Jodi Ann Wilson, 68

Jodi Ann Wilson passed away peacefully Nov. 23, 2025, at the age of 68, in her hometown of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, leaving a legacy of love, education and creativity. Born on Sept. 17, 1957, to Beatrice and Joseph Roope Sr., Jodi grew up surrounded by the nurturing beauty of Coeur d'Alene, a place she cherished throughout her life. 

Jodi's spirit of compassion and her dedication to fostering the growth of young minds were evident in her long and impactful career as an educator. A proud graduate of Coeur d'Alene High School's Class of 1975, she pursued her passion for teaching and obtained her BA in Education from Eastern Washington University in 1979. Her commitment to lifelong learning led her to achieve a Master of Education at the University of Idaho in 2014. Jodi's career spanned from 1982 to 2021, where she touched the lives of countless students as a first grade teacher at Dalton, Harding, and Fernan elementary schools. Her expertise in early literacy was further shared with the Portland/Beaverton and Spokane school districts, where her work as a specialist and curriculum developer left a lasting imprint on the field. 

Devoted to her family, Jodi was a beacon of love and stability. She shared a profound partnership with her husband, Russ Wilson, and together they raised their three children: Jeff, Molly and Tim, with immense affection and guidance. Jodi was a cherished daughter to her mother, Beatrice, and father, Joseph Roope Sr.; and a loving sibling to her brother, Dan Roope, and her late sister, Deb Roope, as well as Joe Roope Jr. Her family tree blossomed with her wonderful in-laws, Matt Stern and Kayla Wilson, and was further enriched by her adored grandchildren: Daisy, Tannar, Berkley, Cade, Ryan, Beau and Taylor; and great-granddaughter Scout, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.  

Jodi's dedication to her family was the bedrock of her life, imbuing her with a spirit of generosity and kindness that she extended to her community and students. Her hobbies and interests painted a portrait of a woman who embraced both the tranquility and the adventures of life. Known for her creative talents, Jodi enjoyed sewing, quilting and crafting, leaving a tapestry of beautiful memories and treasures for her family. A lover of the outdoors, she found pleasure in gardening, bike riding and motorcycle trips across the United States with Russ, relishing the freedom of the open road. Jodi also had a love for boating, swimming and travel, but found her greatest contentment in the laughter and stories shared with her family and grandkids.  

Those who knew Jodi will remember her for her creative spirit, thoughtful nature and loving heart. She was a guiding light, an educator not only in the classroom but in the way she lived her life, with intentional kindness and a smile that could light up the darkest of rooms. The impact of Jodi's nurturing presence was far-reaching, and she will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Jodi's life was one of deep purpose and unselfish service to others, and while she has left this earthly realm, her spirit continues to inspire and reside in the hearts of those she loved so dearly. May her legacy be a reminder to us all of the beauty of a life well-lived — a life full of creativity, thoughtful gestures and boundless love.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Jodi to The Coeur d'Alene Public Library at cdalibrary.org.

A visitation for Jodi will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at Yates Funeral Home — Coeur d’Alene Chapel, 744 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene. Her celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at Lake City Church, 6000 N. Ramsey Road, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815, with a reception following.    

Please visit Jodi’s online memorial at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com to sign her guestbook.