Wanda E. Edwards Webster Lance

Wanda Webster Lance had her 99th birthday celebration on March 18. On March 19, holding her beloved granddaughter Nicki’s hand, she left her frail little body behind to join loved ones in her ‘mansion just over the hilltop.’

Wanda, known as “Mimi” to her grandchildren, was born in Bentonville, Arkansas to William R. and Fay Edwards. She attended Central Baptist College in Conway Arkansas, relying on God and her job in the college dining room to cover the tuition: somehow, the money always came through. After graduation Wanda started teaching English and music at Bayless (AR) High School, where her father was the new principal. He had agreed to take the position only if his daughter was also hired, so Wanda got her first job sight unseen. After teaching six years in Arkansas, Wanda took a job in Quay, Oklahoma, because the pay was so much better—nearly $700 a year! Life was exciting in Quay, because she and her principal, Sam Webster, fell in love. They were married in Edmond by Dr. M E Ramay. After moving to Oklahoma City with their daughter, Judith Susan’, they got the baby brother that “Judy Sue” had prayed so hard for—James Robert Webster. In 1948 they moved to Edmond, Oklahoma, where Sam joined the faculty of Central State College (now UCO). Wanda continued teaching kindergarten in OKC.

In 1952 Wanda and Sam were exchange teachers in England for a year, where Judy Sue and Jim Bob became Judith and Robert in their British schools. In 1962 Dr. Webster was sent to Dacca, East Pakistan, by Ford Foundation and OSU, to advise in colleges and universities there. Wanda taught at the Dacca American Society School, continuing her wonderful impact on young people. Returning to Edmond, Sam built Wanda her dream house on Covell, east of Bryant. In 1967 she was the Oklahoma City Teacher of the Year. Sam died suddenly in 1967. A new chapter began for Wanda in 1984, when she married William R. Lance. Bill and Wanda led an active life through their church, Sunny Lane United Methodist in Del City, their square dancing, and frequent gatherings with their many friends. Son Jim, a transplant survivor, died in 2005, and Bill died in 2009. Wanda’s final years were spent within the loving care of Warr Acres Nursing home.

Wanda’s sparkle, energy, and gregarious nature endeared her to all. Teaching kindergarten was her passion and delight, She was active in many clubs and organizations, giving each her special contribution of enthusiasm and vibrant personality.

Wanda outlived not only her husbands Sam and Bill and her son but also her younger siblings, sister, Betty Edwards Beaman of Oildale CA, and brother, Col. Bob Edwards of Heber Springs, AR. She is survived by her daughter, Judith Rycroft; daughter-in-law Sandi Webster; seven grandchildren—Nicola Waggoner-Rycroft, Scott Webster, Melisa Brumley, Sam Webster, Jeremiah Webster, Rachel Duke and Stephen Prophater; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; niece Phyllis Allard of Rogers, AR and her family; John B. Webster of Rogers, AR; niece Janine Bowen and family of Oildale, CA; nephews Bob, Bill and John Edwards, AK & AR; nephews, Max Webster of Portland OR, and Bob Webster of Palo Alto CA; and the family of Tom Webster.