Wanda Stanley

Surrounded by her loved ones, Wanda (Woodard) Stanley went home to be with Jesus on November 3, 2025. After a long journey battling cancer since 1996, she exemplified strength and resilience, winning each battle with grace. Known for her kindness and warmth, Wanda was the epitome of a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, offering the best hugs to all who knew her.

Wanda was born on July 8, 1944, to Amidee and Edna Cochran Woodard in Belgrade, Texas. She met the love of her life, Verble Stanley, and they married on February 26, 1960. Together, they raised two children, Anthony and Verwanna (Chel), and were blessed with four grandchildren, Anthony (Tony) II, Eric, Sara, and Leiagh (Nikki), as well as thirteen great-grandchildren.

Wanda’s life was devoted to serving God and nurturing her family and friends. A dedicated Sunday school teacher for many years at First Pentecostal Church of Starks, she also drove a school bus for 22 years, earning the affection and respect of generations of families. In addition, she worked in the school cafeteria and as a cook at Gray Ranch. Wanda was known for selling peanut brittle to support church activities, visiting local businesses to connect with the community.

Even during her illness, Wanda took time to prepare meals and bake cakes for others facing challenges, displaying her unwavering generosity and concern for those in need. Recognized for her delicious cakes, she raised funds for youth trips for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her home was a beautiful sanctuary that reflected her love and attention to detail.

Wanda’s love for her family was boundless. She was never shy to offer hugs and express her love. After the passing of their son Anthony, she and Verble raised their four grandchildren, providing them with a nurturing home. Their marriage of over 65 years was a testament to their deep love and commitment to each other and to God.

Wanda is survived by her loving husband, Verble Stanley; daughter Chel and her husband David Wooster; grandchildren Tony and his wife Paula Stanley; Eric Stanley; Sara Stanley; and Nikki Hidalgo; and her thirteen great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Amidee and Edna Cochran Woodard; her son, Anthony Ray Stanley; and her siblings, Jimmie Woodard; Ruth Green; Ruby Woodard; Jerry Woodard; Henry Woodard; and Steve Woodard.

Pallbearers: Trey Stanley, Tyler Stanley, Matthew Davis, Gabriel Cooley, Caden Stanley, Zachary Stanley

Teshaun Stanley, Gavin Cooley, and Trent Stanley. Honorary Pallbearers: Logan Davis, Kutter Burnitt, and Anthony Stanley.

Funeral Services for Wanda will be at 10:00AM, Thursday, November 6, 2025, at First Pentecostal Church of Starks, LA. Burial will follow at Miller Cemetery Annex. Visitation will be 5:00 – 8:00PM, Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at First Pentecostal Church in Starks, LA., located at 225-LA 109, Starks LA. Visitation will resume Thursday at 9:00AM, until time of the service.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net