Wendell Cline Eller
Wendell Cline Eller, 99, of Bridgewater, Virgina passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026. He was born on April 22, 1926 in Lynchburg, Virgina to the late Henry Cline Eller and Effie Mae Naff.
He graduated from Luray High School before earning a Bachelor of Arts from Bridgewater College in 1948 and a Divinity degree from Bethany Theological Seminary in 1953.
Wendell’s life was defined by his ministry, spanning over six decades. Following his ordination in the Church of the Brethren, he served full-time pastorates at Wawaka (IN), Union Center (IN), Oakton (VA), and Panther Creek (IA). He continued in ministry as associate pastor at Sebring (FL) and Bridgewater (VA). His leadership extended beyond the pulpit serving in numerous positions supporting the districts he served and communities in which he lived. Prior to his service in ministry, he worked for the Church of the Brethren General Offices in Elgin, Il. where he met Sonya Kaufman. They were married in 1957 and enjoyed 68 years of life together.
A true lifelong learner, Wendell frequently attended seminars and other theological institutions to better serve those in his care. Beyond his professional life, Wendell found joy in the simple and restorative. He was a talented gardener, an avid reader, and spent many hours refinishing furniture. He enjoyed travel and camping together with his family. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time with his children and grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Doris Eller Heisel, and brother Galen Ross Eller. Wendell is survived by his wife and his children Jerel Eller (Dawn), Denise Eller Saunders (Warren), Sheri Eller Bragg (Adrian), and Shawn Eller (Raquel) and grandchildren Jesse Eller, Haley Saunders, Meagan Saunders, Katelyn Saunders, Emma Eller and Holly Bragg.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 25 at Bridgewater Church of the Brethren. Donations in Wendell’s memory can be made to the Bridgewater Church of the Brethren or Bridgewater College.
