Wayne Edward DeBord

Wayne Edward DeBord, age 86, of Huntsville, Tennessee, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on December 4th, 2025. Born on July 14, 1939, in Lucasville, Ohio, he was the son of the late John and Elner DeBord.

Wayne's earthly journey was richly woven with the presence of family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol Sue Woodward-DeBord; his four full siblings: William DeBord, Virginia Osborne, Cora Lea Hendley, and Betty Swink; as well as by four half-siblings: Jackie, John, Tim, and Geraldine. Wayne carried each of their memories with gratitude and a deep-felt love. He is survived by one half-sister, Judy, along with many nieces and nephews whose lives remained cherished blessings to him.

At just 16 years old, Wayne answered a call to service and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. His willingness to step forward at such a young age spoke to his courage, steadfastness, and sense of duty, qualities that continued to define him throughout his life. Wayne's family blossomed when he married Carol Sue (Woodward) DeBord, and together they built a home rooted in faith, love, and devotion. Wayne and Sue's love, strength, and dedication to God shaped their home, and they were blessed with three children: Robin Allen, Kim Wright, and Beau DeBord.

After Sue's passing, Wayne was graced with a second season of companionship when he married Henrietta (Rector) Sexton in 2005, a marriage defined by their shared faith, mutual devotion, and steady, enduring care for one another.

A man of steady integrity, Wayne lived a life of service as both a businessman and an educator. His kindness was quiet but profound, and his servant's heart reflected the character of Christ in every season. He walked humbly, gave generously, and believed deeply touching many lives simply by living his faith.

Wayne leaves behind a legacy carried forward through his three children; his seven grandchildren; Lance Allen, Colton Allen, Tara-Beth Malone, Jamie Fox, Blake Potter, Kade DeBord, and Brady DeBord; and his nine great-grandchildren: Adaleigh, Emmalyn, Sutton, Grey, Stetson, Owen, Rylee, Nolan, and Cooper. His love for them was steadfast, and he thanked God daily for the blessing of each new generation.

He will also be lovingly remembered by Henrietta's three children; Amy Sexton, Karla West, and Matthew Sexton; and by each of their many children and grandchildren, all of whom brought additional joy, richness, and fullness to his life.

"My one regret is leaving you behind,
And I'll be waiting on the far side banks of Jordan."
-from "Far Side Banks of Jordan" by Jimmy Fortune

Friends may visit with the DeBord family on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until time of funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at the White Rock Baptist Church, 2703 Baker Hwy, Huntsville, TN with Bro. Jim West, Bro. Kyle Keeton, and Bro. Blake Potter officiating.

Committal service will follow in the Newport Cemetery in the Winona Community.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made to the White Rock Baptist Church Building Fund, honoring Wayne's love for his church and his dedication to the work of the Lord.

Jones & Son Funeral Home is serving the family of Wayne Edward DeBord.