Wilma J. Austin

Wilma J. Austin, 78, of Rockford, formerly of Machesney Park, passed away Friday, March 8, 2024, at River Bluff Nursing Home. Wilma was born to Roy and Dorothy Farster June 25, 1945, in Dixon, IL, was was raised by Orval and Helen Clarida. On March 9, 1963, Wilma married the love of her life, George Austin. She was a longtime waitress at Sam’s on Harlem, starting there in 1976, and retiring in 2008.

Throughout her life, Wilma enjoyed antiquing and garage sales. She even had booths for her antiques at several places, as well as her own antique shop. When the weather was nice, you could count on Wilma working on her flower gardens. She had the most beautiful flower beds in her front and backyard with various flowers.

Above all else, Wilma’s family was her priority. She supported them no matter what, and became a second mom to many. No matter what anyone said about someone she gave everyone a chance and she learned to love everyone. Wilma would help anyone in need. She especially loved her grandchildren, and spoiled them each chance she had.

Wilma is survived by her husband of 61 years, George; children, Harold Austin and Tonya Austin; grandchildren, Lynn Austin, David Austin, Harold “Bo” Austin, Mike (Nanette) Lewis, Jen (Dave) White, Matt (Holly) Wollitz, Jesse Hoed, Leslie Bain, and Rodrick Bain; great-grandchildren, Megan (Griffin) Eldred, Morgan Lewis, Makayla Wollitz, and Troy Wollitz; great-great granddaughter, Ryan Eldred, Andrew Bean, Nolan Bean; sister, Barbara Schmall; many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by daughter, Joann Beck Lewis; parents, Roy and Dorothy Farster and Orval and Helen Clarida; siblings, Jim Clarida, and his son, Craig “Duke” Clarida, Dorothy Theist, Ed Farster, Betty Dunsth, and Elva Webster; mother and father-in-law, Lester and Lyla Austin.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Cardinal wing staff at River Bluff, as well as Rosie and Tim for their love and care to Wilma.