Garnet Belle Wilson
My mother, Garnet Belle (Ritchie) Wilson, born Friday, Jan. 14, 1938, in Calloway, Neb., passed away peacefully at her home in Moses Lake, Wash., on Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, just four days shy of her 87th birthday.
The daughter of James and Roxy (Hoffman) Ritchie, Garnet grew up alongside her brother Robert. Her early school years were spent in Nyssa, Ore. Driven by a passion for helping others, she pursued a nursing degree at Boise State University and went on to become a registered nurse — a career that would define 45 years of her life.
In 1960, Garnet married Duane Amos Wilson. Together they built their lives on a ranch in Moses Lake, Wash., residing on Road H NE. That same year, they welcomed their son Clay Duane Wilson into the world on Christmas Eve. Garnet balanced the demanding roles of being a full-time nurse and a farmer's wife with remarkable grace and determination for 33 years.
In 1991, after divorcing Duane, Garnet began a new chapter in her life. She moved into town and later found love again with Dennis L. Clay. The couple married in 1998 and made their home on base in Moses Lake. Garnet supported Dennis in his many ventures while continuing to enjoy her own pursuits.
Professionally, Garnet was deeply committed to health care. She worked briefly at Samaritan Hospital before dedicating herself to the Moses Lake Clinic, where she served patients with compassion until her retirement in 2004. To celebrate this milestone achievement, she treated herself to a Jeep — a symbol of her independence and accomplishments.
Garnet had an extraordinary appreciation for both the great outdoors and the comforts of life. She volunteered with organizations close to her heart such as the Moses Lake Food Bank and the Grant County Historical Society & Museum. She also joined and contributed to numerous veterans' community groups and participated at the Moses Lake Senior Center.
Her warmth and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Known for her selflessness and an exceptional way with words, Garnet filled countless notepads throughout her home with treasured thoughts and reflections that captured the essence of her life.
Garnet also embraced the unique opportunities life presented. Through her husband Dennis' media work, she crossed paths with notable figures such as Ted Nugent, Guy Fieri, Joe Mantegna and Chuck Buck — experiences she relished sharing through stories that never failed to entertain.
Above all else, Garnet was immensely proud of her family. She adored her only child Clay (Lynn) Wilson and often humorously reminded him he should have pursued a career as an X-ray technician instead of becoming a mechanic. She cherished Clay’s growing family as well: grandchildren Stephanie (Tom) Benton of Uvalde, Ga., Terry (Theresa) Detwiler of Moses Lake, and Deanna (Lonny) Detwiler of Soap Lake, Wash.; as well as great-grandchildren Ashley Benton, Camrin Benton, Victoria Benton, Jessica Detwiler, Pypper Detwiler, Corinna (Austin) Cole, Renessa (Octavio) Cole, Tru Cole, Carol Cole; and great-great-grandchildren Mya and Mazion.
Garnet is also survived by her brother Robert (Barbara) Ritchie of Idaho; brother-in-law David (Betty) Wilson of Idaho; extended family across the United States; and countless friends whom she held dear “as many as there are stars in the sky,” as those close to her would say.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Dennis L. Clay.
In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund, donation may be made in Garnet’s name to Big Bend Community College’s nursing program at https://bit.ly/4hjtHax fitting tribute to honor her lifelong dedication to health care.
One of Garnet’s final notes simply read: “I believe in God.”
May this profound statement bring peace to those who loved her as they reflect on the incredible legacy she leaves behind — a life full of love, generosity, resilience, and cherished memories that will forever inspire those fortunate enough to have known her. She lived. She laughed. She loved.
Garnet Belle Wilson earned her nursing degree at Boise State University and served patients for 45 years before her retirement.