Springfield — Wendell Layton Sikes, 79, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, at Memorial Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Wendell was born in Bulloch County, where he spent his childhood years. In 1962, he and his family moved to Effingham County. There, he met his future wife, Colleen, and together they built a life, marrying and raising three children: Allison, Jason, and Nash.

Wendell devoted 36 years to a career in banking, serving the community through his work with C&S Bank, Bank of America, and Citizens Bank of Effingham, where he retired in 2003. Throughout his career, he assisted countless residents and local businesses across Effingham County, always known for his integrity and dedication. He also gave generously of his time as president and board member of several local charities and civic organizations.

Following retirement, Wendell and Colleen made their home in Palm Coast, Florida, where they spent more than 20 years enjoying the sun, sand, and ocean with their children, grandchildren, and many cherished guests. Wendell found joy in life's simple pleasures—Southern home cooking, a good cup of coffee, and his beloved tobacco pipe, which became his signature way of starting each day. Mornings were his favorite time, especially watching the sunrise along the beach.

Wendell was preceded in death by his son, Jason Coy Sikes; his father, Layton Sikes; and his mother, Iris Kight Sikes. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Colleen Shearouse Sikes of Springfield; daughter Allison Arnsdorff (Ashley) of Guyton and their children, Bryson, John, and Elizabeth; son Christopher "Nash" Sikes of Palm Coast; sisters Teresa Jaudon (Wendell) of Springfield and Marlene Shurling (Ricky) of Stilson; brother Dennis Sikes of Springfield; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In accordance with Wendell's wishes, he will be cremated, with no funeral or formal service. He preferred a simple passing, without ceremony, and asked to be remembered in the quiet ways that mattered most to him. His ashes will be interred beside his son, Jason, in the Sikes burial plot during a private family service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital .