Ernest Wayne Searcy, 78, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 3, 1947, in Mobile County, Alabama, Wayne was the son of the late Davis Devon Searcy and Mary Louise Dumas Searcy. A proud patriot and devoted family man, Wayne served his country with honor and distinction for 39 years, retiring as a Special Forces Chief Warrant Officer Five in the U.S. Army. Known affectionately by many as "Chief," his leadership, dedication, and service left a lasting impact on all who served beside him.

Wayne was an active member of the Special Forces Association, the Warrant Officers Association, and the Fayetteville Area Shag Association. He found joy in the camaraderie of these communities and treasured the time spent at the family's beach house in North Myrtle Beach.

An avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast, Wayne loved the open road. His time in the military and his adventurous spirit also led him to scuba diving and skydiving. A lifelong Alabama Crimson Tide fan, he cheered on his team with pride — "Roll Tide" was more than a motto; it was a way of life.

Above all, Wayne was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. His kindness, strength, and humor will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Kyra Isengard, and his brother, Charles Harold Searcy.

He is survived by his wife, Anna Simmons Searcy; sons, Patrick Searcy (Amy) and Kyle Searcy; stepdaughter, Amanda Briggs; and sister, Sherry Searcy Holland (Ernie). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Alysha Wallace, Davis Searcy (Melissa), Sarah Tripp (Connor), Elijah Isengard, Hailey Grace Briggs, Izabella Searcy, Scarlett Briggs, Isaiah Isengard, and Zelda Briggs; along with three adored great-grandchildren: Amiya Torres, Josiah Wallace, and Mars Torres.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday November 5, 2025 at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home followed by a Celebration on Life Service in the chapel at 12:30. Burial with full Military Honors will be held at 2 p.m. at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery. A Livestream of the service will be available at 12:30 pm at https://www.facebook.com/JerniganWarren/

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com

Wayne's legacy of service, love, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

Memorials may be made to the Special Warfare Museum Foundation or to the Duke Cancer Institute here .

Funeral arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301