Wanda Gaulding

Wanda (Windham) Gaulding, 87, of Abilene, Texas, passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2018, at a local medical center. Wanda was born on April 11, 1930 in Coleman, Texas to Bennie and Thelma Windham. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to Abilene and she spent her childhood attending Abilene schools.

When she was in junior high, the family moved to Pasadena, Texas where her father worked in shipyard during World War II. While in junior high and high school, Wanda was a cheerleader, twirler and drum major. The family moved back to Abilene during her junior year of high school, and she graduated from Abilene High School.

She attended McMurry College and received her Bachelor of Science in Education. It was while she was a student at McMurry College that she met a handsome, fun Hardin-Simmons student who became the love of her life. She married Pete Gaulding on June 3, 1951, and they were married for 61 years.

She worked at Crockett Elementary School until their first daughter was born, and then Wanda became a very active community and church volunteer. She served as a leader on the Abilene City Council PTA, and held numerous volunteer positions at University Baptist Church where she made many lifelong friends. After her daughters graduated from high school, she worked as an Office Administrator at the Abilene State Supported Living Center.

Upon her retirement, she and Pete enjoyed many years working at their family ranch in Potosi. She also loved supporting her grandchildren in their school and sports events. She loved celebrating and decorating for all occasions and planning and enjoying family activities.

Wanda was known for her outgoing personality and genuine interest in the lives of others. Her wit and sense of adventure made life fun for all who knew her. Wanda’s belief in education and lifelong learning inspired her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to set high goals and enjoy the journey. She was a Christian role-model as she walked in faith and demonstrated love and compassion for others.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Benny and Thelma Windham and her husband of 61 years, Pete Gaulding.

She is survived by her daughters, Cindy Fitzhugh of Abilene and Suzi Downey of Coppell; grandson, Travis Burleson and wife Kelly of Penang, Malaysia; granddaughters Jamie Bearden and husband Zack of Abilene, Emily Gurley and husband Tyler of Abilene, Krista Franklin and husband Jason of Granbury, and Kaila Alba and husband Nick of Wylie, Texas; great-grandchildren, Hudson, Carter, and Ray Bearden of Abilene, Milo and Chloe Burleson of Penang, Malaysia, Matthew, Blake, and Cameron Franklin of Granbury, and Nicholas Alba of Wylie, Texas, as well as Melinda Burleson and Anthany; she is also survived by many dear friends who she considered family.

Funeral services will be Friday, January 5, 2018, at 10:00 AM at Beltway Park South Chapel, 4009 Beltway South in Abilene under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Hwy 277 South.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Potosi Volunteer Fire Department, 1949 FM 1750, Abilene, Texas 79601, Beltway Park or to the donor's favorite charity. The family would like to express sincere gratitude to the staff and residents of Lyndale Abilene for the care and joy they brought to her life during the last four years.