Wanda Jo Etheridge

Wanda Jo Etheridge, born August 10, 1957, in Wilson, North Carolina, to Selby Anderson Etheridge Jr. and Helen Glenn Smith Etheridge, passed away May 14, 2026, at East Carolina University Medical Center.

Wanda Jo lived a life marked by service, generosity, humor, and deep care for others. She earned a master’s degree and completed work toward a doctorate, served in the Peace Corps in Kenya, spent time teaching in Turkey, and devoted much of her career to education in Wilson County, serving students and colleagues as a teacher and administrator.

She loved nature, trees, flowers, animals, and the simple joy of being outdoors. She gave quietly and constantly, tending lawns for neighbors and family, visiting nursing home residents, bringing newspapers and treats, and remembering the people who cared for her, from veterinary staff to doctors to hairdressers. She was a gifted storyteller with a wacky sense of humor, a generous heart, and a spirit that felt deeply, loved deeply, and cared deeply.

Wanda Jo was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her sister, Debra Larsen (Michael); her aunts, Rose Marie Etheridge and Ann Etheridge; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends; and her beloved canine companion, Izzy.

A memorial gathering for Wanda will be held at a later date.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.