Michael Wayne Whisenant Sr.

Michael Wayne Whisenant Sr., 60, Gadsden, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2009. A chapel service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 18, 2009, with Dr. Charles Owens officiating. Burial will follow at Crestwood Cemetery. Collier-Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Services directing.

Wayne knew from childhood that his dream in life was to fly. He not only lived that dream but also taught many others to accomplish that same dream. He went on to obtain his bachelor's at Athens State and his juris doctorate from the Miles Law School. He also served his country with honor during the Vietnam War, but his greatest accomplishment by far was to be a loving father, son, brother, grandfather and a true friend to those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jess and Mae Whisenant, and W.E. Sr. and Ophelia Owens.

He is survived by his son, Michael Whisenant Jr. (Lana), Helena; grandchildren, Harley Hoffman, Brooke Hoffman and Victoria Whisenant, all of Helena; parents, Guy and Juanita Whisenant, Rainbow City; brother, Walt Whisenant (Wanda), Southside, and Galen Whisenant (Jane), Decatur; sisters, Phoebe Whisenant Ausborn and Nita Jo Ham Sanders (Joe), Stockbridge, Ga.; aunts, Ruby Espy, Gadsden, and Jessie Mae Thomas, Warner Robins, Ga.; uncle, Don Owens, Rainbow City; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Judy Bobo.

Pallbearers will be Don Owens, Jamey Dodd, Zachary Whisenant, Jimmy Espy, Guy Whisenant and Evan Whisenant.

The family will accept friends from 6 to 8 Wednesday evening at Collier-Butler Funeral Home.