Wilma P. McQuitty

Wilma Pauline (Klotz) McQuitty, 92, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025. She was born on January 24,1933 in Bethlehem, Missouri, to Harvey and Leona (Wagner) Klotz.

Wilma graduated from Clinton High School in Clinton, MO, where she was acknowledged and awarded for her exemplary skills in bookkeeping, shorthand, and typing. After her graduation, she worked in the office of Clearfield Cheese Company.

At a pie supper she met Gene McQuitty, the young man who drew her number. He became the love of her life, and they married on July 7, 1951. They enjoyed 61 years together.

After Gene returned from his military service in Korea, they moved to Kansas City. Gene worked for General Motors and Wilma was a stay-at-home mom. In 1956, they moved to Olathe, KS.

Wilma loved to sew and made most of her 3 daughters’ clothes throughout the years. C&W and country gospel music were things she really loved, as well as, teaching her girls to harmonize and being their coach as they performed in a variety of music shows. Growing up a farm girl, she always enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, and growing flowers. Wilma faithfully kept a daily journal starting on the day she was married. Her written words leave her girls with over 70 years of pages rich in family history.

Wilma and Gene attended and were charter members of the New Hope Presbyterian Church in Olathe. 

She is survived by her daughters, Paula (L.E.) Huckleberry, Diane (Monty) Duke, and Donna (Scott) Buescher. Eleven grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene, her parents, her brother, Donald, and her sister, Marie.

A private graveside service will be held at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In remembrance of Wilma’s life and love, the family requests that contributions be made to the “Wounded Warrior Project”. Donations can be mailed to PO Box 758541, Topeka, KS 66675-8541; or click on Donate.

To leave a special message for her family or to share a memory of Wilma, please visit the guestbook below.