On January 30, 2021 Wanda Beth Read finished her earthly journey and followed the path blazed by her parents, Jay and Bessie Doyle, her dear friend and sister-in-law Mary Nell Doyle and many other friends and relations to Heaven where they all waited to greet her as Christ welcomed her home as a good and faithful servant. Born on August 6, 1940 in rural East Texas, Wanda met Bobby Read, who was to be her husband of 60 years at a very young age. Friends for many years, friendship eventually became romance, and they were wed on June 12, 1960. Five years later, in May of 1965 they welcomed their son Gregory. A few years later, on April 6, 1972 they also welcomed their daughter Vicki and the family was complete.
Wanda was always a strong, quiet presence. Rarely seeking the spotlight, yet always found in service to her faith, her family and her community. She was a pianist and organist for worship services, she was a Sunday School teacher and a leader of older girls and women in other church groups, sang alto in innumerable choirs, lead small groups in church and was the director of many Vacation Bible Schools. Service was her hallmark. Her most powerful testimony, was her example. Her persistence in remaining true to her faith influenced many and moved them toward Christ without having ever spoken a word about Christ. Not that she wouldn't talk about Him, or more frequently sing about Him. Gospel songs and hymns were always in her mind and heart and ever on her lips.
With her passing she leaves her husband and children, cherished daughter-in-law Lori, her grandchildren, John, Annie and Ian, as well as her brother William Doyle and a host of family and friends around the country to join with the hundreds of thousands of other families in this nation who have lost loved ones to this dreadful pandemic. She would not wish sadness on those of us remaining behind, for she is in the presence of God and all is well with her soul.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at Zion Hill Cemetery in Friday, Texas and graveside services will begin at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at Zion Hill Cemetery with Bro. Lewis Jones officiating and Bro. Matt Sharrock assisting. Burial will follow in Zion Hill Cemetery.  Face Masks and social distancing are required for the service.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Benevolence Fund at First Baptist Church of Groveton, Texas:
FBC Groveton – Benevolence (in memory of Wanda Read)
129 N. Devine Avenue
P.O. Box 306
Groveton, Texas 75845