Gareth Dean Dean Wingate

Winterville – Gareth Dean Wingate, 89, passed away and gained his wings to Glory on August 8, 2025 with his family by his side after a prolonged battle with Parkinson's disease. He fought a courageous fight, having faith until the end.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, August 11, at 2pm at Reedy Branch FWB Church with Revs. Arnold Price and Glenn Mills officiating. Burial will follow in Pinewood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Dean's love of his Lord and Savior and his heart of dedication can be seen by the 71 years of devoted marriage to the love of his life, Mary Lou Lang Wingate. He loved his family, his church, and his numerous friends. Many will remember him for his sense of humor and infectious smile he always had on display.

He proudly served his country in the National Guard, along with serving in many branches at his church and offices of the Ayden Golf and Country Club. His passion outside of serving was playing golf with his family and friends and he really enjoyed going out to eat at various places with his friends every Friday night until he wasn't physically able.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Maude Wingate; and his brother, Ralph Wingate.

Dean is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Lou Lang Wingate; sons, Jeff Wingate and Steve Wingate; grandchildren, Mary Harris and husband Mike, Shannon Wilkins, Stephen Wingate and wife Marissa, Michael Wingate, and Tyler Horne; six great grandchildren; niece, Lorrie Ann Carraway; and brother-in-law, Don Lang and wife Kim.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to his caregiver, Jennie Bruner, for her love and care shown to him, as well as the hospice team members.

Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions may be made to the Reedy Branch FWB Church Building Fund, 4457 Reedy Branch Rd, Winterville, NC 28590.