Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Elder Wanda Lee Hamby

7/14/1949 - 7/20/2026

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Obituary For Elder Wanda Lee Hamby

Elder Wanda Hamby, 77, of Beckley, WV entered eternal rest Monday, July 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Wanda was born to Juanita Anderson, the only daughter among her siblings. She naturally embodied grace, strength, compassion, and unconditional love. She shared a special bond with her brothers and spent her life caring for those she loved. Serving others was not simply something she did, it was the very essence of who she was.

Wanda, after graduating from Lester High School, married the love of her life, William “Bill” Hamby, beginning a beautiful journey that would span a lifetime. Shortly after their marriage, she attended and graduated from Beckley School of Cosmetology. It was the perfect profession for a woman who was known for her impeccable style, radiant smile, and ever-changing hairstyles. Although cosmetology was her primary profession, Wanda's strong work ethic led her to various occupations throughout the years, including working in the coal mines, assisting in daycare centers, and serving as a consultant in department stores.

While Wanda wore many professional hats, her greatest calling was that of a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker. She found her greatest joy in nurturing and caring for others. She not only raised her own children but also opened her heart and home to countless others. Many families found comfort, guidance, and love under her care. Wanda truly was the angel many families needed and the village everyone speaks of: a woman whose kindness, wisdom, and generosity left a lasting imprint on everyone she encountered.

Wanda answered God’s call to ministry even before her husband. Overflowing with excitement, she eagerly shared the goodness of God with Bill, who soon afterward dedicated his own life to Christ. Together, they became a powerful ministry team, faithfully serving the Lord side by side. God blessed them with the opportunity to own and co-pastor a church for nearly seven years. Following that season of ministry, they returned to their beloved home church, Living Waters Outreach Ministries, where they faithfully served under the leadership of Overseer Yvonne Y. Law.

Wanda’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She lived her testimony daily through her compassion, unwavering encouragement, selfless service, and steadfast trust in God. Whether offering a warm meal, a listening ear, heartfelt prayer, or words of wisdom, Wanda made everyone feel welcomed, valued, and deeply loved.

Wanda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William “Bill” Hamby; mother, Juanita Anderson; brothers:

Wanda leaves to cherish her precious memories her loving children, William “BB” Hamby, Latishche Hamby, Jonica Hamby, and Jennifer (Jeremy) Trimble; cherished grandchildren, Michael Hamby, Dejah Hamby, Lashawn Dowdy, Lesley Dowdy, William Douglas, Toby Quinn, Alexis Trimble, and Skylar Trimble; treasured great-grandchildren: Ava, Amelia, Shamiya, Michael Jr., Harmony, Melody, Jaydriel, and Lyric; brother: Perry Anderson, sisters-in-law, Audrey (Willie) Johnson and Patricia Sorrell; loving cousin, Porcha; dearest friends, Overseer Yvonne Y. Law, Bishop Tommy Simms, and Marilyn Simms; along with a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, spiritual children, and dear friends who were blessed by her life and will forever cherish her memory.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in knowing that Wanda has heard the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”. Her legacy of faith, love, compassion, and selfless service will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Funeral service will be 12:00PM Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church
141 New Guinea Ave. Lanark. Burial will
follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Prosperity.

Friends may view and visit with the family one-hour prior.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

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Condolences

  • 07/23/2026

    She was so BEAUTIFUL & such a sweet Lady . May GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU ALL. 🙏

  • 07/23/2026

    To the Hamby Family: May the love of God surround each of you to give you comfort and peace. Wilbert and Doris Boyden-McCormick

  • 07/22/2026

    Condolences and prayers to the Hamby family. Sincerely Clifford and Eileen Washington

  • 07/22/2026

    Sending love and prayers to the Hamby family. It was an honor to care for Mrs. Wanda. May she be dancing with our almighty God now. 🤍

  • 07/21/2026

    Our deepest sympathy to the Hamby Family. May God be with each of you and may He give each of you peace. Wilbert & Doris Boyden-McCormick

  • 07/21/2026

    I'm at a loss for words. My Love and Prayers to you The Hambys. I'm so very sorry for your loss. I will always love your parents we always greeted each other with smiles and conversations. May God continue to love on you all. God Bless you.

  • 07/21/2026

    Deepest sympathy and condolences to the Hamby family. Ms. Wanda was a very nice neighbor and her warm smile and wave will be truly missed . The Hardy Family

  • 07/20/2026

    To the Hamby Family, you have my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences! May the God of all grace and comfort give you the oil of joy for your mourning and a garment of praise, for the spirit of your heaviness!! The Simms family in Detroit is praying for you! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

  • 07/20/2026

    To family of Elder Wanda Hamby Our heart goes out to you all during this most difficult time. Elder Hamby was a very sweet lady whom I used to love to see her when the spirit of God moved her. She will be greatly missed. May God continue to strengthen and comfort you as time go on. Love Bishop James & Delena Jones

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