Dudley Wayne Harden, 69, passed away Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at the Courtyards Community Living Center in Fulton. Wayne was born February 12, 1953, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to his devoted parents Word H. Harden and Louella Sue Harden. Moving to Northeast Mississippi as a young adult, he became a welder and fabricator. Over the course of years, he owned and operated several welding businesses, manufacturing different things from fireplace grates to satellite dishes. Later after moving Saltillo, MS, he started a scrap business that he maintained for 16 years before he retired due to health issues. He was a proud Mason.
Wayne was always ready with a story or anecdote. He enjoyed talking about his youth and experiences. He also enjoyed family history, collecting anything eagle-related, watching old westerns, and listening to music.
Wayne leaves behind his children, Tonya Harden-Dixon (James), Marsha Knight, and Samson Harden; his grandchildren, Kyle Knight, Brayden Knight, Natalie Knight, and Johnavan Harden; his brother-in-law, Otto Walker; nephews, Larry Wayne Weaver (Trudy), Herbert P. Weaver, Jr., Timothy Walker (Ana), Rodney Walker (Christine), as well as other nephews, nieces, great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and friends.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Word and Louella Harden; his beloved sister, Patricia Walker; brothers, Herbert P. Weaver, Sr., Charles “Chuck” Weaver, and Donnis Harden; family friend, Kenneth “Slim” Anderson; and his devoted fiancée, Beth.
Per Wayne’s wishes, he was laid to rest beside his parents at Tupelo Memorial Park with no formal services. A private memorial will be held by the family. McNeece-Morris Funeral Home of Fulton assisted the Harden family.
