Wanda Nell Viator

      Wanda Nell Viator, 88, of Nederland, passed away on July 30, 2024, in Hull, Texas. 

      Born on September 12, 1935, in Port Arthur, Texas, Wanda was a proud graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School where she cheered on the sidelines with joy and enthusiasm. Her love for helping others extended beyond her personal life; she donated her ice machine to St. Charles Catholic Church and selflessly contributed toys to charity after purchasing two truckloads filled with them.

      Wanda's life was a tapestry of love, compassion, and generosity. Throughout her life, she wore many hats - from being the owner of Wanda's Trailer Park where she built relationships with her tenants to working alongside her husband and family as an auctioneer and treasure hunter. Her entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by her kind heart and unwavering dedication to those around her.

      In addition to her professional endeavors, Wanda had a variety of hobbies that brought her joy. Whether relishing in the flavors of crabs or engaging in creative pursuits like punch embroidery, sewing, and ceramic painting, she found solace and happiness in the simple pleasures of life.

      Wanda is survived by her loving children, Derik Viator and wife Becky of Port Arthur; Kimmi Stanley of Liberty, and Perry Viator and wife Annette of Lumberton. She also leaves behind ten grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will carry on her legacy of love and kindness.

      She was preceded in death by her parents, Amelia Nunez Huff and Cone Johnson Huff, along with her husband, James Patrick Viator; son, Cavin Viator; daughter, Cherie Sherman; sister, Bertha Ray Gallander; and brother, Dayle Huff.

      A gathering of family and friends will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., with a rosary to be recited at 9:00 a.m., at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home located at 1605 Avenue H in Nederland. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m., at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Nederland. Rite of Committal will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches.

      In the tapestry of life woven by Wanda Nell Viator, each thread represents a story of compassion, courage, and unwavering dedication to family and community. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

      Rest peacefully now dear Wanda; your spirit will forever shine bright in the lives you touched.