Wanda Strong

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Wanda Lou Strong, age 77 of Galena, passed away on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at her home.

Wanda was born in Neosho, MO on November 11, 1946 to Lucius Phair Watkins and Emma Ellen (Hill) Watkins. The family moved to Fontana, CA in the late 1950's where Wanda lived until the mid 1980's when she moved back to the four-state area. 

While living in Galena, she had worked as a bartender at Stateline, and also as a cook at Pickle Jean's Cafe until it's closing, and later at Weston's Cafe in Baxter Springs. She enjoyed going fishing, crocheting and sewing, gambling at the casinos, and spending time with her grandkids.

She is survived by four sons, Danny Roy O'Banion of Galena, Dennis Michael O'Banion of Galena, David Joseph Mayberry (wife, Kathy) of Mountain Home, ID, Dusty Leroy Strong (wife, Kelsey) of Galena; one daughter, Marijoe Watson (and the late William Watson) of Miami, OK; two sisters, Grace Eileen Sargent of Saginaw, MO, and Sherry Louise Anderson of Quapaw, OK; one brother, Robert Anderson (wife, Lynn) of Galena; 25 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as one daughter, Shannon Lynn Mayberry-Gorby, and 2 brothers and 2 sisters.

Services will be held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena. The family will receive friends from Noon-2:00 PM, and the funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM. Pastor Aaron Polok will officiate. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery of Galena.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.