Wilma Jean Wankowicz

Wilma Jean Wankowicz, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, at the age of 88. She leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, unconditional love, and steadfast devotion to her family that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Born on November 26, 1937, Wilma shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Ronald Lee Wankowicz. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, faith, and strong family values. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, and the heart of her family. Caring for those she loved was her life's greatest joy.

Wilma earned her Associate's Degree from Oakland Community College in Michigan. She worked in many places throughout her life, but went on to enjoy a rewarding career as a Financial Aid Counselor at the University of Texas at Arlington, where she faithfully served students until her retirement. She found great fulfillment in helping others pursue their educational goals and was known for her kindness, patience, and dedication.

Wilma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald Lee Wankowicz; her cherished daughter, Tracy; and her parents, William Bertis Lee and Martha Burke Lee.

She is lovingly remembered by her son, Ronald Wankowicz and his wife, Cody; granddaughter, Taylor and her husband, Caleb; grandson, Ryne; and great-grandchildren, Kodi and Jack. She is also survived by her son, Tim Wankowicz and his wife, Vikki, and their sons, Nikolas, Nolan, Levi, and Hunter.

Her daughter, Tracy, was the proud mother of Caitlyn and her husband, Ian, and Lyndsey and great-grandchild, Shane, all of whom brought Wilma immeasurable pride and joy.

Wilma is also survived by her brother, Ted Lee and his wife, Fran, of Maryland; her paternal half-sister, Darlene Lee Jarman and her husband, Kenneth, of Maryland; and her paternal half-sister, Janice Lee Yuhasz and her husband, Michael, of North Carolina.

A devoted member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Wilma's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She lived each day with kindness, compassion, humility, and quiet strength, always placing God and her family above all else. Her gentle spirit and unwavering trust in the Lord touched everyone who knew her.

Family was Wilma's greatest blessing and highest calling. She loved fiercely and without reservation, finding immense joy in supporting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in everything they pursued. Whether cheering from the sidelines at soccer games, applauding at band performances, or celebrating life's everyday milestones, she was always their biggest fan.

Wilma expressed her love in countless ways, especially through her cooking. Nothing made her happier than preparing meals for her family and gathering everyone around the table. Those meals became more than food—they were opportunities to laugh, share stories, strengthen family bonds, and create treasured memories.

She also had a deep passion for scrapbooking, lovingly preserving her family's history through photographs, stories, and keepsakes. She understood the importance of remembering life's special moments, creating beautiful albums that will be cherished by generations to come.

Those who knew Wilma will remember her warm smile, gentle heart, steadfast faith, and selfless love. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel welcomed, cared for, and deeply loved. Her life was a beautiful testament to grace, generosity, and the enduring power of family.

While her family grieves her passing, they find comfort in knowing she has been joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Ron, and her precious daughter, Tracy.

Wilma's love, wisdom, and faith will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever. Her legacy will continue through the generations she nurtured and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and unwavering love.

A visitation will be held at Wade Funeral Home, Tuesday, July 14, 2026 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. Funeral Service will be Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11 am at St. Joseph Catholic Parish, 1927 SW Green Oaks Boulevard, Arlington, Texas 76017.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages everyone to spend time with those they love, to gather often, and to treasure the memories they create together—just as Wilma always did.