Wanita Wiggins

Wanita "Nita" Gladys Wiggins (Nesten), aged 94, passed away on November 2, 2024, in Spokane, WA. Nita was born to Gilman and Gladys Nesten (McHenry) on May 22, 1930, in Kalispel, MT. Nita graduated from Flathead High School and soon after met Gene, the love of her life and husband for 49 years. Gene and Nita had three children together. She dedicated much of her life to her family as a homemaker, and worked outside the home in her later years as a housekeeper.  

Nita lived her life surrounded by family and friends, always the perpetual hostess. She was known for her warm and caring nature, spunky personality, pearls of wisdom, and unmatched generosity. Nita was known for the special way she loved on people, and was "Grandma” to everyone. Nita loved her daily drive to the local coffee shop, where the baristas showered her with love and encouragement. She was often found in her cozy room watching the Mariners or Gonzaga basketball, always making sure to be home in time for the game. She faithfully attended church, most recently at New Creation Fellowship, and was often found in the “rowdy row”. Her family and close friends surrounded her with love during her last days, sharing stories, laughing at the witty phrases she always said, and singing her favorite songs. 

Nita is survived by her brother, Frank Harbin; sons, Scott Wiggins (Karen) and Mark Wiggins; daughter, Susan Mortlock; grandchildren, Tim Heeter, Matt Heeter (Michelle), Kelly Warren (Steve), Jeff Heeter (Jenny), Amy Mack (Steve), and Jamie Wiggins; and great-grandchildren, Eli, Cora, Malea, Malakai, Merrick, Trainor (Anna), Ryley, Tierney, Carmen, Kaitlyn, Miles, Claire, Grace, Amelia, Tracen, and Kam. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilman and Gladys Nesten; husband, Francis (Gene) Wiggins; sister, Wilma Wiggins; brother, Gordon Nesten; and sister, Jony Procopio.

A reception to honor and celebrate her life will be held from 1-3pm on Saturday, November 23 at Indian Trail Community Church. Her love for veterans ran deep, so in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Volunteers of America - Eastern Washington (www.voaspokane.org). Nita’s legacy of love, kindness, and generosity, will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.