Wayne Etheridge

Wayne “Lil Weezy”, Edmond Tobias Etheridge, born August 12, 1977, in Portsmouth, Virginia, departed this life after a journey marked by resilience, achievement, and a deep dedication towards his family legacy. The beloved son of the late Wassee and Mable Etheridge, Wayne had four siblings, Gennett (Etheridge) Gray, Wesley Etheridge Sr, the late Wanda Meschele (Etheridge) Wright, and Robin Etheridge. Growing up at 1102 East Jamal Lane, with his niece Tona, nephew Quai, sister Robin and her childhood best friend/next-door neighbor Avis, Wayne was surrounded by an abundance of love and the warmth of family. He loved his parents beyond measure and developed a closeness with his niece, nephew, and sister forming deep bonds that served as the foundation of a lifetime of cherished childhood and adult memories. As a young man, he served as a Junior Missionary and sang in the choir at Noble Street Baptist Church. He also was gifted in interior decorating, played tenor saxophone and keyboard in the I.C. Norcom band. He developed a love for cooking from his father, Wassee, and often hosted Thanksgiving dinners and other family gatherings. A proud graduate of I. C. Norcom High School (Class of 1996), Wayne continued his academic journey at Norfolk State University, pursuing a degree in Marketing. His professional career began at SunTrust Bank in Norfolk, Virginia in 2001. Then in 2003, Wayne relocated to Cookeville, Tennessee, where he played a pivotal role in launching the Mid-Atlantic SunTrust Call Center. He served in many roles but eventually returned home and founded Global Talent Executives, a recruitment firm, placing individuals in new careers across the world. In 2003, Wayne had his one and only daughter Miara Monae Cherry, who was the light of his life. He often raved about her beauty and accomplishments. In February 2011, his career was abruptly interrupted when he lost 100% of his kidney function, requiring dialysis treatments three days a week. Despite the setback, Wayne was committed to keeping the Etheridge family history and memories alive. He created the Porter Gray Facebook page where he would post pictures from back in the day and spotlight family members' success and accomplishments. He planned family reunions, created the Porter/Gray family tree, and hosted several memorable family gatherings to celebrate special occasions. Later in life, he took great pride in serving as caregiver for his father in the home he grew up in, sharing treasured photos and family videos. Wayne's relentless pursuit of success and his ability to overcome overwhelming obstacles serve as an inspiration to all who knew him. Wayne will be remembered for his thoughtfulness, professional success, and his commitment to family. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the example he set for future generations. John 15:5-I am the vein; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can destroy

Wayne Etheridge

August 12, 1977 - February 19, 2026