Death of Wilma S. Darby

Wilma Sarita Minisee Darby was born March 16, 1924, to James and Mildred Minisee. She was the second of four children, Winetta Minisee, Darwin L. Minisee and Richard L. Minisee. She graduated from Emmanuel Missionary College (now Andrews University) with a bachelor's degree in French and from the University of Michigan with a Master of Social Work.

Wilma was married to James Darby, and three daughters were born to the union. Wilma was blessed with an excellent professional career, retiring as a professor from Andrews University in 1989. After retiring she and James spent time traveling around much of the world. Wilma’s prayer life was her secret to her engaging smile, pleasant spirit, generous kindness and unconditional love that were blessings to many people.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mildred Minisee; sister, Winetta; brothers, Darwin and Richard; her husband of 42 years, James Darby; and grandson, Anthony Christopher Greene II.

She is survived by her sisters-in-law: Margie Minisee, Delores Minisee and Linda Darby Ingram; her daughters: Yvonne (Anthony Greene), Dawn (George Ray) and M. Winetta (Allen Powell); her grandchildren: Elyse Greene, James (Leah) Greene, George (Bianaca) Ray II, Alphonzo Ray, Christopher Ray, Dr. Alisha Powell, Allen Powell Jr., Alonda Savage and Alvin Powell; nephews, nieces and a host of cousins, along with adopted sons and daughters.

The funeral service took place Tuesday, Aug. 31, at Allred Funeral Home, Berrien Springs, and burial followed at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens in Niles.

Memories may be shared online at allredfuneralhome.com. Condolences may be sent to the home of Anthony and Yvonne Greene, 1702 Hiawatha Dr., S. E., Grand Rapids, MI 49506.