Wanda L. Divine, age 87, died on October 4, 2026, in Hollister, Missouri. Wanda was born on December 10, 1938, in Miami, Oklahoma, to Bert and Mary (Mitchell) Bland. She grew up in a large and loving family with a deep heritage within the Wyandotte Nation. Wanda learned early the value of hard work, responsibility, and devotion to others. As the big sister, she often helped care for her younger siblings and, in many ways, became a second mother to them.
Wanda married Eldon Divine on August 9, 1960, at Long Assembly of God near Miami, Oklahoma. Wanda and Eldon were blessed with three children; Lloyd, Lindle, and Laina. Their children, along with the generations that followed, became a source of deep pride and joy for Wanda. Together, Wanda and Eldon created a legacy filled with cherished memories and enduring love.
Education was important to Wanda, and upon graduating from Wyandotte High School, she continued her studies at N.E. Oklahoma State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Her love for children and for learning led her to pursue a degree in elementary education. This calling reflected the kindness and patience that were such natural parts of her character. These virtues were evident throughout her life beginning with devotion at home, staying home with her own children, and continually investing time to value and nurture others.
Wanda devoted 20 years of service to College of the Ozarks. Wanda began her career managing the fruit cake and jelly kitchen. Later, Wanda would manage the staff at the historic Friendship House where her leadership and dedication were appreciated by many. Even while she worked faithfully, Wanda always made time for the people she loved most. Time away from work meant precious moments with her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored and enjoyed caring for in countless ways.
A woman of Christian faith, Wanda lived with a spirit of kindness, humility, and grace. She was loving in every sense of the word, and those who knew her will remember her for the warmth she brought into every room. She found joy in spending time with those she loved and in helping manage the busy and beautiful lives of her grandchildren. Whether she was cooking, helping with engagements, or attending countless extracurricular activities, Wanda gave of herself generously and without hesitation.
Wanda leaves her love in the hearts of her husband, Eldon; her son, Lloyd, and his wife, Jenny; her daughter, Laina Smith; her grandchildren, Corey, Rebekka, Caitlyn, Susanne, Sara, Carly, and Rachel; her brothers, John and Joyce Bland, Bud and Theresa Bland, and Keven and Karrie Bland; and her sisters, Barbara and Charles Stoner, Janice Wilmoth, and Judy Mitchell. Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Bert and Mary; her son, Lindle; and her brother, Jim Bland.
Services for Wanda will take place near Miami, Oklahoma at Long Assembly of God on October 9, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Burial for Wanda will follow in the Bland Cemetery at Wyandotte.
