Wanda Lovelace Thomas

Wanda Kay Lovelace Thomas, 76, was peacefully called home by our Heavenly Father on September 17, 2024. Born on October 7, 1947, Wanda was the eldest of three children to Dorothy Helms Lovelace and Kenneth L. Lovelace, and sister to Julia and Kenny, Jr. She spent her early years in the Indian River area, later graduating from Great Bridge High School in 1966.

Wanda was a lifelong learner, balancing work, family, and her education. After 18 years of determination and perseverance through night classes, she earned her degree and teaching certificate from Tidewater Community College and Norfolk State University. Wanda spent over 38 years as an educator in the Chesapeake Public Schools system, primarily at the elementary level. Her love for teaching was evident through the countless heartwarming stories she shared with her family about the students.

Wanda was not only an exceptional educator but a deeply devoted wife and mother. She was blessed to share 28 beautiful years with her beloved husband, Tom, a man she fell head-over-heels in love with from the moment they met. Their bond was one of love, laughter, and enduring devotion. Together, they nurtured a blended family that was her greatest source of pride and joy.

Wanda is survived by her children, Matt Whitley (Enza), Jill Morrison (Chuck), Jared Thomas (Renee) and Kyle Thomas (Aleksandra), along with her cherished grandchildren: Martina, Joey, Aubrey, Conner, Aaron, Kate, Erin, Teegan, and Leighton. Each of them carries forward the indelible memories of her gentle spirit, loving heart, and unwavering support.

Also left to cherish her memory is Julia Ann Lovelace Pratt (Jim), her beloved and playful little sister. Julia was Wanda’s lifelong companion, standing beside her through difficult times, dancing the jitterbug during moments of joy, and holding her hand with unshakable strength and love through every season of life. Their bond was one of deep affection, sisterhood, and unwavering support.

Wanda was predeceased by her brother Kenny Jr., father Kenneth, mother Dorothy, and her loving stepfather Raymond Baril. Though their absence was deeply felt, Wanda found solace in the love of family, friends, and her strong faith. She cherished her relationships with old friends, cherished neighbors, and the many wonderful people she encountered throughout her life. To all who knew her, Wanda was a beacon of kindness, humor, and warmth, a woman whose legacy of love and selflessness will endure.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to the dedicated professionals at Commonwealth Senior Living Memory Care on Great Bridge Blvd and Bristol Hospice for their commitment to comfort and love, you are His true angels on Earth.

A celebration of Wanda’s life will be held at noon on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 6329 E Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23502, with a reception to follow at the Black Pelican in Chesapeake. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Chesapeake Public Schools Educational Foundation, supporting students in need of school supplies and backpacks—one of Wanda’s many passions as a dedicated educator.