LEXINGTON – Ella Frances Corley Wingate was born September 29, 1922 in Lexington, SC and passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2020. She was the daughter of the late Reba Catherine Corley and Thomas Edwin Corley.
She graduated Lexington High in 1940, was chosen Miss Lexington that year, and rode in the parade for the dedication of the new County Courthouse (now the old one). She graduated Winthrop College in 1944 and met and married the late Richard C. Wingate, Sr. from Rock Hill, where they lived for many years.
Her degree was in Education and Home Economics, but even though her entire working career was in education, she never taught Home Ec. When they retired in 1983, they moved into the old family home in Lexington. There she enjoyed entertaining family and friends and hosted many circle meetings, family reunions, card games, and Christmas drop-ins. A true Southern lady, she expected visitors to sit awhile and enjoy a sweet tea and a treat. She loved baking, cooking, gardening, crafting, needlework, and quilting. There seemed to be nothing she couldn’t do. If you wanted something or needed help, she could get it done.
Mrs. Wingate is survived by her sons, Richard Jr. (Joyce), Tom (Jan) and Frank (Ann) Wingate, all of Lexington; three grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, husband, and siblings, Kathryn Blackman, James Corley, and Lucille Keisler.
A private graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at Pilgrim Lutheran Church.
The family would like to give special thanks to Generations of Irmo and Comfort Care Hospice for their love and care of her. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Pilgrim Lutheran Church or Comfort Care Hospice.
