Wanda L Smedley

Wanda Lee Smedley, our beloved mother, loving wife, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed from this life to her heavenly home on February 3, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on May 12, 1939, in Commerce, Texas, to Rev. Willard Ray Talley and Jewel Sparks Talley, Wanda dedicated her life to nurturing her family and enriching her community through her servant's heart. Wanda married Charles Smedley, May 17, 1958, and was his beloved wife of almost 68 years.

Inspired by her mother and older sister, Wanda developed an early interest in arts, crafts and design. Her first job was with a clothing manufacturer in Grand Prairie, Texas. She continued her career as an executive assistant at Ling-Temco-Vought (LTV) before resigning to care for children in her home. She resumed her career outside the home serving as an administrative paraprofessional in various schools in the Grand Prairie Independent School District, impacting the lives of countless students and staff members until she retired.

Wanda was also an active volunteer. She tirelessly served in leadership roles in every church she attended. Wanda was elected and served over 20 years as the district secretary for the North Texas District of the Congregational Methodist Church. Most recently she was a valued member of the Pine Hill Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Winnsboro where she led the women's ministry. Wanda cared deeply for those around her reflecting her strong belief in the importance of fellowship and connection. Wanda could always be counted on to reach out if someone was ill, grieving, or facing difficult circumstances, and would be there to offer prayers, comfort, support and encouragement. She was often found organizing meals, social events, and fundraisers.

"Mimi," as she was known to many in her later years, was passionate in following her children and grandchildren develop and share their talents in sports and the arts. A devout lover of gospel music, Wanda sang in several southern gospel groups, sharing her talent and joy through the years at countless venues including, nursing homes, churches, and community centers. Wanda was an avid shopper who loved to find a bargain and was known as a prolific gift giver. Her generosity extended to friends and those in need but was especially evident towards her family.

Wanda’s greatest love was her family. As a loving mother and wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt, she embraced each role with devotion and joy. Wanda cherished time spent together, celebrating accomplishments and chatting about everyday life.

Wanda is survived by her loving husband of almost 68 years, Charles Smedley; her sons, Ron Smedley and wife, Kathy, and Jeff Smedley and his wife, Karen; her sister, Dorothy Morris; six cherished grandchildren, Joshua (Bianca), Preston, Blake (Kristen), Joy (Joshua), Christiane (C.J.), and Rebecca; and six adored great-grandchildren, Grant, Katherine, Paige, Christian, Rees, and Harriet; as well as many nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own. 

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents Jewell and Willard; brother, William Talley and sister, Marie Staggs; and her nephew, Larry Talley, whom she raised as her son after he lost his father. 

In this time of mourning, we honor Wanda's life and the lasting legacy of love and kindness she leaves behind. Wanda will be remembered for her steadfast faith and her servant's heart. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of faith, fellowship, and generosity will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.