Wanda Mandeville

1951 - 2026

Wanda Jean Mandeville, a beacon of love, thoughtfulness, and unwavering faith, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, in Durham County, NC at the age of 74. Wanda was born on March 20, 1951, in Wake County, NC, to the late, JC and Ruebelle Strickland. Wanda's life was a testament to her dedication to family, education, and service to her community.

Wanda's academic journey was marked by her passion for sociology, which led her to earn a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Science, and pursue doctoral candidacy at North Carolina State University. A proud graduate of Millbrook High School's class of 1969, she carried the torch of lifelong learning throughout her career and personal endeavors.

For over three decades, Wanda served the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services with distinction. Her roles as a Budget Analyst in the Office of the Secretary, Budget Director for the Division of Public Health, and the Division of Information Resource Management showcased her exceptional analytical skills. Her commitment to public service was further evidenced by her work as a Program Evaluator for the North Carolina Developmental Disability Council.

An esteemed educator, Wanda imparted her knowledge at The Citadel, Charleston, South Carolina, North Carolina State University, and Massasoit Community College in Brockton, Massachusetts. Her dedication to the state was honored with the prestigious "Order of the Long Leaf Pine" by Governor Beverly Purdue.

Wanda's charitable spirit shone brightly through her involvement in numerous lineage societies. At the time of her passing, she was serving on the Board of Directors for the National Society Colonial Daughters of the Seventeenth Century. Her culinary prowess was also celebrated with "Best of Show" ribbons at the North Carolina State Fair and the Wilson County Fair.

Her commitment to promoting the Christian Faith was unwavering. Wanda taught preschool and elementary school children at Bay Leaf Baptist Church and was actively engaged in church-based Bible study. She provided leadership to many organizations, including the Colonial Dames of America, Jamestown Society, First Families of North Carolina, and Daughters of the American Revolution, among others.

Wanda's life was a living example of her favorite Bible verses: Philippians 4:13, Isaiah 64:8, and Psalms 121:1-7. She was a pillar of her community, assisting immigrant families with naturalization and citizenship and helping others trace their ancestral heritage.

Wanda leaves behind a legacy of love and service. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. John A. Mandeville of Wake Forest; her son, Jay Mandeville of Stewartsville, New Jersey; her daughter, Jennifer Mandeville Schneller of St. Louis, Missouri; her beloved grandchildren, Christian John Mandeville, Jacquelin Schneller, and Juliet Schneller.

Wanda Jean Mandeville's life was a portrait of a loving, thoughtful, and faith-filled woman who touched the lives of many. Her memory will be cherished and her impact felt for generations to come.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Wake Forest Baptist Church at 10 a.m.

The family requests that memorial contributions be given in honor of Wanda to The Falls Community Cemetery, 9705 Fonville Road, Wake Forest, 27587.