Wilma Marie Beresford

Wilma Marie Beresford, 85, of Groves, Texas passed away Sunday, February 5, 2017 at Magnolia Manor. Wilma was born November 3, 1931 in Crabtree, Arkansas to Newton Alexander Graham and Anna Lucille Graham. Wilma was known for her heart and her love of teaching. Wilma loved fiercely, in a sweet, quiet way and dedicated her life to Christian service. She fought tooth and nail against the odds to make something of herself, and to this day, former students still ask about her. She was not just "Mom" to her biological children. She was "Mrs. B" the Mother to everyone who gave her a chance to believe in them, even when they could not believe in themselves. She left this world peacefully, surrounded by family and friends. Wilma was a lifelong Groves resident and member of Val Verde Baptist Church. She retired from Port Neches Groves ISD after many years of teaching, and was also a member of Texas State Teachers Association. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert B. Beresford; son, Robert "Bobby" Beresford; and brothers, Joe Graham, James Venable and Obrey Venable. Survivors include her daughters, Anna Walker and Angela Beresford both of Groves, and Becky Beresford of Port Neches; sister, Lucy Manley and her husband Jack of Pearland; brothers, Newton Hall Graham of Oklahoma, Gene Venable and his wife Barbara of Groves, AB Joseph Venable of Buna; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at Levingston Funeral Home in Groves with Reverend Brent Stancil and Reverend Nick Dignan officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday evening from 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Special thanks to Magnolia Manor for the care and support given to our family and loved one.