She was born June 21, 1940 in Milam County, Texas, a daughter of the late Robert D. Mason and Marjorie Garrett. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Ralph Mason; ex-husband, Bennie Reid Washington; and step-mother, Eloise (Black) Mason (Weezy).
Surviving her is her son of 48 years, Vincent Eric Reid Washington of Leander, Texas; and six siblings, Rometers Mason of Waco, Texas, J.D. Mason of Austin, Texas, Tirise (Donald) Connor of Waco, Texas, Glendoris Smith of Waco, Texas. Harel Mason of Waco, Texas and LaVerne Brooks of Waco Texas. She also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
One of Wanda’s favorite past time was traveling. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and was an avid MSNBC watcher, which she affectionately referred to as white noise. She enjoyed playing on her iPad, and engaging in various memory games.
Wanda held a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Prairie View A&M University. She worked as a Research/Evaluator for Austin Independent School District for over thirty years. Ms. Washington devoted countless hours to the Austin Alliance for Black Educators to improve the educational accomplishments of Austin Area children, particularly African-American children.
Wanda was known by so many and was loved by all who encountered her. She was an excellent mother, sister, aunt, sister-in-law, cousin, friend, educator and all-around hard worker. She loved her family and God and was a great example and role model of a Christian woman who was honest and sincere.
Wanda was a faithful and devoted member of Unity Hill Missionary Baptist Church where she served in many capacities; President of the Women Ministry, Superintendent of Sunday school, Trustee, Church Treasurer, Church Clerk, Church Announcer, served on the Hospitality Committee, Choir member and Sunday School Teacher.
Friends will be received on Saturday, December 14, 2019 at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home for a public viewing from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m., Sunday, December 15, 2019, at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas, with Reverend Arvey Crayton officiating. Committal services will follow at Cook-Walden/Memorial Hill Cemetery. The repast will be at Candlewood Suites, 8000 Cross Park Drive, Austin, Texas 78754.
The family would like to thank Ken Missler and staff at Riva Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care Center, in Leander, Texas for the exceptional care they provided to Wanda throughout her transition.
