Obituary of Wilma J. Fairchild

Wilma J. Fairchild passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2016 at her home surrounded by the love of her family. Wilma was born on December 22, 1936, daughter of Charles and Reva Redfield. She grew up in Scott, NY and graduated from Homer Central School. It is there that she met her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Harold (Hank) Fairchild, whom she married and raised a family with. They were married for nearly 50 years until Hank’s death in 2004 and she considered those years the best chapter of her life. Wilma held secretarial positions at the First National Bank of Cortland, Gutchess Lumber and the Cortland County Legislature. Harold and Wilma enjoyed retirement wintering in Port Orange, Florida. Together they operated Ginger Collectables, an antique and collectable business at the Daytona Beach Flea Market. Their summers were spent at their camp on Skaneateles Lake. Wilma was passionate about sunshine and water and loved boating and swimming. She also had a passion for animals, especially her dachshund dogs. She is survived by her children, Kim (Penny) Fairchild, and Kelly (Richard) Preston; grandchildren, Julie (Andrea) Niederhofer, Mark (Audrey) Fairchild, Victoria Preston, Michael Fortin (Holli) and Shannon (Bryan) Bartholomew. She was known as “Gramma Bling” to her great-grandchildren, Mark, Andie, Joey, Jake and Ryan. Wilma is also survived by her sister Mary (Alfred) Marshall, and several sisters in-law, brothers in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband, Harold; great-grandchilden twins Lucas and Brooke Bartholomew; parents Charles and Reva Redfield and brother Charles “C.T.” Redfield. To honor Wilma’s wishes there are no calling hours. A private burial will be held at the family’s convenience. Contributions may be made to Country Acres Animal Shelter, 5852 W. Scott Rd., Homer, NY 13077 or an animal rescue of your choice. To offer condolences online, visit www.wright-beard.com.