Mrs. Wanda Lou Hancock, born and raised on Chincoteague Island, went to her heavenly home on Thursday, April 11, at the age of 88.
She was born to the late Bennie and Lenore “Ink” Daisey on Feb. 13, 1936. At the young age of 17 (or 18 if you asked the Clerk of the Court!), she married the love of her life, Louie “Hallas” Hancock. They were married for 53 years. She is survived by their only child, Sallie Lou Holloway (James “Jimmy” Holloway Jr.), and her one (and best) grandson, Michael Holloway.
Wanda and Louie both thought a lot of Jimmy and considered him as their own son. They considered their grandson, Michael, as one of their many blessings. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom she loved and treasured.
She was predeceased by her father, Bennie Daisey; mother, Lenore “Ink” Daisey; a sister, Janet Daisey; and her husband, Louie “Hallas” Hancock.
Spending time with her family was one of her greatest joys in life. She fixed many, many meals for friends and family and loved hosting. Many pots of dumplings were cooked, and many oysters were fried by her loving hands. Even when she wasn’t able to stand, she had a stool seated next to the stove, where she continued to serve her loving family. She was a caregiver to many family members who needed constant care because of illness.
She was a member of Island Baptist Church, where she was a part of the Ladies Crochet Group, making prayer shawls and blankets for shut-ins and those who were ill. She loved being a part of Vacation Bible School, where she would count endless numbers of coins that were given as offerings. She, Melva Elliott, and Bonnie McCready were a great money-counting team for VBS each year.
As she transitioned to life in Hartley Hall Nursing Home, she continued to make blankets and prayer shawls for other residents of the nursing home. She also made hats and scarves and collected items from the nursing home gift shop to donate to the Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes each Christmas.
Although her legs failed her in this life, she was not slowed down from helping those who needed it. She will be missed and loved by all of her friends and family, who have joy in reuniting with her in heaven one day. She doesn’t need a cane, walker, or wheelchair anymore, and she is rejoicing (and running) with Jesus.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 15, 2024, at 3 p.m. at the Island Baptist Church, Chincoteague Island, with Pastor Phil Bennicoff officiating. There will be a viewing one hour prior. Burial will take place in the Downing Cemetery, Oak Hall. Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made to Island Baptist Church, 3380 Willow St., Chincoteague Island, VA 23336.
Services are entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home, Inc., Chincoteague Island. Online condolences can be given at www.salyerfh.com
