Wanda Lee Williams was born Wanda Lee Brown on July 16th, 1947, in Joplin, Missouri, to parents Stephen and Ethel Brown.

Wanda was preceded in death by both parents, her husband, Eli Williams; and her sisters, Equila and Dorothy Fowler.

Following her early education in Joplin and high school graduation, Wanda completed a B.S. in Elementary Education from Missouri State University.

Wanda began her professional career as an elementary teacher in the Kansas City, Missouri, School District in 1969. After earning a Master's Degree, she transitioned to working in special education as a School Psychologist and Psychological Examiner, retiring after 40 years with the district.

It was with great joy that Wanda and Eli adopted their son, Matthew, in 1982. Following Eli's passing in 1997, Matthew became the focus of her personal endeavors. He was frequently a source of joy and pride both in and out of school, with various accomplishments, honors, and pursuits, along with his love of reading and creative writing, which she nurtured from his earliest years. Wanda was very proud to witness one of his greatest achievements: being sworn in as an attorney after graduating from Law School.

Wanda was a faithful member of the Palestine Missionary Baptist Church of Jesus Christ.  When Wanda and Eli joined the church, they both actively volunteered for various church ministries. Wanda was a consistent volunteer for the summer encampment, Vacation Bible School, and Usher Boards, 4, 2, and the junior ushers as an adult supervisor. Even after her health prevented her from attending in person, she continued to fellowship online.

Wanda leaves to mourn, son, Matthew (his girlfriend Kyle); brothers, Cyrill Brown (Dixie) of Belton, MO, Stephen Brown, Jr. (Shirley) of Kansas City, MO, and Perry Brown of Springfield, MO; sister, Eliza Melson (Charles) of Joplin, MO; and a host of nieces and nephews, goddaughter, Dana Nelson of Olathe, KS; special life time friends, Barbara Stinett Boyd of Dallas, TX, Mary Jackson of suburban Baltimore, MD, and church friend of many years, Drenda Coleman.

Special thanks to the staff of Carnegie Village for Senior Living of Belton, MO, Advance Home Care Hospice, and the staff of Senior Star at Villa Ventura.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.