Patricia Ann Wilkins Wilder, 81, peacefully passed away at Advent Altamonte Hospital under the tender care of the incredible ICU staff after a sudden illness on October 6, 2023. She is now reunited with husband William Floyd Wilder, who preceded her in death 28 years ago. She is also reunited with beloved son-in-law David Essa, who passed away in October 2021.
Patricia leaves behind her pride and joy in life, her four daughters: Wendy Wilder Evans (Doug), Lisa Wilder Elble (David), Sharon Beth Wilder (Gary) and Susan Wilder Essa (David Essa).
Patricia was born in 1942 in rural Arkansas to Maxine Elva Lindsey and Raymond Wilkins. Patricia was beloved by her aunt, Estelle “Auntie” Lindsey, who helped raise her. Patricia later welcomed little sister Deborah Wilkins Franklin, born several years later to Raymond and Imogene Wilkins. Patricia met husband Floyd when both worked for AT&T in Memphis, Tennessee. They soon moved to Louisville, Kentucky where their girls were raised and where they lived for more than forty years.
Patricia was shy and reserved, yet she was a warrior when it came to her work ethic and ability to overcome obstacles. Patricia was studious and curious, with a voracious love for books—leading to a library career after raising her girls.
Patricia was honest, direct, and ministered to others with a heart of pure gold. Her daughters would learn years later of people their mother helped in times of need, despite her limited financial resources. Patricia gave anonymously and generously.
Twelve grandchildren were blessed with Patricia as Mammy: Heather Gotlib (Jacob) and Hilary Funk, Melissa (Ella), Danielle and Will Elble; Elijah Essa (Sarah), Rachel Essa Kelley (Gabe), Olivia Essa Long (Jared), Isaac David Essa; Ethan and Callie Evans. Her great-grands include Tovah Gotlib, Margot and Ari Kelley and Jude Long.
Patricia was a devout Christian and served as librarian at Fern Creek Baptist Church for many years. She led her children to Christ and she read her Bible every night. Ten years ago, Patricia and granddaughter Hilary moved to Maitland, Florida where she enjoyed the warm sunshine and bright blue skies year round.
There has never been a sweeter mother or more selfless person than Patricia. The pain of her passing is only eased by the certainty she is resting in the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ, and is at peace in His glorious presence.