Wanda June Smith, aged 82, a beacon of loving kindness and joy, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, in Bonifay, Florida. Born on December 18, 1941, in Greensburg, Indiana, Wanda’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and the deep bonds of family.
Wanda’s journey brought her from the place of her birth to the warm community of Marianna, Florida, where she settled and blossomed. Growing up, Wanda was part of the Gookins Trio, at the age of three, Wanda was the lead singer. Her other two sisters harmonized (ages 5 and 7). They sang at church conventions, camp meetings, as well as other events. She was the cherished matriarch of a growing family, providing memories filled with humor and happiness. Her radiant spirit has left a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Smith, and nurturing parents, Floyd and Bessie Gookins as well as her brother in-laws, Norman Lopez and Oliver Lewis.
Wanda is survived by her son, Robert L. Smith, Jr. and his wife Katherine, her loving daughter, Sheri Ernst, and her husband John, as well as her affectionate sisters, Mona Young of Barefoot Bay, FL, Mary Stafford of Sebastian, FL and Elaine Lewis of Harkers Island, NC.
Wanda was the doting grandmother to six, the adoring great-grandmother to thirteen, and the cherished great-great-grandmother to one. She embraced each of these roles with her characteristic humor and love, ensuring that every family gathering was filled with laughter and joy.
Funeral services will be 7 P.M., Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home with Reverends Rafael Bellinni and Roger Meyers officiating.
The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home.
Wanda’s funeral service will be held at Free Grace Wesleyan Church in Harkers Island, NC, (140 Old Ferry Dock Rd. Harkers Island, NC 28532) with a graveside service to follow at Vergie Mae Cemetery with Munden Funeral Home of Morehead City, NC directing.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Wesleyan Church in Sneads, FL (2764 Salem Church Rd. Sneads, FL) or also be made to Free Grace Wesleyan Church in Harkers Island, NC (140 Old Ferry Dock Rd. Harkers Island, NC 28532).
Condolences may be made online at www.mariannachapelfh.com
