Geneva Ellen Wilford 1935 - 2024

WILFORD, CLARK

Posted By: Connie Swearingen (email)
Date: 12/26/2024 at 21:49:03

Sioux City Journal
26 October 2024

Geneva Ellen Wilford

January 20, 1935 - October 21, 2024

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Geneva Wilford. Born in 1935 in Sullivan County, Missouri, Geneva was the cherished daughter of Eva and Harry Clark. She embarked on a lifelong passion for education in a one-room schoolhouse and graduated early from Ottumwa High School. At just 18, she earned her teaching certificate from Ottumwa Heights College and began her distinguished career as an elementary school teacher.

In 1954, Geneva married the love of her life, Richard Allen Wilford. Together, they shared 65 years of devotion, raising a family in Sioux City, Iowa, where Geneva later earned her bachelor's degree from Morningside College. In 1979, the couple moved to Bradenton, Florida, where Geneva continued to teach at Bradenton Academy and became deeply involved in community service. She volunteered extensively in the local court system, the Mormon Library, and with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

Geneva was also a skilled genealogist, dedicating much of her retirement to tracing family histories and helping others uncover their roots. A trailblazer in her own family, she was the first to earn a college degreea milestone she held dear. She took immense pride in the educational accomplishments of her children and grandchildren, all of whom pursued advanced degrees.

Geneva leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and dedication. She is survived by her three children, David, Andrea, and April; four granddaughters, Jamie, Maddie, Robin, and Hannah; and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Louise Mustoe of Macon, MO, Bill Clark of Palmetto, FL, and Beverly Richmond of Omaha, NE. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Richard.

Geneva was a loving mother, wife, and teacher whose warmth and wisdom touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Geneva will be laid to rest alongside Richard in Iowa, with details to be announced once arrangements are settled.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Tidewell Hospice at TidewellFoundation.org.