JoAnn Peters Wilder, age 86, devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at home surrounded by loving family. JoAnn was born and raised in Fernandina Beach and was the daughter of the late George and Grace Peters.

A dedicated homemaker, JoAnn had an unyielding zest for experience and knowledge. She continuously pursued personal growth through beauty school, interior design classes, computer courses and was always eager to learn new skills. Her love for creativity was prominently displayed in the countless dance costumes she made for her daughter and Halloween costumes for her children and grandchildren, a skill passed down to her by her grandmother which, in part, defined her.

JoAnn was also an active and devoted fifty-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star (OES), where she achieved many accomplishments within the organization. Notable achievements within OES included serving as Worthy Matron, being appointed to serve as not only as a Grand Chaplain and a Grand Instructor but also the Grand Representative of California due to her lifelong service and dedication. She and Donald (husband) traveled across the state to attend meetings and events. She found immense joy in decorating for fellowship gatherings and unique events held by the chapter.


Her deep faith in God was at the core of her life and she shared her faith with all those that knew her. JoAnn will forever be remembered for her warm heart, dedication to her family, and the positive impact she made in her community.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Donald Earl Wilder Sr. Her two sons are Christopher Wilder and Glenn Huls; TWo stepsons, Harold Wilder and James Wilder; two grandsons, Glenn Huls Jr. and James Huls, and many other family members.

JoAnn is survived in life by her daughter Donna Wilder Hafner (Jonathan) of Jacksonville, Florida; her two sons, Dale Huls (Mary) of De Kalb, Texas and Michael Huls of Fernandina Beach, Florida; her two stepsons, Donald Wilder Jr. (Sherry) of Fernandina Beach, Florida and Robert Wilder (Susan) of Palm Bay, Florida; twelve grandchildren, Allison and Owen Hafner, Jonathan (Genny) Tannehill, Caitlin Huls, Charles Huls, Brian (Brandy) Huls, William Huls, Sandra (Rob) Healy, Heather (Kasey) Thomas, Robyn (Eric) Scott, and Ryan Wilder; twelve great grandchildren and an extensive extended family.r.

She lived a long and rich life surrounded by her large loving family. She and her ancestors have deep roots and played a large role in the history of the city of Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island. JoAnn was loved by all that knew her and she graciously reciprocated that love back to everyone. Her door was always open to all, both literally and figuratively. JoAnn will be deeply missed by all she has left behind however she is now gloriously reunited with all that passed before her.

JoAnn will be laid to rest in a private family graveside ceremony.
The family will receive friends on Friday, March 14, 2025, beginning at 12:00 PM at the family residence, 1973 Sycamore Lane, Fernandina Beach, Florida.