Wanda B. Seals

On October 23, 2023 a beautiful fall day, our most precious mother Wanda B. Seals took her final breath, surrounded by her loving children in Kalamazoo Michigan.
Wanda is the third of seven children by Thomas W. Banks and Willie Mae Thompson Banks. Wanda was born on July 31, 1936 in Chicago, Il. Wanda attended and graduated from Wendell Phillips High School in Chicago, il She went on to earn a Bachelor's of Science in Education from Chicago Teacher College and went on to teach elementary education until her retirement from Three Oaks Elementary School in Three Oaks Michigan.
Wanda was an active member of St. Mary's Church in New Buffalo where she acted as a Eucharistic minister, serving communion and hosting new members.
Wanda was one of the favorite teachers for many students. To this day people refer to their favorite teacher as "Mrs. Seals". She lovingly taught first grade at Three Oaks elementary up until her retirement. Wanda loved sharing stories of how great her classroom was and how much she enjoyed teaching.
Wanda shared a rich childhood with her 7 siblings known as the Magnificent 7. Wanda, Ethel and Earl(Virginia) would become more than sisters, but best friends as they vacationed, cooked, celebrated holidays and birthdays together over the years. Wanda was a spark in each of her brothers' eyes as they protected her, watched over her and doted on their sweet Wanda, who was everyone's favorite.
Wanda joined Herbert B. Seals Sr. affectionately known as (Herb or Herbie) in holy matrimony on December 19,1959. That union would produce 2 beautiful children. Herbert B. Seals Jr. of Grand Rapids and Janine M. Seals of Kalamazoo, Mi. Wanda enjoyed summers in Michigan and Chicago surrounded by family with cookouts, beach fun, swimming parties and most notably her homemade chili. Wanda and Herb had a love for travel. They would jet set to many places during their union. Las Vegas, Puerto Rico, Florida, and Arizona. Once they had a family the famous motorhome was their mode of transportation to continue their quest to see the country. Wanda moved to Kalamazoo, where she spent her days at the Ecumenical Senior Center being treated like a queen by Tim, Charlene, Lou and Smitty. Ms. Wanda will be missed.
Wanda was the third of seven children, Thomas W. Banks Jr.(deceased) Ethel Marie Banks-Lily Cole(EMBLC)(deceased). Walter S. Banks(Lois), William G. Banks(Beverly). Virginia Banks-Martin, Joseph C. Banks (Debra) All of Chicago, Il. Wanda leaves behind 2 children, 2 Grand Children Chad Watkins and Tashia Watkins, a bonus Granddaughter Kandyss Rolark. 7 Great Grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, past students and friends.
We want to thank everyone for their love and support, special thank you to Gloria and Bob at Butterfly Oasis for making her transition peaceful and pleasant. This home was truly a Godsend.
Please feel free to make a charitable donation to "Ecumenical Senior Center" Kalamazoo, MI. in memory of Wanda Seals