Our dear mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and sister, Wanda McCord, passed away on Monday, Oct. 11, 2010 at the age of 80. She died peacefully after numerous health challenges over the last few years and met them with courage, a strong will and a great sense of humor.
 
Wanda was born on Aug. 4, 1930, to William George & Pauline E. (Eifert) Sander. She is survived by her sisters, Jacqueline Metzger and Marilyn Graham; sons, Lance (Jill) McCord, Kelvin (Heather Shinn) McCord and Robbie (Lynn) McCord; a daughter Cheryl (David) Dutton; and grandchildren Michael, Rachel, Daniel, Nathan, Logan and Abby. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Lillian Little, Eileen Sprenger, Geraldine Anselm, Laverne Wolfe, Geneva Seyer, Jean Eaton and Betty Goodman; and her brother, Elroy Sander.
 
Wanda spent her childhood in Scott City, Mo., in a large, loving family of nine sisters and one brother. She graduated from Illmo-Fornfelt Consolidated High School and enjoyed working at Southwestern Bell as a telephone operator for many years. She spent the remainder of her career working as a supervisor for Scott Air Force Base.
 
Wanda married Billy Ray McCord on Aug. 20, 1955. He preceded her in death on Nov. 9, 2004. She and Bill spent most of their married life in Highland, Illinois, and together, they raised a beautiful family. They enjoyed the company of family and friends on their peaceful lake property and were both dearly loved. 
 
After retirement, Wanda enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, going on cruises, listening to country music, gambling and being with her little dog, Muffin.
 
The family wishes to thank the caregivers at Bethesda, St. Anthony’s Hospital, Delmar Gardens and St. Luke’s Hospital for their tremendous support through her health challenges.
 
A small family service will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Wednesday, Oct. 13, 2010 at 10:45 a.m.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for your support through prayer. If you ever find yourself near a slot machine, put in a quarter for Wanda!