He lived by integrity, humility, and unwavering faith.

With deep respect and heartfelt remembrance, we honor the life of Wayne Shadrick—a beloved educator, coach, mentor, and family man whose impact spanned generations. His legacy was not measured by wins or accolades, but by the lives he shaped and the values he lived by integrity, humility, and unwavering faith.

Wayne’s journey began on the basketball courts of the 1970s, where he coached high school teams with passion and purpose. As Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Southern Guilford High School, he earned Coach of the Year honors and led his teams to multiple championships. But for Wayne, the true victories were found in the growth of his players—young men who learned character, discipline, and heart under his guidance.

In 1977, Wayne joined Wingate University, beginning a decades-long relationship that would define much of his professional life. He served not only as Head Men’s Basketball Coach, but also as a faculty member, committee leader, and respected voice in collegiate athletics. His influence reached far beyond campus, earning recognition from national basketball committees and legendary figures like Dean Smith.

Wayne’s career also included leadership roles at North Hills Christian School, a venture into the business world, and years of service in Union County Public Schools. In every role, he remained a steady, faith-driven presence—believing deeply in the power of education and sports to transform lives.

In 2002, Wayne returned to Wingate in new capacities: Director of Sports Marketing, adjunct professor, assistant coach, and the voice of the Wingate Sports Network. His quiet strength and wisdom continued to inspire students, athletes, and colleagues alike.

Over his career, Wayne amassed an impressive coaching record—497 wins, 360 losses, and 42 tournament victories. Yet his greatest achievement was building men of integrity and leading with grace.

Wayne was also a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. He cherished time with his family, found joy in gardening, and had a favorite meal at Duke’s Grill: a grilled chicken sandwich with pickles only, onion rings, and an unsweet tea—marked with a “U” on the cup.

He never sought recognition. He simply sought to make a difference. And he did—immeasurably.

We remember Wayne not only for what he accomplished, but for who he was: a man of faith, family, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on in every student he taught, every player he coached, and every life he uplifted.

In Wayne’s final days, our family was held by two powerful sources of strength: God’s unwavering presence and the compassionate care of Tillery Compassionate Care Hospice.

God gave us the courage to walk that path with love and gratitude. And He placed the right people in our lives at the right time. The hospice team—especially Deanna, Crystal, and Wendy—were more than caregivers. They were blessings, offering expert care for Wayne and emotional and spiritual support for our entire family.

Their kindness allowed us to focus on what mattered most: sacred time with our husband, Dad, and Papaw. There were tears, yes—but also laughter, prayer, quiet reflection, and deep love. Because of their support, we were able to say goodbye with peace in our hearts.

We rest in the truth of Psalm 118:24 (KJV), a verse Wayne often quoted: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”