Obituary of Wayne Anthony Washington

Tampa, FL - November 18, 2023 Wayne Anthony Washington lit up every room he entered with his larger-than-life personality. Born on February 18th, 1964 to the late Kate Washington Allen in Rochester, NY, Wayne made his mark through athletic prowess, dedicated coaching, jokester antics with his beloved children, and deep connections that touched countless lives. In high school, Wayne was a basketball phenom who helped lead the Charlotte High School team to a State Championship victory in 1982 and 1983. His talents extended to track and field where he medaled in city and national competitions, consistently placing in the top 3 in sprints and marathons. Embodying a spirit of service, Wayne, alongside his close friend Cedric Walker, established the Flower City Track Club in 1986 to share his passion with the Rochester community. He went on to coach track and field at East High School as well as become owner/coach of the Carolina Cougars Semi-Pro basketball team in Fayetteville, NC, passing on knowledge and encouragement to aspiring young athletes. While accomplishments piled high, Wayne was proudest of his ever-expanding family. A devoted father first and foremost, he welcomed 6 children over the years who were the light and joy of his world. Nikia “First Born,” Nyiesha “Lil Momma,” Wayne “Duka,” Christian “Buda,” Rob “Legend”, and honorary daughter Harmony “Baby” were blessed with Wayne’s fun-loving, joke-cracking, and unconditionally supportive nature. From special nicknames to beaming smiles at every milestone and achievement, his immense pride in each child was unmistakable. Professionally, Wayne was the ultimate people-person, forging meaningful connections wherever he went whether as a cook, hotel manager, club owner, bounty hunter, or security site supervisor. At family gatherings, he commanded attention with humor and charisma, especially when the conversation turned to his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. Rain or shine, win or lose, Wayne was ever faithful through it all. While the world lost a bright light when Wayne passed away on November 18th, 2023, the imprint he left on all who knew him remains. From an uproariously funny joke to words of wisdom sprinkled amidst laughter, memories of Wayne live on. To carry his legacy forward is to embrace life fully, love unconditionally, serve humbly, and cultivate community. Just as he did each and every day. Wayne now joins those that left before him including his mother Kate (Washington) Allen, father Gary Allen, sister Danita Lynn Allen and brother Robert Anthony Washington. He leaves behind his children; Nikia J. Washington, Nyiesha L. Lattimore (Arthur) , Wayne Anthony Washington II (Tuna), Christian Anthony Washington, Rob Anthony Legend Washington, honorary daughter Harmony Turner and brother Gary B. Allen. He also leaves behind six grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and countless friends that became family over the years including cherished cousins Michael Washington, Darius Brown and special friend Pamela DeVaughn. May his spirit forever run wild and free as he takes the heavenly baton and continues running the race before him. Friends may call Friday, December 8, 2023 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church 351 Joseph Avenue, Rochester, NY 14605. Funeral Service to Celebrate his Life will immediately follow. Interment Mt. Hope Cemetery.