Our dear mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and sister, Wanda Lee McCord, passed away 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 Aug. 4, 1930, to William George and Pauline E. Eifert Sander.

She is survived by sisters, Jacqueline Metzger and Marilyn Graham; sons, Lance (Jill) McCord, Kelvin (Heather Shinn) McCord, 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 a brother, Elroy Sander.

Wanda spent her childhood in Scott City, in a large, loving family of nine sisters and a brother. She graduated from Illmo-Fornfelt Consolidated High School and enjoyed working at Southwestern Bell as a telephone operator many years. She spent the remainder of her career working as a supervisor at Scott Air Force Base.

She married Billy Ray McCord on Aug. 20, 1955. He preceded her in death Nov. 9, 2004. She and Bill spent most of their married life in Highland, Ill., 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 was held Wednesday at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

St. Louis Cremation was in charge of arrangements.

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!