Wayne A. Namey, of Wilkes-Barre, lost his battle with cancer on August 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of tireless service, steadfast advocacy, and unbreakable compassion for his community — and our shared humanity.
A proud graduate of Meyers High School, Wayne dedicated 22 years to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and was a proud member of UFCW Local 1776. NEPA was built on the backs of labor workers — and Wayne dedicated his life to preserving that history, and worked to secure the first-ever coal miner stamp from the US Postal Service. For many years, Wayne organized the NEPA Labor Day Festival in Wilkes-Barre’s Kirby Park. His work reflected an unwavering belief in fairness, dignity, and the power of collective action.
Wayne’s generosity extended far beyond the labor movement. He was a longtime volunteer with the Salvation Army, seldom missing a holiday season ringing the bell come snow, sleet, or rain. He also volunteered for Veterans Service Organizations, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Vision for the Homeless, and the Wilkes-Barre United Way, where he received the Unsung Hero Award in 2018. Known for his compassion toward those facing hardship, Wayne also spoke in local prisons about the dangers of alcohol addiction, offering hope and guidance to those seeking a new path.
Deeply engaged in civic life, Wayne lent his voice and energy to the campaigns of numerous public officials, including Senator Bob Casey, State Representative Eddie Day Pashinski, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright, and Mayor Lee Namey.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 41 years — and partner in advocacy and action — Joanne K. Namey, his son Wayne Namey Jr., his siblings George, Sandi, and Donna, his grandchildren Aiden, Joseph, and Ally, and his nieces and nephews that he loved like his own Emily, Gabby, Jacob, Billy, Olivia, Samuel, Luke, AJ, and Miranda, and his in-laws Donna, Bill, and Michelle.
Wayne will be remembered for his integrity, generosity, and embodiment of compassion. He didn’t just believe in the phrase “we are our brother and sisters keeper” — he lived it.
Friends and loved ones may call Wednesday, August 20 from 4-6pm at Mamary-Durkin Funeral & Cremation Services 59 Parrish St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home at 10am on Thursday, August 21, and interment will follow in St. Stephen’s Cemetery, Lehman.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Salvation Army or United Way in Wayne’s memory.
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