Wayne Lynn Handley, age 92, son of Leland and Zella (Cook) Handley, was born on Feb. 21, 1933, in Nebo, Missouri. He passed away on March 16, 2025, at his home in Evening Shade, Missouri.
Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Leland and Zella; his brothers, Jewell and Junior; his sister, Irene; and granddaughter, Amanda.
He is survived by his wife, Claudeen; daughter, Patty (Carl); brother, Nolan (Delora); grandchildren, Brett, Dylan (Stephanie) and Carla; great-grandchildren Colton, Lux, Brooklyn, Hailey, Armani and Quentin; and a host of other family and friends.
He married his childhood sweetheart Claudeen (Williams) Handley on Feb. 5, 1955, and recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. To this Union, one daughter was born (Patty).
Wayne and Claudeen moved to Grand Blanc, Michigan in 1955. He worked at General Motors for a short period of time and then went to work at Evergreen Cemetery as a groundskeeper. This became his passion, and, in 1961, he became superintendent of the cemetery, and his wife Claudeen worked as bookkeeper. They lived at a home on the grounds where they both retired in the early 90s.
After retirement, they moved back home to Evening Shade. He found his second calling in life when he purchased a 400-acre farm in Plato, Missouri. He became a cattle farmer on the land until his health prohibited.
Wayne was always on the “go” as he was a steady patron of the local coffee shops in Roby and Lynchburg. The locals always knew to time their trips in effort to avoid Wayne’s driving. He was never in a hurry and liked to take in all of the sights along the way.
As Wayne wished, his body will be cremated with no funeral service. Later this summer, there will be a Celebration of Life for family and close friends. Wayne always enjoyed a good fish fry with friends.
Wayne accepted Christ as a child and was a member of the Palace Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Palace Cemetery maintenance. He will be missed by many. Arrangements entrusted to Evans Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.evansfh.com.