Wanda Lou Mims

Wanda Lou “Granny” Mims May 10, 1937 – July 6, 2025

Wanda Lou Mims, lovingly called “Granny” by not just her family but by so many whose lives she touched, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on July 6, 2025, at the age of 88. Born in Bells, Texas, on May 10, 1937, Wanda lived a life marked by steadfast faith, gentle strength, and unconditional love.

Wanda graduated from Odessa High School in 1955, where she played in the school band and later married the love of her life, Tony Mims, on July 27, 1957. Together they raised a family built on faith, service, and devotion, creating a home that reflected the heart of Christ. She was a dedicated homemaker, a faithful member of Sherwood Church of Christ, and a longtime Sunday school teacher who gently guided countless five-year-olds through their first understanding of God’s love.

She delighted in life’s little blessings—sitting on the porch watching hummingbirds, collecting keepsakes, admiring Texas bluebonnets, and she had a deep love for football, particularly her beloved Kansas City Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Her house always had country music playing on the radio, and her signature phrase, “Oh beans!” still brings a smile to her loved ones’ faces.

Granny's home was more than four walls—it was a sanctuary filled with warmth, laughter, and the unconditional embrace she offered to everyone she met. Her kindness knew no bounds, and her hugs had a way of making everyone feel special.

Some of the most cherished memories her grandchildren hold are the sleepovers at Granny’s, where every night ended the same way—with her soft voice singing “A Bushel and a Peck.” That lullaby, wrapped in love and tradition, lives on in their hearts and will be passed on to the next generation in her honor.

Wanda is survived by her daughter Janna and husband Roger Winchell of Odessa, TX, and their daughters Lauren and Morgan; her son James Mims of Odessa; and her daughter Julie and husband Curtis Simons of Salamanca, NY. She was reunited in heaven with her husband, Tony; her parents, Clyde and Esta Harmon; and her sisters, Mary, Flossie, and Meta.

A celebration of Wanda’s life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens, with Mark Wilson officiating. Burial will follow. Visitation will take place the evening before, on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., also at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the ICU staff at MCH for the compassionate care Wanda received in her final moments. In lieu of flowers, donations may be mailed to Now to Him Ministries at P.O. Box 12412, Odessa, TX 79768, though flowers are warmly welcomed as well.

Wanda Lou Mims lived a life of quiet strength, deep faith, and constant love. Though she has gone home, her legacy lives on—in every kindness shown, in every child’s bedtime song, and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She will forever be our Granny.