Wayne Washam

Rexford Wayne Washam, 86, of Arab, died Sunday, March 5, 2023, due to complications from Parkinson’s Disease.

Mr. Washam was born July 16, 1936, to Thurman and Tula Washam of Albertville. She was married to the former Rosemary Dunn, who preceded him in death May 29, 2022.

Following graduation from Albertville High School, he attended Jacksonville State University, graduating with a B.A. in music education. While attending JSU, he was the trumpet section leader of the Marching Southerners and was a founding member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity.

Following graduation, he took a job as the band director at Dadeville High School. The next year, he took the band director’s job at Arab High School, where he remained as band director for 33 years.

During that time his bands scored superior ratings numerous times as well as earning the award for the most entertaining band many times. He also served as assistant principal at the high school and was assistant superintendent for the school system for the last 11 years of his career

Mr. Washam attended church at the Arab First United Methodist. He spent many years serving in different positions, including the church administrative council and chairman of the building committee for the current church. He also taught adult Sunday School for several years following his retirement from Arab City Schools.

He is survived by his sons: Alan Washam (Deena) and Jeff Washam (Nicki); brother: Terry Washam (Jeannie); granddaughters: Madison Washam and Morgan Washam; and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be two visitations: 6-9 p.m. Friday, March 10, and 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, March 11, at Arab First United Methodist Church, followed by the service. There will not be a graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shepard’s Cove Hospice, The Parkinson’s Foundation, or to the Arab City Schools band program.

Pallbearers will be Paul Tallent, Jerry Day, David Dunn, Tim Dunn, Rod Ferguson, and Scott Sanders.