Wanda Rodgers

ADVANCE, Mo. -- Wanda Lee Wills Rodgers of Advance was born Nov. 9, 1931, at McGee, Missouri, the daughter of Clarence and Lillie Wills, and passed away Monday, Aug. 31, 2020, at home at age 88.

Wanda and Alva Richard Rodgers were united in marriage Oct. 20, 1950, at Piggott, Arkansas, and spent the early years of their marriage living in Oregon. He preceded her in death March 1, 2008.

While making a home with Alva and raising their children, she also began a long and meaningful career as a cook in the local school, where she fed and touched the lives of countless children, families and staff members. During her 23 years at the school, Wanda began as a substitute cook and retired as the head cook. She loved meeting and making new friends and her daily interaction with teachers, staff and, especially, the students.

Wanda's retirement years brought her and Alva the opportunity to travel some, visit friends and explore flea markets, garage sales and thrift shops. In her more recent years, after a visit to thrift shops with one of her children, she would often share, "My eyes are getting heavenly, so I think I am ready to go home."

Wanda was featured in a newspaper article shortly after her retirement, highlighting her work at the school and her hopes and plans for retirement. She was quoted as saying, "I am satisfied with where my life has led me. I have a good family that I'm proud of. I believe in prayer and I have had few heartaches." Wanda was a faithful member of Bright Prospect General Baptist Church for more than 60 years and loved the many fellow worshippers she met who became her church Family.

Wanda is survived by her sons, Gale (Gloria) Rodgers of Springfield, Oregon, Rickie (Karen) Rodgers of Advance and Randy (Kevin) Rodgers of Columbia, Missouri; daughters, Ava (Dennis) Fowler of Advance and Janet (Mark) Lukens of Herrin, Illinois; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

She was proceeded in death by her husband, Alva Rodgers, and son, Marty Rodgers of Advance.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday at Morgan Funeral Home in Advance.

Funeral will follow at 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. The Revs. Ray Placher and Dale Wiseman will officiate. Interment will follow at McGee New Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bright Prospect General Baptist Church.