Nelson Wayne Stagner, a devoted husband, cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, successful businessman and serial entrepreneur, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, in Oak Island, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 29, 1934, in Hereford, Texas, he was the son of Owen and Lillie Stagner. Wayne was known for his ready smile, sense of humor, intelligence and business acumen. An industrial engineering graduate of Texas Tech, he went on to earn his MBA from Harvard. The combination of university education, natural talent and life-long learning served him well throughout his career in sales, marketing and management in various manufacturing companies. At the end of his career, he and his wife successfully founded Steer America as the U.S. sales and service arm of a manufacturing company based in India. He served on the board of the Indian company and made numerous trips there to help with planning and strategy.
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Wayne was predeceased by his dear wife of 67 years, Elaine, his parents and his sister, Donna Parrott. He is survived by his two children, Bart Stagner and spouse Marcos Lima of Desert Hot Springs, CA, and Cindy Flowers and spouse John of Oak Island, NC. His legacy of love and kindness lives on through his two grandchildren, Jay Flowers and partner Megan Kruse, and Jesse Flowers and spouse Shari, as well as his three great-grandchildren, Ian, Yuki, and Jack Flowers. Wayne is also survived by Elaine’s sister, Betty Fulenchek, and husband Dale, and numerous loving nieces and nephews, all of whom he held dear.
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A graveside service to honor and celebrate Wayne’s remarkable life will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Georgetown Cemetery in Pottsboro, Texas. As we gather to pay our final respects, let us remember Wayne for his unwavering love, kindness, and dedication to making the world a better place. His spirit will forever inspire and guide us.
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In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Gentiva Foundation (https://www.gentivahs.com) in memory of Nelson Wayne Stagner. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing he made a profound difference in the lives of many.
