Richard Wayne Farner

Richard Wayne Farner, of Roane County, Tennessee, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born to George and Paula Farner in Rockwood, Tennessee, Wayne grew up as an only child on a small family farm, where he learned the values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance. He attended Glen Alice Elementary and Rockwood High School, where he played football as a defensive end and fullback. Some of his fondest childhood memories were made fishing with his parents and helping harvest vegetables from their garden.

Following high school, Wayne pursued his education at the Tennessee Institute of Electronics in Bearden, Tennessee, where he earned his degree as an Electronic Technician. He proudly served in the United States Navy for one year before receiving an honorable discharge due to a medical condition. Wayne later settled in Chattanooga, where he began his professional career with Combustion Engineering.

It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Bridgette, at Skate Land in Hixson, Tennessee. The two were soon married and blessed with a daughter, Casi, who later married James White. Wayne was married to Bridgette for 37 years; they remained friends until his death. Wayne was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his grandsons, Cole and Carson, who affectionately called him "Grandude." He loved supporting his family, often cheering Casi on during her cheerleading events at Red Bank High School and spending time with his grandsons doing puzzles and listening to Carson play the piano. Wayne loved animals and always wanted to see and pet the many dogs and cats who came into our lives.

Wayne's career was marked by dedication and craftsmanship. After six years at Combustion Engineering, he joined the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Nuclear division in Chattanooga, where he also completed a management certificate at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. After many years with TVA, Wayne followed his passion for automotive work by founding Classic Clock and Gauge, specializing in classic car instrumentation-particularly Corvettes. He worked for Stone and Webster traveling across the country before transitioning to Areva in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he worked in the Process Instrumentation and Control Department Nuclear Division until his retirement after 12 years of service.

In retirement, Wayne returned to Tennessee, settling near the peaceful Hiwassee River. He embraced a vibrant and active life, enjoying fishing, gardening, golfing, karaoke, and assembling puzzles. He also loved playing cards and participating in bingo games with his community. A proud member of Mount Carmel Methodist Church, Wayne was lovingly known as the "baker," sharing his famous mini pecan pies, banana pudding, and chocolate cheesecake at church gatherings and potlucks.

Wayne will be remembered for his dry wit, steady humor, deep love for his family, and unwavering faith. Whatever the project, Wayne gave it his all with tenacity and perseverance. His legacy of generosity, integrity, and joyful living will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his former wife, Bridgette; beloved daughter, Casi, and her husband, James; and his two cherished grandsons, Cole and Carson.

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held May 17, 2026, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Silverdale Baptist Church, Bonny Oaks Campus, Silverdale Room, to honor his memory and the many lives he touched. Plans for interment at Chattanooga National Cemetery are forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, please make remembrance donations to the Bradley County Humane Society or McKamey Animal Center of Chattanooga.