Wayne Jay Lennington

He was born in Yorktown, Indiana, on July 7, 1930, to John R. Lennington and Nora Lennington. He lost his mother at the age of 5 and spent the remainder of his life mourning her loss. After graduating from high school, he spent the next few years of his life hitchhiking to Bloomington, Indiana, on weekends to attend law school while working construction in the Yorktown area. He married his wife, Patti (Phillips), during that time and subsequently had three children. Upon graduating law school, he returned to the Muncie area to establish his law practice with his uncle, Jacob Lennington, where he remained until he retired from practice.

Wayne was a true scholar of the law and never hesitated to extend his vast knowledge to the younger attorneys coming into practice. There was never a case study, citation, or law that he wasn't well-versed in and willing to share. Many young lawyers in the Muncie area benefited from his knowledge and expertise over the years earning him the nickname "Father Law."

In 1998, he was appointed Judge of the Delaware Circuit Court No. 5 by Governor Frank O'Bannon. He remained as Judge of Circuit Court No. 5 until he retired from the bench in 2005 when he returned to private practice. Wayne was a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge and spent many years performing funeral services for his departed brothers. It was the calling of which he was the most proud.

Anyone who knew Wayne knew that he had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need. Many residents of the Muncie/Yorktown area were recipients of his generosity during the span of his life.

He is survived by his three children, Libbi Lennington, Wayne J. "Duff" Lennington (Denise), and Lana L. Pendoski; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; special friend, Sandra DeBord, and close friends Vicki and Bud Craig, Chaunce Pointer, Kent Adsit, and Joan Herbert.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Patti; and his brother, Bill Lennington.

He will be laid to rest in Mount Pleasant Cemetery next to his beloved mother, Nora. Upon his request, there will be no services.