Clanton Wayne Durrence

Clanton “Wayne “ Durrence, a devoted entrepreneur and community pillar, passed away on November 1, 2024, at his residence under the care of Ogeechee Area Hospice at the age of 86. Born on May 4, 1938, in Mendes, Georgia, to Clanton and Virginia Kennedy Durrence, Wayne lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and a commitment to his community. 

A graduate of Glennville High School in 1956, Wayne's high school years were characterized by his active participation in sports, including football, softball, and track. Wayne served honorably in the Marine Corps for three years, a period that instilled in him the values of discipline and service that he carried throughout his life. 

 After his military service, he married the love of his life, Patsy Waters on April 11, 1959, and embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that would lead him to become a well-respected business figure in Tattnall County. He had a diverse range of businesses. Starting out driving a bread delivery truck, he developed a knack for wheeling and dealing. He followed this with an array of other businesses including real estate dealer, mobile home dealer, construction and concrete provider, farmer and many, many other endeavors. His tireless work ethic earned him a reputation as someone who was "all work all the time," truly embodying a business-minded approach. 

His spunky personality and competitive spirit was evident in all aspects of his life. Through the years he enjoyed traveling with his wife and friends whether it be across country, tropical, or a horse race. He also enjoyed an occasional golf game. Wayne had a profound love for farming, especially onions. That love led him to be an innovator in the cold storage industry, being one of the first for this area. 

 Wayne's contributions to his community went beyond entrepreneurship; he served as a Tattnall County Commissioner, where he dedicated himself to improving the lives of those he represented. His commitment to public service and community betterment solidified his status as a respected figure.

In addition to his professional achievements, Wayne was actively involved in various community organizations, including membership in the Jaycees. A man with a tough exterior but soft heart and generous soul. His legacy is one of service and determination, as he aspired to foster growth and opportunity within Tattnall County.

He was a devoted member of Loves Chapel Primitive Baptist Church and is preceded in death by his parents, wife of 64 years, Patsy Durrence, a daughter, Angela Folsom, sister and brother-in-law, Kay and Derryl Moody.

Wayne is survived by:

Daughter, Renee Savitz (Curtis) of Frisco, Texas  

Son-in-law, Jay Folsom of Glennville, Georgia 

 Grandchildren, Casey Butler (Jason) of Glennville, Georgia Cody Folsom (Amanda) of Glennville, Georgia Cameron Savitz (Ryan) of Denton, Texas Madison Ioannides (Bill) of Frisco, Texas

Great Grandchildren, Brooks Butler, Mercer Butler, Payson Folsom, Parker Folsom, Zane Ioannides, Remi Ioannides, and baby Quinn Savitz

Sister, Janice Dreggers (Freddie) of Plant City, Florida

His faithful and devoted "Right Hand" & Friend, Teresa Banks (Gene) of Glennville, Georgia

Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Wayne's caregivers: Brenda Mckever, Tearesa Wilcox, Robin Stanfield, Robert West, Trina Nall, Kay Sands and the staff of Ogeechee Area Hospice. 

Visitation will begin at 5:00 pm, Monday, November 4, 2024, at Brannen Family Funeral Services. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at Loves Chapel Primitive Baptist Church. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Loves Chapel Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

Remembrances may be made to: Loves Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, 1259 Carl Dasher Road, Glennville, Georgia 30427. 

Care and Services are entrusted to Brannen Family Funeral Services, Glennville, Georgia. "Our Family Serving Your Family"