Wanda Holton Underwood passed away peacefully surrounded by her children on April 23, 2025 in Wilmington, N.C. Wanda was 73 years old, just one day shy of her 74th birthday.

She worked at Davidson College and UNC Wilmington, from where she retired in 2020. Wanda was born in Statesville, N.C., on April 24, 1951. She raised her family (Allison and Robert) on Lake Norman, eventually moving to Wilmington to be closer to her grandchildren. Wanda’s three grandchildren (Sebastian, Abby and Hannah) were the light of her life. All three spent many happy summers, holidays and weekends with Wanda, who they affectionately referred to as “Dee Dee.” She brought joy to their lives, teaching them to love and cherish simple, small things in the world around them. She was kind and nurturing and gave her all to make sure they always felt happy and loved. She is loved dearly and will be missed every day.

She will be honored in a small, family service.

A donation to any reputable charity devoted to helping find a cure for and/or assist families of Dementia and Alzheimer’s patients are appreciated in lieu of flowers.