Wayne was born on December 24, 1940 in Mt. Sterling, IL to Otis Behymer and Mamie Irene (Baldwin) Behymer. He proudly served in the United States Army.
He completed two tours of Vietnam as a combat photographer and received several prestigious medals including Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm and Vietnam Campaign Medal and Device (1960).
After his military service, Wayne went to Texas to be with his siblings and work for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad until returning home to Illinois in 1993.
He was a lifelong member of VFW Post 6190. He served as Post Commander from 2017 - 2021.
Wayne loved to travel, grow beautiful roses, and was a lifelong avid photographer. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and volunteering with his VFW post. He was a loving and devoted husband, brother, uncle, stepfather and Papaw.
He is survived by his wife, Judy Behymer of Farmer City, his sister Joey McElroy of Silsbee, TX, a nephew, Lon Nichols of Fairview, TX,(and several other nieces and nephews), three stepchildren, Barb (Mike) Norris of Brookston, IN, Julie Robinson of Farmer City, IL and Bobby J. Robinson of Farmer City, IL; 5 grandchildren, Spencer (Abby) Neely, Skylar Neely, Jonathan Robinson, Emily Robinson, Evan Robinson and one great grandchild, Otto Neely.
He was preceded in death by his parents; 4 sisters and 2 brothers.
Cremation rites will be accorded by East Lawn Funeral Home in Bloomington. Memorials may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KA 66675-8516 or online at support.woundedwarriorproject.org. Online condolences and cherished memories may be left for the family at www.eastlawnmemorial.com.
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