He was born on February 24, 1941, Charlotte, North Carolina. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Lillie Owen.
Wayne proudly served with the Charlotte Fire Department for 28 years, from 1964 to 1992, retiring as a Captain. His dedication to service and commitment to his community were a defining part of his life.
In his free time, Wayne enjoyed collecting toys (he was a flea market junky), listening to classic country music - especially Hank Williams and George Jones- and spending cherished time with his wife at their beach home in Cherry Grove, South Carolina.
Wayne is survived by his loving wife of sixty-six years, Sybil B. Owen; his sister, Janet Hardy; his children: Michelle (Glen) Standley/Ferguson, Sandy (Jimmy) Joyner, and David (Karen) Owen. He was a devoted and proud Pawpaw to six grandchildren and ten great grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.
Visitation will be held at McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227, on March 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, with the Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 am. Wayne will be laid to rest at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28212, immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Indian Trail - Cameron's House of Hope, P.O. Box 2550, Indian Trail, North Carolina 28079, US, or online at https://www.fbcit.org/givehope.
