Wendell Keith Gulledge

Columbia, SC

 Mr. Wendell Keith Gulledge, age 63, entered into rest on Monday, November 25, 2024. A Celebration of Life service will be 4:00 PM Saturday, November 30, 2024 at Pine Grove Baptist Church by Pastor Mark Phillips. A private committal will be held in the church cemetery at a later date. The family will greet friends immediately following the service in the sanctuary of the church and other times at the home of his mother. 

Born in Chesterfield, SC, on August 10, 1961, Wendell was a beloved son of Carolyn Russell Gulledge and the late Henry Luke Gulledge, III. He was a proud graduate of Chesterfield High School in 1979 and earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Francis Marion College in 1982. Wendell dedicated over three decades of his career to SC DHEC, where he served as Assistant Director until his retirement. In his earlier years, he was a former employee Watson’s Jewelry, Belk’s of Chesterfield, Henderson & Spencer Law Firm, and the former manager of the Chesterfield Advertiser.

In addition to his professional career, Wendell had a vibrant spirit and a keen eye for beauty. He cherished his collection of fine china and his extensive collection of over 100 Jim Shore Santa Claus figurines. His love for animals was evident in the special bond he shared with his beloved pets, “Bella Rose” and “Simon Lukas,” who brought immense joy to his life.

Wendell is lovingly remembered by his mother, Carolyn Russell Gulledge, and his brother, Ivan Scott Gulledge, along with his sister-in-law, Hope Lumpkin Gulledge. He also leaves behind a cherished niece, Stephanie Barrett Ramirez, and her husband Will all of Chesterfield, SC; a great-niece, Emma Grae Ramirez, who fondly called him “Gee”; and a great-nephew soon to arrive, William “Liam” Ellis Ramirez.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made in Wendell’s honor to MRC Funeral Home in Chesterfield, or to a charity of your choice.

Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home of Chesterfield, SC (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) is serving the Gulledge family.