Wilma Margaret Pickens

Wilma Margaret Pickens, 94, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, volunteer, salesman, friend, "Blondie" to her dear late husband, Harold; "Grandma Gifts" to her grandchildren, rallied for one last joyful Christmas with her family before joining Harold in heaven with Jesus on January 12, 2010. Born in Oklahoma City on September 28, 1915, the second oldest of four daughters, to William J. and Kathryn Milford Giles, Wilma was an indomitable spirit who inspired everyone she knew with her joie de vivre and her determination to succeed, no matter the obstacles. Wilma attended Sacred Heart, and graduated from Capitol Hill High School, serving as captain of the debate team. She was a driving force in the establishment of Girl Scouts of America in Oklahoma City and later co-authored a song, "Mamie," which was performed at Dwight D. Eisenhower's Inaugural Ball. She was a communion minister at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, a precinct captain at the polls, a perennial homeroom mother and president of the Oklahoma and National Society of Professional Engineers' Auxiliaries. Working as a giftware sales rep for the George Good Company, and later for Zoltan Lefton, she could sell ice cubes to Eskimos and was national salesman of the year, much-sought after as a sales rep, even after she suffered a massive stroke at the age of 82. For Wilma never gave up, and she defied doctors' predictions that she would never work again. Steadfastly honoring their covenant of marriage, Wilma and Harold taught their three children and their spouses, their children and their children's children the power and the meaning of love by their fierce devotion to one another and the importance of love and laughter, providing an abundance of both. Their favorite weekend retreat was a cabin at Lake Tenkiller dubbed "Pickens' Tick Haven." Bidding Wilma farewell in this life are her children and their spouses: Harold L. Pickens, Jr. and Barbara; Nancy and Mike Berland and Carol and Carl P. Smith; grandchildren Vickie Sublette and Bob Sublette; Robert L. Baker, Jr. and Nancy; Lisa Canterberry; Dr. Gregory A. Berland and Amy; Carson C. Smith and Sarah, and Caroline O'Neal and Dr. Kevin O'Neal. Wilma leaves behind great grandchildren Spencer Baker, Sam Baker and Cameron Canterberry and the most gifted caregiver in the world, Jasmine Clayton. When her family gathered in her home to celebrate Christmas, Wilma somehow found the ability to tell each one, "I'll love you always." Mom, Grandma, Wilma, you will forever be in our hearts.