Wanda Whitaker Garner

Wanda Whitaker Garner of Carthage, NC, went home to be with the Lord on January 14, 2026, while surrounded by her family. She is now peacefully reunited with her husband, Don Garner. Wanda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to many people in the community.

Wanda was born in Moore County on July 11, 1948. She was the daughter of the late Elmer Whitaker and Oma Campbell Whitaker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Don Garner. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Wilton Ray Whitaker and Roy Whitaker; and her sisters, Shirley Walsh and Sybil Garner. 

Wanda devoted her life to caring for others. She served as Postmaster in Glendon and Bennett, NC. She later ran a home daycare, caring for many children, including her own grandchildren.

Known for her sense of humor, welcoming home, and excellent cooking, Wanda’s strong faith guided her life. She and her husband also founded the Five Mile Flea Market on Joel Road in Carthage, NC, reflecting their shared love for people and community.

From an early age, Wanda shared her faith through music. She sang with her sisters as a member of The Whitaker Girls, a Southern Gospel group that performed in churches, at revivals, and on local radio. Their harmonies continued to bless family gatherings for many years.

She is survived by her three sons, Brian Phillips of Carthage, NC; Kevin Phillips (Kellie) of Conover, NC; and Shannon Phillips of Highfalls, NC; her stepdaughter, Donna Garner Murphy (Brad) of Glendon, NC; and her stepson, Ryan Garner (Kim) of Highfalls, NC. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Jacob Phillips of Bennett, NC; Hannah Phillips of Charlotte, NC; Samuel Phillips of Carthage, NC; Maddy Phillips of Conover, NC; Jack Phillips of Conover, NC; Makayla Garner of Highfalls, NC; and Van Ritter of Glendon, NC; her siblings, Janet Frye of Albemarle, NC; Lucille Collins (Billy) of Vass, NC; Bonnie Garner of Vass, NC; and Gail Gathagan (Gene) of Knoxville, TN; Russell Whitaker (Mary Ruth) of Carthage; as well as multiple nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly.

On Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Yates Thagard Baptist Church in Carthage, NC, a visitation will take place at 2:00 pm. Then, a Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 pm with Sammy Frye officiating. Burial will follow at Yates Thagard Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Wanda Garner to Gentiva Hospice (1836 Doctors Drive, Sanford, NC 27330) or Yates Thagard Baptist Church (3820 Vass-Carthage Road, Carthage, NC 28327).