Mrs. Wanda M. (Johnson) Courter 85, of Phoenix, Arizona formerly of Abingdon, Illinois passed away peacefully in her bed on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
Wanda was born October 15, 1938, in Abingdon, the daughter of Sterling and Evelyn (Wells) Legate. She grew up in a very spiritual household and her faith was very important to her. Wanda married Bob Johnson who became a pastor and Wanda was the doting pastor’s wife for 20 years. Wanda attended Bible School and studied Theology. She was a former member of the Church of God of Prophecy in Abingdon. She taught the church children in Sunday school and was involved with many of the church’s activities. As her husband was growing churches in Arkansas and Missouri. Wanda was busy raising their 3 children, a daughter and 2 sons. She loved being a mother.
As time went by, Bob and Wanda got a divorce and Wanda moved back to Abingdon where she had family. Wanda worked in the dietary department at the Care Center of Abingdon for 17 years. One night, Wanda met David Courter at a dance, and they got along really well. They got married and enjoyed their time together camping in their RV, dancing, and socializing with their friends. Wanda certainly enjoyed life to the fullest.
Wanda is survived by her daughter, Evelyn “Evie” (Sam) Saunders of Fairmont, West Virginia, and sons, Bobby “Wayne” (Jane) Johnson of Phoenix, Arizona and Wendell (Jeanette) Johnson of Meredosia, Illinois, her brother- in- law, William Mathias of Abingdon, Illinois, four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Wanda is preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, and her sister, Elsie Mathias.
Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Abingdon Chapel. Graveside services will be at 11:30 am in Abingdon Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Convoy of Hope, 1 Convoy, Springfield, MO 65802. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com
