Wanda June Parker

Wanda June Parker was born in Dallas, Texas on October 11, 1955. Wanda grew up in Farmers Branch, Texas in a loving home with her parents, Laman Lavern Vance and June Blanche Schwab and her sister, Judalan "Judy" Vance. Wanda married Clifton "Cliff" Parker on December 30, 1978, after a fairy tale meeting and courtship. Following an intimate ceremony with close family and friends at her childhood home in front of the Christmas tree, the couple dashed off in an ice storm for their Disney honeymoon. Wanda and Cliff shared a lifelong love for all things Disney, especially Mickey Mouse. Wanda was preceded in death by her parents.

Wanda was the one of first women to graduate with a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering from Texas A&M University in 1978. Wanda became a "force with which to be reckoned" in her field, making significant contributions to national and international regulatory improvements in the industry. Wanda spent the last half of her career consulting with oil companies, obtaining offshore drilling permits primarily in the Gulf of Mexico.

Wanda was not "all work and no play." She and Cliff shared a deep appreciation for the arts and became well-loved patrons of the Plano Symphony Orchestra. They contributed to many PSO endeavors, especially focusing on education. Wanda served several years on the PSO board, holding many offices and chair positions including President of the Board of Directors. These associations led to deep and abiding friendships with staff, musicians, guild members and other patrons.

Wanda loved to entertain and travel. While in elementary school Wanda developed a love of cooking, contributing to her becoming an accomplished "home chef." Cliff and Wanda loved hosting dinner parties in their home including a lavish Christmas open house every year for 37 years. Their travels led to every state in the US, along with every continent including Antarctica. She particularly loved to cruise, visiting ports of call around the world. Through these endeavors, friendships formed across the globe, especially in the wine country of Napa Valley and culinary venues around the metroplex.

Cliff and Wanda were longtime members of The Heights church in Richardson, Texas. Wanda was a woman of deep faith and a sincere disciple of Jesus. Her life and words were straightforward but kind. She often shared valuable wisdom in her Sunday school class where she and Cliff developed close friendships spanning over 40 years. Wanda also served her church family in administrative ways, including pastor search, finance and personnel committees. She quietly served her 'neighbor' with encouragement and help, not drawing attention to herself. Even with all these spheres of influence, Wanda's identity was not in those roles but in her relationship to God through Jesus Christ, powered by the Holy Spirit.

Wanda loved Cliff's niece and nephews as her own. She and Cliff together became "surrogate" Aunt and Uncle, to several friends' children and grandchildren. Her impact on the generations is remarkable. She offered advice when asked, and her great unconditional love created special memories and a "safe space" for youngsters and adults alike. Michael, Nathan, Penny, Matthew, Daniel, Kristen, Meredith, Brian, Michelle, Ellis and others will miss their "Aunt" Wanda.

Wanda loved the four-legged companions of her life beginning with her childhood dog Jimmy. Wanda and Cliff became "dog-mom and dog-dad" to Buck, Sarge, Peaches, Mini-mutt, Abby, Mandy, and Blanca, who preceded her across the rainbow bridge. Marley, Ving, Quinn and Diamond continue to provide companionship to Cliff.

Wanda's impact is far reaching and will endure for years and generations to come. She was a wife, friend, leader, and colleague to many who will cherish her memories and carry her legacy with them.

A memorial service will be held 2:00PM Tuesday, September 2, 2025 in the Chapel at The Heights Church, 201 W. Renner Rd. Richardson, TX 75080. (972) 238-7243

Williams Funeral Directors - Garland, August 4, 2025