I just read on Facebook (posted by Lily Qualls Morales and Bina Madden) the sad, sad news of the death of a dear lady. Wilma Walker, 81, passed away peacefully at 12:25 a.m. today.
Lily commented that Wilma fought valiantly and I couldn't imagine her any other way. She had a valiant and indominable spirit. Such a lovely person whose laughter, joys, sorrows and perspective on life were an inspiration to us all. She tats with the angels now.
Sadly, I don't have a photo of Wilma to share, but Ruth Perry (aka Rozella Linden) posted a video of her telling us all how she learned tatting. You can view it here: YouTube - Wilma3
On Ruth's blog post from January 14, 2007, she writes about a Riego Narrow Edging from the Royal Tatting Book and notes "Thanks to Wilma Walker." If you would like to see this edging pattern, it is available in the Tatting Pattern Calendar. Once there, search for "Riego Narrow Edging" and scroll down to the second post, dated January 15, 2007.
UPDATE: Ruth just sent me a link to the pattern:
Riego Narrow Edging Thank you, Ruth!
Today I shall set aside my other bits of tatting and start the Riego Narrow Edging while I remember Wilma. Sadly, I never got the chance to meet her in person. But from 2003 - 2007 so many tatters mentioned her in their writings that I began to feel as if I had met her.
If anyone has a sample of her tatting (perhaps received in an exchange) or a fond memory to share, please post it. Reading it will help celebrate her life. Rest in peace, Wilma. We will miss you.
I am saddened to hear this but it wasn't unexpected. I met Wilma several times and am grateful to have done so. She was truly an inspiration in so many ways.
ReplyDeleteWonderful video. I had not known of Wilma before. Thanks for posting this, Is'Dihara.
ReplyDeleteFox : )
Thank you both, Gina and Fox, for your thoughts.
ReplyDeleteGina, I remember reading your post from 2005 where Wilma had given you a CD during Palmetto Tat Days. Do you still have that CD?
I, too, had not had the opportunity to know Wilma...I wish I had.....
ReplyDeleteThis is a lovely edging and it's a lovely tribute.
Thank you.