Memories of Wanda
- Memories of Wanda by Derek Dwilson, Grandson
I will never forget how much my grandmother Wanda loved me and the acceptance she showed to me and to our whole family. She was bright and kind, but also humble. She was acutely aware of the mood of the room, and so good at making everyone feel welcome. She and my grandpa were a close knit team, and I rarely saw them apart.
Some of my most cherished memories of her will be times when we were able to vacation together in Nocona, Texas. My grandparents owned a small house there, and sometimes they’d take us grandkids. It was a magical time, filled with outdoors exploration. Wanda spent much of her time there making the most wonderful meals. Some nights we’d sit and talk with only the light of a kerosene lamp. It felt like going back in time. It was simpler, more connected with how things used to be. I really felt that connection to the past when I was there.
Wanda and my Grandpa Don, in their old age, enjoyed spending time with family or at the casino in Oklahoma. They also watched lots of sports. Mavericks, Cowboys, and Longhorns – I always knew I had a spot on the couch at their house when the games were on.
Wanda was a wonderful grandmother to me and I will truly miss her presence in my life.
- Tributes to Wanda
Chelsea Raggio
Today my precious Nana got to meet Jesus. She was a wonderful, strong, caring person. There’s a lot I could say- but just figured I will share some sweet memories I have with her.
As a young child I stayed the night at her house- frequently. She would always make me my favorite dinner, and then she would put a step stool next to the sink so I could excitedly hand wash all of the dishes. We would then play some Mario on the Nintendo and end the night crawling into her big waterbed while she read me a “Little Critters” book. The next morning I would ALWAYS wake up to hearing the news blaring in the living room. Fast forward to adult years, we would have Wednesday night dinners at her house. She always cooked something yummy- and would have the recipe printed out for me so I can make it for my family (she had a lot of faith in me actually cooking- LOL). She would then insist we go “shopping” in her pantry, and the night would end with her crawling around on the floor with Maylee playing with toys.I’m going to miss her dearly. But I’m thankful for the memories, and that I will see her again someday.
Stephanie Wilson
Just a few weeks ago we were all shocked to learn that my Nana (my dads mom) had stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Today she got to meet Jesus. I will always remember her taking me to McDonalds as a kid, having a fridge always stocked with ice cold Dr. Pepper, and how she always had the latest TV Guide magazine on the coffee table. Every time I smell Zest soap I think of her. She loved football and one of the reasons I have such a love for the State Fair of Texas. She was a strong woman who endured alot. She loved and took care of my pawpaw up until she couldn’t any longer. She was the best cook and she told me once that I took after her in the cooking department (big compliment).I love her dearly and will miss her, but am so thankful she is no longer in pain.
Amy Wilson
Today I lost my rock, but heaven gained an angel. My nana was 80 years young and so full of life when she got diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer less than two months ago. This shocked her and our whole family. Her pain was unbearable so I am so thankful she isn’t suffering anymore. (Granny and Grandpa have all their children now, what a reunion that must be! )She was such a strong woman and loved her family with her whole heart. She loved being outside, working in the garden, watching sports, cooking, crosswords, reading, and doing anything with my Pawpaw. She was more than a nana to me, she was a mother, a friend, a shelter, a support, and a cheerleader. My heart is broken.Nana, we will take care of Pawpaw. I love you and miss you so much.Carri Wilson
25 years ago I lost my mom, so Jeff so willingly shared his mom with me. So for years she was the only mom I had and only nana my daughter really knew. Two months ago she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and today she drew her last earthly breath. I will forever be grateful for all of the soccer games, dance recitals, school plays,, graduations etc. she attended. She was always just a phone call away. I will treasure these last weeks being “quarantined” with her. This is one of my favorite pictures of her dancing with her husband of 63 years at Hali’s wedding.
Jennifer Martinson
Heaven gained a new angel today. This amazing woman exemplified how to be fierce and loving and kind and no-nonsense…all at the same time. She introduced me to the concept of pear butter, for which I will forever be grateful. My fondest memories were playing Nintendo at their house in Grand Prairie ,TX. Rest in peace,Wanda Wilson, you have earned your rest.