06/09/2026
William Wayne Irby, 79, of Appomattox, Virginia, departed this life on June 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion to family.
Born on May 29, 1947, in Lynchburg, VA, Wayne lived a life defined by dedication to his family, quiet strength, and hard work. He was a loving husband, father, “Grumpa”, brother, veteran, and friend whose presence brought comfort, wisdom, and stability to those around him.
Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant, serving in the Vietnam War.
Wayne built a long career as a commercial welder. Spending most of his years working with Babcock & Wilcox, Framatome and AREVA, he earned the respect of coworkers through his skill, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. The same craftmanship that defined his professional life could be seen in everything he did.
For more than 56 years, Wayne was married to his wife Marietta Drinkard Irby. Together they built a life centered on family, perseverance, and unconditional love. He was a devoted father, a proud grandfather, and a man whose greatest joy came from spending time with those he loved.
Wayne found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time fishing, tending his garden, coaching and watching sports, and working with his hands. An all-around handyman and tinkerer, there seemed to be little he couldn’t repair, improve, or build. Family and friends often relied on his practical knowledge, creativity, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Whether solving a problem in the workshop, nurturing a garden, or enjoying a day by the water, Wayne approached life with resourcefulness and quiet determination.
Wayne was preceded in death by his father, Dallas William Irby; his mother and stepfather, Billie and Alfred Newman; and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Gail and Giles Slade.
He is survived by his wife, Marietta Drinkard Irby; his children, David Wayne Irby and Cheryl Lyn Irby; his cherished granddaughter, Dallas Gail; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert and Gwen Gentry, Gerald and Melissa Irby; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Tommy and Nell Drinkard, and E.B. and Loretta Drinkard; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Those who knew Wayne will remember a man of integrity, loyalty, humility, and deep love for his family. He faced life’s challenges with courage and determination, meeting adversity with quiet dignity and strength. His legacy will live on through the values he instilled, the lessons he taught, the things he built and repaired, and the family he loved so dearly.
A funeral will be held at 11 am, Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Trinity Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. David Drinkard. Burial will follow in Rebecca Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 pm, Friday, June 12, 2026, at Robinson Funeral Home and other times at the residence.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many physicians, nurses, caregivers, friends, and loved ones who offered care, compassion, and support.
For those wishing to make memorial contributions, the family respectfully suggests the Rebecca Cemetery Fund, c/o Charles Martin, 67 Stonewall Rd, Concord, VA, 24538.
Though he will be deeply missed, Wayne’s memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family. An online condolence may be sent by visiting www.robinsonfuneral.com.
