Wanda Swafford

Wanda Joyce Swafford, age 79, of Odessa, passed away on August 4, 2014 in Odessa.

Memorial Services are scheduled at 4 PM on Saturday, August 16, 2014 at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Dr. Jimmy Braswell officiating.

Wanda was a retired Permian High School teacher, born July 7, 1935 in Gorman, Texas to Olivia and Hillary H. Bannister. She graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1953, attended Hardin Simmons University and graduated from The University of North Texas with a double major of history and English in 1956.

Wanda and Ralph Swafford married March 17, 1956. They moved to Odessa in August of 1956. Their two children, Eva Lois and Robert were born in Odessa.

Wanda taught in the ECISD school system for 32 years, enjoyed many years of service in the Social Studies Dept. at P.H.S. primarily teaching government and economics. During her career she was a member of several professional organizations including T.S.T.A. and the West Texas Social Studies Association. She also served on several committees including textbook committees, state drug education training program and the student cultural awareness leadership training program. In addition she served as a consultant for a government textbook edition. She was an active member of the Democratic Party serving as Precinct chairman and election judge. She participated as a delegate to the county and state conventions for many years. She was a member and officer of the Ector County Democratic Club. She was involved in several political Campaigns.
Wanda was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. After retirement Wanda and Ralph were constantly involved in the care and activities of the grandchildren. They traveled extensively in the United States and enjoyed their comprehensive home library for research and pleasure.

Wanda is preceded in death by her loving husband Ralph Swafford.

Wanda is survived by her two children, Eva Lois and son in law Tony Kalenak and son, Robert and daughter in law Leslie Libby, grandchildren whom she loved to share every part of their lives after her retirement. Their names are: Ben Kalenak, Patricia Gong, Michael Kalenak, Kyle Kalenak, Richard Ralph Swafford, Samuel Swafford and her great grandchildren: Arron Fulcher, Angelina Gong and Hadley Kalenak.
Hers was a life of contribution, service and love. She will be greatly missed.

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