Wilma Ruth Cox

Wilma Ruth Cox passed away peacefully on August 5, 2021 in Happy Valley, OR at age 99. Wilma was born on July 18, 1922 in Dunsmuir, CA, one of four children of the late Wilmer and Sarah (Wornstaff) Chandler. She was a 1939 graduate of Sikiyou Union High School, and received a Diploma of Honor from Woodbury College in 1940, having completed their Secretarial course with a citation for “superior scholarship, exceptional attainments, and unusual proficiency,” attributes that were demonstrated throughout her career over the next 50+ years as a legal secretary. She “retired” in 1987 in Palm Springs, CA, and then would go on to work part time for the Oregon State Board of Medical Examiners for an additional ten years, beginning in 1988. At the age of 77, Wilma retired for good.

She would marry twice, and raised five children – three girls and two boys, all of whom survive her, as well as four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Wilma was born into the Protestant religion, and was a longstanding member of City Bible Church in Northeast Portland.

Wilma was a hardworking career woman, dedicated to her family, faith, and friends, and she will be dearly missed by her children: Patti Siegner, Frank Cox, Eileen Peterson, Kathy Hart, and Daniel Cox; grandchildren Summer Hart, Sarah Brown, David Cox, Victor D'Errico, Leah D'Errico and Carrie Secanti; and great-grandchildren Braiden Brown, Hadlee Brown, Christian Cox. Kellen Krohn, Josie Krohn, Nick D'Errico, Samantha Stringer, Sasha Stringer, and Siena Stringer.

Wilma’s life will be celebrated in a private family gathering.