James Fletcher “Jimmy” Waynick, Sr., 101, of Reidsville passed away Thursday September 30, 2021 at Penn Nursing Center.
A Graveside Memorial Service will be conducted 11:00 A.M. Friday May 27, 2022 in Greenview Cemetery, followed by a reception at Main St. Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
The son of Fletcher Watson and Irene Knight Waynick, he was born in Greensboro but lived most of his life in Reidsville and considered it his home.. He entered the workforce at a very early age as a paper boy and worked at the Rockingham Theatre, Reidsville Review and as the electrician for the school system while still a student. He was the Owner/Operator of Waynick Electric until hired by American Tobacco Co. After more than 30 years, he retired from ATCo as chief electrician. Jimmy was a Navy Veteran of WWII. He served on the USS Audubon, an attack transport that carried troops to Okinawa and later served as a hospital ship. He also served on the USS San Diego during its last cruise. He attended Main St. United Methodist Church for many years and was also a founding member of Woodmont Methodist Church. From his earliest years, Jimmy had an abiding love for the circus. He attended shows at several small circuses and developed relationships with luminaries such as John Ringling North, Emmitt Kelly and the Flying Wallendas After his retirement from ATCo, he “joined” the Hoxie Brothers Circus and traveled with them off and on for several years as manager of their electrical system. A builder by nature, he could create amazing things from very ordinary parts. Over the years, he built everything fromcarosels to pipe organs and calliopes…Dressed in his red jacket, he took the calliope to classrooms, fairs and parades. Later in life, he became known for his extensive knowledge of Reidsville history and for his two mile walks around the neighborhood. Well into his nineties, he walked his regular route virtually every day.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved wife and partner of fifty-five years: Virginia Daniel Waynick.
Survivors include his son: James Fletcher Waynick, Jr. and his wife Ginger of Reidsville, daughters: Betty J. Waynick of Burlington and Joan M. Waynick of Reidsville.
Memorials may be sent to: MARC P.O. Box 84 Wentworth, NC 27375 or to Main St. United Methodist Church P.O. Box 338 Reidsville, NC 27323.
Citty Funeral Home is assisting the family
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