Joni Rae Yeager (Wilson)

Joni Rae Wilson, known to many as “Mimi”, went to a better place on April 28, 2023 at the young age of 68, in Guthrie. She was born at Wesley Hospital on April 7, 1955 to Hazle Dollie Wilson and Brigadier General William Rex Wilson. She grew up in Oklahoma City where she graduated from Putnam City Original class of 1973.

Joni was a beloved mother to Tara Viles and Ashley Street, a sister to William Rex Wilson, Jr., and a wonderful friend to many. She was also a second mother to Natalie Arnold, her best friend’s daughter. She was a woman of many talents, with a passion for arts and crafts that led her to start a business with her best friend, Roxie Madison. The two of them had a booth, attended craft shows, and always welcomed their children to help basecoat. Joni was a successful businesswoman, owning and managing the busiest tanning salon in Oklahoma City called Sun in the City. She was very dedicated to her customers, and she always made everyone feel welcomed, valued and treated them like they were family. She sold her tanning salon which allowed her to spend more time with her family.

She was a devoted grandmother who cherished her time with her granddaughters, Alexia Amend and Baye Madison. She loved taking them to see their horses, go to rodeos, and spending quality time with them. She even watched her youngest granddaughter during the day and would take her to and from school. Above all, Joni was most proud of her family, and her favorite thing to do was spend time with them. She was always there for them, offering unwavering love and support.

Joni loved spending time with friends and family, and was the life of the party. Her positive attitude and infectious energy made her loved by all who knew her. One of her favorite pastimes was playing bingo, and she had a special group of bingo friends whom she loved dearly.

Joni was preceded in death by her parents and best friend Roxie. She is survived by her brother COL (Ret) William Rex Wilson, Jr., her children Tara and husband Donald Viles, Ashley and husband Matthew Street, Natalie and husband Tim Arnold; her grandchildren Madison, Skyla, Chance, Alexia, Baye, Bonnie, Madison, and Kameron; and seven great grandchildren and as well as many dear friends.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of creativity, hard work, and kindness will live on through the many lives she touched.