Wilma "Willy" Roberta Atherton

Born in Charleston, West Virginia, Willy was one of thirteen children—a childhood that shaped her deep compassion and unwavering loyalty to family. Her giving spirit was evident from the very beginning; as a young girl, she once offered her only winter coat to another child on the playground on a cold day. That moment captured the heart of who she was: kindness personified.

At 17, Willy married and moved to Daytona Beach, Florida, beginning her journey into adulthood. In 1972 she made her way to Longmont, Colorado with her two children, where she built a life rooted in resilience and love. Becoming a single mother at 25 and without a high school diploma, Willy refused to let obstacles define her. She enrolled in a bartending class—a decision that blossomed into a lifelong career. Her work behind the bar became more than a job; it was a place where she shared laughter, listened with compassion, and made everyone feel welcome. Her most recent years at the Longmont Elks Lodge earned her a devoted following of customers who were heartbroken when she retired.

Above all else, family was Willy’s greatest joy. She poured her heart into her grandchildren, whom they affectionately called Gaga—Drew Baer, Hana Rudolph, Kiera Baker, Max Baker, and Gabe Rodriguez—loving each of them “the mostest,” as she always said. She is survived by her beloved partner, Kenny Miller, and her children Symantha and Raul Rodriguez and Peter and Gizelle Baker, who will forever carry her warmth, humor, strength, and boundless love.

Willy was fun, loyal, hardworking, and loved dancing, but what people will remember most is her kindness, which she shared with every ounce of her being,

A quote from a cherished book from her early years captures Willy’s spirit:

“You have the freedom to be yourself, your true self, here and now, and nothing can stand in your way.” — Richard Bach

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 21st at 1:00 PM at Howe Mortuary in Longmont, with a reception immediately following.

Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love lives on in the countless hearts she touched.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to: No Kid Hungry (see link below).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for her loving family.