Everette Wayne Sykes was called to leave this life on 12/16/2025. Wayne was born to Zeaulene and Everette Randolph Sykes on 12/30/1949 in Portsmouth, Virginia. Wayne grew up in Portsmouth with four siblings, graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1967, before attending Virginia Tech.

After graduation, Wayne began working for Virginia Beach Public Schools where he served as a teacher, baseball coach, assistant principal, and principal of many schools in the district. Wayne was beloved by many coworkers and served as a mentor to many young teachers, players, and students in his time in the school system. He appreciated the bonds he made, and was sure to try to keep in touch with as many of the people he touched as he grew older.

His most cherished bond was made when he met the love of his life, Lynn (Ellis) Sykes. In June of 1984, he and Lynn were married and lived in happiness together until his death. Wayne believed that Lynn was the best thing to have happened to him in his life, and treated her accordingly. Eight years after their marriage Everette “Rett” Sykes, their only child, was born. They were truly the lights of his life; Wayne worked tirelessly to provide a nurturing environment for his family, and made sure that they were comfortable for 41 years.

Wayne enjoyed spending his free time playing golf. He was arguably at his happiest when he was on the golf course. After retirement, he worked as a marshall and starter at courses in the area to help cultivate the game he loved. On rainy days, Wayne spent his time watching the Yankees, Hokies, or watching horse races in his favorite recliner.

Wayne is survived by Lynn, Rett, his sisters (Betty and Nancy), brother-in-laws (John Ellis II and Jimmy Long), and a host of nieces and nephews (Amanda Zimmerman [Matt], John Long [Teresa], Michael Moskway, Kenny Gnatiuk, Melody Stanley, Alyse Stanley, Crystal Stanley, Beth Keller). He was predeceased by his parents (Zeaulene and Everette), mother-in-law (Ann Ellis), siblings (Kenny Sykes and Paula Abbot), niece (Kristin Moskway), and nephew (John Ellis III).

A celebration of life will be held at the family’s discretion at a later date.