Wanda Lea Kirkland May 29, 1932 - December 20, 2012

Wanda Lea Kirkland, age 80, of Ozark, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, December 20, 2012. She was born May 29, 1932 to Randolph and Erma (Weber) Dover in Mountain Home, Arkansas. She graduated from Mtn. Home High School in 1951 and married Jim Kirkland on September 6, 1953. Her parents, and her only sister Eva Lea, whom she deeply loved, preceded Wanda in death. She leaves behind her husband of 59 years, Jim, and two sons and their families: Jim and Mila of Ozark, with sons Corey and Mason; and Keith and Nancy of Springfield, with son Ben. Also, many beloved nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Wanda loved her family and, like many moms, organized her life around them. She owned and managed a store in Ozark for many years, Castaways, a clothing consignment shop. She combined her love to shop with her business ingenuity, and this kept her family nicely clothed while it brought in a second income. She loved finding a great deal at a garage sale, but was confidentially, a deeply generous soul with those in need. She and Jim were members of Southside Church of Christ in Ozark since 1970, and had many loving friendships from this congregation. Once retired, and their sons were grown, they took many memorable trips with friends from church. Travelling the world, they claimed they spent their children’s inheritance, which was just fine with the kids. As Wanda’s health declined, weary days turned into years, and Jim devoted himself to Wanda, serving her day and night for close to ten years, which allowed her the blessing of living in her home with him. His example to his family is a powerful witness of his faith and commitment to those marriage vows of long ago. The family sends a sincere thank you to those who helped Wanda live each day. Firstly, to Claudia, who added another year to her time at home while making her laugh and enjoy getting up every morning; secondly, to the kind and respectful love she got from everyone at Ozark Nursing and Care Center; and finally to the Hospice Compassus team who helped her in the last months. Thank you. Family request donations be made in honor of Wanda to the charity of your choice. Funeral services for Wanda were held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 29, 2012 in Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark with Pastor Chuck Eakins officiating. Visitation was held 1:00 p.m. until service time in the funeral home. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals,com.