Wanda Jean Karnes

It is with both sadness and deep appreciation for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Wanda Jean Karnes, who died peacefully on August 18, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on August 2, 2019, in Okolona, Arkansas, she lived a long and fulfilling life marked by a deep passion for her family and the rich tapestry of her ancestry.

A masterful genealogist, Wanda found joy and purpose in tracing her family tree, a pursuit that connected her deeply with generations past. She tirelessly worked to ensure her family’s stories would endure, and her efforts created a legacy of knowledge and connection that will be cherished by generations to come.

Beyond her genealogical studies, Wanda dedicated many years of service to Baldor Electric, where she worked on the help desk. Her warm personality and helpful spirit fostered strong bonds with her colleagues, some of whom recently gathered to celebrate Wanda’s 96th birthday with her. Also present were friends form Wesley United Methodist Church, where she was a member since the 1960s.

Family was paramount to Wanda. Her unwavering love was the cornerstone of her family members, and she treasured her relationships with them. Her connection with her grandson Cole was a particularly bright and enduring light in her life.

In 2024, Wanda accompanied her daughter and son-in-law on a trip to central Arkansas to witness the awe-inspiring total solar eclipse. The darkness that briefly obscured the sun serves as a poignant metaphor for the quiet transition she now makes from this life to the next. As the sun’s light was always destined to return, her memory will continue to shine brightly within our hearts.

Wanda is survived by her beloved daughters, Carol Tuck and Kathy Brown, sons-in-law, Larry Tuck and Larry Johnson, grandson, Cole Tuck, and great-granddaughter, Rylee Tuck. She is preceded in death by her parents, Marvin Andrew Sloan and Sutah Rowe Sloan, siblings Marvin Rowe Sloan and Doris Robertson, and husband Stirman “Doc” Karnes, whom she now joins in eternal rest.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Thursday, August 21 at Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith.

A graveside service to celebrate Wanda’s life will be held at the committal shelter of the Fort Smith National Cemetery on Friday August 22 at 10:00 am. We invite all who were touched by her extraordinary spirit to join us in remembrance and to find comfort in the legacy she leaves behind.