Wanda Jo Wainscott

Wanda Jo Wainscott, Bolivar, MO. Passed away Thursday, March 26, 2009 at Parkview Health Care Facility, Bolivar. The daughter of Joe G. and Eva LaRew, she was born in Bolivar, MO, June 16, 1920. She was a member of the Bolivar United Methodist Church. She was a graduate of Humansville High School and Sedalia Business College. On November 1, 1941, she married Chester L. Wainscott. She was formerly employed by REA. In 1949, she and Chester purchased the Chester Hotel in Bolivar which she managed while Chester continued his position at the Polk County Bank. After selling the Chester Hotel, she joined her husband at the Polk County Bank where she served as Secretary to the Board, Executive Vice-President and Director. With the passing of Benton and John Dunnegan, she and her husband assumed control of the bank and subsequently sold it in 1985. While working at the bank, the Dunnegan brothers introduced her to the world of art through their personal collection and art became her lifelong love. She was co-founder along with her husband and the Dunnegans of the Dunnegan Gallery of Art. She took an active role in the formation and building of the Gallery and the later expansion. She supervised the Gallery operations and was its driving force until illness forced her retirement several months ago. In this capacity, she made many friends in the art world including the artists themselves. Art and the Gallery were her passion and she, along with her husband and the Dunnegans leave a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy. While she was always focused on the art and business world, her greatest legacy to family and loved ones was her great sense of humor. A good laugh always made her day. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband Chester Wainscott and sister Helene Hopkins. She is survived by her sister Dixie Lee Wilson, niece Jo Roberts, nephews Dr. Gene Ray Wilson and Monte Joe Wilson and two grand-nephews Wesley Strader and Daniel Strader. A Graveside service will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday, March 28, 2009 at the Greenwood Cemetery in Bolivar, MO with Reverend Dan Adkison officiating under the direction of the Butler Funeral Home of Bolivar. The song "Amazing Grace" will be by The Statler Brothers. Pallbearers will be Robert Evans, Delbert Simpson, John R. Smith, Dan Strader, Dave Strader and Wes Strader. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to CMH Hospice or the Dunnegan Gallery of Art. Friends and family may sign the guest book or send private condolences at www.butlerfuneralhome.com PDF Printable Version

Wanda Jo Wainscott

June 16, 1920 - March 26, 2009