Wanda Jean Branstetter

Wanda Jean Branstetter, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Jan. 23, 2025, at the age of 83 years, 2 months and 24 days at WebCo Manor in Marshfield, where she was a resident. Wanda was born on Oct. 30, 1941, to John Foster Bollinger and Edith Ann Boggess. She grew up in Seymour. After her parents' divorce, Edith married Melvin Hyder, who adopted Wanda. Wanda met the love of her life, Jerry Oliver Branstetter, on a blind date and they were married on June 7, 1959, and shared 51 faithful years together. Their union was blessed with a son, Jerry Stephen, and a daughter, Kaylene.
Wanda was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Oliver Branstetter; father, John Foster Bollinger; mother, Edith Ann Hyder (Boggess); adopted father, Melvin Hyder; stepmother, Eugenia “Jean” May Trapp Hyder; and her son, Jerry Stephen Branstetter. She is survived by her daughter, Kaylene Marcum, and her husband, Glenn, of Elkland; and a few close relatives. Wanda was a devout Christian who taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School classes for many years. She enjoyed being around the children. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially attending jamborees with Jerry where she loved watching him play the guitar and listening to bluegrass music. As a farmer's wife, Wanda dedicated her days to caring for the home and farm, feeding calves, helping with hay, and tending to yard chores. She was known for her exceptional cooking, particularly her rhubarb and strawberry cobbler. Wanda loved her cats. There was always a cat in the house and several outside. As a mom, she supported her children through 4-H and FFA where they showed Holstein cows. After Wanda's health started to decline, she moved in with her daughter Kaylene and husband, Glenn, where she lived for three years. She had the opportunity to travel with them on vacations to various places. During that time, they traveled to the Grand Canyon and through Utah. Later, they made a trip to Houston, Texas to visit her son Steve, then to Baton Rouge, Louisiana to visit relatives there, and then finished up the trip in Florida to visit more family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to WebCo Manor in Marshfield. A graveside service was held at Steele Memorial Cemetery, Hartville, on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, at 2 p.m. under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home, Hartville.