Wilna Wylie Lovett

Wilna Wylie Lovett, 83, of Summerville, South Carolina, died peacefully on June 26, 2026.

Born in rural Rosemark, Tennessee, Wilna was the third of four children and excelled both academically and socially. She attended Erskine College, where she formed lifelong friendships and met her beloved husband, Dick. Together they began their careers teaching and coaching in Due West, South Carolina, embarking on a partnership that would span more than 60 years.

A devoted wife and mother, Wilna and Dick built a home centered on love, kindness, and faith. They raised their children, Tim and Beth, around a table where Wilna prepared delicious meals and love was expressed through quiet, everyday acts of care.

Over the years, Wilna embraced many moves, living in South Carolina, North Carolina, Kansas, Pennsylvania, and New York City. Wherever life took them, she found joy in creating a welcoming home, building meaningful friendships, and serving her community. Eventually, she and Dick settled in Beaufort, South Carolina, where they treasured being close to family and their beloved grandchildren, Henry and Olivia.

A faithful member of First Presbyterian Church, Wilna was deeply engaged in the Beaufort community. She volunteered with Second Helpings, delivering meals to families in need, and generously gave her time to Habitat for Humanity and many other organizations throughout her life.

As one of Beaufort County's first Master Naturalists, a certified Master Gardener, and a member of the Sea Island Garden Club, Wilna delighted in sharing her appreciation for wildflowers and birds. She enjoyed kayaking, long walks, dinners with friends, and the quiet beauty of nature. Above all, Wilna treasured her family.

Those who knew Wilna will remember a woman of quiet strength, remarkable patience, and enduring grace. She possessed an uncommon gift for listening. Whether listening to one of Dick's favorite stories for the hundredth time or giving someone her full attention, she had a way of putting people at ease. She embraced every chapter of life with optimism, from adventures in New York City to the beauty of the Lowcountry, finding joy wherever she was planted.

Even during her journey with Alzheimer's disease, which gradually stole many of her memories but never diminished her gentle spirit, she continued to teach those around her to laugh often, appreciate nature, and treasure the simple joy of sitting together and holding hands. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched with her generosity, quiet grace, and abiding love.

Wilna is survived by her son, Tim Lovett (Carson Bruce); her daughter, Beth Lovett (David Stickel); her grandchildren, Henry and Olivia Lovett; her brother-in-law, Tommy Lovett; and her sisters-in-law, Lynne Lovett, Linda Lovett Parker, Kay Wylie, and Martha Jo Owen. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George "Dick" Lovett; her parents, Wilna and Melvin Wylie; her brother, Don Wylie; and her sister, Karen Wylie.

A graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorial gifts may be made to a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Agape Care Group and The Villages at Summerville for their compassionate care.