Wilma Pearl Mankiller Former Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller Passes Away Watch Memorial Service Videos Wilma Mankiller, former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, passed April 6th, 2010. Mankiller served 12 years in elective office at the Cherokee Nation, the first two as Deputy Principal Chief followed by 10 years as Principal Chief. She retired from public office in 1995. Among her many honors, Mankiller was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Clinton.

Statement by President Obama on the Passing of Wilma Mankiller: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Wilma Mankiller today. As the Cherokee Nation’s first female chief, she transformed the Nation-to-Nation relationship between the Cherokee Nation and the Federal Government, and served as an inspiration to women in Indian Country and across America. A recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, she was recognized for her vision and commitment to a brighter future for all Americans. Her legacy will continue to encourage and motivate all who carry on her work. Michelle and I offer our condolences to Wilma’s family, especially her husband Charlie and two daughters, Gina and Felicia, as well as the Cherokee Nation and all those who knew her and were touched by her good works." Mankiller requested that any gifts in her honor be made as donations to the Wilma Mankiller Foundation c/o Tulsa Community Foundation: 7030 South Yale Avenue Suite 60, Tulsa, OK 74136 . To read more of Wilma in her own words select from below:



Wilma Speaking About Her Life in Her Own Words

Spirituality

The Way Home

Womanhood

To send a message to Wilma's family please email: message@wilmamankiller.com.