Eloise Wise

Eloise Drennan Wise, 94, cherished wife, mother and grandmother, died January 20. She was surrounded by her family. Mrs. Wise’s devotion to family and belief in the Lord supported her throughout her life and provided her peace.

Born in Gulfport in 1920, Mrs. Wise graduated from Gulfport High School with highest honors. She served as Salutatorian of her senior class and was awarded the DAR Good Citizenship Award for her service to her community. Following her graduation, she attended Perkinston Junior College (now Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College) where she met the love of her life and husband of 69 years, Terrell Wise. Mrs. Wise was instrumental in the formation of Wise Construction Company which served Mississippi and the southeast. Mrs. Wise was also a founding member of Woodland Hills Baptist Church where she served in numerous leadership roles.

Well known for her gregarious personality and quick wit, she was often the center of attention at the many bridge and luncheon clubs of which she was a member. She was an original and long-time member of many social clubs and participated in countless charitable organizations. Always a festive spirit, Mrs. Wise was sure to have her home decorated for every holiday and was known to have the perfect holiday sweater and hair accessory. After moving to The Orchard, she brought smiles to fellow residents with her holiday hats and everyday hair adornments.

Mrs. Wise was preceded in death by her husband. She is survived by her daughter, Terry Lynn Wise Hamm of Jackson; her granddaughter, Mary Haley Hamm of Memphis; her nephews George Drennan (Brenda) of Canton, GA; Michael Drennan (Lorrie) of Brandon; Frank (Dink) Drennan (Colleen) of Ridgeland. A private service will be held Saturday, January 24, 2015 at Parkway Memorial Park to be followed by a reception and visitation at Ms. Hamm’s house from 3-6 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to the Terrell and Eloise Wise Memorial Scholarship Fund, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Foundation, P.O. Box 99, Perkinston, MS 39573.