Wanda Lee Kotila

Wanda Lee Kotila peacefully departed after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease on October 25, 2023, at the age of 81. She found peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior and was reunited with her loving husband of 33 years, David Kotila. Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and compassion that will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who knew her.

Wanda is survived by her sister, Elaine Pounds, and her two daughters, Denise McCaskill and husband Scott, Lori Massey and husband Todd. She is also remembered by her stepchildren, Mary Kotila, Dan Kotila, and Kathy Dakota. She is preceded in death by her husband, David Kotila, and her parents, Roy and Bessie McDonald.

Cherished memories of Wanda will be held close by seven grandchildren: Michelle Roy and husband Andrew, Lance McCaskill and wife Sofia, Collin McCaskill and wife Madeline, Hunter Massey and wife Tarin, Justin Massey and wife Laura, Dakota Massey and wife Hannah, Savannah Barnes and husband Chase, along with her step granddaughter Devin Crenshaw and husband Sam. In addition, Wanda was blessed to know 10 great-grandchildren in her lifetime.

Wanda was born on December 2, 1941, in Miles, Texas, to Roy and Bessie McDonald. After graduating from high school and getting married, she ultimately settled in Arlington, TX. She stayed at home caring for her two daughters for many years. She later pursued a career as a court transcriber where she could work from home and continue to raise her girls. Eventually she finished out her working career as a secretary at the Internal Revenue Service for the Chief of Appeals.

Wanda held a deep affection for spending time with her family and had a passion for square dancing and travel. Her heart was also filled with love for her cherished furry companions, Buffy, Peaches, and Reggie. She was an extraordinarily kind and compassionate woman who radiated joy and laughter wherever she went. Wanda had a zest for life and a warm, infectious smile that could light up any room. Her absence will be deeply felt by her friends, family, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A service to celebrate Wanda’s life and the love she shared with others will be held at Wade Funeral Home located at 4140 West Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas 76013, on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 10:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to join in remembering Wanda’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Wanda may be physically absent, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her memory will be cherished for generations to come. As we mourn the loss of our wonderful mother and grandmother, we take comfort in knowing that she has found eternal peace and her mind is now restored in the loving presence of our Lord and Savior.