On June 1, 2014, Wanda M. Howard, a capable and strong warrior, claimed victory over cancer; her courageous spirit released from its earthly challenges to soar into peace and joy. She battled the disease with a champion's heart, relishing her life for as long as her body would allow. She was at home surrounded by her family.

Born on July 19, 1954 in Waltham, she was the daughter of the late Raymond L. Stairs and Constance M. (Gandolfo) Williams.

Wanda worked behind an artistic eye to bring color and life to the newspaper advertising field for many years, though her favorite career moments were spent working for the Taunton Visiting Nurses Association. Wanda's compassionate heart brought comfort to many cherished hospice patients. Her giving soul motivated her volunteer work with Catholic Charities. She loved art, painting, singing, fashion, gardening, cooking, the ocean, helping those in need and fostering creativity in all around her. But most of all, Wanda's greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. She devoted her life to building a legacy of love.

Survivors include her husband Douglas Howard of Buzzards Bay; her daughters, Lorna J. Brunelle and her husband Roger, Elizabeth E. Poirier and her husband Kenneth and Tahlia R. Mann and her husband Lincoln all of Middleboro; her grandchildren, Paige E. Miranda, Tyler S. Lambert, Taylor L. Poirier and Trey A. Mann; her best friend, Linda Fratus and her dog Emma Mae. She was predeceased by her brother, the late Raymond L. Stairs.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 7th, 2014 at the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home located at 2599 Cranberry Highway (Rt. 28) in Wareham. A Celebration of Life will follow at 7 p.m. Guests are encouraged to share happy memories of Wanda. A private burial will be held at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Watertown.

For directions and on-line guestbook visit: www.ccgfuneralhome.com