Central State University mourns the passing of former College of Education Dean Dr. Edward L. Wingard

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Central State University is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Edward "Eddie" L. Wingard, one of the University's longest-serving academic leaders, who served as dean of the College of Education from 1969 to 1992. Dr. Wingard passed away on July 11, 2026, at the age of 89.

Dr. Wingard began his career at Central State University as the Director of Student Teaching before becoming the Dean of the College of Education in 1969. During his 23-year tenure as dean, he dedicated his career to educating, mentoring and preparing generations of future teachers and changemakers while strengthening one of the University's signature academic programs.

Known for his humility, warmth and unwavering commitment to education, Dr. Wingard earned the respect and admiration of students, faculty and staff throughout his distinguished career. He embraced the University's mission as his own. His passion for the institution, particularly the College of Education, was evident in his leadership, his mentorship and the genuine care he showed to everyone he encountered. 

Friends and colleagues remember Dr. Wingard as a thoughtful, approachable leader whose wisdom extended far beyond the classroom. Whether on campus or in the community, he was known for taking time to engage in meaningful conversations, offering practical advice, encouraging others and sharing lessons drawn from a life devoted to service. A devoted family man, he remained deeply rooted in the local community and was respected for his intelligence, humility and steady presence.

"Dr. Wingard's commitment to Central State University was extraordinary," said Keith Perkins, director of Alumni Relations. “He carried himself with humility, always had a smile on his face and genuinely cared about people. Though he will always be Dr. Wingard in our hearts, he was simply Eddie to those who knew him. His passing is a tremendous loss for Central State and for everyone whose lives he touched." 

Born July 27, 1936, in Pike County, Alabama, to the late Jesse and Alice Wingard, Dr. Wingard earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Teacher Education in 1959 and a Master of Education degree in 1962 from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He later received certification in mathematics and science from Antioch College before earning his Doctor of Philosophy degree from The Ohio State University in 1970, according to his obituary.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Wingard found great joy in mentoring others and was an avid reader with an appreciation for classic automobiles. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends, leaving behind memories marked by kindness, thoughtful conversation and a genuine investment in the success of others.

Services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Faith Community United Methodist Church, 100 Country Club Drive, Xenia, OH 45354. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the service immediately following at the church. Interment will follow at Massie Creek Cemetery in Cedarville Township, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support the Dr. Edward L. Wingard Scholarship Program at Central State University. Checks can be made out to Central State University with "Dr. Wingard" in the memo line and mailed to: Central State University, PO Box1004, Wilberforce, OH 45384.

Dr. Wingard's legacy of educational excellence, servant leadership and steadfast devotion to Central State University will continue to inspire generations of Marauders. His influence lives on through the countless educators he mentored, the students whose lives he helped shape and the enduring example of humility, integrity and service that defined his life.