Wanda Walters

Wanda Lee Walters, 98 of Beardstown, died Thursday, July 24, 2025 at Beardstown Health and Rehab.

She was born February 9, 1927 in Beardstown, the daughter of Milton Hay and Onie Lindsey Brown. She married Carl Eugene Walters on December 26, 1942 and he preceded her in death on August 15, 1997.

She is survived by three children Sharon Greer (husband Gordon) of South Haven, MS, Michael Walters (wife Christine) of Hillsboro, and Julie Lynn Looker (companion David Jamison) of Arenzville; 11 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; one sister Barbara Pratt (companion Beth Newswader) of Galesburg; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Carl Eugene Walters, a daughter Donna Pence, a grandson Tommy LaFrance, five brothers Bonnie Barney Hay, Lonzy Von Hay, Blane Hay, Fonzy Hay and Robert Hay; two sisters, Norma Jean Mayes and Ruth Roxine Loeschen, and two sons-in-law Arvey Pence and Gordon Greer.

Wanda married during her sophomore year at Beardstown High School, and had a diverse career. She spent six years ironing clothes, then worked at Sears Roebuck, The Clothes Connection, Twigs-N-Ivy, Myers Nursing Home where she also helped care for her mother, and Brick School. She even helped her daughter at her deli in Memphis, TN, where she prepared salads. In her later years, she had the privilege of caring for her great-grandson, Cash.

Wanda was an avid reader and maintained a friendly demeanor. She was always clean, ironed, and dressed impeccably, showcasing her love for jewelry. Ice cream was her favorite snack. Family was her life's purpose. In honor of her passion for purple, if you plan to attend services, consider adding a touch of purple to your attire, such as a scarf, shirt, tie, pin, or other accessory.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM Monday, July 28, 2025 at Beardstown First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Beardstown. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to the services the church on Monday. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested Beardstown Food Pantry, Cass/Schuyler Area Hospice, or Arbor Day Foundation. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.