Wilhelmena Beavers Ramirez

Wilhelmena Beavers Ramirez, a woman of strength, faith, humor, and unwavering devotion to family, peacefully transitioned, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.

Wilhelmena was born on May 2, 1937, at 1:28 a.m. in Summerland, Mississippi, where she was raised working alongside her siblings on the family farm, learning the value of hard work, discipline, and resilience from an early age. At the age of 19, she made a courageous move to Chicago, Illinois, joining countless others in pursuit of greater opportunity. Within just three days of arriving, she secured employment at R.R. Donnelley & Sons — a reflection of her determination, diligence, and strong work ethic.

It was there that she met Joseph E. Ramirez. The two were united in marriage on January 21, 1973, and shared 53 years of love, partnership, and commitment until his passing in February 2026. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, family, and perseverance.

Wilhelmena was the proud mother of four children, but her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate household. Over the course of her life, she helped raise and pour into the lives of 19 additional children, making her a guiding presence for a total of 23. Her home was a place of wisdom, warmth, and unwavering support.

In 1983, Wilhelmena and Joseph relocated to Artesia, California, where they continued their careers with R.R. Donnelley & Sons. After 31 years of dedicated service, Wilhelmena retired from her role as a Quality Control Specialist — a position that reflected her commitment to excellence and attention to detail.

In 2006, seeking a slower and more peaceful pace of life, Wilhelmena and Joseph returned to Mississippi, settling in Laurel, where they lived out the remainder of their years.

A woman of great creativity and resourcefulness, Wilhelmena wore many hats throughout her life. She was a founding member of LACE (Ladies Association for Cultural Enrichment), an organization dedicated to fostering connection and cultural enrichment. She was also an entrepreneur, crafting and selling decorative pillows, serving as a successful women’s and children’s clothing distributor for Queen’s Way to Fashion, and working as a licensed cosmetologist for several years — all of which reflected her creativity, independence, and strong work ethic. These endeavors afforded her the flexibility to care for her family during their younger years before returning to full-time employment.

Her heart for service extended deeply into the community. She volunteered reading to children from kindergarten through second grade for many years and taught jewelry-making classes to senior citizens at a local senior center in Laurel, bringing joy, creativity, and connection to all who participated.

Wilhelmena was also a devoted woman of faith. During her time in California, she served as a dedicated member of the seniors’ ministry at Zoe Christian Fellowship of Whittier. After returning to Mississippi, she continued her service as a Sunday School teacher and a member of the bereavement team at Greater Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Soso, Mississippi, faithfully ministering to others with compassion and grace.

Wilhelmena was known for her vibrant personality and unmistakable presence. She was a “shoot-from-the-hip” communicator whose wisdom was often delivered with such humor that she would leave others in stitches. Her strength, honesty, and quick wit made her both respected and deeply loved. She was a true matriarch — strong, steady, and influential within her family and beyond.

She was the eldest of seven siblings: Luther P. Beavers (preceded in death); Edwina Covington; Etta B. Simmons (preceded in death); Hertissena Beavers; Ira A. Beavers II (preceded in death); and Carvin O. Beavers (preceded in death).

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Evalynn Beavers; Ramona Minter (husband Roy); Dr. Euvonka Farabee; and Raquel Ramirez (husband Shane). She is also preceded in death by her son, Darwyn C. A. Gay (wife Corrine).

Wilhelmena’s legacy continues through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In total, she leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren who carry forward her love, strength, and wisdom.

Wilhelmena will be remembered as a woman who lived fully, loved deeply, and gave freely. Her life was a reflection of resilience, faith, and purpose, and her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Lakewood Funeral Home, located at 6011 Clinton Boulevard in Jackson, Mississippi.

Entombment will follow, and a repast will be held at the funeral home immediately afterward.

“Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

— Matthew 25:23 (KJV)