Wilma Estelle Dare Ford, age 87, moved to her heavenly home on August 12, 2026.  She was born on October 27, 1938, in Dover to John and Lula Dare.  She was married to Ollison Ford for 48 years prior to his death in 2006.

Wilma had the heart of a servant. After retiring from Tyson, she began a second career as a home health aide.  She was a loving mother and friend.  Her love of Southern gospel music was well known by family and friends.  She loved reading and being surrounded by books. She was a wonderful cook and provider.

In addition to her parents, Wilma was preceded in death by seven brothers, Roy, J.T., Guy, Arnold, Frank, Paul and Jimmy Dare; five sisters, Opal Newton, Annie Eubanks, Ellen Nixon, Mary Ruth Patterson, and Ruby Taylor; and a granddaughter, Amanda Whorton.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Frances and Carl Cross, Paul and Darlene Ford, Doug and Lawania Ford, and Sandra and Mike Butler; eleven grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of her life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Shinn Funeral Service in Russellville, with Ms. Audra Butler and Mr. Jack Freeman officiating. A time of visitation will immediately follow the service in the Chapel.

She will be laid to rest at the Nogo Cemetery under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service.

Pallbearers are Paul Ford, Doug Ford, Mike Butler, Carl Cross, Brandon Ford and Ben Butler.

Honorary Pallbearers are Bradley Butler and Jim Freeman.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.