Wayne Rosetti Obituary
Wayne Lynn Rosetti
July 5, 2024
Biloxi, Mississippi - Wayne Lynn Rosetti Sr., a lifelong Biloxi resident, passed away on July 5, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on January 23, 1937, Wayne was the middle son of George "Eudie" and Edna Melvin Rosetti, with an older brother, George, and a younger brother, Larry. Growing up on the "Point," he split his time between helping at the family restaurant, "Rosetti's Café," and lifting weights, a passion he maintained well into his eighties.
After graduating from Biloxi High School in 1954, Wayne briefly attended the University of Southern Mississippi before enlisting in the U.S. Army. During his three years of service, he embraced the discipline and structure of military life and discovered a profound love for reading. He delved into books on history, philosophy, and classical music, which sparked a lifelong passion for art.
In 1958, Wayne returned to Biloxi and dedicated himself to studying and practicing art. He met Helen Frances Jurta, the love of his life, and married her on December 12, 1964. They raised two children, Wayne Jr. and Vicki, in their West Biloxi home. Over the next 59 years, Wayne explored various business ventures but always prioritized his family and his art.
From the late 1960s to 2024, Wayne created an impressive collection of over 10,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, metalwork, woodwork, and digital art. Their home became a vibrant gallery, adorned with his creations on every wall, table, and corner, reflecting his immense creativity and passion. Wayne gained a large following on Instagram, where he shared his artwork and connected with fellow artists. Among his admirers was a Pulitzer Prize-winning art critic who praised many of his exceptional pieces.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, George "Eudie" and Edna Melvin Rosetti; his brother, Larry Rosetti; and his great-grandson, Rowan.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Helen; his children, Wayne Jr. and his wife Michelle, and Vicki Applewhite and her husband Roger; his grandchildren, Jared, Corbin, and Nick; and his great-grandchildren, Emma, Charlotte, Oliver, Maddox, Natalie, Parker, and Penelope. He is also survived by his brother, George, and his wife Barbara; his sister-in-law, Maureen; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Wayne's artistic expression, deep love for his family, and kind, gentle soul continue to inspire and touch everyone who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, July 15th, 2024, at the Rosetti residence, 2511 Meadow Road, Biloxi, MS 39531 where friends can call between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
A private interment will take place at Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave. Biloxi, MS.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Gulf Coast Rescue Mission, 2750 Mission Lane, Biloxi, MS 39531.
Published by The Sun Herald on Jul. 14, 2024.