August Wayne Higby

August Wayne Higby, age 90, of Gratztown, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Known to most simply as Wayne, he lived a long, steady, and honorable life defined by devotion — to his country, his work, and most of all, his family.

From 1958 to 1966, he proudly served in the United States Army, serving his country with dedication and integrity.

On May 25, 1957, Wayne married the love of his life, Carolyn Marconi, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly seven decades. Together they raised three children.

Wayne spent his career as an airline mechanic with TWA, a job he took great pride in. Outside of work, Wayne was a true handy man — happiest with tools in his hands and a project in front of him. He loved working on cars, woodworking, and tackling odd jobs for family, friends, and neighbors. If something needed fixing, Wayne was already on his way.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents John Higby Sr. and Mary Higby (Panizzi); his siblings George Higby, John Higby Jr., Ida May Argus, Betty Jean Chishko and Margaret “Margie” Higby; and his grandchildren Dorothy Higby and Logan Higby, grandson in-law Joseph Alvarez Jr.

He is survived by his devoted wife Carolyn, his children David (Evelyn), Lorie (Neale), and Timothy. His grandchildren Christina Alvarez, Alicia Hazlett (Jesse), Kyle Shour (Kara), Katie Turney (Austin), and Julia Ewing (Brett). Great-grandchildren Emilio Alvarez, Riley Anthofer, Mia Alvarez, Colby Anthofer, Max Alvarez, Laney Anthofer, Tadd Shour, Sophie Hazlett, Audra Shour, Everly Hazlett, Brighton Hazlett and Conley Ewing.

Wayne will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.

Visitation will be held 1:30 - 2 p.m., Wednesday, July 15 at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO 64119. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. at the Funeral Home. A committal service with Military Honors will follow at White Chapel Cemetery.