Wanda Maloney

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Wanda Sue Maloney of Hay Springs, Neb., on Feb. 17, 2026. She was born Nov. 27, 1965, to James and Lois (Childers) Wood in Lead, S.D.
Wanda was an exceptional woman whose love, kindness and laughter touched everyone she met. She was a mom to everyone, a safe place, steady voice, and comforting presence to all. Family came first by blood or by choice, she devoted her life to caring for those she loved, often putting her needs aside.
She was hardworking, resilient, and dedicated to facing life’s challenges with strength and grace. Her wit and sense of humor brought joy and light even during the hardest days.
Stubborn in the best way—she stood her ground. Outspoken and never afraid to say what needed to be said. Defiant to the core when it came to protecting those she loved. Fiercely independent and proud of it. Strong-willed and unapologetically herself.
An animal lover, her pets were treated as one of the family, most of the time better than her kids. Her home was open to all kinds of animals needing love and care.
Wanda is survived by her husband, Dennis Maloney of Hay Springs;  children, Jada (Nate) Marcy of Hay Springs, Kris (Robert) Vahrenkamp of Hay Springs, Amanda Reese (Anthony Caruso) of Florida, Richard (Jessica) Maloney of Virginia, Jannette (Chris) Woodbeck of Hemingford, Neb., and Destiny (Dylan) Wells of Alliance, Neb.; brothers, Gary Wood of Sioux Falls, S.D., and Herbert (Jamie) Wood of Kentucky; sisters, Sherry (John) Holman of Kentucky, and Carrie (Rick) Alm of Custer, S.D.; Grandchildren, Theo, Mason, Jalei, Clayton, Eric, Ryan (Nayana), Kaleigh, Andrew, Ria, Landyn (Mya), Micah, Leah, Liam, Harper, Lakely and Kemper. Wanda also leaves behind several close friends.
Celebration of life will be held March 28 at 11 a.m. at the Hay Springs Senior Center. A meal will be provided.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.