Wilma Jean Dunlap

Wilma Jean Dunlap passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026 at Emerald Care Nursing Home in Cozad. Jean was born March 8, 1931 in Bedford, Iowa to Harold and Ethel (Arthur) Mackey. Jean’s early years were shaped in the close-knit community surrounding Plum Grove country school, where she began her education. She went on to graduate with the class of 1949 from Hopkins High School, setting the foundation for a lifetime of hard work and devotion to those around her.

Shortly after high school, Jean married Howard Hadley Farris in Maryville, Missouri, on June 19, 1949. Their union brought her great joy and was blessed with two daughters, Peggy and Cindy. Jean and Howard separated in 1979. In July of 1980, Jean married Robert Glenn Dunlap. Through this marriage, she gained a stepdaughter, Denise, expanding her circle of love and support.

Throughout her working years, Jean held several waitress and sales clerk positions before taking a role at Monroe Auto, where she worked until her retirement. After retiring, Jean found fulfillment in caring for others—babysitting for many families in the community and continuing to offer her warmth and wisdom to younger generations.

A woman of simple pleasures, Jean delighted in the beauty of nature, particularly through her passion for gardening. She always had flowers blooming wherever she lived, creating vibrant and welcoming spaces filled with color and life.

Above all, Jean loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. Her nurturing spirit and generous heart left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to have known her. Wilma Jean Dunlap’s life was a tapestry of meaningful connections, steady work, and heartfelt devotion. Her legacy endures in the family she nurtured, the friendships she cherished, and the many lives she touched throughout her journey. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who were part of her remarkable story.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Howard Farris and Robert Dunlap; sister, Margret Marcus; brother, Glenn Mackey; nephew Scott Mackey; and many other loved ones.

Survivors include her daughters, Peggy Strobl of Clay Center, Cindy Simpson of Cozad and Denise Warta of Kearney; 8 grandchildren; several great and great great grand children; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Christ with Pastor Robert Litzenberger officiating.