Wanda Lea (Wilkinson) Hedrick

Wanda Lea (Wilkinson) Hedrick was born at home on October 16, 1936. She was one of three daughters born to Laben and Gladine (Allen) Wilkinson. Wanda grew up near Shoal Creek, Missouri and graduated with the class of 1954 from Cherryville High School. On June 22, 1957, Wanda was united in marriage to the love of her life, Charles “Buf” Buford Hedrick. They were blessed with twenty-eight years of lasting memories before his passing July 1, 1982. Wanda and Buf were blessed with one son, Charles David. Wanda furthered her education with Mineral Area College and obtained her bachelor's degree from Southwest Baptist University. She began her teaching career with the Cadet District before her forty-two years at Viburnum Elementary School. After Wanda retired in 2001, she subbed for many years until her health no longer allowed. Wanda loved being outdoors, working cattle and enjoying life on the farm. She could often be found watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Wanda truly enjoyed the time spent with her family, making memories that will never be forgotten. She treasured her grandchildren and adored her great-grandchildren. Wanda was a sister in Christ and enjoyed the fellowship at Potosi Methodist United Methodist Church along with Macedonia United Baptist Church and Shoal Creek Missionary Baptist Church. Her faith was evident in the way she lived her life and in the impact she had on everyone around her. Wanda entered into eternal rest October 20, 2024, in Festus, Missouri, at the age of eighty-eight years. Those left behind to cherish her memory include her loving son: David Hedrick and wife Patty of Steelville, MO; sister: Jean Beeman of Viburnum, MO; grandchildren: Nick Hedrick and wife Kristy, Kaela Smythe and husband Sean, Melissa Bolerjack, Shawn Bolerjack and wife Kelsey, Carley Hedrick, and Alex Hedrick; great-grandchildren: Paisley, Ryleigh, Donivan, Dawson, Alexis, Brock, and one on the way; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her husband: Charles “Buf” Hedrick; parents: Laben and Gladine Wilkinson; sister: Annetta Gillam and husband Charles; and her brother-in-law: Roger Beeman. Wanda touched and molded the lives of many as a longtime teacher. She was loved and admired by everyone. Her beautiful smile and sweet spirit will never be forgotten. Wanda will be deeply missed. Funeral Services for Wanda Lea (Wilkinson) Hedrick were held Wednesday, October 23, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Viburnum Chapel with Pastor Adam Asher officiating. David Hedrick and Nick Hedrick shared some special memories. Song selections played were “I’ll Fly Away”, “Precious Memories”, “Amazing Grace”, and “Heaven Just Got Sweeter For You”. Serving as Pallbearers were Nick Hedrick, Mike Beeman, Mark Beeman, Rick Leasor, Ron Leasor, and Bobby Leasor. Honorary Pallbearers were Alex Hedrick and Brad Callahan. Burial was in the Shoal Creek Cemetery, Steelville, Missouri. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Wanda Hedrick to the Shoal Creek Cemetery and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Wanda Lea (Wilkinson) Hedrick

October 16, 1936 - October 20, 2024