Melvin Wendell Stafford

Melvin Wendell Stafford

November 11, 1953 – February 19, 2026

Portrait by Natalie Huggins Childers

Melvin Wendell Stafford, age 72, of Vidalia, died February 19, 2026 at Memorial Health University Medical Center after a brief battle with cancer.

Wendell was born November 11, 1953 in Tattnall County, GA to Millard Winfield (M.W.) Stafford, Jr. and Debbie Ruth Callaway Stafford. Wendell grew up in Pooler, GA and was a 1971 graduate of Robert W. Groves High School. He joined the United States Navy shortly after graduation, spending most of his time aboard the USS Mississinewa (T-AO-144) in the Mediterranean Sea Region. Wendell had the opportunity to visit many beautiful countries in the area. He also served aboard the USS Downes (DE-1070). Later in life Wendell became a long-haul trucker and was able to visit all of the lower forty-eight states. Wendell loved country music, stock car racing and golf. While vacationing in Scotland he was privileged to play golf at St. Andrews. Wendell was a member of The Georgia Salzburger Society.

Wendell is survived by three sisters: Debra (Lewis) Herrin of Pooler and Renee (Joey) Herndon and DeNorah (Walt) Huggins both of Statesboro, several nieces and nephews and special loved ones, Jamie and Jeremy Wood. The family would like to thank Steve Davis, a caring and compassionate neighbor.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons - West Chatham Chapel - 912-748-2444