Wilma Craig, musician, entertainer and kind-hearted family woman, passed away on Friday, Jan. 26, 2018, in Fort Wayne’s Lutheran Hospital. She was 66 years old.
Although many knew her as “Wilma Dee,” the name under which she performed, she was born Wilma Grace Craig on July 20, 1951, in Warsaw. Her father, Erman Bays, and mother, Grace Arnett Bays, preceded her in passing.
Wilma graduated from Pierceton High School and attended college in Fort Wayne where she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Wilma was married to Jody Craig on March 14, 1985.
A musician and entertainer, Wilma spent 26 years playing guitar, bass and banjo in Nashville, Tenn. She performed at the Grand Ole Opry and played with Travis Tritt, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams Jr. and Dolly Parton during her years as a performer. She would continue her musical outreach at home in Warsaw where she enjoyed working with children and putting on benefits for those in need.
Wilma had been a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the VFW Auxiliary as well as Lady Moose. She was a member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels and had a dynamic personality that could brighten any room.
Survivors include her husband, Jody Craig, Warsaw; daughter, Patricia (John) Kilburne, Monticello, Ky.; son, Jason Marsillett, Warsaw; sisters: Laurie Clingerman, Columbia City; Nila Borerman and Tammy Harding, both of Warsaw; uncle, Bill Arnett, Warsaw; and aunt, Leorie Bradley, North Manchester. She is also survived by two grandsons, Jimmy Lemons and John Lawrence Kilburne, and nine great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Wilma was preceded in passing by her daughter, Shanna Coleman.
Visitation will be at Titus Funeral Home, Warsaw, from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1. Wilma’s funeral will begin at 7 p.m. and will be officiated by Pastor Glen Hughes of Lighthouse Pentecostal Church.
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To sign the tribute wall or send online condolences to the family, visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com.
