Robert Wayne Self

Robert Wayne Self, the loving husband and father of five children passed to be with his maker on Sunday, November 14th, 2022. He was 81 years old. He is survived by his adoring wife of 39 years, Nancy Tyson Self of Stockton, AL, his children David Wayne Self of Alaska, Stephen Thomas (Kelly) Self of Daphne, AL, Brenon (Tessa) Savell of Billings, MT, Aimee (DeeDee) Savell of Verbena, AL and Carrie Savell (Michael) Donoghue of Daphne, AL, along with eight grandchildren, Cooper Donoghue, Ella Donoghue, Emilee Donoghue, Benjamin Self, Grady Savell, Muriel Savell, Grace Savell and Luther Savell.

Born in Washington, D.C. to Ernest and Julia Self in 1940, he spent most of his childhood in Birmingham, Alabama. When he was 15, he helped his father build a house on Guntersville Lake that became the center of family fun for decades.  After attending Georgia Tech where he earned his degree in Chemical Engineering, Wayne proved himself a remarkable resource to International Paper. For his work and success, he was given his own research team and facility. His pragmatic approach and detailed mind led to many professional achievements and recognition.

In his personal life Wayne set himself apart as an exceptional person. He would tell you that he never sacrificed anything for anyone. But when he found himself as a single father of two boys, he did everything he could to ensure they had a good life. When he fell in love with Nancy it was no sacrifice for him to bring her family into his own. He was a loving, selfless, caring person and found joy in providing for and helping those he loved live their best life.

Wayne always had a passion for solving puzzles. He was an engineer by training, trade and disposition. But he loved music and art, travel and adventure, cooking and sharing stories over a glass of wine. He had an innate curiosity and knew enough about everything to do anything. A lifelong learner, he spent years teaching himself to build furniture, rebuild old cars, write fiction and developing his award-winning Christmas Turkey Gumbo over (Nancy’s) cornbread dressing. And yet he was humble about everything that he did because he did it all in service to others. His legacy can be found in the success and happiness of his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Stockton Presbyterian Church in Stockton, Alabama at 11 AM on Wednesday, November 16th, 2022 with Reverend Kenneth Lane and Dr. Jerry Headrick officiating. In lieu of gifts or flowers, donations can be made to Stockton Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 438, Stockton, AL 36579 or the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/).

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