Wayne Franklin Hairrell

Wayne Franklin Hairrell, a revered family man, esteemed attorney, and Navy veteran, passed away on October 7, 2025, in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, at the age of 86. Born on September 16, 1939, in the community of Courtland, Alabama, Wayne's early life was shaped by the values of hard work, integrity, and commitment to family—principles that would guide him throughout his life. A graduate of Lawrence County High School, Wayne first joined the Navy, then attended Florence State University before going on to earn his law degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. As a practicing attorney, Wayne was known for his sharp wit, unwavering ethical standards, and the wisdom he brought to every case and client he served. 

Wayne was a talented musician who played the saxophone in high school and while in the navy (which earned him extra shore leave). He switched instruments after his wife, Jane, gave him his first mandolin. Over the years, Wayne developed a deep respect for that instrument's versatility and enjoyed hosting and attending musical gatherings for decades. Wayne was an avid hunter, loved to fish, and was an excellent cook. Of all his interests, however, his garden was foremost. From placing seeds in the ground to putting the results into jars, being in the garden made Wayne happy.

Wayne was, above all, a good man. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Mary Hairrell, and his wife, Jane Courtright Hairrell. Wayne leaves behind his devoted children, Mary Tom Van Vickle and her husband Rhett, Jeremy Wayne Hairrell and his wife Anna, and one granddaughter, Allison Replogle. Wayne is also survived by several nieces and nephews and by his devoted sisters Joanne Baggett, Ghent Deese, and Ametra Bailey, who will miss their brother more than can be said. He was preceded in death by his brothers Benton, Braswell, Mike, and Dwight, with whom he now rests. Those who knew Wayne will remember him as an intelligent and compassionate patriarch whose wisdom guided his family through life's many chapters. His commitment to justice, to his country and its laws, and his utter devotion to loved ones will remain an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Wayne Franklin Hairrell's memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories, laughter, and love he left behind. As we bid farewell to a man of exceptional character, we celebrate the life of Wayne Franklin Hairrell with gratitude for the time we shared and the wisdom he imparted. 

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 15th, from 2:30 until 5:30 at the Lawrenceburg Produce Pavilion, located at 208 S. Military Avenue in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: A Cora Christmas, in memory of Wayne Hairrell--Pavilion Produce Fund. Those can be mailed to 240 Jackson Avenue, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee 38464.