Melvin Wayne Moody, known to friends and family as Wayne, was the son of the late John William Moody and Thelma Thompson Moody. He was preceded in death by his parents, his older brother William Lamar Moody, and his daughter Erin Moody.

He is survived by his wife of over 53 years, Patricia Rowell Moody (Pat); his son, Daniel Wayne Moody, and daughter-in-law, Lisa Panighetti Moody. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Nan Moody, Camilla Rowell Hood, and Harriett Rowell Harrell; his brother-in-law Jerry Harrell; his nephew, Greg Moody; and several beloved nieces and nephews. Wayne was blessed with a Godchild, Lindsey Cochran (husband Josh), and three God-grandchildren—Rylan, Kanon, and Steven—who knew him affectionately as “Papa Wayne.” He also leaves behind his precious pups, Cody and Riley.

A native of Canton, Georgia, Wayne graduated from Cherokee High School in 1970 and from Grady Memorial Hospital Radiology Technology School in 1972. He worked at several Atlanta-area hospitals, including Cartersville and R.T. Jones. He later served as the manager of the Heating and Air Department for Noland Co. in Marietta. In 1997, Wayne was recruited by Blossman Gas Inc., where he served in various capacities before retiring in 2016 as the company’s Credit and Collections Manager.

A true lover of nature and travel, Wayne’s happiest moments were spent exploring the world around him. He took great pride in his North Georgia mountain cabin, where he and Pat lived for several years before moving to Indianapolis, IN to be near family. A highlight of his later years was a 2019 cross-country trek out west—a dream fulfilled that included a full summer immersed in the beauty of West Yellowstone. Even when he wasn't traveling, Wayne's curiosities kept him busy tending to one of his many hobbies.

Wayne was a Past Master of Sharptop Masonic Lodge, an Assistant Boy Scout Troop leader, and a member of Oakdale Baptist Church. He had a deep love for music as a self-taught guitar and dulcimer player. Always seeking a connection to the world and nature, even at home, he was an avid collector of knives, firearms, and currency.

May the precious memories of his smile and big hugs sustain us until we meet again.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in Melvin's memory to the Shriners Children's Hospital.

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Melvin Wayne Moody.