Wilma (Willie) Meredith O’Connell, a beloved mother and grandmother, loving wife, lifelong friend, devoted daughter and sister, and fearless cowgirl, passed away on February 6th, 2026.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2026 at Grace Church in Wichita Falls.
Willie built a life rich in love and kindness. She shared a deep, enduring union with her husband Kevin, filled with mutual support and joy. As a mother, she loved unconditionally and was nurturing, kind-hearted, and wise in raising her children, Luke, AR, and Ali Meredith, with compassion and teaching them the beauty of caring for others. She was the best grandmother to her two grandbabies, Porter and Faye.
She was the true embodiment of a Georgia country girl, and her home was the definition of southern hospitality and warmth. Anyone who visited was guaranteed to be greeted with a smile and never left with an empty stomach. Willie was truly a world-class cook who loved to serve others. She won many ribbons for various dishes from the Texas State Fair.
Willie always surrounded herself with those she loved and never saw an animal she didn’t care for. As a young adult, she was a competitive Equestrian rider with her first horse, Peter. Peter even later went on to train with the U.S Olympic team. After graduating high school in Columbus, GA, where she was born and raised, Willie rode for the equestrian team at William Woods University. After 2 years of enduring cold weather, she decided to move back south and transfer to The University of Alabama, where she graduated and became a lifelong member of The Tide.
Willie’s greatest passions were horses and animal rescue. Over her lifetime, she rescued approximately 60 horses, giving them healing, dignity, and a safe haven. An avid rider, she formed profound bonds with these gentle creatures and spent countless hours in the saddle, finding peace on the trails. Her land was a strict no-hunting sanctuary where all animals—horses, dogs, cats, wildlife—were protected and loved unconditionally. Willie’s compassion extended to every living being, reflecting her gentle, generous spirit.
She is survived by her beloved husband (Kevin), children (Luke, A.R., & Ali), grandchildren (Porter, Faye), 4 older sisters (Mary, Bonnie, Claire, & Kathleen), extended family, and a wide circle of dear friends whose lives she forever brightened. She was predeceased by her precious baby girl (Kate) and her mother and father (Wilma & Dr. Luther Roberts).
She was a shining light in our lives. She was a truly strong, kind-hearted, selfless, and compassionate woman. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will never fade.
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