Lucille L. Wilson

Lucille Love Wilson, 97, of Winamac, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Friday, June 17. 

Lucy was born on Nov. 16, 1918, in Francesville, to the late John “JC” and Augusta Werner. She graduated from Francesville High School in 1936 and attended Purdue University. 

Lucy married her Francesville sweetheart, Lester Wilson, on Nov. 26, 1943, in New York City, while he was on leave from the Navy. After 69 years of marriage, Lester preceded her in death on Dec. 14, 2012.

Lucy was known for her strong work ethic which began in early childhood and continued throughout her life. As a young girl growing up in the Depression, she could be seen pulling a milk wagon throughout Francesville, often contributing her earnings for family needs. After high school, she worked in the Medaryville Garment Factory, saving money for college. As a married couple, Lucy and Lester settled in Winamac and raised their four children. At age 50, Lucy learned to drive, making it possible for her to attend Kokomo Business College. Upon completing her degree, she began a second career in accounting, working first at St. Joseph Hospital and then Winamac Steel.

Lucy was a member of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Winamac, as well as the Tri Chi Literary Club. She was an excellent seamstress, and also enjoyed flower gardening, volunteer work and visits from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

Survivors include her sons Jeffrey L. [Nancy] Wilson of Sarasota, Florida, and Gary B. [Cate] Wilson of Cicero; daughter Judy L. [David] Ross of DeLand, Florida; daughter-in-law Sheila Wilson of Warsaw; 22 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents John “JC” and Augusta (Grieger) Werner; husband Lester L. Wilson; son Fredrick J. Wilson; sister Mabel Werner; twin brother Lewis Werner; brother Clarence “Jake” Werner; and sisters: Marjory Warnell, Mildred “Mid” Hardy and Melba Sprinkle. 

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 22, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m., Thursday, June 23, at Frain Mortuary, with a graveside service to follow at Roseland Cemetery, Francesville.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Luke Lutheran Church, Winamac.

Online condolences may be offered in the guestbook at www.frainmortuary.com.

(Pulaski County Journal — June 22, 2016)