Wayne Pridgen, 89, of Haines City, Florida passed away on September 30, 2024. He was born on November 25, 1934. After completing high school Wayne enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He was promoted to the rank of Sargent and received the National Defense Medal and Sharp Shooter designation before his honorable discharge. On December 16, 1954 he married Elizabeth Joyce. Wayne worked at Crown Cork & Seal. He was a member of Heartland Church in Winter Haven. Wayne loved hunting, fishing, reading, and spending time with his family.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth Joyce, his sons, James Pridgen
(Linda) and Paul Pridgen, daughter, Pamela Smith (Kip), five grandchildren: Tia Brown (Jacob), Shirece Brokaw (Billy), Chandler Pridgen (Kelly), Ashley Pridgen, and Hayden Smith, and three great grandchildren: Levi Brokaw, Andy and Louie Pridgen, and Princess Lyla.
A visitation is being held on Saturday, October 5, from 10-11 am with a funeral service following at 11 am. Both are being held at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home in Auburndale, Florida.
