Wanda Davis Devereaux

Wanda Davis Devereaux, a beloved attorney and cherished member of the Montgomery community, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2025 at the age of 78. Born in Toccoa, Georgia and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Wanda was a force of nature in all aspects of her life. She was known for her unwavering commitment to justice, being a fierce advocate for her clients, being a mentor to young lawyers, and having the ability to charm the pearl out of an oyster.

Wanda graduated from Tuscaloosa High School in 1964, where she excelled academically and participated in various extracurricular activities. She attended Judson College before transferring to the University of Alabama where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts in 1975. Her dedication to her studies led her to the University of Alabama School of Law where she earned her Juris Doctorate in 1978. During her time at law school, Wanda was a diligent student and mentor. She was noted for her accomplishment in law school while also rearing her young daughter at the time, Jennifer.

After completing her education, Wanda moved to Montgomery, where she began her legal practice and became a recognized leader for women in the field of law. She was the first female associate and then partner at the firm of Steiner Crum & Baker before starting her own law firm in 1986, where she developed a thriving and robust domestic relations practice. She dedicated years of service to both the Montgomery County Bar Association (including serving as the first female President of the Montgomery Bar Association in 1988); the Alabama State Bar (including serving on the Board of Bar Commissioners, the Character and Fitness Committee, and the Bar Disciplinary Board for several years); and the American Inns of Court (including serving as the President of the Hugh Maddox American Inn of Court in 1994). Throughout her career, she was recognized for service and passion for the law and how it could change the lives of her clients and her colleagues.

Wanda is remembered as tenacious, determined, strong, and committed. She was a member of the Episcopal Church since 1978 and believed her spiritual life was as significant as her career. At Church of the Holy Comforter and then later at Church of the Ascension, she served the parish in many ways over the years, including as a member of the Altar Guild and the Daughters of the King, as well as Lay Eucharist Minister. Wanda left a lasting impression on all who knew her and will be missed.

Wanda was predeceased by parents, Hubert and Ida Davis; and her sister, Donna Davis Hill. Wanda is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Jarrell “Jerry” Edward Baxley; her daughter Jennifer Devereaux Segers (Tim); her granddaughter, Eleanor Segers; her stepson Chris Baxley (Carroll); and her stepdaughter Kelly Baxley Humann (Gilbert).

The family will have a private burial service to commemorate Wanda’s life. A celebration of life will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Wanda’s honor to the Church of the Ascension, 315 Clanton Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104 (coascension.org).