BOWLING GREEN – Wilma Jean Austin, 84, of Bowling Green, Kentucky, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of strength, spirit, and love. Born on May 15, 1941 to the late John Cortis and Elenor Garrett of Muhlenberg County. She entered in to her heavenly home on May 13, 2026.
Wilma was known for her strong will and spunky personality. She lived life with grit and determination, never afraid to speak her mind and always standing firm in who she was. Her presence filled a room, and her love for her family was unwavering.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tommy Austin; her daughter, Barbara Jean Mayes; and her sons, Jimmy Wayne Gardner and David Lee Gardner. Also preceded in death by seven grandchildren; five of her siblings, Sam Garrett, JC Garrett, Joey Garrett, James Edmond Garrett and Elizabeth Ray Ewing.
Wilma is survived by her loving daughters, Rita Ann Dukes (Edward McDowell) of Bowling Green, Kentucky, Diana Lynn Baskerville (James W Baskerville) of Drakesboro, Kentucky, Bonnie Sue Baskerville, also of Drakesboro, and Jeanette Fay Smith of York, Pennsylvania; her daughter-in-law, Amy Gardner of Central City, Kentucky; 19 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren; and her brother Walter H Garrett. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished each of them deeply.
In her younger years, Wilma found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved playing bingo with her daughters and her mother, Yahtzee with family, moments filled with laughter and togetherness. She also enjoyed spending quiet time with a good sudoku book, always keeping her mind sharp.
Wilma was a woman of faith. While living in Bowling Green, she attended Hillvue Heights Church, and in Muhlenberg County, she was a devoted member of Richardson Chapel Church. Her faith was a steady foundation throughout her life.
Wilma Jean Austin will be remembered for her strength, her spunky spirit, and the love she poured into her family. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Funeral services will be Monday, May 18, 2026 at 12PM at Tucker Funeral Home in Central City with Bro. Bradley Brown officiating. Burial will be private. Visitation will be Monday at 10AM at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com.
