Wilma Mary Keller, the universally loved head of the Keller family of Dallas, passed away at age 95 on August 30. She was known for her generous nature, her extraordinary work ethic, her exceptional intellect, and her unwavering dedication to her family and to her faith.
She was born on August 17, 1928, in Ellenboro, Wisconsin, to Agnes Edwinna Clark Springer and George Roscoe Springer. When she was a young teenager, her family moved to Dallas, where she met her husband, Jack Keller. Wilma and Jack, who opened the first Keller’s Hamburgers in 1950, turned a good idea and a shoestring budget into their now iconic restaurants, which over the decades have garnered accolades from near and far.
She was a lifetime member of the Ladies of Charity and a long time member of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church and its Women’s Guild and Saint Callistus Circle. She took much comfort from prayer, and she gave much comfort to those for whom she prayed every day. She had an expansive and beautiful spirit and viewed the world from a perspective of gratitude and love.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Jack. She is survived by her children Jacquelyn Keller, Sharon Keller, Jack Keller, Jon Keller and his wife Amy; by her grandchildren Temple Keller and his wife Kat Li, William and Juliette Atkinson, and Grace, Kate, Lilly, Jon, and Lottie Keller; by her great grandchildren Emily and Drew Keller; and by all who loved her.
Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, September 5 at Sparkman Crane Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, September 6 at Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church, followed by burial at Grove Hill Memorial Park.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Sparkman-Crane.com for the Keller family.
