Wanda Lurlene Smith

Wanda Lurlene Smith, 91, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 30, 2015 at the Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center. She was born on January 29, 1924 in Burkburnett, Texas to O.J. & Oma (Moss) Ensey. She married R.D. Smith on June 16, 1944 in Plainview, Texas; he preceded her in death in February 1966.


Wanda grew up one of four children having three brothers. She graduated in 1942 and worked as a waitress until meeting her soulmate R.D. Smith. R.D. was a truck driver and his work took them to live in many locations. It was after 15 years of marriage that brought them to La Junta and is where they fulfilled their dream to have children. Pamela Kay was born in June of 1959. She valued her job as being a homemaker, wife and mother. In February 1966 R.D. was killed in a job related accident near Ouray, Colorado.


Wanda moved from Texas to La Junta determined to make a home for herself and Pam and to be closer to family and friends. In September of that year she began working for the La Junta Public School district where she worked in the lunch program until a heart attack caused her to retire in 1988. She enjoyed the ups and downs of the next 27 years. She was a devoted mother and homemaker, she loved cooking and especially having kids in her home as Pam grew up.


Wanda loving, kindness and caring nature was enjoyed by many. She will be greatly missed by many.


She is survived by her daughter, Pam (Bob) Malden; grandson, Justin (Kristy) Malden; granddaughter, Alicia (Jimmy) Brereton; and her great-grandchildren, Kaleb & Addison Malden and Montana Brereton. She was preceded in death by her parents, and husband.


Those wishing to do so may make memorial contributions to the First Church of God or to the American Diabetes Association direct or through the funeral home.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home and Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.




A memorial service will be held on September 9, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. at the First Church of God with Pastor Ed Kite officiating.