Edith Wilson

Edith Wilson died Dec. 24, 2007, at her home in Oak Harbor at the age of 88. She was born Feb. 6, 1919, in Sweetwater, Okla., to Henry Travis and Daisy Esther (Mayo) Caudle.

Edith married Melvin Lee Wilson on Dec. 13, 1936, in New Mexico. Earning her teaching certificate in Oklahoma, she taught school for a few years during World War II while her husband was serving in the Pacific Theater.

In 1946, the Wilsons moved to Coupeville. Four years later they moved to Burlington. The Wilsons returned to Oak Harbor in 1963 and Edith began her career with NAS Whidbey Civil Service where she retired as the Data Processing supervisor.

As a lifelong learner, always expanding her knowledge, she continued to attend classes whenever she could. A lady of varied interests, she was a talented artist with a flair for color and design. Ever true to her western heritage, her charcoal sketches as well as her oils and water colors often reflected this. Edith was also a published writer, with several short stories and poems as well as a book about her family to her credit.

Edith was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Oak Harbor, now Church on the Rock. She was also a member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Writers League.

Three children survive Edith: Darlene Maloy of Burlington, Betty Wales (Robert) of Seattle and Dale Wilson (Joan) of Mukilteo. Two sisters: Joanne Mead of Taos, N.M., and Floice Dixon of Campo, Colo., eight grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and special friend and companion Esther Miller, also survive. Her husband Mel preceded her in death in 1990.

Funeral services for Edith Wilson were held Dec. 31 at the Church on the Rock, 1780 SE 4th Avenue, Oak Harbor, with Pastor Clint Webb officiating. Burial followed at Maple Leaf Cemetery with a reception at the church fellowship hall. Memorials may be made to the Church on the Rock.

Arrangements entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel, Oak Harbor.