Wanda Marie Mahaffey (86) of Shelbyville

Wanda Marie Mahaffey, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2024, at Shelbyville Manor in Shelbyville, Illinois.

Born on November 21, 1937, in Spencer, Iowa, she was the daughter of Harold and Leona (Newcomb) Wallace. On September 1, 1956, Wanda married Otis D. Mahaffey. Their union was blessed with two sons, Dale and Monty "Zonk" Mahaffey, and a legacy of love that would continue through their children and grandchildren. Although Otis preceded her in death on July 9, 2008, their shared memories remained a source of comfort and inspiration for Wanda. Wanda's family was the center of her world.

She is survived by her two sons, Dale (Pam) Mahaffey and Monty "Zonk" (Marsha) Mahaffey, both of Cowden; four granddaughters; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Harlin (Carol) Wallace and Howard (Sandy) Wallace, both of Herrick; sister-in-law, Roberta (Bert) Wallace of Pana, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Harold and Leona; her beloved husband, Otis; her sister, Evelyn Foster; her brother, Dean Wallace; and her grandson, Douglas, who passed away in infancy.

Wanda's life was one of service and contribution. As a homemaker and the backbone of the family farm, she worked tirelessly alongside her husband while he was employed full-time at Caterpillar. Her skills in upholstery work were not only a testament to her craftsmanship but also a reflection of her willingness to create beauty and comfort in the lives of those around her. In addition to her work at home and on the farm, Wanda was a devoted member of the First Christian Church in Herrick. Her faith was an important part of her life, guiding her actions and providing a foundation for the values she instilled in her family. Wanda's interests were deeply rooted in the Herrick and Cowden area, where she spent her entire life. She cherished the time she spent with loved ones, always putting family and friends at the forefront of her priorities.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Free Methodist Church in Cowden. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will follow in Myers Cemetery. Memorials may be given in Wanda’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association or the donor’s favorite charity. The family requests casual attire. Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Cowden is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story by clicking here.