A warm kitchen scene representing the love and gatherings of a cherished matriarch.
Wanda Faye Powers Roddy, a beloved matriarch from Dallas, passed away at 84, leaving behind a legacy of love for her family. Known for her warm meals and joyous spirit, Wanda dedicated her life to nurturing family bonds, celebrating generations of love. She will be fondly remembered by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for her affection, humor, and the comfort of her kitchen. Wanda’s legacy lives on through the memories she created and the values she instilled in her family.
Dallas, Texas – Wanda Faye Powers Roddy, a cherished matriarch known for her unwavering love for family, has passed away at the age of 84 on May 9, 2025. Born on February 10, 1941, in Dallas, Wanda dedicated her life to nurturing her family and maintaining strong family connections.
Wanda, the daughter of Lewis Brown Powers and Byrdie Clotel Simmons, married her high school sweetheart, Robert Clayton Roddy, Sr., with whom she shared over 62 years of marriage. Wanda affectionately referred to Robert as her “boyfriend” and considered him to be her best friend, a testament to their deep love and strong bond.
The couple raised four children: Debbie (Brent) Wise, Carrie (Scott) Bodin, Millie Weston, and Bobby (Teri) Roddy. As a family, they relocated several times due to Robert’s career with the J.C. Penney Company, living in Minnesota, California, Oregon, Georgia, and Kansas, before settling back in Dallas where they enjoyed over 20 years of retirement.
Wanda was an active presence on social media, known by the handle Mema1941. She kept in touch with friends and family through comments, often marking her approval with hearts. She took pride in following the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, celebrating important occasions with heartfelt texts and cards, encouraging her loved ones to “do your sweet thang.”
Her family gatherings were often centered around the kitchen, as Wanda was known for preparing warm, delicious meals and sharing treasured recipes, including her famous Texas sheet cake and homemade vanilla ice cream. Wanda’s love for family transcended generations; she is survived by her children, nine grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.
The list of her grandchildren includes Roddy Bodin, Matthew (Andi) Wise, Callie (Tony) Apollo, Dustin (Stephanie) Wise, Max (Ashley) Weston, Zack Roddy, Megan (Blake) Rosholt, Mitch (Abby) Wise, and Mick Weston. The great-grandchildren range from Mac (7), Sidonie (6), and Jackson (5), to Byrdie (8 months), showcasing a legacy of love that continues to grow within her family.
Wanda was known for her joyful spirit, often lightening the mood with funny faces, silly dances, and witty comments. Her engaging FaceTime antics were a source of joy for her family, and she expressed her affection through loving notes that featured messages such as “I love you best” and “I love you more.”
In addition to being a loving family member, Wanda was passionate about gardening. She created serene outdoor spaces filled with flowers, bubbling water fountains, and wind chimes that offered her a sense of peace. Wanda also had a fondness for collecting, acquiring items like Department 56 decorations, Snowbabies, coffee mugs, magnets, and family photographs, each with its own story to tell.
A lover of Hallmark movies, Wanda found happiness in watching romantic stories while indulging in chocolate chip cookies and vanilla ice cream. Her also adored her dogs, finding comfort in their presence throughout her life, believing wholeheartedly in the idea of “The Rainbow Bridge.”
Wanda Faye Powers Roddy leaves behind a rich legacy characterized by her unconditional love for her family and her dedication to nurturing close family ties. Fondly remembered by her loved ones, her warmth and loving gestures will continue to impact those she leaves behind.
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