Wanda Ann Townsend

Wanda Ann Risner Townsend

November 26, 1943 – October 13, 2026

Wanda Ann Risner Townsend, age 82, passed away on October 13, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She was born on November 26, 1943, in Durant, Oklahoma, to Ben Jack Risner and Wanda Risner.

Ann married the love of her life, Russell Edgar Townsend, on May 8, 1964. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and love. Their enduring devotion to one another was a beautiful example of commitment, companionship, and the strength of a marriage grounded in Christian faith.

Ann was a devoted Christian whose faith was the foundation of her life. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Mustang for more than 35 years, where she faithfully served and developed many cherished friendships. For more than 40 years, Ann taught children’s Sunday School, sharing the love of Jesus with generations of young children. She had a special gift for nurturing young hearts and helping children develop a foundation of faith. Her years of service left a lasting impact on countless children and families.

Ann truly had a servant’s heart. She found great joy in caring for others, and one of her favorite ways to show love was through cooking. She was especially known for her delicious fried chicken and chicken-fried steak, meals that brought family and friends together around her table. No one ever had to wonder if they would be well fed at Ann’s house. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and fellowship, where everyone was welcome and love was always served in generous portions.

For her grandchildren, some of the sweetest memories will always be the little things Grandma did to make them feel special. She made sure there was always homemade party mix and puppy chow ready for them to take home. It was her way of sending a little extra love with them wherever they went. Those simple traditions, filled with thoughtfulness and care, are among the many memories her family will forever treasure.

Above all, Ann treasured her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and beloved “Grandma.” She took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, and found her greatest happiness in the moments they shared together. Her love was expressed through thoughtful gestures, home-cooked meals, and the countless ways she cared for those closest to her.

Ann will be remembered for her steadfast faith, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family. She lived her Christian faith through her actions, quietly demonstrating what it meant to love others and serve the Lord. Her life was a beautiful example of kindness, humility, and selfless love.

Ann is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Russell Edgar Townsend; her son, Scott Townsend and his wife, Christina; and her daughter, Susan Townsend Ritter and her husband, Ryan.

She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Faith Auwen and her husband, Alec; Tyson Townsend; Jonathan Raybern Ritter; and Anna June Ritter Garcia and her husband, Reece; and her precious great-grandson, Beau Auwen.

Ann is also survived by her brother, Mike Risner, and her sister, Nancy Risner, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben Jack Risner and Ann Risner, and her sister, Judith Risner.

Although her family and friends will deeply miss her presence, they find comfort in knowing that Ann’s earthly journey is complete and that she is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ann leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, and service. Her love will continue to be felt around family tables, in the hearts of the children she taught, and through the generations who were blessed to call her Grandma.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:21

Funeral service for Ann Townsend will be held at Mustang First Baptist Church on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Friendship Cemetery under the direction of Sevier Funeral Home.