James Thomas Wayne

James (Jim, JT) Thomas Wayne, 79, passed into the Lords loving arms on Friday, August 7, 2026 at IU Health Methodist Hospital after a terrible bicycle accident. He was born on April 21, 1947 to Jospeh and Ione (Peterson) Wayne in Lafayette, IN.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Joseph and Richard, and one sister. He is also preceded in death by the love of his life, Mary Alice Moore and his soulmate, Linda Rusk.

Jim proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during Vietnam from 1966 until his honorable discharge in 1970.

Jim left behind, as he puts it, his children in Gods eyes, Dawn Michele (James) Veach, Dallas David (Sheila) Moore, and Cynthia Marie Beene. Grandchildren that he loved deeply and thought the world of him, great-grandchildren that he loved and will miss him dearly. Jim also leaves behind friends that will miss Jim and Uncle Jim.

Jim was a graduate of Purdue with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. He worked at Purdue as a custodian, and Rostone until its closing.

Jim was an 11-year volunteer of the Indiana Veteran’s Home (West Lafayette), serving as the Chaplain’s Assistant. He loved working with the residents and filling in to do Sunday services when his dear friend and Chaplain, David Hess, needed to attend to other matters. Jim also in his younger days thoroughly enjoyed recreating western shootouts with a group in Lafayette, walking the trails around greater Lafayette and evening walks around Columbian Park.

Jim's celebration of life will take place Friday August 28 in the chapel of the Indiana Veterans Home, 3851 north River rd, west lafayette. Showing respects will start at 3:30 with service beginning at 4.