In Loving Memory of Uther Wayne
Sunrise: September 14, 1946 – Sunset: June 3, 2025

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Uther Wayne, who departed this life peacefully in his sleep around 3 a.m. on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. He was 78 years old. Surrounded by love and in the comfort of his home, Uther left this world as quietly and gracefully as he lived—leaving behind a legacy marked by strength, humility, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

Born on September 14, 1946, in Asheville, North Carolina, Uther was a son of the South through and through. From a young age, he was known for his inquisitive mind, steadfast character, and warm, disarming smile. He grew up working on his family’s small farm, where he learned the value of hard work and integrity—values that would carry him through every phase of his life.

A proud graduate of the University of North Carolina, Uther majored in history and minored in political science. He was a lifelong learner, a reader of all things historical and philosophical, and someone who enjoyed exploring the stories that helped shape the world. He often said, “To know where we are going, we must understand where we’ve been.” That belief guided not just his studies, but his approach to life.

In 1971, Uther married the love of his life, Margaret “Maggie” Loraine Carter, with whom he shared over five decades of unwavering partnership. Together, they built a life full of compassion, resilience, and purpose. Their union was one of deep friendship and mutual respect—something friends and family admired with reverence. Their home was a place where laughter echoed, books filled every shelf, and kindness was never in short supply.

Uther dedicated over 35 years to a career in public education, serving first as a high school history teacher and later as a school administrator. He believed deeply in the power of education to lift people up, and he made it his mission to help students discover their potential. Many former students recall his passion for teaching and his ability to make history come alive. He was not just a teacher, but a mentor, counselor, and steady hand during turbulent times.

Outside of work, Uther was an avid gardener, an amateur carpenter, and a proud grandfather. He loved jazz records, old westerns, and lazy Sunday afternoons spent on the porch with a glass of sweet tea. But above all, his greatest joy came from being with his family. He adored his children and grandchildren, attending their recitals, ballgames, graduations, and milestones with pride and boundless affection.

He is survived by his beloved wife Maggie Wayne, his three children: Lillian (Tom) Hughes, Stephen (Erica) Wayne, and Caroline (Derek) Sanders; and seven cherished grandchildren: Noah, Lily, Aria, Jacob, Caleb, Serena, and Eli. He also leaves behind his younger sister Doris Wayne-Thompson, along with countless nieces, nephews, former students, and dear friends who were touched by his wisdom, humor, and generosity of spirit.

Uther Wayne’s life was a quiet but profound testament to what it means to be good. He was not the loudest voice in the room, but often the most impactful. His calm presence, moral clarity, and empathetic heart were his gifts to this world. In his final days, he expressed gratitude for a full life and peace with what lay ahead. “I’ve lived a good life,” he said. “I have no regrets, only love.”

A memorial service celebrating Uther’s life will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Grove Memorial Chapel in Asheville, followed by a private family burial. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Uther’s name to local literacy programs or public school foundations, causes that were close to his heart.

Though Uther Wayne may have quietly slipped away in the early hours of a June morning, his impact will echo for generations. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and eternally cherished.

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” — Matthew 5:9