Desmond M. Wingard

August 20, 1979 – October 30, 2025

Desmond Mack Wingard, affectionately known as Des to his friends, passed peacefully to be with Jesus on October 30, 2025, after a brave and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on August 20, 1979, Des was raised in Covington and Lowndes counties, where he learned the value of hard work spending summer days on the family farm alongside his sister, Kayla and all of their cousins.

Des dedicated more than half of his life to the place and people he loved, telling their stories, sharing their victories, and serving his community through his work at WSFA 12 News.

He first walked through the station doors in 1999 as a determined 19-year-old junior at Troy University. Over the next 26 years, Des rose through the ranks from weekend photographer and editor to producer and executive producer, where he crafted nearly every newscast from Today in Alabama to WSFA 12 News at 6 and 10. His leadership and dedication led him to become Assistant News Director for over a decade, and later News Director in 2022.

Desmond’s influence extended far beyond the newsroom. Through community events such as 12’s Day of Giving, the Summer Fund and Food Drive, the Give from the Heart Blood Drive, numerous Montgomery Humane Society initiatives, and giving his skills to many community programs as a board member, he touched countless lives with compassion and purpose.

Above all, Des was a man of deep faith, love, and loyalty. His devotion to his family surpassed everything. Known lovingly as “Uncle D,” he was more than an uncle he was a father figure who never missed a milestone and poured his heart into every moment.

Des was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Kayla Allen, and his grandparents, Carl and Olean Wingard; Clarence and Lucille Smith. He is survived by his parents, Sheila and Edward “Bubba” Mims, Jr. of Letohatchee, AL; Jerry and Karen Wingard of McKenzie, AL; his sister, Tonya Kimball (Jeffrey); his brother, Tray Mims (Lynn); and numerous nieces and his nephew who adored him.

Desmond’s life was a shining example of grace, service, and love. His light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation will be held at Leak Memory Chapel, located at 945 Lincoln Road, Montgomery, AL, 36109, on November 1, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will take place at the same venue on November 2, 2025, starting at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Troy University's Hall School of Journalism in his name.