Richard "Rich" Gerald Wandover

A memorial service to honor his life and legacy will be held on August 1, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Riverland Hills Baptist Church - 201 Lake Murray Blvd, Irmo, SC 29063, with visitation in the Atrium immediately following the service.

Rich is survived by his wife of 26 years, Melissa, and their daughters, Savannah and Isabella “Bella”. He is also survived by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert and Terry Smith of West Columbia, SC; his brothers, Robert Wandover (Martha), Roger Wandover (Maribel), Ronald Wandover, Randall Wandover (Kathleen), along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Florence Wandover.

Rich was born in Olean, NY to Paul and Florence Wandover, as the first of twin boys. He weighed only 2lbs and 15oz. He was very premature and fighting for life. He spent the first 6 months of his life in the children’s hospital in Buffalo, NY. Once released and on the way home from Buffalo, his parents were involved in a head on collision and he stopped breathing. His father gave him CPR to keep him alive.

When he was 11, he felt called to accept Jesus as his Savior. Soon after this decision his grandmother, Sophia, moved into the family home. He was greatly influenced by her strong faith which taught him lessons of courage in the face of adversity, compassion, and love. Sophia went to be with the Lord in 1994 after battling breast cancer, teaching Rich a final lesson, be thankful for the time you are given with your loved ones.

Not long after this he attended Cattaragus/Allegheny BOCES, and then Ashland University in Ohio, where he majored in Television Production. He eventually found work in Columbia, SC. While living in Columbia, Rich was setup on a blind date with Melissa. When he asked her to go on a date the first time, she told him, “I can’t, I’m washing my hair.” Fortunately, he continued to pursue her, and despite turning him down she knew from their first phone call that he was the man she would marry. Throughout their marriage, Rich demonstrated selfless generosity and unconditional love for his wife, Melissa and their two daughters, Savannah and Bella, that all could see through both his words and actions. His children were his pride and joy, and when given the opportunity he proudly shared about their lives and accomplishments.

Throughout his life Rich felt called to use the talents God gave him to serve others. Everyone he came into contact with felt this. He mentored many young news professionals, giving opportunities and guidance to those who were just starting out while also helping seasoned professionals whenever help was needed. During his 30+ years in the news industry, he was affectionately known as ‘Sarge’. His positive impact was felt throughout the midlands and beyond through his work as Operations Manager of WOLO as well as the Columbia Fireflies Baseball Organization, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, SC State Lottery, SC Criminal Justice Academy, and countless other freelance jobs and projects in addition to volunteering his time with Columbia Classical Ballet.

Rich was a humble man who never met a stranger. He was always ready with a joke, a welcoming spirit and a willingness to serve. He asked questions and listened for opportunities to help make other people’s lives better. He felt a great burden to pattern his life and service after Christ who showed us all how to love one another.

“A mans heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9