betty Lou Updike, and two other siblings, Janet who died from whooping cough at Age 2, and Sonny who died at birth.  Wilma leaves behind many, many surviving family members who will continue to cherish her memory.  She really enjoyed all of Art's family who had a large reunion in Iowa every year.

Wilma's circle of friends extended far beyond her family.   Her church family at Prescott Community Church loved knowing that whenever they needed something done at the church, they all knew who to call-- Wilma and Art.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on April 13, 2024, at Grace Church, 2010 AZ-89, Chino Valley, AZ 86323.  The service will begin at 2:00 PM and conclude at 4:00 PM.  This gathering will be an opportunity for family, friends, and acquaintances to come together and honor the beautiful life that Wilma lived.

Wilma's passing came as a result of her valiant battle with Alzheimer's disease. Although her battle was long and challenging, she faced it with unwavering strength and grace.  Her resilience throughout her illness served as an inspiration to all those who witnessed her journey with an up-beat take on life.  Whenever she was told she needed to move, go here or there, or go to a Doctor, her reply was "You do what you have to do."  She had such an acceptance of the cards dealt to her in life.  It is a testament to her never-wavering faith in God. 

Wilma Marie Atkinson's departure from this world leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved her.  While we grieve the loss of such an incredible soul, we also celebrate the immeasurable impact she had on our lives.

May Wilma's radiant spirit continue to live on in our memories, reminding us to cherish each moment and find joy in even the smallest of things. She will forever be remembered and treasured as a shining example of love, grace, and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to Alzheimer's Research at "Hope for a Cure for Alz" by using the link below.