Sarasota, Florida. Wanda Day Babbitt, fondly remembered as a dedicated wife, loving mother, doting grandmother, cherished sister and trusted friend with an infectious smile and loved by all, said farewell on January 30th 2023 to the life she celebrated for 83 years.
Born Wanda Day Alberts, March 28th 1939, Wanda grew up in Geneva, NY, earning an AA degree from Auburn Community College. In the early 60's she moved to New York City and began her 30-year career working for Eastern Airlines. After retiring, she moved to Sarasota, Florida and decided to go back to school, enabling her to begin her 2nd career in the medical field. She worked for numerous Doctors over the years quickly becoming a favorite for practitioners and her patients alike. Just a few months before her passing, this powerhouse of a woman was still working several days a week at the job she loved. Wanda brightened every room she walked in and was often the "life of the party." Always present at her Grandsons birthdays and sporting events over the years, or just any opportunity to show her love and appreciation for family and friends, she was there. Wanda loved the Buffalo Bills, dancing, music, and was a proud lady of the Ladies of Oriental Shriners of North America.
Wanda is predeceased by husbands Lewis Dowden and John P. Babbitt, parents Verna Wekerle and George and Patricia Alberts, brother Monty Alberts, daughter Kristie Rhodes, and her beloved line of shih tzus. Surviving family members include her son Greg (Janine) Dowden, John (Katherine) Babbitt, Shannon (Bob) Omark, Lori (Rich) Roberts, Marcie (Zip) Babbitt, and her adopted daughter Lori Stemich. Surviving grandchildren include Joseph and Michael Dowden. Siblings Ronald (Barb) Alberts, Mary (Jim) Alberts, John (LeAnne) Alberts, Jim (Judy) Alberts, Tanya (Dave) DeWitt, Darcy (Chris) McLaughlin and LeMay Gilroy. Also missing their wonderful Aunt Wanda are several adoring nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
Wanda's Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday March 4, 2023 at the VFW Post 3233, 124 S Tuttle Ave. Sarasota, FL 34237 from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Tidewell Foundation for the wonderful care received by Tidewell Hospice. Gifts can be made online at https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate/ or mailed to the Tidewell Foundation 3550 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34239.
Wanda, my beautiful friend. I will always treasure all the memories I have of the good times we shared over the last 40 years and especially this past summer. As you always said, no matter how long it was that we hadn’t seen each other, we always picked up where we left off. Rest in Peace my dear friend. Greg, Janine, Joey and Michael, I send my sincere sympathy and prayers that you smile everyday with the beautiful memories of your mom and grandmother. With much love, Carolyn Brescia
I worked with Wanda years ago at Beneva Family Practice (IMG). She was Dr. Swanson's nurse. A really fun and friendly woman who was adored by all who knew her.
Our deepest condolences to the Babbitt family and friends from the staff at Sound Choice Cremation.
Service
Sarasota, FL, United States 34237
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