Our beloved Wanda slipped away peacefully on December 13 with her family by her side after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born the third child of five to O.H. and Junita Matthews and raised in Ocean Springs, MS. She claimed to be the middle middle child due to having an older sister and brother as well as a younger sister and brother. Being born at the start of football season, she became an avid football fan, she would watch any game any time, but especially Alabama. Pulled for the Saints and during the Troy Aikman years she was a Cowboys fan. Became a Braves fan and watched or listened to all the games, and even made a few.

After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, began her career working in the Lifelong Education department of the university, coordinating continuing education courses and conventions. Wanda met Jody while they lived in Hattiesburg, MS. They were married on Wanda’s birthday and daughter Sara was born while they were still in Hattiesburg.

Wanda, Jody and Sara moved to Memphis and Wanda worked at the University of Tennessee as a coordinator in the Department of Education. Once Jody completed his degree, they made stops in Tallahassee and Mobile, before settling in Pensacola in 1994.

Once in Pensacola, Wanda worked alongside Jody in building their practice, Wanda did all the paperwork, billing, scheduling and handled our wonderful employes through the years. Wanda’s first passion was family, with travel a close second. Family travel and gatherings gave her the most joy. Wanda was quick to host an event or plan a trip where everyone was invited, whether renting a beach house for everyone to come to, a camping trip or cabin in the mountains, she was the consummate planner. She would plan for any need during a trip and always had a “trip box” packed and ready to go. There were also numerous “Sisters” trips with Andrea and Cheryl that brought her much joy.

A welcoming home was important to Wanda and was always ready to have guests, over the years she hosted numerous family gatherings, and had many visits from nieces and nephews. Wanda provided a loving home to raise Sara and was most proud of the person Sara has become.

Wanda was quick to volunteer and as a Member of Temple Beth El Sisterhood, took special pride in coordinating monthly dinners for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House. Wanda also volunteered at Sara’s school and with her Girl Scout Troop. Wanda chaperoned many Girl Scout trips including taking the troop to Savannah, GA. Wanda also belonged to IMPACT 100 and was very proud of the work she did with them.

Preceding Wanda are her parents, brother Jim and sister Cheryl. She is survived by her loving husband of 38 years Jody, daughter Sara and husband Chris, and the ray of sunshine who brought a big smile to Wanda, granddaughter Nora. Also, sister and best friend Andrea (Peter)Petro and brother John (Or) Matthews. Numerous nieces and nephews she thought the world of and doted on. Also, in laws Ben and Debbi Schlesinger who were of great support and comfort over the years.

Wanda had wonderful care givers as her health declined. Granny Nannies were especially kind and caring to Wanda while she remained at home, and when the time came, she was compassionately cared for by the wonderful staff at Life Care Center. Sacred Heart Hospital was instrumental in maintaining Wanda’s health and VITAS hospice cared for Wanda and her family with kindness and compassion.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday December 17 at 2:00 Temple Beth El Cemetery, Rabbi Joel Fleekop officiating. Reception to follow at Temple Beth El.

I lieu of flowers, family request donations to Ronald McDonald House Charities, Temple Beth El Sisterhood or the Parkinson’s Foundation.

To send CONDOLENCES please visit www.watersandhibbert.com

WATERS & HIBBERT FUNERAL HOME is in charge of arrangements.