Wayne Harris Bussey
Wayne Harris Bussey, 87, passed away peacefully April 29, 2024, in the comfort of his daughter’s home and surrounded by his adoring family.
Wayne was born in 1936 in St. Augustine, Fla. to the late Earl and Eva Bussey.
He held a lifelong love of his childhood hometown, where he had fond memories growing up and playing sports. He graduated from Ketterlinus High School in 1954 and Georgia Institute of Technology in 1961 with a degree in electrical engineering. Wayne proudly served his country in the Naval Reserves.
He married Fayetta Melcher, also of St. Augustine, in 1962, and they raised their three children primarily in Ormond Beach, Fla. After a career with Florida Power and Light, he retired in 1993 and has been “the world’s greatest Poppy” ever since. He lost Faye suddenly, in 2006, to a stroke after 43 years of marriage. He will lay to rest beside her, under the magnolia tree, at Volusia Memorial in Ormond.
Wayne enjoyed his time on the Tomoka River for 30 years and playing tennis until he was 84. He has spent the last 16 years enjoying the loving company of his dear partner, Caroline Plant. Wayne always spoke with the utmost gratitude for the people in his life and the good fortune with which he was blessed. Likewise, those who had the pleasure to know him universally agree that “he is one of the nicest men I’ve ever met.” His example of courtesy, thoughtfulness and respect will continue to influence his grateful family for years to come.
He is survived by his three children, Laura (Bruce) Bagshaw, Mark (Jamie) Bussey and Chris (Dawn) Bussey, with a special mention to his son and daughters-in-law that he loved as his own. He also leaves three adored grandchildren, Blake (Kayla) Bagshaw, Ashleigh (Jake) Lathram and Austin (Kylie) Bagshaw; and three sweet great-grandchildren, Grayson, Adylee and Mia.
In addition to his parents and wife, Wayne was preceded in death by his sister, Anita King.
A private celebration will be held by his family. Arrangements are being made through Turner & Son Funeral Home and Crematory in Hillsboro.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude at www.stjude.org or Smile Train at www.smiletrain.org.
If you would like to leave the family a message, please visit www.turnerfuneralhomes.cc.