Wilma Louise Olson

Wilma Louise (Jones) Olson, 90 years young, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2024.

She was born October 28, 1933, to Raymond and Bethal (Hancock) Jones. Her Grandmother Hancock, who had been a midwife for many years, delivered her at the family home near Big Cabin, Oklahoma. 

Wilma attended NEO A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma where she was a member of the first Norse Stars Dance Team. She graduated with teaching credentials and accepted a teaching position at Hutton Elementary in Chanute, Kansas.

On December 23, 1955, she married Marvin Henry Olson, the love of her life, in Vinita, Oklahoma and they shared 63 blessed years.

Wilma's accomplishments were many, but considered her family her greatest achievement. She was a loving and nurturing mother to her six children, a doting grandmother to her 15 grandchildren, and a proud great-grandmother to her 24 great-grandchildren and counting. Wilma's home was always filled with love, laughter, and delicious food, as she was known for her exceptional cooking. This talent was truly valued during their years on the farm, cooking for summer hay crews, community events, and church gatherings.

After their life on the farm, Wilma ran a successful bed and breakfast known as The Peaceable Inn with Marvin. She had an extraordinary talent for hospitality, making everyone feel welcomed and cared for. Some of Wilma's interests throughout her life included; upholstering furniture, cake decorating, playing cards and games, square dancing, and reading. Wilma was an active and engaged member of her community and church. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her retirement years were dedicated to supporting her family and attending as many family activities and events as possible. Studying scripture and all good books and sharing the knowledge and wisdom she gained was important to her. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for God and her family.

 Wilma is survived by: her children; Hollye (Bob) Hamm, of Chanute; Leesa Olson, of Overland Park; Marva Thompson, of Olathe; Leanne (Kevin) Bullard, of Miami, Oklahoma; Preston (Donna) Olson, of Woodward, Oklahoma; Jim (Michelle) Olson, of Bronson; sister, Wanda (Jack) Morgan, of Neosho, Missouri, and brothers Windell (Gloria) Jones, of Chouteau, Oklahoma and Wallace (Eleana) Jones, of South Padre Island, Texas; fifteen grandchildren, twenty-four great 24 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Olson, parents, Raymond and Bethal Jones; brother, Willard Jones and brother, Warren Jones; and son-in-law, Jeff Thompson.

Wilma’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that will continue to inspire future generations. May she rest in peace.

There will be a Celebration of Life service in her honor at the High Prairie Methodist Church on Highway 75 at 2:00 PM, Saturday, August 3, 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to outreach-international.org or can be mailed to or left with the funeral home. 

Services are under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, Kansas 66720.