Wilma Diane Zari

She was born in San Francisco on October 23, 1942, to Bill and Velma. Wilma lived a full, colorful, and adventurous life. Her varied career included working as an elementary school teacher, bank teller, exercise instructor, and teacher at San Quentin State Prison.

Wilma was a true free spirit. She was spontaneous and fun, happy and loving, charming and strong, and she delighted in saying things for pure shock value—often just to see the reaction she could get.

She loved to travel and was fortunate to have no shortage of adventures throughout her life. She also loved hiking, being outdoors, and appreciating the natural beauty around her. She constantly encouraged her children to stop and “look at the beauty,” a simple phrase that captured the way she saw the world.

Wilma had an especially tender heart for animals, whom she affectionately called “little creatures.” She loved them deeply and would cry when one died, no matter how small. Her compassion for animals was simply part of who she was.

Above all, Wilma loved her family. Her husband of 53 years, Jerry, her three children, Gina, Stephanie, and Joe; and her six grandchildren, Annalisa, William, Cassidy, Joey, Lucy, and Samantha were at the heart of her life. She also held her friends and extended family close, and treasured the love they shared.