Louis A. Wingard, Jr., 84, entered into eternal rest on December 2, 2025. Born to the late Louis A. Wingard, Sr. and Ethel E. Wingard, he was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother whose presence touched countless lives.

Louis lived a life marked by service, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. A proud U.S. Army Veteran and Sergeant First Class, he served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. His work as an Infantryman and Food Service Specialist reflected the values that guided him throughout his life—discipline, loyalty, and a steadfast commitment to others.  After completing his military service, Louis continued his dedication to serving his community as a male mentor and truancy officer, court process server (Bland's Attorney Office), and school board activist. Later, he joined Greensville Correctional Facility, where he worked as Food Service and Laundry Manager. Over the span of his 50-year career, he became known for his leadership, generosity, and steady, reassuring presence. His impact was felt far beyond his daily responsibilities, as he touched the lives of colleagues and community members with kindness and integrity.

Above all, Louis was a devoted family man. He was preceded in death by his son, Tony Wingard; and granddaughter, Tiffany Starkes.

He is survived by his darling wife, Waynenetta Wingard; two loving brothers, Wilbert Wingard (Rosebud) and Gregory Wingard (Tammy); and his cherished children, Michael Logan (Laverne), Annette Bartley (Calvin), Louis A. Wingard III, Michael Cullen, Andre Cullen, Karla Duncan, and Keisha Hailstock; a dear niece and nephew; 28 grandchildren; 63 great grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; along with many cousins, devoted bonus family members, Danny Mathis and Cleopatra "Patty" Coleman; and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close.

Louis will be remembered as a man of integrity, a loving father, a dedicated veteran, and a pillar of strength whose legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the Tabernacle Baptist Church Community Life Center, 444 Halifax Street, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Dr. Robert A. Diggs, Sr., Pastor/eulogist. The interment will be held 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Jacksonville National Cemetery.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page.