Wanda Kaye Cole

Wanda Kaye Cole, 93, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky. Wanda was born on December 6, 1931, to Auther and Gertrude Belcher in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Wanda lived a full, loving life as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was married for 63 years to her sweetheart, Homer, with whom she shared countless adventures. Together, they crisscrossed the country, often finding themselves in new places with a shared love of travel—especially visiting every casino they could find. Wanda had a particular fondness for playing the slot machines, a hobby that brought her joy.

Though she was reserved and modest by nature, Wanda was never shy about expressing her sassy personality and strong opinions. Her family and friends knew her for her sharp wit, and she always had something to say when it mattered most. Wanda’s home was a gathering place for family, especially during the holidays. She loved preparing delicious meals and creating a comfortable, welcoming space for her loved ones.

Outside of family, Wanda had many hobbies that kept her engaged and curious. Saturdays were for yard sales, where she would hunt for treasures to bring home. She also enjoyed tending to her garden, planting flowers, and nurturing the beauty of nature. Wanda was someone who lived life on her terms. When something no longer sparked her interest, she simply moved on to the next adventure.

Wanda will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her loving spirit, unwavering strength, and unique sense of humor will be fondly remembered by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Wanda is preceded in death by her loving husband, Homer Cole; parents, James Auther Belcher and Gertrude Tooley Belcher; 2 sons-in-law, Mickey Hodnett and Butch Boone; and a grandson-in-law, Jay Nichols.

Left to cherish her memory, Wanda is survived by her 4 children, Sharon Boone, Steve Cole (Karen), Greg Shoemake (Shelia), and Andy Cole (Tracy); 13 grandchildren, Dana Nichols, Michael Shoemake (Karen), Jamie Fisher (Tony), Ryan Shoemake, Glen Cole (Darlene), Patrick Shoemake (Alie), Stacey Cole (Brian), Whitney Hoben (Greg), Sarah Deaton (Eric), Nancy Kay (Raymond), Travis Shoemake, Lucas Shoemake, and Andrew Cole; 12 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Hannah, Thadriel, Lucas, Grayce, Julia, Eleanor, Henry, Sam, Nicholas, Max, and Chase; and a host of extended family and close friends.

A funeral service for Mrs. Wanda Cole will be held at 6 PM on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held from 12 PM to 6 PM at the funeral home, prior to the service.