09/26/2025
Wayne H. Poe
May 31, 1942 – September 24, 2025
Wayne Poe, 83, of Opelika (Beauregard community), AL, passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
He was preceded in death by parents Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Poe and brother, Dennis Poe.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 63 years, Donita; children, Pennie Spates (Mike) and John Mark Poe (Christine); one adored grandson, Michael Poe; sister, Carolyn Thrower (Richard); brother-in-law, Houston Ennis (Dianna); sister-in-law, Susan Poe; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Wayne was a graduate of both Troy University and Auburn University. He began his teaching career in 1964 at Opelika High School and later as a biology teacher with Lee County Schools and then became Assistant Superintendent with the Lee County Board of Education. On January 31, 1977, Wayne began working at Lee County Hospital, then for National Healthcare Incorporation (NHI), which contracted with East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC). In 1987, when the contract with NHI ended, Wayne was offered a position as Assistant Administrator with EAMC. During his time at EAMC, Wayne held many roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Vice President. After 32 years of dedicated service and leadership, he retired as Chief Outside Operations Officer.
Wayne played a key role in the success of many of EAMC’s major initiatives. Recognizing the need for air transport in the region, he negotiated the contract that brought LifeSaver 3 to Lee County. He also worked with Auburn Fire and Rescue to station two ambulances full-time in Auburn and Smiths Station, significantly reducing emergency response times. In addition, Wayne negotiated and signed contracts with Auburn University to provide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at all university sporting events.
Wayne also served as head of the EAMC Foundation Board of Directors. Alongside Foundation Director Judy Jackson, he helped lead the capital campaign that resulted in the construction of Bethany House, Alabama’s first inpatient hospice facility. While Wayne achieved many successes in healthcare, he never lost his passion for teaching and learning. He mentored countless young leaders at EAMC, nurturing their strengths and building a sustainable and effective team. Many of his protégés went on to hold positions he once held, a testament to his impactful leadership.
Wayne and his family were lifelong members of Providence Baptist Church, where he founded the Providence Foundation and tirelessly campaigned for the Providence Building Fund. He served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years. He deeply loved his church family and friends and especially cherished his Sunday School class, Traveling Light.
His achievements are many, and the difference he made in the lives of the Lee County community will be felt for generations. However, his most meaningful contributions were often made in private—through advice, counsel, and quiet generosity. Wayne was a faithful servant of his Lord, Jesus Christ.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Providence Baptist Church (West Campus), followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m., also on the West Campus, with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Providence Baptist Church Building Fund at 2806 Lee Rd. 166, Opelika, AL 36804.
Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
