News Summary
Jay Wiendl, a prominent figure in Hilton Head Island’s hospitality industry, passed away at the age of 50. His leadership impacted local businesses, sports, and community initiatives. Wiendl was known for his commitment to mentoring young athletes and contributing to environmental efforts. He is remembered for his integrity and dedication to the community, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Hilton Head Island — Jay Wiendl, a distinguished leader in the hospitality sector, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 50 on February 23, 2025. His contributions to the Hilton Head Island community, particularly within the hospitality industry and various local organizations, were significant and far-reaching.
Wiendl served as the general manager of the Tiki Hut and Beach House Hilton Head, two well-known establishments located near Coligny Beach Park. In addition to his role at the Beach House, he held significant leadership positions, including chairman of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee and as a member of the Board of Directors for the Technical College of the Lowcountry. His tenure at Sonseta Resort was marked by accolades, culminating in being named Hotel Manager of the Year in 2018.
Before returning to Hilton Head, Wiendl was the managing director at The DeSoto hotel in Savannah. His influence extended beyond the hospitality industry, as he was committed to coaching young athletes, particularly with the Hilton Head Baseball Association, where he dedicated many years of his life.
Community Contributions and Legacy
Wiendl’s legacy in the Hilton Head community is expected to endure through the numerous initiatives he supported, particularly regarding environmental stewardship, as demonstrated by his contributions to the Outside Foundation. Bill Miles, the president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, remarked on Wiendl’s steadfast commitment to the community, highlighting his role as a mentor to many aspiring professionals.
His neighbors and fellow board members, including Ray Deal, have spoken highly of Wiendl’s character and leadership qualities, describing him as honest, intelligent, humorous, dependable, and loyal. These attributes contributed to his widespread respect and affection within the community.
Personal Background
Born in Tampa, Florida, Jay Wiendl spent his early years in both Florida and South Carolina before ultimately relocating to Mountain Top. He graduated from Bishop Hoban High School and served his country as a Navy veteran. Post-service, Wiendl built a successful career in the hospitality industry, traveling extensively with his family before settling permanently in Hilton Head.
Final Farewell
A celebration of Wiendl’s life occurred on March 21, 2025, at Honey Horn Plantation, where over 600 individuals gathered to honor his memory. He is survived by his wife Kerri, son Connor, brother Joseph, step-sister Jill Gattuso, and numerous nieces and nephews.
His son, Connor Wiendl, is currently a senior at Hilton Head High School and the focus of The Connor Wiendl College Fund, which was established by the Chamber of Commerce to support his future educational pursuits. Jay was known for his love of being on the water and his dedication to nurturing young talent through coaching.
As the Hilton Head community reflects on Wiendl’s contributions, his impact will be remembered for generations to come. His commitment to excellence in hospitality, community service, and mentorship set a standard within the industry and the broader community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tiki Hut Beach Bar Earns Top Spot in National Rankings
Hilton Head Island Named Top Beach Bar Destination
Improvements Underway at Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island
Remembering Jay Wiendl: A Leader in Hilton Head Hospitality
First Sea Turtle Nest of 2025 Season Found on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Showcases Young Artistic Talent
Savannah Named Top U.S. Destination with Unique Charm
Hilton Head Island Mourns Jay Wiendl, Hospitality Leader
Additional Resources
- WSAV: Honoring and Remembering Jay Wiendl
- Citizens Voice: Jay Wiendl Obituary
- Island Packet: Environmental Contributions
- Legacy: Jay Wiendl Obituary
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
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.
