Wanda (Hayes) Oliver

Mrs. Wanda Hayes Oliver, age 93 of West Jefferson formerly of Purlear passed away Tuesday, October 24, 2023, after a brief stay at Watauga Medical Center in Boone.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 PM Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Arbor Grove Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. Susan Pillsbury-Taylor officiating.   

Mrs. Oliver was born December 7, 1929, in Wilkes County to Rhuel Roosevelt Hayes and Sallie Veatrice Lovette Hayes.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Andrew Blaine Oliver Sr., one sister, Gwenda Holaday; and two brothers, Archie Hayes and Bill Hayes. 

She is survived by three sons, Andrew Blaine “Drew” Oliver, Jr. of Mooresville, NC, Thomas H. Oliver and wife Judi of Brentwood, TN, and David J. Oliver and wife Cheryl of Winston-Salem; eight grandchildren, Liz Oliver (Salvatore), Andrew Blaine Oliver, III (Ella), Daniel H. Oliver (Jenny), Zachary T. Oliver (Marion), Mary Kathryn Wolfe (Jeff), Dagmars S. Oliver, Joanna Leigh Kelly (Sterling), Sallie J. Oliver and twelve great-grandchildren; one sister, Shelby Hayes Reeves of Millers Creek and many nieces and nephews.

Wanda was known for her beauty both outside and inside. She shared an unconditional love for her family and showed compassion and grace to all.  Wanda was over the moon about all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After Millers Creek High School, her great powers of sympathy and empathy made for a successful career in many retail sales positions including Brand’s in North Wilkesboro where she never met a stranger.

Along with her quick wit, Wanda instilled a love of music and the value of faith, love and education in her family.  She sang most of her life in her distinctive soprano voice. She loved her long-time home in Purlear and her cabin on the New River in Ashe County. She was an excellent cook even up to her death and no one ever left her home hungry. 

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to Arbor Grove Methodist Church, c/o Lindsay Eller, 590 Shepherd-River Road, Millers Creek, NC  28651.

Online condolences may be made to www.reinssturdivant.com.

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