(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)Wilda Ilene Lovejoy, age 83, of Carterville, passed away peacefully at home on March 31, 2026.
Born on June 13, 1942, in Miller, Missouri, Wilda lived a life marked by warmth, humor, deep faith, and a boundless love for both people and animals. She married the love of her life, Ralph “Chuck” Lovejoy, on August 28, 1965, and together they shared more than 49 years of devotion, laughter, and quiet companionship.
Wilda had a spirit that was both gentle and lively. From her earliest days, she loved the outdoors—rarely far from sunshine, fresh air, or the company of animals. That love stayed with her throughout her life. She never met a creature she didn’t care for, and her home was often filled with the joyful presence of dogs she welcomed, cared for, and, more often than not, made part of her family.
Her compassion extended far beyond animals. Wilda and Chuck opened their home as foster parents to many children over the years, offering a place of safety, kindness, and steady love. She had a way of making people feel at ease—seen, welcomed, and cared for—no matter how long they stayed.
Wilda was a social soul who found joy in connection. She spent many happy hours at the Webb City senior center among friends, sharing laughter and conversation. After the passing of her beloved husband in 2015, she found renewed community at Red Oak II in Carthage, where she gathered on Saturday evenings to listen to live music, working on her crocheting, surrounded by friends who became like family.
Her life was deeply rooted in faith. Wilda was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord and lived her beliefs with quiet strength and sincerity.
Throughout her life, Wilda worked in her community and formed meaningful connections wherever she went, always bringing her warmth and kindness to those around her.
Wilda is survived by two nephews, one niece, ten great-nieces and nephews, and eleven great-great-nieces and nephews, along with many dear friends and countless lives—both human and four-legged—made better by her love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Chuck, whom she missed dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Red Oak II or a local animal shelter. Both are places that reflect the things Wilda loved most.
And if you happen to spot a stray paw print or a tennis ball rolling your way—well, that’s probably Wilda, still checking in.
A celebration of Wilda’s life will be held at the church at Red Oak II on April 9, from 11-1. This place brought her joy and connection in her later years.
Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.
Her compassion extended far beyond animals. Wilda and Chuck opened their home as foster parents to many children over the years, offering a place of safety, kindness, and steady love. She had a way of making people feel at ease—seen, welcomed, and cared for—no matter how long they stayed.
Wilda was a social soul who found joy in connection. She spent many happy hours at the Webb City senior center among friends, sharing laughter and conversation. After the passing of her beloved husband in 2015, she found renewed community at Red Oak II in Carthage, where she gathered on Saturday evenings to listen to live music, working on her crocheting, surrounded by friends who became like family.
Her life was deeply rooted in faith. Wilda was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord and lived her beliefs with quiet strength and sincerity.
Throughout her life, Wilda worked in her community and formed meaningful connections wherever she went, always bringing her warmth and kindness to those around her.
Wilda is survived by two nephews, one niece, ten great-nieces and nephews, and eleven great-great-nieces and nephews, along with many dear friends and countless lives—both human and four-legged—made better by her love.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Chuck, whom she missed dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Red Oak II or a local animal shelter. Both are places that reflect the things Wilda loved most.
And if you happen to spot a stray paw print or a tennis ball rolling your way—well, that’s probably Wilda, still checking in.
A celebration of Wilda’s life will be held at the church at Red Oak II on April 9, from 11-1. This place brought her joy and connection in her later years.
Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.
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