Dr. Barbara Wilder

Obituary For Dr. Barbara Wilder

On July 25, 2020, at the age of 83, Dr. Barbara Shepard Wilder left this world for her heavenly home.

She was born on April 16, 1937 in Wetumpka, AL to the late Wilmus Christine and Freddie Shepard.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Willie H. Wilder, Sr., her son, Willi H. Wilder, Jr., her parents, her brothers, Freddie Douglas Shepard, Jr., Joe Earl "Bubba" Shepard and her sister, Helen Shepard Turner. Upon her graduation from Ullman High School, she attended Alabama State University where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and earned her bachelors degree. She eventually earned her Doctorate in Education at the University of Alabama. She had a long career in the Birmingham Public Schools and was a beloved educator serving as a classroom teacher, advisor and principal. Gifted with a powerful soprano singing voice, she was in much demand as a soloist for weddings, ceremonies and family reunions. Most importantly, she used this gift in the service of the Lord. She was a servant of God and a faithful member of Sixth Avenue Baptist Church. In addition to being a longtime member of the sanctuary choir, she served as a deaconess, member of Mission Group #5, trustee and a member of O.E.S. She could always be counted upon to serve. Family was important to her. She was a caretaker to her parents and to her husband. In her later years, her home became the central hub of traditional family gatherings. She was kind and giving. Blessed with one natural child, she extended her reach by treating all of her nieces and nephews as if they were her own children. She was a devoted daughter, sister, niece, wife, mother, aunt (a.k.a. "BaBae"), cousin, mother-in-law and grandmother. She loved well and with her whole heart. The world will miss her presence. She is survived by her daughter-in-law Adrienne Wilder; 2 grandsons Bijan Wilder and Eric Hines, one sister Carolyn Shepard Lumzy (Herman); a sister-in-law Dr. Emma Shepard and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of other family and friends. Graveside services will be held at Elmwood Cemetery on August 4, 2020 at 11:00 am with Bushelon presiding.