Wanda Ann Rhoads, née Crawford, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, in Sun City, Arizona. Cherished mother of James Eli (Karen) Rhoads and Becky (David) Rhoads; loving grandmother of Kayla Arie (Alex) Monarrez, Collin Lee Hendrickson, Jamie Lynn Rhoads, Madelon Nicole (fiancé David Cody) Manzella, Eli James Rhoads, Kaitlyn Rae Rhoads and Steven Louis Coredig; great-grandmother of Leo David Monarrez; fond sister of Vicky (the late Lou) Fosburgh and the late Violet (Lonnie) Markham. Wanda is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Eli and Tressia Mildred Crawford and countless friends.

Born on April 5, 1951, in West Virginia, Wanda’s life was marked by warmth, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to the causes and communities she held dear. In 1952, Wanda's family journeyed from West Virginia to the bustling city of Chicago before settling in Villa Park in 1956. It was there that she began to cultivate the foundations of her remarkable life, graduating from Willowbrook High School in 1969. During her formative years, Wanda immersed herself in a multitude of school activities, reflecting a vibrant spirit and earnest commitment. She contributed her talents as a member of the Willowbrook choir and the Girls Athletic Association, lent her skills as Financial Secretary’s assistant, and flourished in the Office Occupations Program. A master stenographer, she bore the unique gift of lettering in shorthand, leaving behind enduring mementos signed in friends’ yearbooks.

Her professional journey blossomed as she served diligently as an executive secretary, navigating roles from prestigious law firms to the Addison Park District. But beyond her career, Wanda’s truest legacy was measured by her passionate community involvement and advocacy. As a founding member of the Addison Parks Foundation, she tirelessly orchestrated golf outings that generated scholarships to ensure all, regardless of circumstance, could enjoy equal and equitable access to parks and recreation. Her fervor extended to participation in the Addison Mayor's Community Charity and alliances with local political leaders, through which she championed fair treatment for all citizens. Most notably, she was a stalwart advocate for NEDSRA, advancing opportunities for Americans with disabilities with heartfelt dedication and unyielding resolve.

Wanda also served the community in another vital endeavor. She was an elected official for the Addison Library where she was instrumental in the new library committee that entailed operations from logistics to ensuring accessible literature to the public.

Wanda also devoted 10 years to serving the people and patients at Good Sam Hospital in Downers Grove Illinois. Her eye for details, ability to interpret medical coding, and attention to detail helped so many in navigating the medical terms and understanding to each and every patient, college and the medical staff.

Kindness radiated from Wanda, especially in her devoted rescue and care of Shelties—approximately fifteen cherished souls who found sanctuary in her home, wrapped in loyalty and love. Her willingness to traverse state lines to adopt, transport, and rehome these beloved dogs was a testament to her boundless heart and tenacity.

Away from her altruistic endeavors, Wanda reveled in the pleasures of life’s simple joys. She delighted in sunbathing, immersing herself in the written word, and exploring the world—with treasured travels to Greece, Italy, and Europe enriching her soul. An ardent admirer of the Kentucky Derby, she eagerly anticipated this annual event, where the excitement mirrored her own zest for life.

Wanda’s spirit was unmistakably characterized by her loyalty, honesty, and a sharp intellect that made her a master of debating. She possessed the rare gift of being the life of the party, effortlessly gathering friends and family alike to celebrate all that life generously offers.

A visitation in remembrance of Wanda Ann Rhoads will be held on April 18, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Humes Funeral Home, located at 320 W Lake St, Addison, Illinois 60101. It will be a time for loved ones and friends to honor a woman whose warmth and compassion touched so many lives.

Though Wanda has departed this earthly existence, her enduring legacy of love—for family, for community, and for every precious Sheltie whose life she saved—leaves an indelible mark on all who had the profound privilege to know her. It is in these memories that Wanda Ann Rhoads continues to live vibrantly, forever cherished and profoundly missed.