Wayne Dean Graham, 83, of Pittsboro, N.C., passed away at home Saturday morning, October 31, 2020, after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
Wayne was born in 1937 to the late Edgar and Louise Graham and grew up in Amarillo, Texas. He was the third of four sons. His brothers, Jack Graham, Gene Graham, and Gary Graham preceded him in death.
Wayne joined the Navy shortly after high school and served honorably for twelve years, including fighting in the Vietnam War. He was extremely proud of his military service, and this was an important part of his life. After the Navy, he moved to North Carolina and spent his career working as a maintenance supervisor for Chatham County Schools and as an HVAC technician and supervisor, retiring from UNC Hospitals. Wayne was also an avid and talented woodworker and created many beautiful pieces of furniture for his family and friends over the years. He loved to cook, especially breakfast, working at Allen & Sons on the side and running a restaurant, Wayne’s Place, in Pittsboro for a few years.
Wayne is survived by his daughter, Deanna Lewis and her husband Richard; granddaughters, Logan Baker of Burlington, Simone Baker of Wilmington, Rachel Watts of Efland, and a great-granddaughter, Ava Green.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, November 15, 2020, at Donaldson Funeral Home and Cremation in Pittsboro. There will be time for visitation immediately following the service. Due to Covid-19 precautions, the family asks that anyone attending the memorial service wear a mask.
Flowers are welcome and appreciated.
Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals.com.
