T. Wayne Green

Husband. Dad. Grandad.

If you knew Wayne, you probably picture him the same way we do: wearing pressed Wranglers, well-worn boots that shone like the day they were bought, and a Stetson. He was meticulous in the quietest ways, taking pride in doing things well, whether he was tending to his many plants, chopping vegetables with precision for his famous breakfast burritos, or making sure every task was done the right way.

He loved Southern gospel, country music, and never missed an opportunity to share one of his classic "Grandad-isms." If you asked him a question he didn't quite agree with, he'd simply smile and say, "I'll ponder on it." If you asked him the time, he'd tell you it was "a hair past a freckle." Every historical marker was a "hysterical marker," and every time he passed a cemetery, you could count on him to grin and say, "They're dying to get in there." His greatest joy came from making others laugh, and hearing his family laugh right along with him.

More than anything, Wayne showed his love by showing up for family and friends alike. No drive was too long if it meant being there to cheer on any of his grandchildren at swim meets, school plays, concerts, livestock shows, or Grandparents Day celebrations. He never needed grand gestures; his steady presence spoke louder than words. He was the kind of man who got down on the floor to play, pushed the swings long after everyone else was ready to stop, and made ordinary moments feel unforgettable simply because he was there.

Wayne worked hard throughout his life and believed that if something was worth doing, it was worth doing well. He volunteered for many organizations throughout his life, one of which was the Jaycees, where he was awarded Senatorship by Junior Chamber International. That same dedication carried into one of his lifelong passions: working with animals. As a young man, he proudly showed steers and lambs; and in later years, he found just as much joy helping his grandchildren and friends prepare and care for their own show animals whenever the opportunity arose. Whether he was offering advice, lending a hand, or simply showing up to encourage them, he quietly shared his knowledge, work ethic, and love for animals with the next generation.

He also served wherever he was needed, carefully hand-lettering hundreds of tiny name pins to support one of his daughter's activities and faithfully serving as treasurer of the band boosters for six years during his daughter’s and son’s tenure in band. He found purpose not in recognition, but in helping others and supporting the people he loved.

Beneath that strong work ethic was a gentle humility. He never wanted to inconvenience anyone and often worried that he was a burden, even though everyone who loved him knew the opposite was true. He wasn't a burden; he was a blessing. He was the steady hand, the quiet encourager, and the dependable presence who made everyone around him feel loved and supported.

His greatest accomplishment wasn't measured by his work or possessions, but by the family he loved so deeply.

Wayne is survived by the love of his life and devoted wife of 61 years, Lou Sharron Green.

He leaves behind three children who were the pride of his life: Thomas Green, Jr. and his wife, Tricia; Christi Howry and her husband, Scott; and Stephanie Bussey and her husband, Hank.

He was a proud Grandad to Tucker Green and his wife, Emma; Tatum Green; Tenley Green; Kaleigh Shipman and her husband, Drew; Braden Howry; Alexandria Bussey; Abigail Bussey; and AnnaClaire Bussey.

His legacy continues through his beloved great-grandchildren, Kensi Shipman and Stetson Shipman.

Wayne is also survived by his sister, Dolores Efird and her husband, Jim; his nephew, Bert Merritt (Dayla); and his nieces, Tammy Mitchell (Kevin), and Misty Williamson (DeWayne).

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandchildren, Bailli Nicole Howry and Garrett Scott Howry; his great-granddaughter, Brenleigh Kate Shipman; his brother-in-law, Gilbert Merritt; and his cherished grandmother, Annie Mae Lambert, lovingly known as "Mama."

Wayne leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, humility, laughter, and unwavering love. Long after his boots are put away and his Stetson is hung, we'll remember the man who taught us that love isn't always spoken; it is shown.

Wayne was a devoted husband. A faithful dad. A proud Grandad. He showed up. And in doing so, he gave his family one of life's greatest gifts: the comfort of always knowing they were deeply loved.

The family will receive friends for a visitation on Friday, July 17th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Emerald Hills Funeral Home, Kennedale. A funeral service celebrating Wayne's life will be held Saturday, July 18th, at 10:30 AM, also at Emerald Hills Funeral Home.

Wayne was rarely seen without his Stetson and boots. The family would be honored if you'd wear yours.