Wanda Lu Finn

Wanda Lu (Furlong) Finn, 97, passed away peacefully at home on her birthday, March 5, 2025, surrounded by family.

Wanda was born on March 5, 1928, in Carrier Mills, Illinois, to Louie and Gladys Furlong. She married the love of her life, Revel Leslie "Jim" Finn, and together they built a life centered on family, love, and hard work. Wanda’s sister, Julia Joan "Joanne" Furlong, married Jim’s brother, Robert "Bob" Finn, making their families even more deeply connected.

Wanda and Jim raised their family near West Frankfort, Illinois, where they were avid gardeners, growing vegetables for canning and sharing with loved ones. She was well known for her delicious peanut brittle and fudge, which became treasured treats at Christmastime. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Wanda lovingly cared for her mother for many years. She and Jim shared 57 years of marriage, celebrating their 50th anniversary with a joyful gathering at the Christian Church in West Frankfort.

Wanda was a longtime member of the Order of the Eastern Star and was deeply dedicated to her family. In 2015, she moved to live with her daughter and family, where she was lovingly cared for until her passing.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim, and their daughter, Dr. Linda Joan Finn (February 16, 2020).

Wanda is survived by her granddaughter, Chloe Finn, and her daughter-in-law, Kate Swartzel, who will cherish her memory always.

Wanda’s love, strength, and kindness touched many lives, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Final arrangements were lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.