Wilma Jean Cardenas

Wilma Jean Cardenas

October 23, 1940 - September 26, 2025

Wilma Jean Cardenas, beloved matriarch, caregiver, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on October 23, 1940, in Circleville, Ohio, Wilma was the daughter of Mildred Russell and Lloyd Dumm. The second oldest of five siblings, she grew up a spirited tomboy-never afraid to get her hands dirty, always ready to stand up for those she loved.

Known affectionately as “everybody’s mother,” Wilma spent her life nurturing generations of children and family members. She had a gift for making people feel seen, cared for, and deeply loved. Her devotion as a caregiver and her fierce independence shaped not only her own children but also countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren whose lives she touched. She taught her family the values of hard work, resilience, and standing up for what’s right.

Wilma’s personality was as vibrant as it was steadfast-family often joked that she was a “fierce firecracker” who “didn’t take no nonsense,” and her quick wit and strength left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughters Rachel (Steve) Rinehart, Debbie (Karl) Phipps, Sherie (Jeff) Shaver, and her son Raymond (Lynelle) Cardenas. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Paul Cardenas & great-grandchildren Dylan Phipps and Gabrial Davis.

All of Wilma’s siblings also preceded her in death, leaving a lifetime of memories and a legacy of family unity.

Wilma shared a lifelong friendship with her best friend Susie Walls, who also preceded her in death. They were devoted friends and bingo partners whose bond spanned a lifetime.

Wilma’s legacy continues through her grandchildren Tiya (Adam) Skaggs, Teresa (Jeff) Webb, Sara (Jerod) Lambert, Justin (Alexander) Cardenas, Samantha (Chris) Davis, Amanda (Chris) Stanley, Zachary Cardenas, Kayla (John) Gregory, Spencer Phipps, and Arlo Cardenas as well as her many great-grandchildren and great-great- grandchildren who brought endless joy to her life.

Her hugs were legendary-strong, heartfelt, and full of unconditional love. When Wilma embraced you, you knew without question how much she cared.

Wilma Jean Cardenas leaves behind a family bound together by the lessons she taught and the love she so generously gave. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Honoring Wilma’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Her family looks forward to sharing details soon about a memorial gathering to celebrate her life.