Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Wilma Beth (Jacob) Shellman, 83, long-time White Salmon, Washington, resident, passed away at PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center in Vancouver, Washington, on April 29, 2026.
Wilma was born the eighth of nine children on Dec. 13, 1942, in Longview, Washington, to Joseph Reed and Luella (Hall) Jacob. Her family moved around a bit in her early years in search of work, finally settling in Hood River, Oregon. As a teenager, Wilma worked at the local movie theater and had the distinction of beating her employer at arm wrestling. After graduating from Hood River High School in 1961, she married Terry Shellman the following September.
Wilma gave birth to eight children, whom she described as eight “only children,” as they were all so different in their personalities and needs. She handled the daily bookkeeping at Terry’s businesses, attended innumerable sports events, wrangled cub scouts, and taught children and led women at church. Wilma enjoyed singing in the church choir, except on Mother’s Day. She would rather hear the children sing on that day. Wilma learned from her mother how to sew, crochet, and knit. She sewed costumes for her children when they were growing up, and later made afghans for her children and grandchildren.
Wilma was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was involved in the White Salmon Gleaners organization for a number of years.
Wilma leaves behind her five sons, Spencer (Cecile) of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Scott (Kim) of Banks, Oregon, Daniel (Valori) of Sandy, Utah, Joel (Helen) of Camas, Washington, and Jacob (Laura) of Longview; her three daughters, Terri Jane (Kevin) Kyte of Camas, Melody Shellman of Hood River, and Hannah (Isaac) Carroll of Camas; 32 grandchildren; and five (soon-to-be six) great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Irvin Jacob of Gresham, Oregon, and many nieces and nephews. Wilma joins her parents; brothers Joe, Reed, and David; sisters Lila, Ellen, Mary Lou, and Thora; and her beloved husband Terry, who passed away last September.
The funeral service will take place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 18th and May streets in Hood River on May 12 at 11 a.m. A viewing will be held the hour before the funeral. Wilma will be interred at Idlewilde Cemetery.
Columbia Gorge News, May 6, 2026
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