Wendell Shermer

Wendell Shermer, a longtime resident of Natchez and Flowood, MS, passed away on March 8th, 2023, at the age of 81. He was a remarkable man, known for his kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering dedication to his family and music. Wendell was born on March 22nd, 1941, in California but grew up in Paris, Arkansas. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility, which he carried with him throughout his life and passed this down to his two sons and grandchildren. After completing his education, he headed back west to California where he started with Diamond International Corporation and he worked his way up from a starting position to a supervision role. He quickly became a leader of men and touched countless lives as a manager in the industries he worked. A work transfer took him to Natchez, MS where he met Myra King and quickly fell in love. They married, had two sons, and raised Chester (Chet) Duane Shermer (and wife Julie) and Aaron Neil Shermer (and wife Lesley), and built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Wendell and Myra raised two impeccable sons, who have made their own mark on the world in their own rights; all of which Wendell was incredibly proud. His two sons remained very close to him and they enjoyed watching him pass on his incredible talents to his grandchildren. Wendell had a passion for music and was an excellent guitarist. He taught himself mostly; but had crucial lessons from mentors along the way. He taught many aspiring musicians, and his love for Chet Atkins' style of playing was inspirational. He spent countless hours playing music with his family and friends, and his talent will be greatly missed but lives on in his children and grandchildren who he also taught his craft of music and guitarmenship. For most of his life, Wendell's hobbies included playing golf and watching his sons play sports in Natchez. He was an avid reader, loved movies and cherished spending time with his family and friends. His dry sense of humor and his incredible kindness will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Wendell’s love of golf lives on in his two sons and not a round will be played without memories of them all on the golf course learning the game. Wendell is survived his children, Chester (Chet) Duane Shermer (Julie), and Aaron Neil Shermer (Lesley), his four grandchildren, Ashley Harlan Lummen (Bryan), Cheston Alexander Shermer (Christine), Callie Shermer Wilson (Jacob), and Emma Elizabeth Shermer. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who knew him. Wendell's life was a testament to God’s power of love, forgiveness, kindness and hard work. He had a relationship with our Lord and Savior and we are convinced he is playing guitar and golf in Heaven. He lived a full and meaningful life, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. Rest in peace, Wendell Shermer, you will be forever missed.