Ella Dean Wiggins went peacefully to be with her Heavenly Father January 11, 2011 in Arlington, Texas, her family at her side. Dean was born near Shallowater, Texas, November 18, 1926 to the late Josie Dunn and Bob Taylor Cox. During World War II she moved to San Antonio to work in a war munitions plant. Dean later worked as a bank teller, private secretary, bookkeeper, real estate broker, and insurance agent. She lived in Cuero from 1954 until 1997, where she was a member of the Cuero Assembly of God Church. In 1997, she moved to Arlington to be near her daughters and grandchildren. There she joined the congregation at St. Stephen United Methodist Church.

Dean was a dedicated and loving mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, serving the Lord in all that she did. She was always selfless and loved unconditionally. Her bounteous sense of humor and infectious laugh were uplifting to all. Ever cheerful, always smiling, she was a source of inspiration and positive energy, leaving an indelible print on all who knew her. She will always be our shining light.

Dean was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, Homer Wagner and Kenneth Wiggins; and 10 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughters, Sandra and husband Britt Jenkins of Arlington, Texas and Teresa Wagner, also of Arlington; grandson Clay Jenkins and his wife Sarah of Southlake, Texas; granddaughter Erin and her husband Craig McDowell of The Woodlands, Texas; four great grandchildren, Dylan, Ella, Joey, and Carl; numerous and beloved nieces and nephews; and many loving friends.

Visitation will be Thursday, January 13, 2011 from 5:30 to 7:30 at Freund Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, January 14, 2011 at Freund Funeral Home in Cuero with Rev. Mary Spradlin officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery, Cuero.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen United Methodist Church, Arlington.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.