September 30, 2026, 84, – Emmitt Wayne Sasser, 84, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family. Wayne was born in Wayne County on June 20, 1942, to the late Emmitt Lee Sasser and Aggie Stafford Sasser. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Marjorie Wells.
Wayne was a lifelong farmer in the Nahunta community, where he devoted many years to working the land and raising tobacco, corn, soybeans, and produce. Farming was more than a livelihood to Wayne; it was a way of life and a part of who he was. He understood the land, the crops, and the rhythm of the seasons, and he took great pride in watching the fields grow and change throughout the year. His dedication to farming was recognized by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services when his family farm was honored as a North Carolina Century Farm, recognizing 100 years of continuous agricultural heritage.
A faithful member of Nahunta Friends Church, Wayne cherished his church family and the fellowship he shared with others. His faith was an important part of his life, and he valued the friendships and connections he made through his church and throughout the community.
Wayne never met a stranger and was always ready to stop and catch up with someone. He enjoyed his phone and could often be found checking on family and friends, making sure everyone was doing well. He loved riding the roads of the community, visiting with friends, calling and checking on people, and, of course, taking a look at the crops along the way. For Wayne, those drives were never simply about getting somewhere—they were opportunities to see people, see what was happening in the community, and stay connected to the place he loved.
One of Wayne’s favorite places to spend time was R.B. Crawford’s Store, where he enjoyed sitting around, catching up on the latest news, and visiting with everyone who came through. He treasured the conversations, the laughter, and the familiar faces that made his community feel like home.
Above all, Wayne loved his family. He was always checking on them and making sure they were doing well. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and if one of them was involved in something, Wayne wanted to be there to watch them and cheer them on. His presence at their activities was one of the many ways he showed them just how much they were loved.
Wayne will be remembered as a hardworking farmer, a faithful friend, a devoted husband and father, and a proud granddaddy. He found joy in the simple things—a good conversation, a drive through the community, a visit with a friend, a look at the crops, and time spent with those he loved. His steady presence, familiar smile, and genuine interest in the lives of others will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Lois Edgerton Sasser; his son, Allen Sasser; his daughters, Thesia Sasser Howell and husband, Willie, and Deana Sasser Gardner and husband, John; and his grandchildren, Sarah Howell, Anna Howell, Ashleigh Gardner, and Jonathan Gardner.
The family will receive friends on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home and at other times at the family home in Nahunta. A service to celebrate Wayne’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of Nahunta Friends Church. Interment will follow at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Wayne’s memory to Nahunta Friends Church.
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