Yolanda Samra

With great sadness and love, we announce the passing of Yolanda Samra, who left us on February 15th, 2025. Yolanda was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, great aunt, grandmother, great grandmother and loyal friend to so many. She was a fierce protector of her family, and a woman with a sharp wit and a heart full of love. Her strength, generosity, and infectious sense of humor inspired everyone who knew her. Those fortunate enough to be close to her lovingly called her Wanda.

Born on October 9th, 1948, in Harlingen, Texas to Jose and Candida Mosqueda, Wanda grew up on East Grand Boulevard in Detroit with her parents and nine siblings. Her childhood in Detroit shaped her into a compassionate, strong-willed and sharply dressed woman who carried the strong values of family and loyalty throughout her life. The bonds she shared with her siblings were lifelong, and her deep connection to her roots remained at the heart of everything she did throughout her life.

During her youth, Wanda spent time at Woods Drive-In, swimming, canoeing and ice skating at Belle Isle, and attending the St. Anthony's sock hop with her sisters dancing the day away to their favorite Motown hits. She had a special place in her heart for Johnny Mathis, whom she affectionately called 'My Johnny Baby”.

Wanda was a proud mother to her four loving children: Richard (Lisa), Andrew, Jennifer, and Nicholas (Amber). She would do anything for them, always ensuring they felt loved and supported. Her unwavering encouragement and guidance were a constant source of strength in their lives. Wanda also cherished her grandchildren—Bryanna, Krysta, Hailey (Konner), Brendan and Laik—as well as her great-grandchildren, Dominic, Jaxon, Kayce, Brielle, and Ava. Her selflessness knew no bounds; she rarely put herself before others and was always ready to lend a helping hand, whether to family, friends, or even strangers.

She was a strong, opinionated Latina who spoke her mind and never put up with nonsense from anyone. Her tenacity was matched only by her infectious sense of humor. Wanda’s’ wild one-liners never failed to bring laughter to those around her, and she had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen, heard, and loved.

Wanda was predeceased by her parents, Jose and Candida, her siblings Rebecca, Ruth, Rose, Henrietta, and Ruben, as well as her husband Edward, nephew John, and granddaughter Bryanna.

A funeral will be held at A.H. Peters, located at 20705 Mack Ave, on February 23rd from 2 pm to 8 pm, with a prayer service at 7 pm. We will come together to honor the incredible life that Yolanda led, celebrating the love, laughter, and joy she brought to all of us.