In Loving Memory of Wayne Eliot Yancey June 18, 1950 – July 17, 2026

Wayne E. Yancey, 76, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Wayne was born on June 18, 1950, in Casper, Wyoming, before moving to Nederland, Texas, where he met the love of his life, Gayle. Together, Wayne and Gayle shared 56 years of marriage and a life centered on family.

Wayne graduated from Texas A&M University and remained a devoted Aggie throughout his life. He took great pride in his alma mater and was a Texas A&M fan, always cheering on the Aggies!

He enjoyed a long and successful career in the construction industry, including owning and operating his own company for a time. His strong work ethic, determination, and dedication were evident throughout his professional life.

Wayne and Gayle’s journey together took them from Texas to Reno, Nevada, and later to Boise, Idaho, before they eventually settled in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to be closer to their children and grandchildren. It was there that Wayne found great joy in watching his grandchildren grow up and cheering them on as they participated in sports and other activities. Being present for those moments brought him tremendous happiness and pride. Also, an avid outdoorsman, Wayne loved camping, hiking, kayaking, and spending time in nature.

Above all else, Wayne was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his love of family, his strong and steady presence, his adventurous spirit, and the many memories he created with those closest to him.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Marilyn Yancey. Wayne is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Gayle Yancey; his son and daughter-in-law, Sean and Joy Yancey; his daughter and son-in-law, Tonya and Michael Iturri; his cherished grandchildren, Taylor Yancey, Mack Yancey, Alivia Iturri, and Landon Iturri; and his sister, Jennifer Batchelor.

Wayne’s legacy will live on through the family he loved, the values he passed down, and the memories that will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A Celebration of Life visitation hours will be Saturday, August 22, 2026 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm at Murfreesboro Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to honor Wayne’s memory to spend time outdoors with the people they love or make a donation to the cancer research or support organization of their choice.