Wendell Hancock

Wendell Hancock entered this world on August 7, 1948, the son of Walter Hancock and Viola Boyd, and departed it on May 29, 2025, after a life lived with extraordinary passion and purpose. For 40 cherished years, he stood as the devoted husband of Paulette C. Hancock (née Jones) - a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and the undeniable cornerstone of his family.

His character was forged in the crucible of the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served with honor during the Vietnam War. The Corps’ “Semper Fi” ethos became his lifelong compass - evident in how he battled inclusion body myositis with the same steadfast courage he’d demonstrated in uniform. Even as his body weakened, his Marine resilience shone through in his determination to maintain independence, regularly seen riding through Parsons with that signature defiant pride.

After his military service, Wendell built a distinguished 30-year career at Columbia Gas as Regional Manager, followed by sharing his expertise as a business strategies instructor at Franklin University. While he earned his master’s degree and was pursuing his PhD, his proudest professional achievements were never the titles, but the lives he shaped - mentoring employees, inspiring students, and leading with both wisdom and heart.

But it was behind the turntables that Wendell’s soul truly came alive. Known throughout the community as *Mr. Wendell*, he combined his velvet voice with impeccable musical intuition to create magic. From operating the Second Wind Lounge to his final sets at D&S Lounge, he didn’t just play music - he orchestrated joy. His last performance came not on stage, but in the hearts of his family as he passed peacefully, surrounded by love and the echoes of countless musical memories.

A testament to his profound impact, Wendell was so beloved by his family that he inspired not one, but three namesakes - Wendolynn Jackson, Wendell Johns, and Amir Hancock. For decades, he reigned as the family’s patriarch and guiding force, the main man whose strength and love held them together until the beautiful expansion of great-grandchildren began to arrive.

Wendell had a special gift with children that was nothing short of magical. Whenever families visited, children would instinctively flock to his side, drawn by his warm presence and playful spirit. He cherished every child he encountered, and his heart ached at the sight of any suffering. To his granddaughters, he was constantly urging, “Have more babies!” - greeting each new great-grandchild with overwhelming joy. To him, every child was a divine blessing, and he would have welcomed dozens more with open arms and that signature broad smile.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Paulette; daughters Jill (LaGear) D. White and Tara Hancock; grandchildren Paulette, Daija, and Makiah Yarber, and his namesake Wendolynn Jackson; and twelve great-grandchildren who carry his spark: his namesakes Wendell Johns and Amir Hancock, along with Kaja Reid, Jaya Taylor, Alexa Vaughn, Julian Worthington, Azi Woods, Camarie Bouttry, Avoni Woods, Aleija Vaughn, Karma Hayes, and Sage Hayes. He is also survived by his brother Clifford D. Hancock, sisters Gaynelle Pearson and Alisa Hancock, and countless friends and admirers. He joins in eternal rest his parents, brother Walter L. Hancock, sister Joyce Hancock, and sister-in-law Cherie Warden.

A Celebration of Life worthy of *Mr. Wendell*’s vibrant spirit will be held June 21, 2025. All who attend are invited to share their favorite memories of Wendell in our memorial photo booth - your stories and recorded messages will be cherished by the family for generations to come. For details, please contact the family.

In his memory, we might all play our favorite song at full volume tonight, dance like he’s watching (probably critiquing our moves), gather children close, and face life’s challenges with the courage of a Marine and the joy of a man who knew both music and children were medicine for the soul. Semper Fi, Mr. Wendell - your rhythm lives on in every life you conducted and every child you delighted.

*The family wishes to thank all who loved Wendell as they did - your stories and memories are cherished. In true Wendell fashion, please don’t mourn his passing but celebrate the extraordinary life he composed, and if you’re so blessed, hug a child extra tight today in his honor.*