Delana Wimberly Wicker

Delana Wimberly Wicker, 88, of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, following a brief illness.

Born and raised in Pittsboro, North Carolina, Delana carried throughout her life a deep love for her home state and its people. After completing her education and marrying the love of her life, Harold Wicker, she made her home in Greensboro, where she lived for the remainder of her life and built a legacy of kindness, resilience, generosity, and independence.

Delana was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Wicker, who passed away in 1994; her parents, Charles Green Wimberly and Maude Hearn Wimberly; and her beloved siblings, Charles Wimberly, Hazel Brown, Ben Wimberly, Jack Wimberly, Mildred Simmons, and Peggy Pearce.

She is survived by her devoted son, Keith Wicker, and daughter-in-law, Maria Wicker, along with many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and all those whose lives were touched by her warmth and generosity.

Delana's life was a remarkable example of perseverance and determination. Raised in humble circumstances, she achieved her dreams through hard work, education, and unwavering dedication. She built a successful career as an accountant and retired from Atlantic Aero Corporation, earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

While she took pride in her professional accomplishments, it was her love for people, animals, learning, and exploration that truly defined her life.

Delana possessed a generous spirit and an open heart. She found joy in helping others, sharing her experiences, and offering support wherever it was needed. Her strength, kindness, and willingness to give of herself enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A lifelong animal lover, Delana had a special affection for dogs and cats. Over the years, she rescued and cared for numerous animals, opening her home and heart to those in need. Her compassion extended beyond her own pets by willingly pet sitting for others and through her support of animal welfare organizations and charitable causes dedicated to protecting animals.

Delana also had a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world. She loved traveling and embraced opportunities to experience different cultures and perspectives. Her adventures took her throughout Europe and to destinations including Turkey, Egypt, Russia, and Australia. Yet no matter how far she traveled, North Carolina remained home. She especially cherished the Appalachian Mountains, whose beauty, peace, and enduring presence brought her comfort throughout her life.

An avid reader and lifelong learner, Delana was always curious about the world around her. She followed current events closely, enjoyed thoughtful conversation, and could often be found with a book in hand. Some of her son's earliest and fondest memories were of visits to libraries and bookstores, where she nurtured in him a lifelong love of learning and discovery.

Above all, Delana was a devoted mother. Among the greatest gifts she gave her son was her passion for international travel and cultural exploration. A formative trip to Europe during his youth sparked an enduring interest in the world and its diverse peoples, a gift that would influence him for the rest of his life. Just as importantly, Delana always encouraged her son to follow his heart, pursue his dreams, and embrace life's opportunities with confidence and curiosity. Her unwavering belief in him, coupled with her example of determination, independence, and resilience, helped shape the person he became.

Delana was also a talented artist who enjoyed working with ceramics. She created countless pieces that became treasured keepsakes for family and friends. Her creativity reflected her generous nature, as she often shared her work as gifts for those she loved.

She delighted in hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas, preparing memorable meals and creating traditions that brought loved ones together. Though she preferred intimate gatherings over large crowds, those welcomed into her home always felt her warmth, hospitality, and genuine interest in their lives.

Known for being plain-spoken and direct, Delana possessed a refreshing honesty that left little doubt about what she believed. Her strength of character, independent spirit, and authenticity earned the admiration and respect of those around her. Even into her later years, she remained fiercely independent and continued living in her own home.

Delana approached spirituality with both faith and thoughtful reflection. While her beliefs were rooted in Christianity, she respected people of all backgrounds and maintained a sincere appreciation for different cultures, traditions, and perspectives.

Her family will remember her as a loving mother, a devoted wife, a faithful friend, a compassionate advocate for animals, an adventurous traveler, an avid reader, and a woman whose generosity touched countless lives. Her legacy lives on in the people she inspired, the animals she saved, the traditions she created, and the love she shared so freely.

A Celebration of Life will be held in late September 2026, with details to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Best Friends Animal Society at https://bestfriends.org/ in honor of Delana's lifelong commitment to animal welfare and rescue.

The mountains she loved, the books she cherished, the journeys she embraced, and the kindness she shared will remain as lasting reminders of a life well lived and deeply loved.

Hanes-Lineberry Sedgefield Chapel is honored to serve the Wicker family.