Wanda Lu Staude passed away peacefully on Feb. 17, 2022, after many years of living with dementia.

She was born on Oct. 20, 1933, in Kingfisher, the fifth of eight children born to Esther Rosa Honeycutt and Simon Peter Williams.

Wanda spent much of her childhood on a farm outside Kingfisher, where she developed a strong work ethic.

She excelled in school and on the basketball court, but one of the most meaningful moments of her youth was meeting the love of her life, Jennis Olen Staude, during high school.

They shared 70 years of marriage; a true partnership built on love and devotion.

During the Korean Confl ict, Jennis served in the U.S. Air Force and together they welcomed their first child, Bruce David.

The family later settled in Gladstone, Mo., where Wanda and Jennis both worked at Hallmark Cards.

There they welcomed their daughter, Nancy Kee, and made Gladstone their home for over 40 years.

In retirement, Wanda and Jennis fulfilled a dream of building a home on Grand Lake of the Cherokees. They spent 18 happy years there, enjoying golfing, boating and having the grandchildren visit – especially on the Fourth of July.

Their final move was to John Knox Village in Lee’s Summit, Mo., where Jennis cared for Wanda with quiet devotion as she faced dementia, remaining by her side until her passing.

Wanda will be remembered for her warm smile, unwavering kindness and strong work ethic. Always eager to assist friends and family, she skillfully managed the family household and supported Bruce through his life challenges.

She took great pride in her home and found joy in creating beautiful artificial flower arrangements.

A self-taught pianist, she delighted others with her music. Gifted with a knack for numbers, she built a successful career in purchasing departments at three different companies.

Above all, Wanda’s greatest joy was her family.

She deeply loved her husband, Jennis; her son and daughter-in-law, Bruce and Kathy Staude of North Kansas City, Mo.; her daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Ray McGee of Lafayette, Calif.; and her grandchildren, Travis and wife Lucia of Austin, Texas, and Kaitlin of Folsom, Calif.

Her love, strength and gentle presence will live on in each of them.

In May 2026, Jennis and Wanda were laid to rest together at Kingfisher Cemetery.