Springfield — Wanda June "Nambo" (Collins) Soyars, 96, of Springfield, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, at Lewis Memorial Christian Village in Springfield. Wanda was born June 27, 1926, in Springfield. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rena and Cecil Collins, and her sister, Virginia (Collins) DeVon.

Wanda was a lifelong member of Elliott Avenue Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School for over 50 years and loved every child she taught. Wanda attended Lanphier High School and worked for Mel-O-Cream Donuts for 40 years and four days. She helped open several Mel-O-Cream shops throughout central Illinois. She loved dancing, singing, bowling and dressing up for holidays, but more than anything, spending time with her family. Nambo attended every show, game or recital her "kids" were in, and was known for her minutes-long hugs. In her later years, she enjoyed watching cowboy movies with her best friend, Alton Perkins.

She is survived by her four children, Bobbie (husband, Val) Decatoire, Sharon "Kay" Scharf, Larry Kistner and Gina (husband, David) Curry, all of Springfield; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was a beacon of light in this world and will be dearly missed by many.

Wanda's family will meet friends from 9 a.m. until the time of the celebration of life service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, at Harvard Park Baptist Church at 2401 S. Ninth St. in Springfield, with Rev. Dr. Mark Estrop officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Bryant Home for the Blind, 2960 Stanton St., Springfield, IL 62703.

Curry Funeral Home is serving the family of Wanda "Nambo" Soyars.