Bobbie Lee Wayland, age 91, passed quietly to his eternal reward on Friday, May 11, 2018. Bob was born to Ruth and Henry Wayland on August 30, 1926. He grew up on a farm east of Butler, Missouri, and had many fond memories of his early years. During World War II, he enlisted in the Navy, left the farm, and served on the SS Sierra in the Pacific as a radioman. After returning home, he worked at various jobs until 1951 when he began his career with the Post Office. He retired in 1992 as Assistant Postmaster after 41 years of service. In 1950 Bob married Sunie Harbert and they had three children. In 1971 he married Juanita Mahaffey and became ‘Dad’ to her two daughters. Bob and Juanita were married for 43 happy years until her passing in 2014. He married Barbara Mitchell in 2015.
Bob Wayland truly loved God, family, country, and community. He was always active in any church he attended, teaching Bible Classes and seldom missing a service. He was an active member of the Butler Rotary and was proud of the service they provide to the community. He also served the community as a member of the Butler Bear Booster Club, Meals on Wheels, driving the Senior Citizen’s Taxi, and donating blood for as long as he was able. He enjoyed his later years spending time at the Senior Center, especially playing cards. Each summer Bob spent many hours in his garden, generously sharing the produce.
As he went about his daily activities, Bob was always whistling, humming, or singing songs, especially hymns. He loved being around his family. He was most happy when he could combine family gatherings and the singing of hymns.
Bob is survived by his wife Barbara Wayland of Butler, Missouri; two sons, Brad Wayland and wife Micki of Raymore, Missouri, and Tim Wayland and wife Sharon of Olathe, Kansas; two daughters, Vicki Peterson and husband Rusty of San Angelo, Texas, and Jane Garrett and husband Dennis of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Chris Peterson, Mistie Brooks, Drew Peterson, Brad Wayland, Jr., Leslie Cook, Kelsey Hilton, Joshua Wayland, Jacob Wayland, and Kenton Garrett; 18 great grandchildren and two sisters, Jeannette Shocklee of Fort Worth, Texas, and Bonnie White of Atlanta, Georgia.
