Edward Wayne Futrell

MURFREESBORO, NC - Edward Wayne Futrell, affectionately known as Wayne, passed away on July 15, 2025, at ECU Health Roanoke Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 29, 1943, in Halifax County, NC, Wayne was 82 years old at the time of his passing.
Wayne was the cherished son of the late John Sullivan Futrell and Lettie Elizabeth Martin Futrell. He spent his early years cultivating a strong sense of community and family values, qualities that guided him throughout his life. Wayne's dedication to service was exemplified through his membership in the Army National Guard and his long-standing commitment to the American George Lodge #17 and Wiccacon Lodge #240, where he proudly served as secretary for over 50 years and held the esteemed position of Past Master.
An enterprising spirit led Wayne to become a part owner of Ace Hardware in Murfreesboro, NC, where he not only contributed to the local economy but also formed lasting relationships with those in his community. His hands-on approach extended beyond business; Wayne was a passionate individual whose interests ranged from fishing and cutting grass on his tractor to strolling his neighborhood in a golf cart, and you could usually catch him with a newspaper in hand.
A devoted member of Ashley's Grove Baptist Church, Wayne served in many capacities and was a former deacon, where he generously shared time and energy to support his faith community. His culinary passion was well known, especially his love for cooking BBQ competitively. Wayne treasured simple pleasures, such as enjoying a refreshing Mountain Dew and a snack of "nabs" or a honey bun. Wayne Futrell will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His impact on family, friends, and his community will be forever cherished and remembered.
Along with his parents, Wayne is preceded in death by his brother, Johnny Futrell, his sister, Libby Rawls, and sister-in-law, Paula Futrell.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Anne Dickens Futrell, who shared his journey with unwavering support and love. His legacy continues through his children, Melissa Futrell Spence and husband Bobby of Raleigh, NC, and Jeffrey "Jeff" Futrell and girlfriend Angela Waters of Williamston, NC; his wife's children, Kim Ricks and husband Grady of Seaboard, NC, Lisa Futrell of Conway, NC, and Kelly Futrell III of Wakefield, VA. Wayne was a proud grandfather to Camden Spence of Raleigh, NC; Allison and Jonathan Futrell of London, KY; Chad Ricks and wife Tiffany of Seaboard, NC-and great-grandfather to Ashlynn Futrell of London, KY, and Skyler, Ella, and Maverick Ricks of Seaboard, NC. His brother, Robert Futrell of Carmichael, CA, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends, will fondly remember Wayne's warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit.
A celebration of Wayne's life will be held at Ashley's Grove Baptist Church on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 11:00 am, officiated by Rev. Ken Baker. Friends and family are welcome to gather an hour prior to the service, at 10:00 am, to share memories and offer condolences. Following the service, Wayne will be laid to rest in the church cemetery, a place close to his heart and faith.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made directly to the Masonic Home for Children, 600 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565 or online by clicking here.
Online condolences can be made at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Murfreesboro Chapel, Murfreesboro, NC 27855. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward Wayne Futrell, please visit our floral store.