Wilma Jean Simms was born on November 5, 1941 in Washington, D.C. to the late Henry, Sr. and Cleo McDonald. Surrounded by her loved ones, she entered into eternal rest on December 1, 2012 at the Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C.

Wilma was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. We will always remember her smile, wit and her great sense of humor. She had a special way of making people smile in good or bad times. One could always count on her to lift their spirits. For all who knew our mother, they knew how much she loved shopping and her gold jewelry (she had to have a ring on every finger). She was the QVC and HSN Queen.

As a child, Wilma attended public schools in Washington, D.C. After graduating from District of Columbia Public Schools, Wilma went to work at Greater Southeast Community Hospital in Washington, D.C. After 25 years of dedicated service, she retired in 1999. Shortly thereafter, she returned to the workforce and joined the staff of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), located at the Democratic National Headquarters in Washington, D.C. In her role as the front desk receptionist, she was always upbeat and exhibited an energetic personality. She cheerfully welcomed all who called and visited the DCCC’s headquarters. She was the face and matriarch of the DCCC. She was affection-ately known as “Miss Wilma” and she served as a loyal and dedicated employee for 13 years. She retired in September 2012.
Wilma accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at the Greater New Hope Baptist Church, where she was a member until her passing. She always knew GOD had His hands in her life.

Wilma leaves to cherish her precious memories six children: Carlton, Carlisa (James), Clarence III (Jackie), Wilma, Shavonne and Charmice (Timothy); thirteen grandchildren: Dameon (Ebony), Rodney, Diara, Cimodi, Marquette, Shawntia, Brittany, Cordell, Antwan, Ja’Ca, Rajon, Tavon and Shakira; three great-grandchildren: Tea’jah, Amari and Dameon, Jr; four brothers: Melvin McDonald (Patricia), Edward McDonald, Lawrence McDonald (Tamira) and Anthony McDonald (Shirley); one sister: Margie Greene and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Wilma was preceded in death by brothers, Harold McDonald, Henry McDonald Jr., Ronald McDonald, Johnnie and James McDonald and sister, Gloria Alexandria.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

2nd Timothy 4:7-8