WILMINGTON — Jerry Wayne Floyd, 66, of Wilmington, NC passed away peacefully at his home on August 7, 2024, surrounded by family.
Wayne was born in Wilmington, NC on February 6, 1958 to the Silvia Jean Floyd and the late Jerry Floyd. He attended Hoggard High School in Wilmington.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 38 years, Gayle Walker Floyd; his son Nicholas Wayne Floyd, wife Blain; grandchildren Maddie “Moo” Floyd and Dylan Wayne Floyd; his mother Silvia Jean Floyd; brother Ray Floyd; brother Charlie Floyd, wife Carla Hill; sister Cathy Lantz, husband Billy; sister Loretta Heimbach, husband Rick; brother-in-law Robert Walker, wife Donna; many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family whom he loved very much;
Wayne was a “Professional Beer Man” by trade and prided himself on a strong work ethic and relationships built through work. He spent 30 years with Coastal Beverage Company of Wilmington with a focus on building beer brands all over Southeastern NC and beyond. He was known as one of the most successful, competitive and respected men in the industry.
For decades he was active in the slowpitch softball community, traveling the country playing, coaching and managing teams while making memories and building friendships that last a lifetime.
After retirement his Harley Davidson became his passion and his peace. He loved riding with groups and especially his best buddy and brother-in-law Rick. He would randomly get on his bike and ride across several states before making his way back home. The mountains of North Carolina held a special place in his heart, he declared them his home away from home.
His charismatic energy was infectious, always putting others first and making everyone feel like family. He was a prankster and loved to tell a joke. He thrived on others happiness and always wanted everyone to have a full belly. You never saw him without a Little Debbie snack and a story to tell.
From holidays to gatherings to meals and games, he was the glue to the family, always making sure everything was coordinated across our large family. He never wanted to miss an event in anyone’s life, a graduation, sporting event, wedding, birth of a new family member or anything in between. He always found the time to be there for everyone, friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, Wayne’s family requests you make a donation to Lower Cape Fear Lifecare or the Glioblastoma Foundation supporting brain tumor research through the Duke Cancer Institute.
Services will be held at Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel, 4108 College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412 on Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. with a service immediately following.
