THIS IS A COURTESY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE WORRELL FAMILY

Everett "Wayne" Worrell
October 15, 1950 – March 9, 2025

Everett "Wayne" Worrell, age 74, of Winston-Salem, put the pedal to the metal one last time on Sunday afternoon, March 9, 2025, at Forsyth Medical Center.  He always knew he would go out with a blow out. Born on October 15, 1950, in Surry County, NC, Wayne was the son of the late Everett Woodrow Worrell, Sr. and Ita Alderman Worrell.

Wayne was a man of many talents, most of which involved making people laugh, offering questionable wisdom, and driving his classic cars like he had nothing to lose (which, on more than one occasion, gave his passengers minor heart attacks). He was a beloved husband to his ever-patient wife, Dorothy "Dot" Chappell, and a loving father to Allen Wayne (Crystal) Worrell and Laura Claire "Doty" Worrell. His grandchildren, Jordan and Jackson Worrell, were lucky enough to inherit at least some of his humor.  Also left behind to cherish his memory are his special sister-in-law, Connie (D.A.) Strickland; a special niece, Tammy (Billy) Ashburn; his sister, Barbara Bass; and his sister-in-law, Pam Worrell; along with a host of extended family and many friends who were lucky enough to have known him.

Wayne spent his career as a mortician, ensuring people had a dignified send-off and training the future funeral directors of the world. His work took him to Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Funeral Chapel, Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home, Moody Funeral Services and most recently, Cox-Needham Funeral Home. He never met a coworker or friend he didn't consider family, and his extended funeral home family can confirm that no workday was ever boring with Wayne around.

When he wasn't working, he enjoyed bear hunting, a pastime that led to many adventures, a few tall tales, and more than one story that made his family shake their heads in disbelief. A true music enthusiast, Wayne loved cranking up the volume on his favorite tunes, whether it was classic rock, country, or something with a good rhythm to match his mood.

He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brothers, Allen Worrell, Buster Worrell and Tom Worrell. No doubt they greeted him at the pearly gates with a cold drink and a reminder that speed limits don't apply in Heaven.  Heaven just became more lively with him in it.

Wayne's energy could light up a room, and his legendary "bad advice" was always good for a laugh—though we'd caution against following it too closely. In honor of his memory, the family asks that you take a joy ride in your favorite vehicle, tell an off-color joke (at your own risk), and most importantly, never take life too seriously.

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held at Cox-Needham Funeral Home on April 12, 2025 at 2:00pm where stories will be shared, and laughter will be required. Wayne's family would like to add that they would love to see everyone show up in blue jeans and t-shirts because Wayne "wouldn't want anyone to dress up just for him."

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests simply raising a glass to a life well-lived and a ride well-driven.  In the words of the man himself, "I did it my way."

It's not goodbye, it's just see you later.  That's all folks.