McALISTER, Wanda Ruth - b. August 2, 1944 - d. January 24, 2019

[patyrn]

Wanda Ruth McAlister, age 74, of Derby, Kansas, passed away January 24, 2019 at Homestead of Derby.  She was born August 2, 1944 in Grenola, Kansas to Ralph and Bessie (Storms) McAlister.

Wanda grew up the youngest of nine children, attending school in Elk Falls, Kansas until the schools closed.  She then finished and graduated from Moline High School.  She received her Bachelor's degree and then went on to receiver her Master's degree in Education from Wichita State University.

Wanda worked multiple jobs throughout her life.  She was an elementary school teacher for the Haysville school district.  Then she worked as a Social Worker for the State of Kansas where she retired after 19 years of service.  After retirement, she enjoyed relaxing at home and doing needlework and cross-stitching.

Wanda is survived by her son, Vincent and Melissa McAlister of Derby, Kansas; her grandchildren, Garrett and Riley; her sisters, Mary Osborn and Karen Hey; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Wilson, Phyllis, Darrell, Darlene, Melvin, and Helen.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 31, 2019 at 2:00 p.m.  at Belknap Cemetery south of Moline, Kansas at Saddle Road and Road 11.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)