Wilma Sanford in the Robe of Achievement, 2010

Wilma Siedhoff Sanford’s service in her church, community, and conference were quiet, yet dedicated and extensive.

Wilma was born in Battle Creek, MI and grew up in Salem, WV. She was baptized in 1943. Wilma married Gordon Sanford of Little Genesee on August 7, 1943 while he was serving in the armed forces. She taught school in Ohio for one year and then worked for the civil service while Gordon was in the military. They returned to Little Genesee in 1946, at which time she joined the SDB church there.

Wilma was a key member in her community. She was deeply involved in the Sunshine Society that functioned both as  a church Ladies’ Aid and a community group. They took care of the church’s Community Center, putting on dinners to raise money for its upkeep and keeping it clean. The group organized community birthday parties and prepared meals for funerals of community members. Willie was president of the Sunshine Society for a total of 19 years until it folded in 1995 but she remained involved in the community via that Quilt Club, a group the met weekly to quilt together. Her projects included a beautiful hanging for the SCSC table in 2005. She was also aware of her neighbors needs, lending a helping hand as needed. She and Gordon were named Town of Genesee Citizens of the Year in 1994.

She served her church in a variety of capacities, both official and unofficial. She was always ready to bring food to church functions and outreaches and to help clean and keep up the facilities. She served as a trustee (2003-present) and a deaconess (2001-present), titles that recognize service she had been giving for many years prior.

She had the gift of hospitality and many a visitor, pastor, or member of the First Church of Genesee has been invited to lunch after worship services. She hosted SCSC teams and mentored a number of young pastors who started their ministry there. Wilma and Gordon were the quiet backbone of the church for many years, though they intentionally passed their leadership roles to others and supported the new leaders.

Wilma served as treasurer of her church and co-treasurer of the denomination for more than 50 years. When Gordon was elected treasurer of Our World Mission (denominational budget) from 1963-1982, it was a partnership recognized by the Conference. In that age, prior to the computer, she did all the typing and much of the accounting. She served as church treasurer for more than 30 years. She continued on after that as the assistant treasurer. Her careful attention to detail and willingness to serve others were evident in her diligently prepared reports, even during times of distress- such as the rebuilding of the meeting house following its destruction by fire in 2001.

She was frequently a caregiver to others. She raised four children and was blessed with 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Wilma cared for a number of family members as they neared the end of their lives including her Grandmother Siedhoff in Salem, her mother Nida Hudson, and a number of in-laws.