Wilma Runner Thompson passed away on February 10, 2015 with her family holding her hands at her bedside. She is free from the aches and pains of this world, rejoicing in Heaven.

Wilma was born on June 22, 1933 in Spokane, Washington. As the 11th of the 12 Runner children, she grew up in a family of love and encouragement. The hard working family moved to Delhi, California in 1934, and began farming on their ranch on El Capitan Way. 

Wilma graduated from Livingston High School in 1951, being active in musical productions, sports, and CSF. She enjoyed her work with Christian Endeavor through her family church, Delhi Community Church.

She attended San Francisco State College as a music major, completing her degree at Stanislaus State College. She began her teaching career in Cressey, California  where she was hired by School board member, Jim Thompson. He wanted to keep her around so he gave her a signing bonus of a wedding ring.

Wilma and Jim married on June 16, 1956. Together they raised three children, Paul, Beth, and Peggy. Wilma was a very busy mom, helping with Cub Scouts, 4-H, sports, and everything else in which  her children were involved.  She taught at Cressey, Ballico and Delhi schools. While teaching, she also touched many lives through music and sports. Wilma’s  passion for education was evident through all she did.

Family was of great importance to Wilma. She helped with the care of both her parents and Jim’s parents in their later years. Family reunions were always a priority to her and hosted the annual Runner Family Reunion at their ranch along the Merced River for many years. 

She has been reunited in heaven with her parents, 7 of her siblings, and her loving husband Jim. She is survived by her sisters, Muriel Brown of Redwood City, Lila Lohman of Cortez, Jean Bird and her husband Norman of Billings, Montana, and Thelma Reinhard and husband Bill of Tuscon, Arizona, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. Her children, Paul Thompson and wife Nora of Victor,  Beth Feaver and husband Tom of Fowler, and Peggy Hooper and husband Jack of Fresno will miss her greatly. She was deeply loved by all her grandchildren, Jeanette Madrigal and husband Guillermo, Travis Feaver, Greg Feaver, Jordan Escobar and husband Eric, Jonna Hooper, and Joel Hooper. She delighted in the past year that she had with her twin great grandsons Micah and Ezekiel Madrigal. 

A celebration of Wilma’s life will be held on Monday, February 16 at the Delhi Presbyterian Community Church at 1:00. Burial will be private at the National Cemetery in Santa Nella where she will be placed with her husband. 

Remembrances may be sent to Delhi Community Presbyterian Church, The Alexander Cohen Community Hospice House in Hughson, Young Life (CA555) or your favorite charity. 

Please share your memories and condolences at www.AllenMortuary.com