Wilma Jean Wilcoxson

Obituary: Wilma Jean Wilcoxson

Wilma Jean Wilcoxson, a beloved matriarch, entrepreneur, and pillar of the Sedona community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on December 14, 1935, in Hatton, Kentucky, Wilma's journey began on a tobacco farm before her family relocated to Arizona to alleviate her father's asthma symptoms, shaping her lifelong relationship with Arizona.

Wilma had a long history of battling cancer, which was in remission for many years before becoming aggressive towards the end of her life.

Wilma married her beloved husband, Joe Wilcoxson, at a young age, and together they built a beautiful family. Their union was blessed with four children: Shirley, Don, Denise, and Pam. Wilma was immensely proud of her family, which expanded to include eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband, Joe, who passed away in 1990.

Wilma's entrepreneurial spirit ignited at a young age and spanned over 65 years, with more than 40 of those years spent shaping the retail landscape of Sedona.

Guided by her strong work ethic and passion for retail, Wilma's journey took her from managing a store in Phoenix to co-founding multiple successful retail stores in Sedona, all under the banner of Joe Wilcox. The name "Wilcoxson" was shortened years ago for business. She had a keen eye for retail, enjoying personal interactions with customers and demonstrating her excellent taste as a buyer.

Wilma's dedication to retail extended beyond business; she was actively involved in the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce, tirelessly working to enhance tourism and promote Sedona's beauty.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Wilma enjoyed taking care of her plants, watching the finches and hummingbirds that frequented her garden, and finding tranquility while sipping coffee on her beloved porch, enjoying the beautiful Red Rock views.

Even as Wilma approached her 80s, she remained working and engaged in her businesses. She never liked being idle and enjoyed working and being active. She loved being around family and cherished holidays and moments spent with loved ones. She also had a passion for travel and embarked on many wonderful trips, often with family, from enjoying her condo in Mexico, to vacationing in a timeshare in Hawaii, and even taking cruises to Europe.

Wilma Jean Wilcoxson may have left this world, but her indomitable spirit and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. May she rest in eternal peace.

In honor of Wilma, a celebration of life will be held on April 7th from 12:30 to 3:30 pm at Up The Creek Bistro and Wine Bar.  Please RSVP no later than March 31st to pamkfreeman@gmail.com or shirleyatolley@gmail.com, so we can accommodate the space and food needed.