Wayne E. Appleby, Jr., 88, of Elyria, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Main Street Care Center in Avon Lake. Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on September 16, 1937, to Wayne Sr. and Naomi Ellen (Guss) Appleby, Wayne lived a full life marked by service, faith, family, and humor. Wayne lived 88 years built on love, faith, hard work, and devotion to his family. He was the beloved husband of Elba Iris nee (Torres) with whom he shared 58 years of marriage.  Together, they built a legacy of love and strength that will continue to live on through their family. He was the proud father of four children and is survived by Kellie (Andrew) Bendik, Amy (Jerry) Blackburn "Patarini", Michael (Julia) and Scott (Lourdes) Appleby; grandchildren Andrew, Jayson, Joshua, Gabriella, Bianca, Mark Anthony, Isabella, Alexander, Austin, and Jacob; and great-grandchildren Brayden, Briella, Baylynn, Blayne, Beckham, and Barrett. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and brother Kenneth. Survived by Sister-in-law:  Edna (Torres) DesChamps, Nephews & Nieces:  Debbie Shields, Richard Appleby, Carlos Landreau, Alderic, Joel, Daniel DesChamps, Coranna Newcomb-Budd, Andrea Estep.

At 17, Wayne proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves, where his talent as a trumpet player in the Navy Band uplifted many. After his honorable service, he built a respected career in purchasing and materials management with American Standard, All-Sport, and later as VP of Materials Management at Industrial Powder Coatings in Norwalk. A man of integrity and leadership, Wayne earned several professional awards and was admired for his mentorship and steady guidance. Beyond work, he devoted countless hours to his community — coaching and serving as President of Elyria Little League and Big League Baseball. For Wayne, coaching was a ministry of shaping young men's character through sports. Wayne's faith guided his life. A 60-year member of the Church of the Open Door since inception, he faithfully drove the church bus for Sunday school and youth programs.

In later years, he continued serving others by driving for the Huron County Transit System, where he was affectionately known as "G.P." to the children he transported. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Elba (Torres), cherishing their shared love of music, dancing, and family. In his later years, he shared his days with companion Nathelle "Corky" Brown Cline, who brought joy and laughter to his final chapters.

Visitation will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 noon at Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home, 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Elyria. Pastor Bob Wickens will officiate. Burial with full military honors will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park, Amherst. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home. Online condolences can be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com