Patricia Wilson

Patricia "Wendy" Whitehurst (Wilson)

Opelousas -It is with heavy hearts that Wendy's family announces her passing on June 10, 2015, after a brief illness. She passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home surrounded by family and close friends.

Wendy was born in Eunice on May 28, 1945, and in her adventurous life lived in many places, finally returning to the area of her roots to reside happily in Opelousas for the past twenty-five years.

She began her professional career as a hospital nurse and later became a massage therapist, successfully operating a massage therapy clinic for the past twenty-four years. Wendy was appointed to the Louisiana Board of Massage Therapists by Governor Foster and over the years mentored a multitude of newly licensed massage therapists.

An effervescent spirit with a unique love of life, contagious enthusiasm and a gregarious personality, Wendy was loved by all who knew her…and especially by those who benefitted from her healing, loving hands! She adored nature and animals, particularly those animals that were wounded, abandoned or in need of special care. Although she engaged in many hobbies, clubs, and organizations, Wendy's favorite pastime was travel. She traveled to twenty-six different countries and often performed mission work in Central and South America.

Wendy is survived by her husband and soul mate, Dr. Joe Wilson; one daughter, Lela Whitehurst; and one stepdaughter, Leah Wilson Halverson and husband, Andrew; three sons, Wayne Bushnell, Rick Bushnell, and Paul Jones and wife, Jenny; seven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; two sisters, Gay Hess and husband, John; and Kitty St. Cyr. Wendy was preceded in death by her father, Dick St. Cyr and her mother, Gay McMillan St. Cyr.

Her incredibly luminous smile is etched in our memories and brings us comfort through our grief.

The family wishes to thank the following who facilitated her care: Dr. Richard Harmon, Louisiana Hospice and Palliative Care, and the wonderful doctors and nurses at both Opelousas and Lafayette General Hospitals.

A Celebration of Wendy's Life will be held at Toby's Lodge on June 27, 2015 at 2:00.

In lieu of flowers, and for those who desire, the family suggests donation to St. Jude, Operation Smile, Wounded Warriors Foundation, SPCA or United Way of St. Landry/Evangeline, all of which she supported.

Also the assistance of Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas is appreciated.

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