Wayne E. King

Mr. Wayne King of Okawville, IL departed this life at his residence on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at 8:10 A.M. following a lengthy illness. He had attained the age of 79 years, 4 months, and 24 days.

Wayne was born in Mt. Vernon, IN on June 9, 1941 the son of Clarence E. and Martha E. (nee Welborn) King. He was united in marriage to Louella Garrison in Wilmington, OH on June 6, 1970 and she survives his passing.

Mr. King served 21 years in the United States Air Force, retiring on July 21, 1980, having attained the rank of Master Sergeant. Wayne was awarded many ribbons and medals including the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Longevity Service Award with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Device, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. While serving his country, Wayne was chosen by the Air Force to attend the Presidential Inauguration of Richard Nixon in 1969. Following his discharge from active duty, Wayne wrote computer programs while employed by the Civil Service at Scott Air Force Base. Wayne had a photographic memory and played a key role in re-writing service manuals on all types of aircraft. In fact, if there were a question, he could tell you which manual and what page to find the answer. He was a member of the Illinois Headquarters American Legion Post 2910 and a former member of the VFW. Wayne was a fan of St. Louis Cardinal Baseball and enjoyed spending time outdoors and working in his garden. Most of all he loved spending time with his kids and grandkids. 

Left to mourn his passing is his wife, Louella King of Okawville; two daughters, Caroline King and husband David Nesbitt of Mt. Vernon, IL, and Delsa King of Nashville, IL; four grandchildren, Laura and Rachael Nesbitt, Brett Roth, and Stephany Becker; as well as many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence King and wife Nila; mother, Martha Holder and husband Ivan; and a daughter Terri Lee King.

In accordance with the wishes of Wayne and his family, cremation was performed.

Memorial services will be held in Ohio at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disabled American Vets or to the Salvation Army and will be accepted by the Campagna Funeral Home.

Online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.campagnafuneralhomes.com