Wayne Edward Guinn

Wayne Edward Guinn spread his contagious smile across the world for over 78 years. He never met a stranger and left a path of laughter everywhere he went. Without warning and in his well-known tradition of avoiding emotional goodbyes, he slipped away from this life peacefully on June 29th. He always left a place happier than he found it, so there is no surprise that he left thousands of lives brighter because of the joy, kindness, generosity, and entertainment that filled his spirit.

Wayne began his journey through life in Morristown, Tennessee. After graduation from Marion High School in Indiana, he joined the US Army and served his country with excellence in skill and dedication. As a Vietnam Veteran, he was highly decorated, receiving the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, National Police Honor Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and Army Commendation Medal. After his retirement as a Master Sargent, he used his skills as a master craftsman to continue his civilian service at Lackland Airforce Base and as the owner of The Alley Woodsmith in San Antonio, Texas.

With a wise appreciation for the value of every moment, Wayne filled his days with new experiences, fascinating people, beautiful views, and inspiring music. He knew the worth of small connections and cherishing every moment we are gifted – whether by listening to Bluegrass, experimenting with a new recipe, anonymously helping someone in need, sharing his knowledge with a new learner, traveling through West Texas, watching an Atlanta Braves Ballgame, spoiling his dogs, playing his harmonica and banjo, spending time with friends, or reminiscing with family. Though he had many interests and talents, Wayne’s greatest skill was making the people around him feel like the most important thing in his world.

Wayne was preceded in death by his loving parents, Hobert Wayne Guinn and Nancy Kate Cox, and his brother Charles Franklin (Frank) Guinn. His sister Katherine Guinn Bilbee and brother David Michael Guinn will continue to enjoy their decades of priceless memories together. Wayne’s greatest honor was being the father of Steven Wade Guinn. He was proud to call Belinda Smith Guinn his daughter-in-love and was delighted by his granddaughters, Vanessa Peoples and Coral Guinn. His many nieces and nephews are flooded with memories of being his “favorite” and they, along with scores of other relatives and friends, will continue to embrace and share “Uncle Wayne’s” legacy of a joyful spirit, a vibrant life, and a heart filled with love.

At Wayne’s request, a celebration of life will be held at a later time.