Wilma Gayle Light went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, July 31, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.
Wilma devoted more than 50 years of her life to caring for others through her nursing career. She faithfully served her community in a variety of leadership roles, including Labor and Delivery Supervisor, Charge Nurse in Medical-Surgical Nursing, and House Supervisor. Her compassion and dedication touched the lives of countless patients, families, and coworkers. Nursing was more than a profession to Wilma—it was her calling, and she served with excellence, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Outside of her career, Wilma found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She especially loved shopping, searching for treasures at yard sales, and enjoying meals out with her beloved sister, Nancy. Those moments of laughter and togetherness were among her happiest memories.
Wilma was a faithful member of Legion Memorial Church in Powell Valley, where her faith in God was the foundation of her life.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy “Slick” Light of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; her parents, Roy and Mildred Sturgill of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; her brother, Jerry Sturgill of Cedar Bluff, VA; and her brother-in-law, Ruben Allman of Big Stone Gap, Virginia.
She is survived by her daughters, Robin Clisso (Chuck Weiss) of Verona, Wisconsin, Tina Mabe of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and Selina Arrington (Bryan) of Kingsport, Tennessee; her sister, Nancy Allman of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; and her brother, Dennis Sturgill (Sue) of Johnson City, TN.
She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Desiree Canto (Kristofer) of Verona, Wisconsin; Shea Plasman (Sam) of Laguna Niguel, California; Grant Smith (Rachel Phillips) of Phoenix, Arizona; Dr. Donovan Mabe (Leigha) of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; Dustin Mabe (Madison) of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; Ella Mabe of Big Stone Gap, Virginia; and Cody Gilley of Kingsport, Tennessee.
Her legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren: Landyn, Weston, and Aviana Canto of Verona, Wisconsin; Beckam and Brixton Plasman of Laguna Niguel, California; and Grayson, Lincoln, and Mila Mabe of Big Stone Gap, Virginia.
She is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish her memory.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Chuck Weiss, Dr. Donovan Mabe, Grayson Mabe, Dustin Mabe, Cody Gilley, and Bryan Arrington. Honorary pallbearers are Dennis Sturgill and Lincoln Mabe.
In accordance with Wilma’s wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens with Dennis Sturgill, her brother, ministering.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Wilma Light.

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