Lawanda Elouise Timms

LaWanda Elouise Timms, 93, passed away March 27, 2022, at St. Bernards Villa in Jonesboro, Arkansas.  She was affectionately known as Mimi by her family.

She was born December 3, 1928, to the late Floyd and Eula Faye Thomas of Black Oak, Arkansas.

LaWanda graduated as Valedictorian of her high school class in 1946 and then attended Williams Baptist College.  She soon met and married Donald Timms, and they enjoyed a Christ-centered marriage for 72 years.

After teaching elementary school, LaWanda began a career in banking with her husband at Citizens Bank.  She had many happy memories with her Citizens Bank family.  She retired early to devote time to her family and grandchildren.

LaWanda was an accomplished pianist and organist, and she played for First Baptist Church of Lake City for many years.  Her greatest talent and devotion was her love for children and teaching children about the Bible.  She taught children’s Sunday School at both First Baptist Church in Lake City and First Baptist Church in Jonesboro for 50 years.  Through this ministry, LaWanda touched the lives of countless children.

She was a member of First Baptist Church of Jonesboro, and was devoted to the Women’s Mission Union, Olive Current Missions and the Phebean Sunday School Class.  LaWanda particularly enjoyed hosting bridal teas for church members, and she directed more weddings than possible to count.  She was also a member of the St. Bernards Ladies Auxiliary and the Gladiolus Garden Club of Jonesboro where she served as president.

LaWanda was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Donald Timms, and her brother, Harold Thomas.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Suzanne Timms Waddell (Paul); grandchildren, Sam Waddell (Taylor), Matthew Waddell (Grace), and Bennett Waddell; and great-grandchildren, John Thomas and Caroline Waddell.

The family expresses their gratitude to the nurses and staff at St. Bernards Villa, and to all of LaWanda’s devoted caregivers.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 1, 2022, at Jonesboro Memorial Park with Dr. Rodney Reeves officiating.

Lasting memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church of Jonesboro, 701 S. Main St., Jonesboro, AR 72401.