Wanda June Smith

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.

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.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Smith, and nurturing parents, Floyd and Bessie Gookins as well as her brothers-in-law, Norman Lopez and Oliver Lewis.

Funeral services in Florida will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday, May 16^th at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home with Rev. Rafael Bellinni and Rev. Roger Meyers officiating. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Thursday, May 16^th at Marianna Chapel Funeral Home.

Wanda's funeral service in North Carolina will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, May 21^st at Free Grace Wesleyan Church on Harkers Island, officiated by Rev. Clint Nelson. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. A graveside service to follow at Vergie Mae Cemetery. 

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).

Arrangements by Marianna Chapel Funeral Home in Marianna, Florida and Munden Funeral Home in Morehead City, NC.