Wendell Lanier Fletcher

Wendell Lanier Fletcher, known affectionately to many as Lanier, passed away peacefully on August, 17, 2026, at Cypress Pond Assisted Living Center in Tifton, Georgia after fifteen years. Born on February 3, 1942, in Turner County, Georgia, Lanier spent his life devoted to his family, his work, and his community.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, August 21, 2026 at Albritton Funeral Directors Chapel with Mr. Jason Womack officiating. Interment will follow at Waterloo Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Ronnie Shiflett delivering closing prayer and military honors rendered. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 6:30 P.M. on Thursday, August 20, 2026 at the funeral home.

Nelson Kunes, Eric Fletcher, Arthur Perrien, Josh Thompson and Ronnie Shiflett will serve as pallbearers.

A proud graduate of Irwin County High School, Lanier embarked on a life filled with industry, adventure, and kindness. He was the dedicated owner of a trucking company and turf farm, channels through which he demonstrated tireless work ethic and a love for honest enterprise. Those who knew him recognized his passion for his businesses, especially the time he spent driving his semi-truck and nurturing the turf farming venture that became both a livelihood and a source of joy.

Lanier served his country honorably as a veteran of the United States Army during the Vietnam-era. The sense of duty and discipline he carried from his service was evident throughout his life, shaping his character and influence on those around him.

His zest for life was unmistakable. Lanier found happiness riding motorcycles especially in the Toys for Tots parades, playing golf, and always looking forward to a good road trip. Friends and family alike will remember his love for sharing time on the open road and the simple pleasures these adventures brought him.

A man of faith, Lanier cherished his role as a member of Macedonia Baptist Church. His commitment to his church community reflected a deep and abiding faith that sustained him throughout his life. Attendance at Macedonia Baptist Church was more than a routine when he was healthier, it was an integral part of who he was, both as a Christian and as a neighbor.

Lanier’s legacy lives on in his family. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Adrian and Jessica Fletcher, Adrian’s mother, Virginia Fletcher; his sister, Loralei Fletcher Schwartz; and his nieces, Teena Davidson Wilson (Bill) and Stacey Davidson Wynn (Dale) along with his great nieces, Blaire Hillman and Kasey Dicks Bloed (C.J.). He was preceded in death by his father, W. A. Fletcher, as well as by his mother, Gladys Thompson Fletcher Troup.

Wendell Lanier Fletcher will be remembered for his love of life, enduring commitment to family and friends, devotion to his faith, and the enduring mark he left on his community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Flowers accepted or donations may be made to Holy Land Farms at holylandfarms.org in memory of Lanier Fletcher.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Cypress Pond Assisted Living Center and Regency Southern Care Hospice for their loving and compassionate care for Lanier.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements.