Wilma Raye Mullikin, 61

Wilma “Willie” Raye Mullikin, 61, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017, after a valiant five-year battle with breast cancer. Her strong will to live, faith in God, and the love of her family and friends gave Willie the support and strength she needed throughout countless chemotherapy and radiation treatments, surgery, hospitalizations and pain that she endured. And through it all she never complained and maintained a brave and positive outlook for the future. She never allowed the cancer to take her spirit from her or define her.

Willie was born to the late Robert and Sylvia Mathes on March 18, 1955, in Maywood, Calif. She was the middle child of five children. In 1974, she graduated from Pacific Coast High School in McKinleyville, Calif.

Willie possessed a contagious smile and entertaining sense of humor from childhood through her last days. Her sweet, caring, nurturing and loving demeanor won the trust and hearts of so many people. Her family was everything to her. As a homemaker, she doted and cared for her three daughters who were the pride and joys of her life. She loved cooking/baking from scratch, crocheting/knitting, sewing, crafting, reading, crossword puzzles, playing Scrabble and Yahtzee, and most of all spending time with her family.

Words from her grandchildren:

“I love you so much grandma and am so happy that you got to meet my daughter, your great-granddaughter Alexis. I miss you.” — Keanu (son of Angel)

“I will always cherish my grandma. She is such an inspiration to myself and the people that surrounded her. Strength, courage and faith are so important in life and she taught me to never give that up.” — Kira (daughter of Angel)

“I love you my darling Gran-Gran. I’ll always be your sunshine, as you will always be my best friend. Thank you for all the beautiful memories, I miss you with all my heart and soul.” — Zoie (daughter of Aimee)

“She had a beautiful soul, and she was so strong right until the end. She was so courageous and beautiful. I miss her so much.” — Kayley (daughter of Angel)

“Granny I love you as much as you love me always. Know that you can do everything. I know you can. Love Grace.” — Grace (daughter of Heather)

Willie is survived by the love of her life, Ron Mullikin; three daughters, Angel, Aimee and Heather; five grandchildren, Keanu, Kira, Kayley, Zoie and Grace; great-granddaughter Alexis; her sisters, Geneva and Kathy; her brother, Robert; sons-in-law Dusty and Tom; numerous nieces and nephews; and her precious best friend and companion, Puppa.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support in many heart-felt forms from family and friends.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Wilma’s online memorial at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com and sign her guest book.