Wilma Jean Burnett's Obituary
Wilma Burnett was born October 13, 1930 to Orville and Maude Newton in Omaha, Nebraska. Wilma married Glen Tibbits in 1947 and they made their way to Dallas, Texas in 1962 where they raised their four children. Initially, the family lived in Irving, but, eventually settled in Garland. After Glen’s sudden death, Wilma met and married Duane Burnett in 1976 and the couple was married until he passed in 2001.Anyone who knew Wilma knew she was feisty and stubborn, a true jokester, had a sarcastic wit that made you chuckle and was a great square dancer in her day. Wilma also spent countless hours, spanning more than 20 years, volunteering for Vitas Hospice and at the Denton State Assisted Living Facility. Wilma was faithful to God as evidenced by her long membership at the United Disciples Christian Church. There, she was involved with the Primetimers, meeting for luncheons, fellowship and supporting the entire congregation in times of need and celebration.Wilma especially enjoyed her time with her beloved family who would gather for every event and any occasion at 4205 Clemson Drive, her home of more than 50 years.But, those who knew Wilma best, know she dedicated her entire life to her precious daughter Glenna who was born in March of 1952 with Down Syndrome. During an era where special-needs children were not considered the true blessing they are, Wilma was determined to make sure Glenna was treated like any other child her age, raised with the same love, discipline and opportunity as all the Tibbits children. Because there were no educational options for Glenna in Dallas, Wilma made sure Glenna found purpose in life by participating in piece-work program at a center on Jupiter Rd. Later in life, Glenna called the Denton State Assisted Living Facility her home. Wilma dutifully — and happily — made the 40-plus mile drive, not only to visit Glenna, but to also enjoy the company of Glenna’s new extended family, the beautiful young ladies in her dormitory.Wilma lived a full and abundant life, with the final blessing being the celebration of her 89th birthday on Sunday, October 13, 2019, where she was surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren one last time. Her family is grateful for the outpouring of love from her many, many extended family and friends. They are especially thankful that Wilma died peacefully in her sleep on Monday morning, October 21, 2019, having said her final goodbyes to her children the night before.Wilma is survived by her children, Dianna Johnson, Chris and Mandy Tibbits and Bob Tibbits; grand-children Russell and Allison Tibbits, Amie and Ryan Walker, Chris Tibbits and Madzia DeSalvo; Kelly and Allison Burke; Taylor Tibbits and Jordan Tibbits. Great-grandchildren Carley, Jack, Peyton, Grant, Saw-yer, River Mae and Noah. Brother Harold Newton, niece Babe and Wheeler Sebastian and a host of other nieces and nephews.Wilma is preceded in death by Glen Tibbits, Duane Burnett, siblings Rich, Bob, Ray, Ruby, Deak, Son, Alice and Don, her grandson Brian and her precious Glenna, who, no doubt, was there to greet her upon her arrival to God’s heavenly promise.Rest well Wilma…friend…grandma…mom.
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