Wanda Lou Perrone

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Wanda Lou Perrone, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who departed this life on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at WVU Ruby Memorial Hospital, after a long illness.

Wanda was born on July 9, 1938, in Richwood, West Virginia, to Oran and Fairest Gainer Barker.

A graduate of Richwood High School, class of 1956, Wanda found lifelong joy when she married Frank Perrone, Sr., on June 26, 1958. Faith was a cornerstone of her life; she nurtured her spirituality for many years at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church in Weirton.

Wanda dedicated herself to her family, especially lovingly managing her home and raising her four children. She possessed a playful spirit and a lively love for sports, particularly evident in her passion for West Virginia University men’s and women’s basketball. Despite standing at only 5’2″, she fully embraced the game and shared her enthusiasm with those around her.

Beyond athletics, Wanda immersed herself in her community, bowling for many years and faithfully supporting her husband Frank’s musical endeavors throughout the Ohio Valley. Together, they shared a profound appreciation for the Big Band sounds of the era, often dancing to the tunes of Glen Miller—a reflection of their vibrant love for life and music.

Wanda was known for her feistiness and her willingness to share her thoughts candidly, always giving her opinion, even when it was unsolicited. She took joy in playing card games and creatively taught her grandchildren math while they enjoyed friendly rounds of poker.

In addition to her parents and husband Frank, Wanda was preceded in death by her brother, Roland Barker.

Wanda is survived by her devoted children, Frank (Teresa) Perrone, Jr., of Weirton, and Diana (Mario) Diaz of Fredericksburg, VA. Rita Perrone of Las Vegas, NV., Gina (Robert Washington) Hardey of Fredericksburg, VA., grandchildren Peter and Joshua Diaz, Jalil Perrone, Jordan Hardey, Garrett Logan Hardey,  Mark Anthony Richardson-Hardey, Natalie Mains, Brandon Perrone, and Frank Perrone, III, five great-grandchildren, brothers Boyd Barker Sr., Danny Barker Sr., Larry (Priscilla) Barker, and sister Shirley Sagan-Brecht

Friends are invited to join Wanda’s family on Wednesday, May 13, from 4-7 pm at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, May 14, at 10 am at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church, 140 Walnut Street, Weirton.

Fr. Binu Sebastian will preside.

Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Steubenville.

Share online condolences at www.grecohertnick.com.