Wanda Lucille Porter

Wanda was born on December 8, 1928, in Venice, Illinois, to Hiram and Helen (Templeton) Spratley. She married Verdell M. Porter on April 20, 1948, in Boone County, Missouri, and together they built a life and family they treasured. To this union three children were born: David, Michael, and Dianne.

Wanda spent many years caring for her family and home while also working for the University of Missouri and MFA Oil . She enjoyed planting and taking care of numerous flowers and plants and was still pushing the lawnmower, raking leaves and weeding the flower beds into her early 90’s. She was a member of Harrisburg Christian Church and enjoyed attending the monthly senior luncheons held there.

She loved the comfort of home, the company of family, and the little things that brought her joy. Wanda had a soft spot for animals including canary birds she raised for many years. While she always enjoyed the companionship of dogs, in later years she became very fond of cats and no stray was turned away. At Christmastime she enjoyed decorating the house inside and out. Over the years she collected dozens of Christmas houses and left them out year round for all to enjoy.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Mike Porter (Dana) of Fayette, Missouri; daughter, Dianne Porter of Fayette, Missouri; daughter-in-law, Mary Porter of Hallsville, Missouri; grandchildren Brian Porter (Jeannie) of Columbia, Missouri, Matt Breedlove (Dani) of Fayette, Missouri, Michelle Dicus (Brett) of Boonville, Missouri, and Marcus Porter (Maia) of Glasgow, Missouri; along with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Verdell M. Porter; her son, David Porter; and her brother, William Howard Spratley.

Wanda will be remembered for her love for her family, and the way she cared for the people and animals around her. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Perche Cemetery.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Harrisburg Christian Church. Services honoring and celebrating Wanda’s life will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial and committal prayers will be held at Perche Cemetery in Clark, Missouri.

The family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Lodge in Fayette, Missouri, for the compassionate care, kindness, and comfort shown to Wanda during her final days. Your dedication, gentle support, and the dignity you provided brought peace not only to Wanda, but also to our family during a difficult time. We are deeply thankful for the love and care you shared with her and will always remember your kindness.