Wanda (Case) Crump

UTICA/ROME – Wanda (Case) Crump, age 78, reunited with many loved ones in eternity on Sunday, June 14, 2026, surrounded by her devoted family, a small army she lovingly built throughout her life. Born in DeRuyter, NY on January 22, 1948, to the late Raymond E. Case and Laura D. (Murdent) Case, she was raised and educated in the DeRuyter area. As a young woman, Wanda was fiercely independent, entering the workforce at an early age and taking great pride in caring for herself, never relying on a man. When she became the mother of nine children, eight daughters and one son, she passed that same independent spirit on to them. She worked many different jobs throughout her life, from waitressing to housekeeping, always doing whatever was necessary to provide for her family while making lasting friendships wherever she went. The one thing everyone agreed on when describing Wanda was that she was spunky. Outgoing and full of life, she loved people and never hesitated to strike up a conversation. Family meant everything to her, especially her grandchildren, who, in her eyes, could do no wrong. Wanda had a big heart and was always willing to help others, even complete strangers. No matter what she was facing herself, she was often the first to offer a helping hand, a quality that made her a true superwoman to those who knew and loved her. Wanda found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing bingo and penny bingo, challenging herself with crossword puzzles, and spending time playing cards with family and friends. She enjoyed yard sales, fishing, camping, and taking long car rides along country roads. Some of her happiest moments were spent at cookouts, family gatherings, and trips to the beach surrounded by those she loved most. In truth, Wanda's favorite place was wherever her family was. She was also a devoted member of Utica City Church and cherished the friendships and faith community she found there. Wanda is survived by her eight daughters and their loves, Shirley Grant, Rebecca Rafuse, Mary Case, Tina Tirelli, Barbara Schuller and Ray Holdridge, Tammy Carpenter and James Smith, Kelly and Scott Hajdasz, Tiffany and Jazzian Jenkins, Sr.. They are confident she is now in Heaven with her beloved son, Michael A. Bender, making up for lost time and watching over those they love. She is additionally survived by her 22 darling grandchildren, Maria, Lee, Madison, Timothy, Candice, Aubrey, George, Anton, Jon, Christian, James, Jr., Gage, Destiny, Mikenzee, Hailey, Kalianna, Shyanne, Savannah, Leasia, Jazzian, Jr., Jolette, Michael; sole great-grandchild, Liam; sister, Barbara Case; and her niece and nephew, Jennifer Case and Jeff Case and their families. She was additionally predeceased by her brothers, Walter Case and William Case. Wanda’s family would like to thank Zanita Spratt for going above and beyond for Wanda and her family during their time of need. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Wanda’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions in Wanda’s name may be made to Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society at www.anitas-sshs.org/donate; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home.

Wanda (Case) Crump

January 22, 1948 - June 14, 2026