Josephine Estelle Wendland

Josephine Estelle Wendland (nee Perretta), age 81 of Smithfield, North Carolina passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. A memorial service to celebrate her life will he held 1:00 PM Sunday, September 6, 2026 in the chapel of McLaurin Funeral Home in Clayton, North Carolina.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home, immediately follow the service.

She was born in Brooklyn, New York on March 29, 1945, to the late Joseph Perretta and the late Palma Perretta (nee Cerbone). In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, Charles August Wendland, in December of 2023, and her sisters Annie and Lucille.

Mrs. Wendland built a successful career as an Advertising Sales Executive at Cablevision before retiring to travel the country with her husband, eventually settling in North Carolina permanently. She was devoted to her family and her community and served as a leader for both Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. In addition, she dedicated herself for several decades to the Ladies Auxiliary of the Lindenhurst (NY) Fire Department, where she served in various roles including President. She enjoyed creating beautiful artwork and anything to do with the beach.

She is survived by her children: Charles Wendland (Charlotte), Gina Klimp (Scott), and Cathy Sarvis (Robert), 16 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Online condolences may be made to the family at: www.mclaurinatpinecrest.com

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations may be made in her memory to SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, North Carolina.

McLaurin Funeral Home in Clayton, North Carolina is honored to be assisting the family.