Elma “Ilene” Gordon Wilde, born December 22, 1923, in Perry, Oklahoma, peacefully passed away on July 3, 2024, at the age of 100, joining her beloved husband “Sonny” Wilde.
Ilene met and married the love of her life A.R. “Sonny” Wilde. They were married May 19, 1946, in Winfield, Kansas, after his return from active duty in World War II.
Ilene attended Perry High School in Perry, Oklahoma. After graduation she then attended the Oklahoma Nursing School in Ponca City, Oklahoma and received her Registered Nurse Accreditation. She then began her nursing career with a short stint at the Enid General Hospital, Enid, Oklahoma. She then went to work at Wesley Hospital with the name changed to Presbyterian Hospital in Oklahoma City where she spent nearly 30 years. Then a calling to teach entered the picture and she joined the staff of The Oklahoma City School of Vocational Practical Nursing for ten years after which she retired and spent time just enjoying life. After a few years of retirement, she began a Volunteer career at the Yukon Canadian Valley Hospital making new friends on her daily journey throughout the halls.
Ilene and Sonny enjoyed many hours at Cedar Lake with sons Vernon and Wayne. As well as her sister, Betty, and her husband, Johnny and their kids. Ilene also spent many hours at Windsor Lanes Bowling Alley honing her skills and making many friends along the way.
Ilene was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, A.R. “Sonny” Wilde; beloved sister Betty Johnson; brothers, Robert Gordon and Harry Gordon.
Ilene is survived by her two sons, Vernon Wilde, and his wife, Sandy, and Wayne Wilde, both of Oklahoma City, OK. In addition to her two sons, Ilene leaves behind a legacy of her five grandchildren, Chip Hughes, as well as Kelli Hughes, Christy and husband, Dave Wilcox, Melinda and husband, Damien Barks, Michael and wife, Christina Wilde; as well as seven great grandchildren; Tyler Hughes, Jacob Hughes, Jordan Hughes, Chase Wilcox and wife, Kayla, Jayden Wilcox, Ainsley Barks, and Jacquelynn Wilde, who brought more joy to her life.
Elma “Ilene” Wilde will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her nurturing nature and the impact she had on all those around her. Her legacy of compassion and care will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Visitation for Ilene will be held on Sunday, July 14, 2024, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM, with family present, at Buchanan Funeral Service. Her graveside service will be held the next morning on Monday, July 15, 2024, at 10:30 AM at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.
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