Wilma L. Shimer, 96, a long-time resident of Cranbury, NJ, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2020, at Middlebury Convalescent Home in Middlebury, Connecticut.
Wilma was born on March 12, 1924 in Muncie, IN where she grew up, met, and married the love of her life, Robert F. Shimer. Together, they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage.
Wilma was a very active member of the greater Cranbury community, participating in Red Hats, Golden Age Seniors, Boy Scouts of America, Order of the Eastern Star, and various activities at the First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury.
Wilma was a recognized, local artist. She was an active member of NJ Watercolors Association. Her works can be found in many local homes and establishments including The Cranbury Inn and Teddy’s Restaurant. She was a fixture at Cranbury Day’s for many years selling her artwork, including prints of her ‘Cranbury Main Street’ painting.
Wilma loved antiques and collecting. Known to many as the “Cookie Jar Lady,” she had a collection of over 200 cookie jars which she proudly displayed in home and freely lent to Cranbury Historical Society for display.
Wilma was predeceased by her husband, Robert F. Shimer; her sister, Martha T. Thompson; her brother-in-law, Everett Thompson of Phoenix, AZ; and her niece, Pamela A. (Thompson) Ryan of Phoenix, AZ.
She is survived by her two sons, Robert L. Shimer (with his wife, Margaret “Peg” J., and her granddaughter, Meredith J., of Southbury, CT) and John T. Shimer (with his wife, Laurie A,. of Stewartsville, NJ and her grandchildren, John “Jack” T. and his wife, Brittany, of Summerville, SC, Brianna L. of Denton, TX and Cameron R. of Stewartsville, NJ). She is also survived by her niece, Jan L. (Thompson) Girard and husband, Richard of Dewey, AZ; her nephew, Gary Thompson of Phoenix, AZ; as well as countless friends and neighbors she cherished in her beloved Cranbury.
Wilma will be remembered for her love of family and friends, and her kindness, warmth, and art.
Cremation services were held privately in Connecticut and a Memorial Gathering and Service will be held at a later date in New Jersey.
Interment will be in Brainerd Cemetery, Cranbury, New Jersey
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association.
Arrangements are under the direction of the A.S. Cole Son & Co. 22 North Main Street, Cranbury, NJ.