Wanda Lee Ice Swecker

Born to Boyd and Kitty Fansler on May 9, 1932, in Elkins, her story unfolded with the birth of her sister, Virginia (Harman), seven years later. In her teenage years, the family established their home in the Crystal Springs community, which remained Wanda’s haven for the majority of her life.

A proud graduate of Elkins High School, Class of 1950, Wanda soon embraced the role of a Navy wife, accompanying her husband, Carl Ray Ice, and contributing to their livelihood with her work as an optometrist’s assistant in Virginia Beach and as a receptionist at the San Carlos Hotel in Pensacola, Florida. The couple returned to Elkins, where Wanda connected with the community through her roles at Murphys and Reidboard, forging enduring friendships until she welcomed her son, Philip Ray, in August of 1967. Thereafter, she devoted herself entirely to the joys of motherhood and homemaking.

In 1987, Carl departed this life all too early. To ward off loneliness, Wanda returned to work, this time, at Citizens National Bank, serving until her retirement. Destiny entwined her path with Russel Swecker, and they united in matrimony on Sept. 19, 1998. Together, Wanda and Russ savored life’s tapestry through extensive travels and the cultivation of new friendships, particularly within the Delphia Rebekah Lodge No. 62 of Elkins and the Tygart Valley Lodge No. 66 IOOF of Beverly–organizations that were integral to Wanda’s life as she held several local and regional offices, including that of District Deputy. An adventurous spirit, Wanda mastered water skiing, horseback riding, motorcycling, and in her youth, reveled in the freedom of driving convertibles. Yet, it was her profound love for her family–her son Philip, nieces Kathy Hamrick and Roberta Brown, sister Virginia, and especially her beloved Russ–that truly fulfilled her. A mother and grandmother to many cherished cats, Wanda’s absence will be deeply felt. As we bid farewell to Wanda, we celebrate her transition to a new chapter, confident that she greets this journey with her radiant smile and the twinkle in her eye that we’ll always remember. She would wish for no tears, but for us to await the time when we’ll reunite with her warmth and grace.

Friends may call from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024, at the Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins. Memorial services will begin at 6:30 p.m. by Tygart Valley Lodge No. 66 IOOF of Beverly, followed by Delphia Rebekah Lodge No. 62 of Elkins.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, from the funeral home chapel, with Pastor David Collins officiating.

Interment will follow in the American Legion’s Little Arlington Cemetery at Elkins.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Crystal Springs Community Church, C/O Melissa Currence, 61 Stormy Drive, Elkins, WV 26241 in memory of Wanda.

The Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for Wanda Ice Swecker.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com.