Wilma R. Wright

Wilma R. Wright

West Chester

Wilma R. Wright, age 98, of rural West Chester, Iowa, passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024, at Washington County Hospitals & Clinics surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2025, at the United Presbyterian Church with Pastor Erin Kaye officiating. The family will be present to receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Interment will take place at the Elm Grove Cemetery in Washington. Memorials have been established for the West Chester Heritage Association. Online condolences may be sent for Wilma’s family at www.jonesfh.com.

Wilma was born October 18, 1926, at her family home in rural Washington County, the daughter of David Harry and Anna Francis (Gerdes) Kleese. She attended West Chester School through 10th grade, and completed her high school education at Keota, graduating in 1944. Wilma was united in marriage to Wilbur Wright on June 23, 1946, in Washington, Iowa.

Prior to her marriage, Wilma worked at McDaniel’s Drug Store, the Washington County Treasurer’s Office, and the National Bank of Washington. She was a devoted member of the United Presbyterian Church where she served as a Deacon, and was actively involved in the church circles and book club, and helped with many luncheons. She was also a dedicated member of the Order of Eastern Star, holding the position of Worthy Matron, and a member of the Friendly Circle Neighborhood Club. Wilma enjoyed gardening, sewing, and baking her famous “Grandma Cookies.” Her life and love was taking care of family and helping on the farm.

She will be missed by her children: daughter Rita Phipps of Washington, Iowa; daughter Karla Maxwell of Washington, Iowa; and son Joe Wright of Rural West Chester, Iowa; eight grandchildren: Orion Wright, Brian Phipps, Nathan Wright, Aby Reitzel, Michelle Brooks, Alicia Maxwell, Brandon Maxwell, and Alex Maxwell; seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wilbur, in 1997; son, Fred Wright, son, Steven Wright, and son-in-law, Sonny Phipps; and brother, Elwood Kleese.