Wayne Darrell Thigpen

Wayne Darrell Thigpen, age 74 of Starke, Florida passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, at Riverwood Health and Rehabilitation Center. He was born in Gainesville, Florida on May 13, 1951, to the late Wallace L. Thigpen, Jr. and Mildred Frith Thigpen. Wayne was raised in Starke and Live Oak, Florida, and graduated from Suwannee High School in 1971. He went on to have a long and successful career with the Florida Department of Transportation. After 31 years of dedicated service, Wayne retired in 2008. A few years prior to his retirement, he relocated to Bradford County, where he made Starke his forever home. When not working, Wayne enjoyed the peacefulness of the outdoors and loved fishing alongside his brother, David. He held a deep and special love for his family and friends and truly cherished the time spent with them. Wayne was also a devoted fan of Gator football and loved gathering with family and friends to watch football games. Wayne was truly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Joseph Thigpen; and sister, June Braham.

Wayne is survived by his loving brother, David (Debbie) Thigpen, Sr. of Starke, FL; along with several nieces, nephews, and friends whom he cherished.

A Celebration of Wayne's Life will be held in the near future and he will be laid to rest with his family at Santa Fe Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services and Archie Tanner Memorial Chapel, Starke, Fl. 904-964-5757. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family's guest book.