Wayne Hurd, 81
Wayne Hurd, from 2184 Hurd Road, Smyrna, Delaware passed away at home with his wife of sixty years by his side on the morning of Thursday, December 17, 2020.
Wayne will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather who was loved by many and who will be dearly missed.
He was 81 years old and born on September 3, 1939 in Hartly, Delaware. He was the oldest son of Catherine and John Herbert Hurd, who had nine children.
Wayne attended Smyrna School District and was an honorary member of the class of 1960. Farming was always his dream, even from a very early age. Those who knew him best agree he loved life, loved his kids, and instilled in every person he knew the value of hard work, strength, risk taking, and doing what needed to be done. He never felt sorry for himself and took every challenge as a new opportunity. Limits were something he simply didn't understand, and he encouraged every member of the family to overachieve on the things they valued. A stranger who needed a friend or a person down on their luck could count on Wayne for help or a kind word. At the same time, among all the work, he was fun. Among his favorite things were dancing on Saturday nights, teaching his grandchildren to drive, going to the beach, racing cars, seeing his grandchildren compete, making people laugh, and spending time with those he loved. He was a true independent businessman at heart, always willing to negotiate and save a dollar. He was very active in the local farming community-known by many as the hardest working, ready-to-assist farmer around. He could fix anything and always had an idea of how to lend a hand. Throughout his life, he mentored many, including two special nephews Jimmy Austin (deceased) and John Pleasanton, and was surrounded by great friends. His grandson Nick and lifelong friend Benny Dittman were the two people he trusted most with his farm.
He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Hall Hurd; and three daughters, Sherrie Caldwell (Dwayne), Trina Mitchell (Sammy), and Tricia Nash (Ricky). Together they have six grandchildren, Nick (Kylee), Mack, Karli, Jackson, Justin, and Owen; and one great grandson, Layne. Wayne is also survived by his dear sisters, Kay Webster and Nancy Pleasanton; and many sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and treasured nieces and nephews.
Wayne was preceded in death by his brothers, Earl Hurd, Dale Hurd, Bruce Hurd, Bob Hurd, and Jack Hurd; and a sister, Betty Lou Austin.
A viewing will be held Tuesday, December 22, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Faries Funeral Chapel located at 29 S. Main St. in Smyrna. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will be at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Smyrna.
Condolences may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com