Horace Lynn Wingate

Horace Lynn Wingate, 73, left this world peacefully on May 3, 2026. Lynn was born on November 8, 1952, in Deridder, Louisiana, to Horace and Bobbie Wingate. Lynn was a beloved son, father, teacher, entrepreneur, and friend to many.

 Lynn dedicated his life to teaching and inspiring others, sharing his love of learning with many along the way. He had a profound impact on those he taught, guiding them with kindness and wisdom. Lynn taught in public education for two years before becoming a realtor. After successfully completing his brokership, Lynn went on to establish Wingate Real Estate. Years later he saw a void in the community and his life that only teaching could fill. At that point, his entrepreneurial spirit kicked in and he opened Wingate School of Real Estate. During his time in the real estate industry, he helped countless individuals find their dream homes. In addition, he provided an opportunity for aspiring pupils to achieve their dreams of starting their own careers in the same field that had brought him so much joy and success.

Besides his career, Lynn was a true outdoorsman, he cherished his time spent hunting and fishing in the beautiful landscapes of Louisiana. He found joy in the simplicity of nature and the thrill of the chase, always sharing his knowledge of the outdoors and adventures with family and friends. A love for the outdoors was fostered as a child where he advanced to become an Eagle Scout. He used his knowledge of the outdoors and his love of teaching to nurture that skillset in his sons and his nephew.

Lynn had a true purple and gold passion for the LSU Tigers. He was affectionately known by his sons and their friends as “The Guru”, famous for his outlandish predictions, like, “this game can go one of two ways boys…it’s either gonna be a close game or a blowout!” He could also be counted on to send out “group text trivia” with specific instructions, no cheating/googling clauses, and assuring us he knew the answers to them all before sending!

At the heart of all his accomplishments, business ventures, and teachings was Jesus. Lynn was a life-long member of First Baptist Church of DeRidder. He was a faithful man who believed in the power of prayer. Lynn led by example and taught his family the importance of a faith-based life.

He is survived by his children, Russell Wingate, Shannon Wingate (Carmen), and Stacy Wingate, grandchildren; Baylee Wingate and Whitney Wingate. Nephew, Shawn Wingate.

He is preceded in death by his wife Rita Bomboy Wingate, parents, and brother Olan Wingate.

 A public viewing will be held at Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 5:00 pm until 8:00pm, A funeral service will take place at Myers Colonial Funeral Home on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow the service in Cooper Cemetery.

His legacy will continue through the love he imparted and the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.