Wanda Ballew

MCALLEN - Wanda Davis Ballew, 92, of Edinburg, Texas, passed away on, Wednesday, September 10, 2025 in McAllen. She was born October 13, 1932, in Combes, Texas, to William David Davis and Annie Jones Davis.

Wanda married Wayne Ballew on February 20, 1953 in Edinburg, Texas. They shared more than 50 years of marriage until Wayne’s passing in 2005, and together they raised two children, Vicki Ballew Rangel and Scott Ballew.

Wanda graduated from Edinburg High School in 1951, where she earned numerous academic honors and was recognized as a Junior Historian, reflecting her lifelong passion for history. She also attended Pan American College. In her early career, she wrote a women’s automobile column for The Edinburg Daily Review. She went on to spend more than 32 years with the Texas Employment Commission, retiring in 1993. During that time, she was instrumental in helping countless individuals secure employment and formed many lasting friendships with colleagues.

She was active in her community through the American Business Women’s Association, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, Edinburg Crime Stoppers, and the original Fiesta Hidalgo organizational committee. Alongside her sister-in-law, Mozelle Hausenfluck, she co-founded The Ballew Haus, a resale and antique shop in Edinburg.

Wanda’s life was filled with joy and energy. She loved traveling with family and friends, especially her annual Fredericksburg trips with her high school girlfriends, fishing and “glamping,” and visiting casinos, where she was always the lucky one at the slot machines. She enjoyed collecting cookbooks, quilts, antiques, and just about anything that caught her eye—especially at local thrift stores. She was also devoted to her Edinburg High School Class of 1951 reunions, later celebrated jointly with the classes of 1950 and 1952.

Known for her generosity, flair, and love of fun, Wanda never turned down an opportunity to dance, entertain, or shop for a bargain. She took pride in her appearance, always with her hair and nails done, stylishly dressed, and behind the wheel of a car that stood out—from Mustangs to Cadillacs.

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne; her parents; her brother Bill Davis (Lucille); and her in-laws Glenn Ballew, Mozelle Hausenfluck (Frank), Jean Prewitt (Lee Roy), and Joyce Hays (Kenneth). She was also deeply saddened by the passing of many cherished friends, including her dear lifelong friend Maxine Miller.

She is survived by her son, Scott Ballew, and her daughter, Vicki Rangel (Cruz); her grandsons, Jeremy Rangel (Jennifer) and Zachary Rangel; and her great-grandsons, Jayden and Jace Rangel. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as Maxine’s daughter, Bettepat Graves, who made special trips to the Valley to visit her.

Wanda’s family welcomes all who knew her to join in celebrating her life and sharing memories. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg. Graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, September 19, 2025, at Valley Memorial Gardens in Mission.

Wanda was a singular woman—spirited, stylish, generous, and deeply loved. Her presence will be profoundly missed.

Funeral services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels in Edinburg.