Wanda Marie Parton, 84, of Gassville, Arkansas
Wanda Marie Parton, 84, of Gassville, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on August 8, 2026. She was born on November 3, 1941, in Gamaliel, Arkansas, to Delbert Uchtman and Lydia (Henson) Uchtman.
Wanda lived a life grounded in faith, family, determination, and love. Her faith in God was an important part of who she was, and she was a devoted member of the Church of Christ. She carried her faith with her throughout her life and found comfort and strength in knowing that God was always with her.
One of Wanda’s greatest accomplishments was earning her LPN license. She was especially proud of this achievement because she was the first person in her family to pursue a college education. Earning her license represented more than a career accomplishment-it was a reflection of Wanda’s determination, courage, and willingness to work hard to build a better life for herself and her family.
Wanda was also a woman of many talents. She loved creating things with her hands and could often be found crocheting, sewing, doing beadwork, making pine needle baskets, or creating her little clocks. Her creativity was just another way she expressed herself and brought beauty into the lives of those around her.
But of all the things Wanda accomplished in her life, her greatest source of pride was her family. She was a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who treasured the people she loved. Her family meant everything to her. She wanted her children and grandchildren not only to know where they came from, but to understand and remember the family history that connected them to those who came before them. She understood the importance of passing stories, memories, and traditions from one generation to the next.
Wanda’s love for her family will continue through the generations she leaves behind. She is survived by Teresa Wiard; Jennifer Dreyer and her husband, Gary; Jeff Harris and his wife, Linda; her sister, Christie Arms and her husband, Brian; grandchildren Brittany, Travis, Nathan, Hannah, Jake, Josh, Missy, and Charlie; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roy Parton; her parents, Delbert Uchtman and Lydia Henson; her son, Johnny Charles “Chuck” Harris Jr.; her sisters, Lola and Mildred; and Lola’s husband, Dave.
Those who knew Wanda will remember her not only for the things she accomplished, but for the love she gave so freely to her family. Her hands may have been busy creating baskets, sewing, crocheting, and crafting, but her heart was always centered on the people she loved. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, family devotion, and memories that will be cherished for generations to come.
Wanda’s journey on this earth has come to an end, but the love she gave, the lessons she taught, the family history she worked so hard to preserve, and the faith she held so dearly will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
A potluck celebration in honor of Wanda is scheduled for August 15, 2026, from 4pm-6pm at the Clarkridge Fire Station in Clarkridge, Arkansas. The family is providing the fried chicken; guest are being asked to bring a side dish.
