Wilda Etta Carver

Wilda dedicated 35 and a half years to Orlando Health, formerly known as Orange Memorial Hospital, where she served as a switchboard operator. Her role was pivotal, connecting countless people with care and compassion. Her colleagues and those who interacted with her remember her for her professionalism and warm demeanor.

A lifelong member of Delaney Street Baptist Church, Wilda's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found immense joy in her family, which was her greatest love and source of pride. Her legacy is woven with the laughter and love of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. We all referred to her with her very unique and special “grandmother” name, Que Que which was given to her by her eldest grandchild, Jodi, when she was just a toddler. Not only did the family call her Que Que but so did many friends and acquaintances. Wilda's nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, as she continued to babysit and care for children long after her retirement. Her genuine affection for the young was evident in her warm greetings and affectionate words to every child she encountered.

Beyond her professional and familial commitments, Wilda found joy in simple pleasures. She was an avid reader, and loved her adventures and outings with her grandchildren, and was known for her competitive spirit when playing UNO with her family. Her sense of fun and joy was infectious, making her a beloved figure in her family’s life. Wilda’s selflessness was unmatched. She consistently put the needs of her family above her own, a testament to her generous and caring nature. She was described as amazing and fun, qualities that endeared her to all who knew her. Her legacy is one of unconditional love and sacrifice, leaving an indelible mark on her extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Floda (Bennett) Ruddle and her 9 siblings, Virginia Ruddle Gooding, Roscoe Ruddle, Carl Ruddle, Irene Ruddle Landes, Henry Ford Ruddle, Edsel Ruddle, Wanda Ruddle McDermond, Melvin Clyde Ruddle, and Willie Ruddle.

She is survived by her daughters, Sharon Anderson (Fred) and Deborah Brittain. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jacqueline “Jodi” Werner (Matthew), Kippy Gross (Chris), Kimberly Anderson, Debbie Anderson and Aaron Stehli (Kristen). Her great-great grandchildren, Jamie-Jo Sutton, Andrea Edgar, Keith Smith, Chelsie Lucas (Christopher), Madison Gross, Tristen and Logan Donovan, Alex Cox, Cameron and Mackenna Edwards, Graham and Parker Stehli; as well as, many more beloved great-great grandchildren, too numerous, but important, to list. Additionally there are many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and pets, she treasured and loved dearly.

Wilda Carver will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering devotion to family, and the joy she brought to the lives of those around her. Her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.