Wilda K. Arthur, age 94, of Joplin, passed away on Saturday March 17, 2018, at Spring River Christian Village, following a beautiful long life.

Wilda was born on June 24, 1923 in Stella, Mo., the daughter of the late Doc and Cora (Francisco) Bowers. She has been a lifelong area resident. She married William T. Arthur on March 23, 1940 in McNatt, Mo. and together they made their home in Duenweg, Mo., where they raised their two daughters. They co-owned and operated Midway Sheet Metal. They later moved to Joplin where they owned and operated King Arthur’s Appliance Store and several rental properties. She also worked for a time at Newman’s Department Store.

Wilda was a beautiful person with a vibrant personality. Her smile would always light up the room. She appeared in several local commercials. She was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church. She was a past board member of the Joplin Association Of The Blind Board of Director’s, and on the board of the Joplin Senior Center, where she volunteered regularly. She was a past member of Surviving Spouses. She enjoyed gardening and dancing.

She is survived by one daughter, Peggy Kelley and her husband Lou, Joplin; five grandchildren, Scott Connors, Kelly Connors, Kirk Connors, Stacy Tomlin-Harman, and Alison Tomlin; one step-grandson, Craig Kelley; and eight great-grandchildren, Kyra, Kirstie, Owen, Poppy, Castle, Jeff, Greg, and Madi. She was preceded in death by her husband William T. “Bill” Arthur on April 7, 1995; a daughter, Suzanne Tomlin, in October of 1995; and two brothers, Troy and Paul Bowers.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Mason-Woodard Chapel. Randy Wilson, Minister will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends 10 a.m. Tuesday prior to service time.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Joplin Senior Citizen’s Center in care of the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.

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