Idella Elaine Wooten's Obituary
Idella Wooten, a life-long resident of St. Petersburg, Florida, sadly passed away the morning of June 10th on her 100th birthday. She is preceded in death by her parents James and Laura Booth, her siblings Gordon and Aleta Mae, her children Michael D. Wooten, Sandra Repper, and Alan Wooten, and granddaughter Kelly Wooten. Idella is survived by grandchildren Michael N. Wooten, Rachel Wooten, Jennifer Tafoya, and Tracy Repper, many great grandchildren, and her beloved dog Teddy.
Idella lived two lives, the first being her professional career. She had a doctorate in optometry which she used to blaze a path in medical research, making many discoveries and advancements in eye care including being part of the team that created the first soft contact lens. The second came after she retired. Her love of ballroom dancing blossomed and flourished. She dedicated the same passion and drive that had made her so successful in medicine and not only competed in but won many ballroom competitions. Her love of life was obvious.
Idella was extremely loved by her family, friends and the ballroom dance community which she was deeply involved in for many decades. Her powerful presence will be sorely missed. The family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support.
A visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Thursday, June 15 at 9:00 am followed by the funeral service at 10:00 am. Burial service will follow at Woodlawn Memory Gardens.
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