Wayne Douglas Flint — a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, educator, and community leader — passed peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025, surrounded by the family he so deeply cherished. His life was a tapestry woven with integrity, humor, devotion, and love, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to touch hearts for generations. 

Born in Buena Vista, Wayne’s journey was defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering love for those around him. After proudly serving his country in the United States military, he returned home to build a life with his beloved wife, Linda. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, warmth, and unconditional love — a safe haven where family and community came first. 

Wayne poured his heart into education, serving as principal of Parry McCluer High School and later as a respected board member of the Buena Vista school system. Known affectionately as “tough but fair,” he was both firm and kind, guiding countless students with wisdom, high expectations, and genuine care. With his sharp eye, meticulous leadership, and signature pink sport coat, students and staff nicknamed him “The Pink Panther” — always observant, always engaged, and always deeply invested in the success of those in his care. 

But behind his watchful presence was a man with a quick wit and a joyful sense of humor. Wayne had a gift for lightening the heaviest of moments, sprinkling laughter into everyday life, and teaching lessons that lingered long after the laughter faded. To know him was to respect him, and to love him was inevitable. 

Wayne believed in leaving every place better than he found it — whether serving his country, his school, or his community. He lived with dignity, fairness, and an unshakable sense of responsibility. His example of quiet strength and steadfast principle will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelma Virginia Flint and Clarence Douglas Flint. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his two sons, Tori and Kelly (Lorena) ; six grandchildren —Tyler (Danielle), Logan (Devaunte), Will (Lawson), Robbie (Christie), Melanie (Matt), and Thorin (Sarah); and five great-grandchildren — Kieran, Ezekiel, Raelynn, Morrison, and Maverick; two sisters, Athena and Dreama (Chuck); and a multitude of extended family. Each of them carries forward his love, his humor, and his devotion to family. 

Wayne will forever be remembered as a husband who adored his wife, a father who guided with wisdom, a grandfather who teased and cherished, a principal who inspired, and a leader who always stood for what was right. His presence made the world brighter, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him. 

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 2 p.m. at the multi-purpose pavilion at Glen Maury Park, with a reception following at the Paxton House. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Buena Vista Schools Scholarship Fund or to the Paxton House Historical Society, honoring Wayne’s lifelong love for education, history, and community. 

To know Wayne was to love him. And to be loved by him was one of life’s greatest gifts.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.