Wanda Repp

Waynesville, Wanda Lee Cordell Repp, age 81, went to be with the Lord on Friday, February 25th, 2022 peacefully at Autumn Care of Waynesville.

A native of North Carolina and Haywood County resident of more than 70 years, she was the daughter of the late Wade Franklin and Ruby Smith Cordell.  In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her by her cousin, Ronald Collins and her brother-in-law, James Repp.

Wanda, along with her husband Ralph owned and operated Lakeview Gardens, a popular garden center for 33 years.  She was a gifted horticulturist and was responsible for building out the retail business.  Wanda was known for her extravagant hayrack designs and she loved the fact that her customers became her friends over the years.  She dedicated some of the greenhouse space to her Florida clients who would winter over some of their tropical plants while they were away.

Wanda was a member of First Baptist Church of Waynesville since 1965.  She had a passion for all life’s treasures.  Wanda could find the best in the smallest creatures whether it be a squirrel or her beloved hummingbirds.  She was a boxer mom for over 50 years and loved her dogs nearly as much as they loved her.  She also loved Las Vegas and the more than 20 trips with her son, Brian as her annual Mother’s Day present became a highlight each year.

Wanda is survived by her husband of 61 years, Ralph Repp of Waynesville; her daughter, Lesley Ruff, and her husband, Brad, of Clyde; her son, Brian Repp, and his partner, Brian Vanik, of Wilton Manors; and granddaughter, Kelsey Ruff.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park with Reverend Dr. Robert Prince, III officiating.

In lieu of flowers to the family, memorials or donations can be made to Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation, P.O. Box 854, Waynesville, NC 28786 or the animal rescue/shelter of your choice.

The care of Mrs. Repp has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.