Longtime Paris Resident Wanda Fay Babb Dies at 90

Beloved hairdresser and community member remembered for her cooking, faith, and devotion to family

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:40pm

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Wanda Fay (Byers) Babb, a longtime resident of Paris, Texas, passed away on March 29, 2026 at the age of 90. Babb was known for her career as a hairdresser, her active involvement in her Baptist church, and her love of cooking and baking, especially her famous pecan and chocolate pies. She is survived by her two daughters, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Wanda Fay Babb's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Paris, Texas, where she lived and worked for over 60 years. As a hairdresser, active churchgoer, and beloved family matriarch, Babb embodied the small-town values and traditions that have defined Paris for generations.

The details

Babb was born in 1935 to Travis and Lillie Byers and graduated from Paris High School in 1954. She married Wendell Babb in 1953, and they were married for 58 years until his passing. Babb worked as a hairdresser for over 40 years and was also a beauty consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics. She was a devoted member of her Baptist church, teaching Sunday School for many years, and was an active participant in Mary Jane Lowery's bible study group.

  • Wanda Fay Babb passed away on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026.
  • Her funeral arrangements are scheduled for Good Friday, April 3, 2026 at 11am at Bright-Holland Funeral Home, with a graveside service to follow at Evergreen Cemetery.

The players

Wanda Fay (Byers) Babb

A 90-year-old resident of Paris, Texas who worked as a hairdresser for over 40 years and was known for her cooking, baking, and active involvement in her Baptist church.

Wendell Babb

Wanda Fay Babb's husband of 58 years, who passed away prior to her.

Jill Hart

Wanda Fay Babb's daughter who lives in Detroit, Texas.

Wendy McNeal

Wanda Fay Babb's daughter who lives in Paris, Texas.

Ron Byers

Wanda Fay Babb's cousin.

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What’s next

The funeral service and graveside ceremony for Wanda Fay Babb will take place on Good Friday, April 3, 2026.

The takeaway

Wanda Fay Babb's life exemplified the close-knit, faith-driven values that have defined the Paris, Texas community for generations. Her legacy as a devoted family matriarch, active churchgoer, and skilled hairdresser will be long remembered by all who knew her.