Wanda Hurst Stohry, a beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, surrounded by her family. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Sarah and Thomas Hurst; her brother, Thomas Hurst and her sister, Joyce Smith.  

Wanda is survived by her devoted husband and high school sweetheart, Bill Stohry; her children, Eric Stohry (Melynda Steward) and Lori Gerard (Chris Gerard); her cherished grandchildren, Alyssa Gerard and Justin Gerard; her sisters, Angie Cirgin and Sandy Adams, brother-in-law Ron Adams, sister in law Sandra Lynn Hurst, brother in law Mike Smith, and many beloved nieces and nephews (Brian Adams, Jarrod Smith, Lisa Lanier, Amy Smith, Brad Adams, April Reasoner, Ben Cirgin, Megan Fair, Tommy Hurst).  

From an early age, Wanda lived a life of joy, faith, and generosity. She and Bill shared an extraordinary love story, marrying young and spending a lifetime as best friends. Together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and devotion. Wanda never met a stranger—her kindness and sincerity made everyone feel instantly at ease, as though they had known her forever.  

While Wanda worked professionally as an event planner, her greatest pride and fulfillment came from raising her children and grandchildren. She played a pivotal role in her family’s life, lovingly caring for her grandchildren so that her daughter could complete medical school and pursue her calling as a physician. Her selflessness and devotion left an indelible mark on her family, who will always remember her as the heart of their home.  

Faith and community were at the center of Wanda’s life. She was a pioneer in the founding of Berean Fellowship Church, where she invested her heart and talents with leading worship, singing, and playing guitar. In her younger years she found joy in playing tennis.  Like her mother, she cooked great meals for her family and never let her family start the day without a warm meal.  Her dedication to her church, family, and community reflected her deep belief in living a life of service and connection.  

Wanda’s life was also marked by remarkable resilience. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2013, she faced more than a decade of medical challenges with extraordinary courage. Through countless setbacks, she endured with strength, often described by her family as being “one tough cookie”.  She passed with her family at her bedside, lovingly assuring her that it was time to reunite with those who had gone before her. Her final words were spoken to Bill, her lifelong love and tireless caretaker, who remained devoted to her until the end.  

Wanda will be remembered as a woman of faith, grace, strength, and joy. She leaves behind not only a family who adored her, but also countless friends and community members whose lives were brightened by her presence.  

A celebration of Life will be held on 11/1/25 at 3:00 pm at Brookdale Overland Park 119th, 6101 W 119th Street, Overland Park, KS 66209.  

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by performing an act of kindness or service for someone in need.  

God bless you.