Wanda Finley, 88
August 17, 1938 – September 10, 2026
Wanda was born on August 17, 1938, to Raymond Wesley and Alga Forester. At the young age of four, Wanda experienced the loss of her father. Alga later married Judson Byers, who helped raise Wanda and became a beloved father figure in her life. Wanda always called him “Dad,” a testament to the special bond they shared and the love she had for him throughout her life.
Wanda was married to Kenneth Finley. Together, Wanda and Kenneth shared a love for beautiful things and were avid collectors of fine antiques. Wanda had a natural eye and a special gift for interior design, creating beautiful and welcoming surroundings wherever she lived.
Professionally, Wanda was a dedicated office manager for John Hancock Insurance (Memphis, TN), where she worked for 30 years before retiring to Danville, KY. After the passing of her beloved husband, she moved to New Albany, MS, to be close to her family.
Above all, Wanda was the beloved matriarch of her family. Her wisdom, strength, and guidance touched the lives of those closest to her. She was a woman whose family and friends looked to for advice, comfort, and encouragement. Her presence was a steady and cherished part of their lives.
To her nieces and nephews, Wanda was affectionatly known throughtout her life as “Aunt Wanie.” But to Aunt Wanie, they were never simply nieces and nephews – she lovingly referred to them as “her kids.” To them, she was much more than an aunt; she was a second mother. The love and special bond they shared will remain one of her greatest legacies.
Wanda leaves behind her sister, Mary Lanita Byers Leath (Malcom), her beloved nieces and nephews: Sharon Forester Turner (John), Shirley Forester Martin (Steve) (special caregivers to Wanda), Michael Forester (Brenda), Jimmy Forester (Lynna), Laura Lee Byers Stockstill (Eugene), Lisa Byers, Emily Leath Fitzpatrick (Kyle), Vicky Forester Brock (Ray), Wanda Jane Forester, and her Sister-in-Law, Sara Byers. She also leaves behind several great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews all of whom held a very special place in her heart and they for her.
Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers: Raymond Forester, Albert Lee Forester, and J.A. Byers; and her nephews: Joseph Byers and Bobby Forester.
Aunt Wanie’s family will forever cherish the love, wisdom, laughter, and memories she gave them. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she poured into her family – especially, her “kids” – will continue through the generations.
In keeping with Aunt Wanie’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held with only close family members in attendance.
United Funeral Service is honored to assist the family with these arrangements.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
