Wanda Elizabeth Townsend

Wanda Elizabeth Townsend passed away peacefully on August 20, 2022 at her home in Searcy, Arkansas. She was devoted to her family , both immediate and extended; spoiled every dog she owned; gave 100+ percent to every endeavor she undertook and was eternally grateful for the wonderful life she led. Wanda was born on May 15, 1952, in the nation's capital, Washington, DC. She was the second child of Paul and Margaret Townsend. From the beginning, there were signs that she was destined to make a difference and lead a unique life. She was born in her grandmothers Mundell's house and never saw the inside of a hospital until later in life. At the age of five, she smashed her sister Melinda's glass milk bottle over her head while preparing to board the ship waiting to bring her family back from Panama. At the age of seven, she electrocuted herself when she stuck a bobby pin in an electric socket. At the age of eight, she nearly drowned in the Atlantic Ocean. At the age of 19, she again electrocuted herself (as well as black out half a dorm) when she placed the metal scissors that she was using too close to an electric socket. At the age of 44, she refused to get a tumor removed until her bill passed congress, and by that time, the tumor had grown to the size of a grapefruit. At the age of 61, she severe bout of congestive heart failure and pneumonia. Despite these numerous brushes with death, she never let them define her. Instead, she dedicated herself to enhancing the lives of her family. Wanda ensured that her nieces received what they most wanted and needed. She opend her home as "Camp Townsend" for her second cousins. During that time, she exposed them to new things, chartered boats to take them on fishing excursions, helped them with homework assignments, and engaged them in meaningful discussions about making good life choices. Even her career seemed predetermined. In 1974, she started out wanted to be a teacher but that was not to be when a position she was promised after college did not materialize. She got her first job at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) because she happened to have gone to college where her boss had once dated someone. When that office was abolished because of a lawsuit, Wanda transferred to another department where she was fortunate enough to work for a class A Lobbyist. He advised her ( and pulled strings) for her to take a job in another department where she could get the recognition that he thought she desired. From there, she got the attention of the National Cable Television Association (NCTA), who actively recruited her to join them. That was probably one of the smartest moves she made. She worked for NCTA for 36 years as one of their principal lobbyist s, as well as ethics officer Wanda never dreamed she would be hobnobbing with members of Congress, President, or celebrities. she enjoyed the life of the rich and famous without being rich and famous . She stayed at five -star hotels, rode in limousines, ate at top notch restaurants, and nephew along with her on some of these trips. Besides her dedication to her family and work , Wanda's passions were teaching, reading, and needlework. She tutored her nieces and nephews, neighbor kids, and the kids of colleagues. Thanks to her sister, Melinda, she got an opportunity to teach some wonderful kids at a parochial home school. She loved reading, especially historical novels and documentaries. Wanda was self-taught at crocheting and knitting. Though they might not have appreciated it at the time, afghans and special blankets, hats, and tote bag/purses.. Wanda received her B.A in history from Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, VA. She also completed several paralegal courses at the University of Maryland . Wanda is preceded in death by her mother and companions- Geselle ,Tiny, Chrissy ,and Marilyn. She is survived by her fateful and loyal companion Dewey; her father, Paul Townsend, Jr. and his wife, Michelle; her brother Paul Townsend,111, and his wife Pinka; hersister Melinda Singleton; her step-sister Ebony Sinkfield; her nieces and great-nieces- Providencia Borgstadt, Felicia Speight's, Valerie Singleton, Christine Blackmon, Crystal Singleton, Alexis Speight's, Nichole Speight's, Keira Borgstadt, and Spencer singleton; her nephew/great-nephews- Victer Townsend, Cameron Speight's, KJ Borgstdt, and Trey Blackmon; her god-child Kyann Green; in-laws- Marvin Blackmon, KY Bogstadt, Brianna Singleton and Lanette Townsend; and a host of other relatives and friends. The family wishes to thank all who have offered their condolences and sympathies. Wanda's funeral will be at Freeman Funeral Home in Clinton, Maryland. Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net

Wanda Elizabeth Townsend

May 15, 1952 - August 20, 2022