When she was six Wilma's family moved to Monticello and Wilma grew up there. She finished elementary school, junior high, high school, and university all in Monticello. She graduated from the University of Arkansas, Monticello with a major in Elementary Education in 1964 and began her teaching career. While in university she married James "Jimmy" Heflin of Monticello (who survives her) on June 16, 1962. She and Jimmy have one son, James David, who also survives her. He and his wife, Amy, have a 10-year-old daughter, Stella. James and his family live in South Deerfield, Massachusetts.
Other survivors include a sister, Frances Marvelle Fipppen of Little Rock, and a brother, Grady Ronald "Ronnie" Ham of Little Rock, two nieces, two nephews, and a host of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Two brothers, her father, and her mother preceded Wilma in death.
After some years as a teacher, Wilma attended theological seminary and earned a master's degree and a PhD to begin a new chapter in her life as a minister to families and children. She and Jim served from 1996 to 2001 as leaders of the European Baptist Convention, with offices in Wiesbaden, Germany. Upon their return to America in 2001, Wilma continued to serve as a minister to children and families and published articles, including a chapter in a volume on helping children understand Christian discipleship.
Visitation will take place at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home in Monticello on Friday, April 12, 2019 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. Ministers officiating: Pastor Ray Hearron of Second Baptist Church in Monticello, retired pastor Harold Cantley, and pastor Gene Gregory. Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery in Monticello. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(12)
Alvin and Irma James
Monticello, AR Wednesday, April 24, 2019 To family: our thoughts and prayers with all of you. Wonderful lady . She will be missed by many.Barbara Clower
Abilene, TX Monday, April 15, 2019 Jim, Jerry and I are praying for you and your son and family as you go through this time of grief. Wilma was a very special lady and she held a special place in our hearts. We miss you here in Abilene, but are so glad that you have already made the move to be near your son and family.Janet Williams
Little Rock, AR Friday, April 12, 2019 Our thoughts & prayers are with your family. I have fond memories of Wilma when the AR Bapt Convention brought a children’s ministry team to Interlaken while the Heflins were serving the European Baptist Convention.Grateful for her legacy!
Jimmy & Donna Hill
Monticello, AR Friday, April 12, 2019 You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Wilma was a very sweet person and will be missed by many.Love, Jimmy & Donna
Butch and Judy Selig
Benton, AR Thursday, April 11, 2019 Ronnie,We are so sorry to learn about the loss of your sister Wilma. Please know you and the family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
James and Kathy Berry
Monticello, AR Thursday, April 11, 2019 Heflin FamilyWe are very sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts.
James and Kathy Berry. M.H.S. class of 1960
Ray Hearron
Monticello, AR Tuesday, April 9, 2019 Bro. Heflin, I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mrs. Wilma. You and your family are certainly in my prayers!Kristy Tisdale
Hadley, MA Tuesday, April 9, 2019 We are missing Wilma along with you. With heartfelt sympathy- Kristy Tisdale, Leeds Unit Manager
Cathy Dionne
Hadley, MA Tuesday, April 9, 2019 Dear Mr. Heflin and family,We are sorry about your loss. We truly enjoyed taking care of Wilma and will miss her. Please know you are all in our thoughts during this difficult time.
The Leeds Unit Staff
Genesis Elaine Center at Hadley
jackie beckham
hot springs, AR Tuesday, April 9, 2019 ronnie Iam sorry to hear about the passing of your sister, you and james keep your eyes on jesus and everything will be fine.Jimmy Albrecht
De Witt, AR Monday, April 8, 2019 Jim, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your young bride. I will be praying for you during this difficult time in your life.Judy Webb Hubbell
Crossett, AR Sunday, April 7, 2019 Ronnie, I am so sorry about your sister. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Judy