It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lida Elizabeth Warren Wallace, 91, who left this world to be with her Lord on February 12, 2026. Born on October 29, 1934, in the small community of Myrtle, Missouri, Lida lived a life rich in love, service, and grace.
Lida was the cherished daughter of Fred Francis Warren and Meda Mae Risner Warren. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of nearly six decades, Jackie Dean Wallace, who she married on a beautiful day in May of 1953. Together, they built a family and created a legacy of love that endures. Lida is also predeceased by her parents and her dear brothers: Fred (wife-Joyce), Jack (wife-Catherine), and Jerry Warren, who surely welcomed her into heaven with open arms.
A dedicated mother, Lida is survived by her children who were the light of her life: Dorothy (Dottie) Wallace of St. Louis, MO; Edward (Ed) Wallace (Pam) of West Plains, MO; and Lisa McGee (Darryn) of Collinsville, OK. Her devotion to her family extended to her seven grandchildren: Jennifer Basler Janowitz, Sarah Basler Villers (David), Clifton Wallace (Bekah), Becky Wallace Rosencrance (Scott), Christi Wallace, Mae McGee Shumaker (Nathan), and Lily McGee, as well as her seven great-grandchildren: Jack Wallace, Minnie Villers, Eleanor Shumaker, Kaitlyn Rickett (Jonathan), Austin Rosencrance, Nathan Rosencrance, and Meagan Rosencrance. She also leaves behind a dear sister in-law, Mary Warren (Jerry), and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Gifted both academically and personally, Lida graduated as valedictorian of Thomasville High School. High School was a highlight of Lida’s life, and she made many lifelong friends and excelled at her position as catcher on the softball team and spiker in volleyball. Lida went on to further her education at Draughon’s Business College. Her career at General Motors spanned 30 years, where she began as a key punch operator and advanced to the role of executive secretary to the plant comptroller, a testament to her intelligence and dedication.
Lida was a devoted member of the Free Will Baptist Denomination. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through her roles as a Sunday School teacher, choir member, soloist, and deacon’s wife. She found joy and purpose in her leadership roles with the Women’s Auxiliary and later with the West Plains, MO, Grandmother’s Club and Library Club. After moving to Collinsville, OK, in 2016, she found community in the Home Representatives Club and Collinsville FWB Church.
Her love for Jesus was reflected in her daily life through her love for scripture and worship music. She was known for her elegant and warm presence, her beautiful smile, and lovely speaking and singing voice. Lida was a woman of grace and strength, whose warmth touched everyone she met.
Lida found great joy in creating a welcoming home, where holidays and special occasions were celebrated with love, laughter and good food. She delighted in spending time at the piano and singing, playing games and hosting gatherings, crocheting, being a fan of the St Louis Cardinals and watching all their games. She was adventurous at heart, enjoying travel, roller coasters, horseback riding, and even ziplining in her 80’s, always with a twinkle in her eye
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A service celebrating Lida’s remarkable life will be held on February 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the United Free Will Baptist Church of West Plains, MO (where she and Jack were active members for 20 years), located at 607 Lanton Road, West Plains, Missouri. There will also be a visitation time from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Susanna Boggs, Deborah Bickerstaff, Bobbie Page, Jenny Walker, Julie Crow and Kristen Owens for their compassionate care over the past two years. Also, Thank you to Season’s Hospice and Ray of Sunshine Nursing Services for their very loving and professional care in Mom’s final days.
We will always carry Lida’s memory in our hearts, comforted by the knowledge that she is now in the loving arms of Jesus. To our precious Mom and Grandma, we love you and will see you again soon.
