Obituary of Wilma Jean Fugitt

April 23, 1928 – March 12, 2025

Wilma Jean Fugitt.  Age 96 of Southgate.

Wilma Jean Fugitt of Southgate Michigan was born on April 23 1928 and, after walking this earth for 96 years, was promoted to her permanent heavenly home where she was immediately greeted by her loving Lord and Saviour, Jesus. She is currently enjoying ongoing heavenly joy and fellowship with her loving earthly husband of 72 years, Babe Fugitt. We are certain that she is joined by her parents, Clarence and Mayme Caulley, along with her older sister Jeanette and younger brother, Charles, and her grandson, Matthew Randolph. 

She is survived by her youngest brother Ralph Caulley, 6 children: Garrett (Liza) Fugitt, Brenda (Victor) Randolph, Deborah (James) Ritzenthaler, Douglas (Becky) Fugitt, Bryon (Renee) Fugitt, Victoria (Tom) Farley, 13 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and 11 step- great grandchildren.

Wilma Fugitt was born on the doorstep of the Great Depression and raised by Christian parents, her father being a preacher and pastor, which formed a lifetime of frugality, and appreciation for the simpler things of life, the importance of strong family values, a strong sense of determination and, at times, a righteous indignation in the face of immorality or injustice. Wilma was a very humble woman while possessing a resolve to do what was right and to always honor her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. That said, you knew not to mistake her humility for weakness or timidity! She was always kind and soft-spoken unless you mistreated or disrespected a loved-one, then, watch out for Mama Bear! She always seemed to be a magnet for those that had a heavy burden, unbearable sorrow, or struggled with a personal problem and needed counsel or sounding board. She was never too busy to lend an ear, shoulder, or be a partner in prayer. If you counted yourself as a friend, you were her friend for life. Many that befriended her during her 20’s while fellowshipping as fellow believers were still friends 7 decades later; what a testimony to loyalty and dedication! She and her loving husband, Babe, were charter members and faithful servants of Christ at Charity Baptist Church since 1978. But, if you think for a second that Wilma Fugitt was the kind of person to just sit around with a pot of coffee ready to share with friends or church members that desired her company, think again. While raising 6 boisterous children who later earned the label as the “Loud Family”, she also earned the title of “Den Mother” for each one’s Cub Scout or Girl Scout Brownies troops. That was in addition to all the school class chaperone duties, band concerts, class projects and activities that never seemed to end. Now if that wasn’t enough, she decided with the extra time on her hands that she would attend college/nursing school when she turned 50 and earn her R.N. degree at age 53! She then wasted no time gaining employment at the Oakwood Medical Center’s Dearborn campus as OB/GYN nurse from which she eventually retired. After that she enjoyed dividing her time between the homes in Florida and Michigan with her husband Babe. Their door was always opened, and they always cherished the company of their family and friends.

So now, rather than mourn and sorrow as those that have no hope, we invite those that would join us to celebrate and honor a life well-lived and dedicated Christian that has undoubtedly heard her Lord and Master say, “Well done good and faithful servant:  thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things: enter into the joy of your Lord.”

A memorial service service will be held at a later date.  Please check back for updated service information.