Obituary of Wilma Joyce Kennedy

Kennedy (Thomson), Wilma Joyce – Hahege hotaine wiya (Elk Voice Woman) passed away on Sunday March 22, 2020 at 12:42 p.m. with her immediate family by her side in Regina, SK. Wilma is predeceased by her eldest daughter Sylvia; sons Edwin, Perry, Joseph; daughter Thelma, husband Joseph; parents Jim and Birdie Thomson; siblings Kenneth, William, Glen, Nelson, Cecil, Gordon, Herman, Thelma, Phyllis, and Beverley. 

She is survived by her children, Warren (Linda), Lynn (Lynda), James, Ricky, LaVina, Danyta, Frances (Barry), Janita; sisters Viola (Bob) and Sharon; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. In addition she is survived by her step and adopted children Kathleen, Edith (Bill) and many others who call her Coosh. 

Wilma was born and raised on Carry The Kettle First Nation July 2, 1923. She attended Brandon Residential School and was a Residential School Survivor.

Wilma went on to live a full life of gardening, coaching her children in sports as well as breaking and racing horses in her younger years. After her children were grown, she went on to work for 25 years in Special Education in Montmartre and Sacred Heart School in Regina. At the tender age of 74, Wilma retired from teaching, but not leaving her passion for education which led to her sitting on numerous educational boards.

She became actively involved with her community’s culture and traditions where she went to sit on the provincial elders justice committee as well as being part of the committee for the repatriation of sacred bones and artifacts. Wilma’s passion for her Nakoda culture is shown through the values and stories that are passed down to her family and will live on for generations to come. Her final gift to her Nakoda people was the publication of her book, Nakon-i’a wo! (Beginning Nakoda) which was compiled by Professor Vincent Collette.

Wilma lived her life as a leader and role model for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her zest and passion for life shone through in her journey through this life. Her compassion and love for family and her fierceness for a just world will be her legacy. She had a strong adventurous spirit that was always willing to learn new things and take on new adventures. Her passing from this physical world is her simply going on a new spiritual adventure. 

She will be deeply and dearly missed by her family and friends but will always remain with us in spirit.  

In keeping with the Nakoda culture a viewing will take place for the immediate family only. The health and safety of Wilma’s family and friends was an utmost importance to her and we know that she would not want to place anyone’s health in jeopardy, so in response to COVID-19 and increased restrictions, we have decided to postpone funeral services until a later date when we will have a celebration of her life.