Wanda D. Neal Cole was born to the late Raymond Neal and Marie Neal Johnson on July 16, 1946 in Fort Smith, AR. She attended Fort Smith Public School and graduated from Lincoln High School class of 1966.
Wanda married Nathaniel Cole in February 1971 who preceded her in death. Wanda moved to New York where she was employed by Brookhaven National Laboratory until she returned to Fort Smith in 1995.
Wanda embraced the teaching of the Institute of Divine Metaphysical Research upon her return to Fort Smith. She developed a deep love for the gospel and was a devout member of her class and held the office of Superintendent until her health failed. One of her fondest memories was meeting and listening to Dr. Robert Harris, MD and always ready to tell anyone about Yahweh.
Wanda never having children of her own was very instrumental in the upbringing of her nieces and nephews with a stern hand and a heart full of love, thus making her a mother to many.
Wanda departed this life on Sunday, October 18, 2020 at Mercy Hospital. Preceding her in death were her parents, Raymond Neal and Marie Johnson, her husband Nathan Cole, her sisters; Barbara Neal David and Kay Lynn Neal Sneed, and her brother Kenneth Johnson. She leaves to mourn: Edgar James, Jr., Pamela K. James, Kimberly Vann, Rico Brown, Michael Davis, Marcus Davis, Jon Johnson and Michael T. Watson.
A host of great and great, great nieces and nephews with a special bond to Kayla James, Edgar James, III and D’Saiya Armington and numerous relatives and friends.
A special thank you to Felicia Medlock, Renee Lee & Deborah Woodard for all of your time and help that you gave to Aunt Wanda.
Honorary pallbearers will be Edgar James, Jr., Edgar James, III, Michael Davis, Michael T. Watson, Edmond Hampton, Rico Brown, Jon Johnson, Marcus Davis, Randy Richardson and Derien Wright.
“Aunts”
“Auntieing” is mothering too
I know it’s not a word,
But Auntie Mamas are some
Of the Best Moms.
Salute To You Aunt Wanda !!!
