- Date Of Birth: May 14, 1943
- Date Of Death: April 4, 2022
- State: Texas
Wilma Clydene Blanton Avalos, 78 of Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully and surrounded by her loved ones on April 4, 2022 after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born May 14, 1943 to Minnie Alice and Aubrey Blanton in Dallas, Texas. She was the youngest sister to Louise, Richard, and John. She earned her spot in the family as daddy’s little girl and was often rewarded with sweet drinks hidden under her bed. She graduated from South Oak Cliff High in 1961 and attended Rutherford Metropolitan School of Business. Wilma married Sam Avalos Jr. on April 1, 1963 and together they worked in the family restaurant El Nopalitos, where she mastered her art for cooking Mexican food. In 1971, her and Sam crossed over into the electrical industry with the creation of Sam’s Electric. She studied vigorously and earned her Journeyman license and would be one of the first few women to earn the Master Electrical license.
Wilma was a fierce defender and protector of her family and those around her. She was an advocate for those who needed help and was awarded numerous awards and recognition for her volunteer work. She was a strong supporter for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and could be seen championing the cause of special education in front of DISD in the 1970’s. She would later work with educators at her children’s school to form the PTA at the high school level as well as garnish community support to bring much needed repair to the school. She was best known for the formation of the Love Field West Crime Watch. With her team, they were able to improve the neighborhood with reduction in crime, new sidewalks, street improvements, and secure the Grauwyler Public Library for generations to come. Wilma also volunteered her time teaching ceramics and organizing trips for her community. She would often be seen checking in on her elderly neighbors and organizing events.
Most importantly, Wilma loved her family. She cared for and comforted her mother-in-law, mother, and husband until their passing. She instilled strong core values in her children and made sure they were in church every Sunday. She enjoyed her time with her grandchildren by taking them on many adventures and sharing her stories. Her strength and courage were undeniable to the very end and there are no words to describe her ability to take on a challenge. Her smile, sense of humor, and charm will be deeply missed.
Wilma is survived by son Sam Avalos III, son Vincent Avalos and wife Martha, daughter Angelina Avalos and husband Sam Sarmiento, grandchildren Andrew Avalos, Gabriela Sarmiento, Ryan Avalos, Amanda Avalos, and her beloved pet Betsy.
The Avalos Family is very grateful for Associate Pastor Gene McBride and Royal Haven Baptist Church, Wilma’s home church, for being by her side and keeping her in prayer. The family would also like to thank Pastor David Sandoval and TDA Church for their continued support and Damita Washington and Kay Griffin-Davenport for their compassionate and great care they provided for Wilma.
