Wanda J

Kimber-Winfree

Wanda Kimber-Winfree, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, niece, and friend, passed away on April 20, 2024, at the age of 65, surrounded by loved ones. The Winfree family mourns the passing of Wanda Kimber-Winfree, a woman of boundless energy, unwavering dedication, and a heart full of love.

Born on April 7, 1959, in Columbus, Georgia, Wanda was the daughter of Barbara Kimber and Sonny Thompson. Raised by her grandmother, Mable Bennefield, Wanda's early years instilled a strong sense of independence and resilience. After attending Carver Elementary School, Wanda moved with her mother to New Rochelle, NY, in the 1970s.

As an honor student at New Rochelle High School, Wanda excelled academically. Her abilities went beyond the classroom, as seen by her accomplishments on the track and field team and her energetic position as a cheerleader. She served as a living example of the immensurable potential that each of us possesses.

Wanda met Carl (Nicky) Winfree in her undergraduate years. Their relationship developed into a love tale that lasted for almost forty years, which is evidence of their unwavering devotion to and respect for one another.

Her nursing career spanned an impressive forty-plus years, which allowed her to provide care and comfort to countless individuals, especially neonatal babies. Wanda graduated from Lehman College in 1982 with a B.S. in Nursing. Her professional journey began at Albert Einstein Hospital and continued at North Central Bronx Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital. Ever the scholar, Wanda returned to school in 2016 to earn her master's degree in nursing. Her passion for nurturing life led her to become a certified Doula, supporting expectant mothers. Finally, for two decades, she worked at New York Presbyterian Columbia. Her passion for healthcare extended to education, as she taught nursing at Montclair Hospital in New Jersey for five years. Even though her path was unexpectedly changed before she could leave New York Presbyterian Columbia and pursue her dream of obtaining a Doctorate in Nursing to teach upcoming healthcare professionals, Wanda lived life to the fullest.

Wanda's commitment to helping others went beyond her work as a nurse. She was honorably discharged as a Captain from the U.S. Army in 1999 after serving her country with pride. Wanda's limitless energy found expression in her pursuit of fitness. A certified Yoga and Aerobics instructor, she became a master instructor and participated in numerous marathons and races throughout the metropolitan area.  She boldly pursued the things that inspired her despite the passing of time, understanding that the true measure of pleasure is not the length of life but the depth of its experiences. She was an avid traveler, visiting countries such as Greece, South Africa, Israel, Australia, and many more.

Her constant enthusiasm acted as a beacon, encouraging everyone in her vicinity to embrace every moment with excitement and determination. Wanda's spirit lives on as a reminder to embrace life's wonders and revel in the beauty of every moment. She inspires us to seize every opportunity and to greet each day with open arms, embracing the beauty of existence with uncontainable joy. In her spirit, we find the courage to embrace our paths with enthusiasm and gratitude, knowing that every moment holds the potential for extraordinary experiences and infinite happiness.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Wanda's legacy of love and devotion extends to her family. She cherished her role as a wife and mother. Married on June 25, 1983, Wanda and Carl raised three beautiful children. Her legacy will continue to live on in her children and grandchildren who brought her endless joy.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, Barabra Kimber and Sonny Thompson.

Wanda is survived by her husband of forty-one years, Carl "Nicky" Winfree; her children, Jazmin Noel Winfree (husband Schomberg), Jordan Mychael Winfree (girlfriend Alexa Batista), and Juwann Malik Winfree; her grandchildren, Ethan Colin (Jazmin) and Zhuri Winfree (Jordan), three brothers-in-law; one sister-in-law; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, Godson, cousins, extended family; and a vast network of colleagues and friends.

Wanda's unwavering spirit, boundless energy, and love for her family and community will be deeply missed. The warmth she created will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Wanda's life was a tribute to the happiness in her following her dreams, and aspirations.

- at the families request all attendees please wear red

Go Fund me information:

Hi, I'd really appreciate it if you would share or donate to this GoFundMe, https://gofund.me/bfe59c26https://gofund.me/c2e94828

Hi, my name is Shantel Ellis and I am a friend/former co-worker of my dear friend Wanda Kimber-Winfree. Writing this brings tears to my eyes. For those that do not know, Wanda has suffered a brain bleed that no one would ever think would bring her to this point. Unfortunately, Wanda was diagnosed with CAA (Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy), which is an incurable illness.

Those that know Wanda especially my
"THE GYM Family" know that she is a bright light to those she came across. She is an amazing nurse, instructor, good friend, wife, glam-Ma and most of all a great mother. THE GYM is where she taught for so many years, where she trained for so many years and where she built the best relationships with her students and her co-workers. I was one of the blessed ones that was fortunate to build a friendship with her.

With the approval of her husband, I wanted to help in any way that I could. I am asking everyone who loves Wanda to help the family with this hard time they are going through.

Any donation big or small would be appreciated. The family and I thank you very much.