Wanda K. MacDonnell

Wanda Kolleen MacDonnell Born in Plainfield, Indiana, to Merrit and Edna Speas Myers, Wanda Kolleen MacDonnell lived a life full of love, music, faith, and service. A descendant of the original settlers of Owen County, Indiana, Wanda carried with her a deep appreciation for her heritage.

She passed away peacefully on Friday, May 2nd 2025 predeceased by her beloved husband, B. Kenneth MacDonnell, and her son, Kenneth Niall MacDonnell. She is survived by her sons Kevin MacDonnell (wife Donna) and Kyle MacDonnell (wife Debbie), as well as her cherished grandchildren: Kolleen MacDonnell, Niall MacDonnell, Lena Angel (husband Daniel), Shea MacDonnell (husband Dave), and Kyle Kerry MacDonnell. Her great-grandchildren—Kylee and Bailey MacDonnell, Erin Valentine, and Leo and Isabel Atherton—brought immense joy to her later years. She was lovingly known as "Mamo," the Irish name for grandmother.

Wanda earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education from the University of Houston. She was a dedicated educator for fifteen years, and also served three years as an executive secretary. Her passion for music filled her life and the lives of others—she spent 25 years as a violinist in the North Houston Symphony Orchestra and 18 years playing fiddle and singing harmony with The Shade Bluegrass Band of Texas. A true multi-instrumentalist, she especially loved playing the piano, violin, and mandolin.

Her service to others extended beyond the classroom and the stage. Wanda was President of the River Plantation Lion's Club and the Montgomery County Library Writers Club. She served as Crime Watch Coordinator for the Magnolia Bend Property Owners Association, and was a proud Life Member of the Bay Area Bluegrass Association. She also freely gave of her time and talent, volunteering to play piano for charities and various organizations.

Wanda’s creative spirit shone through in every part of her life—she was an exceptional seamstress, an avid gardener, and loved horseback riding and family get-togethers. Her strong Christian faith anchored her; she was a devoted member of Second Baptist Church, where she found joy and fellowship in her Bible study class, Journey.

Always with a cup of coffee in hand and a kind word to share, Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and quiet strength. She touched countless lives with her music, her service, and her unwavering dedication to family and faith. Known as “Wonderful Wanda” to many, her memory will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Cancer Society.