Wayne James Diebold

Wayne Diebold, a devoted husband, a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Navy veteran, gifted artist, vocalist, and faithful servant of the church, passed away on October 19, 2026. Born on May 16, 1947, Wayne lived a life marked by service, creativity, music, adventure, and an enduring love for his Lord and Savior.

Wayne proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Forrestal. During his military service, he received two Purple Hearts and multiple commendations, reflecting the sacrifices he made in service to his country.

Following his military service, Wayne spent many years working in the horse racing community, where he met his beloved wife, Norma Jean. Together, they built a life filled with family, travel, music, and countless memories. During their travels with their children, Wayne made a point of stopping at national parks and museums, sharing his appreciation for history, art, and the world around him.

Among the family’s favorite destinations were Dogpatch USA and Petit Jean Mountain, places that remained treasured parts of their shared family history.

Wayne was an extraordinarily talented artist and vocalist. For many years, Wayne and his family sang Southern Gospel music throughout the surrounding communities, sharing their faith and bringing music into the lives of others. Wayne also served the church in numerous ways throughout his lifetime, generously giving his time and talents to his faith and community.

As his children grew and began their own lives, Wayne embarked on another chapter as a truck driver. He and Norma Jean crossed the country together, turning the open road into another adventure they could share. When grandchildren arrived, Wayne transitioned to local driving, allowing him to remain closer to home and the growing family he cherished.

As a grandfather, Wayne expressed his love in his own unmistakable way. He built tree houses, pools, and swings for his grandchildren, giving them places to climb, play, and create memories that would last a lifetime. He might have grumbled about the noise and commotion that came with having children around, but his actions spoke louder than his complaints. Those tree houses were a lasting expression of his, resourcefulness, and desire to give his grandchildren something special.

Wayne was a man of many talents and many chapters. He was a sailor who served his country, an artist who saw the world creatively, a singer who shared his gifts, a truck driver who traveled its highways, and a family man who collected memories along the way. Above all, he was a father and grandfather whose influence will continue through the generations who follow him.

Wayne was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Norma Jean; his brother, James Diebold; and his parents, Norbert and Gertrude Diebold.

He is survived by his three children, Marty, Patty (Rex) Watson, and Wayne (Jenifer) Diebold; his grandchildren, CJ Thornberry; Chris Thornberry; Sarah (Lev) Kalman; Eric (Ericka) Diebold; and Kade (Jeremy) Byars; and his three great-grandchildren, Blakely Diebold Barton, Cash Thornberry, and Crews Thornberry.

His family also includes eight bonus grandchildren and sixteen bonus great-grandchildren, along with his brother, Kenneth Diebold. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, close friends, fellow musicians, and members of the church community whose lives were touched by his presence.

Though his voice has fallen silent here, the songs he sang, the art he created, the miles he traveled, the faith he shared, and the memories he made with his family will continue to live on. His legacy can be found in every family story retold and every song remembered.

A life of service, a heart for music, and a legacy spanning generations. Wayne will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Visitation services will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026 at 10:00 with funeral services to follow at 11:00 located at Smith Family Funeral Home in Hot Springs, Arkansas.