Wilma Jean David

The extraordinary earthly life of Wilma Jean David began on April 27, 1935, to her parents, Jack and Gertrude (Hammond) David, of Thermopolis, Wyo., and ended on March 21, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colo. She was the oldest of five siblings, Glen (Joyce) David, Norma (Durward) Guffey, Naomi (Mike) Liesch, and Thelma (Laverne) Buller. They grew up on their family farm and were raised to walk with the Lord.

Wilma was married to James W. Bales, and together they had four children, Robert Bales, Carol Sullivan, James Bales, and Darla Bales.

During her life, Wilma, affectionately called "Baga" by her grandchildren, made the famous cinnamon rolls at the Hungry Farmer Restaurant, helped in the capture of the escaped Texas Seven, profoundly influenced the lives of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, and faithfully shared the Good News with multitudes of people.

Among her many gifts as a chef, Sunday School teacher, and friend, she was a fierce prayer warrior who loved her Savior with unwavering devotion. She was the physical embodiment of joy.

She is survived by her children, Robert Bales, Carol (Tom) Sullivan, James Bales, and Darla Bales; grandchildren, Shannon (Nelson) Leupp, Brandon (Elizabeth) Sullivan, James Bales, Jesse Bales, and Megan Bales; great-grandchildren, Reagan Leupp, Miles (Kaylee) Leupp, Mikenna (Elias) Leupp, Mia Leupp, Isaac Sullivan, Callen Sullivan, and Landyn Sullivan; great-great-grandchildren, Beatrice and Nelson Leupp; and many extended family members whom she prayed for daily. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Gertrude David; brother-in-law, Durward Guffey; sister, Thelma Buller; and her nephews, Jay Guffey and David Guffey.

She leaves her family a priceless inheritance of faith and love.

Her children rise and call her blessed.

Wilma's Celebration of Life will be held on March 31, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Awakening Church 3445 Oro Blanco Dr. Colorado Springs, Colorado 80917. There will be a Cinnamon Roll Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to the Awakening Youth Ministry.