Wanda Dean (Bell) Elkins, 89, of Charleston, Arkansas, died August 25, 2020 in Lee's Summit, Missouri.  She was born December 16, 1930 in Hackett, AR to James Robert and Emma Gene (Shelton) Bell.  Wanda married Clarence "Odell" Elkins on July 7, 1947 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Wanda was a social person who loved being around people.  She welcomed her family to stay at their home anytime.  She encouraged her children to develop musical or dance talents when young, and encouraged sports as they got older.  She was an enthusiastic observer and supporter to her children in the most positive way.

Wanda did whatever needed to be done, whether farm chores, helping Greg with his 4-H projects, sewing costumes or parasailing with her daughter, Jan.  She was proud of a trip she made to New York City with Jeff and their explorations.

Wanda and Odell were accomplished dancers, both square and ballroom.  They enjoyed retirement and traveling with the Seniors Group for Lavaca.  Branson was a favorite destination with its musical venues.

Wanda spent her last years at John Knox Village taking advantage of all the activities there, many of which were spent with her son, Randy.  She loved Bingo, the sing-alongs and her Sirius radio.  Wanda was making friends up until the very end.

Wanda is preceded in death by her husband, Odell.  She is survived by her son, Gregory Elkins and wife, Mary Jane, of Loveland, OH; her son, C.R. (Randy) Elkins and wife, Pam, of Lee's Summit, MO; her daughter, Janna Krum and husband, Sandy, of Katy, TX; and son Jeffrey Elkins and his wife, Amy, of Richmond Hill, GA.  Wanda is also survived by eleven grandchildren; Shelley Elkins, Laura Elkins, Kyle Elkins, Stacy Elkins, Ranna Nikmard, Mikyle Nikmard, Viktor Elkins, Eli Elkins, Taylor Elkins, Andrew Elkins, and Matthew Elkins; and one great grandson, Andrew Elkins.

Cremation, with a memorial service at a later date.  Inurnment in the Ft. Smith National Cemetery, Ft. Smith, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to www.fisherhouse.org