Pastor Wayne Owenby, a devoted servant of faith and family, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at Hamilton Medical Center in Dalton, Georgia. Born on September 21, 1961, in Dalton, Pastor Wayne’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his calling and those he cherished most.

Throughout his life, Pastor Wayne was many things, a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle. These roles, each embraced with a heartfelt sincerity, defined the essence of the man he was. While he first and foremost served as a Pastor for Shine Your Light Ministries, guiding many with his spiritual wisdom and compassion, his career also included time as a truck driver for Mohawk. Yet, no matter where life led him, his faith and pastoral heart remained the cornerstone of his identity.

Pastor Wayne’s kindness and warmth extended beyond his spiritual duties and family responsibilities. He loved fishing, finding peace and joy in the quiet moments by the water, connecting with nature in a way that mirrored his connection with those around him. His gentle spirit and loving presence left an indelible mark on everyone privileged to know him.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife Cynthia Owenby, whose partnership was a source of strength and joy. Together, they raised a remarkable family: sons, Jonathan (Kendra) Owenby, Jr., Jeffery (Sharon) Verner, Charles (Heather) Heatd and daughters, Brandy (Phillip) Burns, Amy (Charles) Sibert, and Tekiesha (Billy) Wiggins. Their family circle blossomed further with cherished grandchildren, McKenna, Noah, Tristen, Corey, Trenten, Trayven, Taylenn, Madison, Aubree, and Amos, who brought immense happiness to his days.

Pastor Wayne’s siblings Wanda Sue (James) Whaley and David (Chrissy) Owenby remain pillars of his family legacy. He also holds a special place in the hearts of all who knew him as an uncle and great-grandfather, roles he fulfilled with joy and devotion.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, A.L. and Grace Owenby, and siblings, Ricky, Ronnie, and Larry Owenby. The family also mourns the loss of granddaughter, Riley Burns, remembering fondly the light she brought into their lives.

Pastor Wayne’s final moments were surrounded by his loving family, a testament to the deep bonds he nurtured throughout his life. His passing leaves a profound sense of loss but also a lasting legacy of faith, love, and commitment.

A visitation to honor Pastor Wayne will be held on April 15, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Dalton Funeral Home, located at 620 S Glenwood Ave, Dalton, GA 30721. The funeral service will follow on April 16, 2026, beginning at 1:00 PM, Pastor Wayne will Lie-in-state from 12:00 PM until the funeral hour at Gospel Light Tabernacle, 804 Sheridan Ave, Dalton, GA 30721.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pastor Wayne's honor to Conasauga Kidney Foundation at https://www.ckccares.org/

As friends and family gather to celebrate a life so beautifully lived, they carry forward the light Pastor Wayne Owenby so generously shared with all. His legacy of love and faith continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Arrangements have been entrusted to independently owned and operated Dalton Funeral Home, 620 S. Glenwood Ave. Dalton, GA 30721; 706-529-5371.