Wendell Watson Whiteside died at his home in Gainesville, Ga., on Dec. 7, 2015.

He was born, the beloved son of A.E. Whiteside and Doris Watson Whiteside Curry, in Calhoun County, Ala., on Nov. 21, 1937.

Wendell served in the U.S. Army for three years after graduating from Alexandria High School, where he enjoyed and excelled in basketball and football. He earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees at Auburn University, completing his education in 1963.

Wendell taught higher math and coached sports at high schools in Columbus and La Grange, Ga., before moving to Gainesville, Ga., where he lived for almost 50 years and was athletic director, coach of basketball, golf and tennis, as well as professor of other subjects at Gainesville College, where his work influenced the lives of many young people in countless ways. He was a popular and effective teacher.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 45 years, Jane Bennett Whiteside of Gainesville; one sister, Nancy W. Payne Stanfield and her husband, Joe Stanfield, of Winston-Salem, N.C.; two nephews and their families, Patrick Knox Payne of Lexington, S.C., and Hunter Andrew Payne of Naples, Fla.

He is also survived by sisters-in-law, Ruth Martin and Ann Preston; nieces and nephews; and many other of Jane's family members. In addition, there are Whiteside and Watson cousins and countless friends who will miss him.

Wendell was a man of many interests and talents, including reading, exploring nature, Auburn football and especially did he love and master the art of fly-fishing.

There will be no formal gathering or service; however, in keeping with Wendell's passions, the family urges you to enjoy and appreciate the creations of nature just a little bit more today.