Ernest Wayne Todd, proud veteran, enjoyed racing

Ernest Wayne Todd, 78, of Georgetown, passed away Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, at Beebe Healthcare surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Sept. 21, 1946, in Wilmington, son of Clifford W. and Constance (Henry) Todd.  

Wayne graduated from Georgetown High School Class of 1965. He served as an AGR Operations NCO for the 315th Supply & Service Company in Dover. During this period, he was instrumental in preparing the company for multiple overseas exercises. He was a trusted and dependable unit leader. After that assignment, Wayne transferred to the 338th Transportation Detachment as the unit supply sergeant. He was responsible for preparing the unit for deployment during Operation Desert Storm.  

As a Vietnam veteran during his stint with the U.S. Navy until his military retirement from the Army in 1996, Wayne never hesitated to share his knowledge, skills, and experiences with fellow soldiers. During his military career, Wayne was awarded several medals and citations, but the most meaningful award was being a true friend to all who served with him. He retired from the military with 26 years of service. 

Wayne enjoyed stock car racing, working on engines, and setting up cars. He was a member of American Legion Post 28 in Millsboro and Rehoboth VFW.  Wayne was employed by DuPont throughout his working career.  

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his brother, Clifford W. Todd Jr.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Susan (Jackson) Todd; son, Dwayne Todd; sister-in-law, Ellen Todd; sister, Sarah Russell (Craig); nephews, Michael Todd and P.J. Todd; niece, Courtney Russell; great-niece, Delanie Jefferson; grandchild, Zackary Todd, his fiancée Heather Wright, and her daughter; and great-grandchildren, Laila and Wrenlee.

A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 22, at Short Funeral Services chapel, 609 E. Market St., Georgetown, where a time of visitation for family and friends will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 21. Burial will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Nov. 22, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to Delaware Hospice, delawarehospice.org.

Online condolences are welcome for the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.