Hilton Head Island, SC, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Jay Wiendl, a prominent figure in Hilton Head Island’s hospitality scene and general manager of Tiki Hut and Beach House Resort, passed away unexpectedly at 50. His contributions to the community included leadership roles with the Chamber of Commerce and mentoring young talent. Wiendl’s support for various local initiatives, including his dedication to environmental stewardship, left a lasting impact. He is survived by his son, Connor, and wife, Kerri, with community efforts underway to support his family during this difficult time.
Hilton Head Island, SC – Jay Wiendl, a leading figure in the hospitality industry on Hilton Head Island, has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 50. His death occurred on February 23, 2025, while he was on assignment in the Florida Keys, leaving the local community in shock and mourning.
Wiendl was the general manager of the Tiki Hut and Beach House Resort, a well-known hotel and bar located near Coligny Beach Park. His leadership in this iconic establishment was just one of the many contributions he made to the local hospitality sector. In addition to his role at the Tiki Hut, he served as the chairman of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee and held a position on the Board of Directors for the Technical College of the Lowcountry.
His career spanned several prestigious roles, including general manager of the Sonseta Resort, where he earned recognition as hotel manager of the year in 2018. Before his tenure at the Beach House Resort, he was the managing director at The DeSoto hotel in Savannah, showcasing his extensive experience in the hospitality market.
Community Impact and Legacy
Wiendl was deeply woven into the fabric of the Hilton Head Island community, dedicating his time to various local initiatives. He was active in the Hilton Head Baseball Association, volunteering as a coach for many years. He was known not only for his professional achievements but also for his dedication to nurturing young talent in the community.
Bill Miles, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, remarked on Wiendl’s dedication to the community and his mentoring approach, emphasizing the profound impact he had on those around him. Community member Ray Deal highlighted the immediate connection he felt with Wiendl, underscoring the strong interpersonal qualities that defined him.
Family and Support Fund
Jay Wiendl was a devoted family man, particularly proud of his son, Connor, a senior at Hilton Head High School, who faces the future without his father’s guidance. To support Connor and his mother, Kerri, the Hilton Head Island community established a special fund at Coastal States Bank. Additionally, the Connor Wiendl College Fund has been created to assist with Connor’s education.
Commemoration and Tributes
A celebration of Wiendl’s life took place on March 21, 2025, at Honey Horn, with more than 600 attendees coming together to honor his memory. The gathering reflected the significant impact he had on countless lives throughout the community.
Military and Environmental Engagement
Beyond his professional life in hospitality, Wiendl was a Navy veteran and a graduate of Bishop Hoban High School. He held a strong passion for the environment and was involved with The Outside Foundation, promoting stewardship of the area’s land and waterways.
The loss of Jay Wiendl is felt deeply throughout Hilton Head Island, where community members will remember him for his warmth, humor, reliability, and the many ways in which he enriched the lives of those around him.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Jay Wiendl |
| Age | 50 |
| Date of Death | February 23, 2025 |
| Occupation | General Manager, Tiki Hut and Beach House Resort |
| Community Roles | Chairman of Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of Technical College |
| Awards | Hotel Manager of the Year 2018 |
| Family | Son: Connor Wiendl |
| Memorial Fund | Connor Wiendl College Fund, established at Coastal States Bank |
| Community Contributions | Volunteer Coach, Environmental Stewardship |
FAQ
What was Jay Wiendl’s role in the community?
Jay Wiendl was the general manager of the Tiki Hut and Beach House Resort and served as chairman of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee.
How did Jay Wiendl pass away?
He passed away unexpectedly while on assignment in the Florida Keys on February 23, 2025.
What contributions did he make to the Hilton Head Island community?
Wiendl was actively involved in various community initiatives, including coaching for the Hilton Head Baseball Association and promoting environmental stewardship through The Outside Foundation.
Is there a fund established for his family?
Yes, the community has established the Connor Wiendl College Fund and a special fund at Coastal States Bank to support his son Connor and wife Kerri.
When was the celebration of his life organized?
A celebration of Jay Wiendl’s life was held on March 21, 2025, at Honey Horn, attended by over 600 people.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- AOL News: Jay Wiendl’s Impact on Hilton Head Island
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- WSAV: Honoring Jay Wiendl
- Google Search: Jay Wiendl
- Citizens Voice: Obituary for Jay Wiendl
- Google Scholar: Jay Wiendl
- Island Packet: Environmental Engagement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
- Island Packet: Travel and Tourism Insights
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
