Alva Marie Wise

March 2, 1930 – January 12, 2025

Alva Marie Wise, daughter of R.M. and Mary Davis, was born on March 2, 1930, in Montana, and passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, in Bakersfield, California, at the age of 94. Alva lived a remarkable life full of love, hard work, and passion, leaving an unforgettable mark on all who knew her.

Fondly known as “Spitfire” for her fiery spirit and lively personality, Alva was a woman of immense strength and unwavering determination. She worked tirelessly as a waitress her entire life, embodying a work ethic that inspired those around her. Alva’s greatest joy, however, came from the simple pleasures of life—her love for entertaining guests, cooking delicious meals, and sharing heartfelt stories about her past with her friends. She had a gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel at home.

A true artist at heart, Alva had a passion for painting and found peace and beauty in her creative expression. She was also an avid traveler, embracing new adventures and creating memories wherever she went. At home, her garden was a year-round masterpiece, a vibrant reflection of her nurturing soul and meticulous care.

Alva was proud to be a part of the Order of the Eastern Star, a fraternity rooted in community and service, where she found lifelong friendships and a shared sense of purpose.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Shirley Helms, granddaughter Stephanie Keigley, grandson-in-law Ken Keigley, great-granddaughters Nicole Farris and Megan Farris, and great-great-grandchildren Amber Quilling, Hayley Sanders, Grayson Sanders, and Jace Millspaugh.

Alva’s legacy of love, strength, and creativity will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished.

A celebration of life will be held in her honor, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to a local art program or gardening organization.

Services for Alva are as follows;

A visitation will be held Thursday, January 30, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Funeraria Del Angel Hillcrest, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.

A funeral service will occur Friday, January 31, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, at Funeraria Del Angel Hillcrest, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.

A graveside will occur Friday, January 31, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield, CA 93306.

You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. You may also light a candle in honor of Alva Marie Wise or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com