Wayne Eugene Elder, 82, of Taylorsville, N.C., passed away surrounded by his family on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Catawba Valley Medical Center. He was born in Alexander County on February 16, 1943, to the late Maurice and Mano Elder.

Wayne was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Taylorsville. He retired from Gulf State Paper Corporation, where he worked 42 years.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Walter “Bud” Elder and Bill Elder; and his sisters, Edna Smith, Lavada Matheson, Francis Harrington, and Joyce Lackey.

Those left to cherish and honor Wayne’s memories include his loving wife of 61 years, Joan Morrison Elder; his son, Kevin Elder of Taylorsville; his daughters, Pamela Sigmon (Frank) of Stony Point, Tiffany Meadows (Brian) of Hiddenite, and Renae Jones (Tommy) of Taylorsville. He is a cherished grandfather to ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was anticipating the arrival of another great-grandchild in July. He also leaves to cherish his memory his brother, Johnny Elder (Judy) of Taylorsville, and sister Cozette Millsaps (Billy) of Taylorsville.

The family will receive friends from 2 until 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church with the memorial service to follow at 3 p.m. Pastor Stephen Dagenhart and Pastor Tommy Jones will officiate.

Memorials may be made to Taylorsville Baptist Camp Meeting, c/o Kevin Payne, 2570 Goble Road, Hiddenite, NC 28636. Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to be serving the family of Wayne Eugene Elder.