Robert "Wayne" Crosby

Robert Wayne Crosby of Asheville, NC, died peacefully at Solace on September 18, 2025.

Wayne was born in Charleston, SC on June 18, 1949, a son of the late Margaret Kinard Crosby and Alfred Dowling Crosby, Jr.

His family moved to Charlotte, NC in 1963, where he met his future wife, Claudia. They were married in January, 1969, shortly before Wayne’s deployment to Vietnam with the U.S. Marines, and have remained married for 56 years. It was always a dream for Wayne and Claudia to be able to live in the mountains of Western North Carolina, and they realized that dream in August of 1979 when they moved to Asheville. They enjoyed their little mountain home in the woods for 46 years.

Family, friends and business associates remember Wayne for his wonderful sense of humor, always ready with a joke and seeing life in a lighthearted way. He had a bold and engaging personality which served him very well during the over 25 years he worked in sales. Wayne and Claudia were privileged to be able to travel in the United States and abroad due to Wayne’s talent in winning sales contests, which resulted in many all expenses paid trips over the years. They also owned a 1956 T-Bird and were members of an interstate T-Bird club, where Wayne edited the club newsletter and planned events in North Carolina. Wayne also served as DJ at club events, as members remembered and celebrated the music and times of the 1950’s in America.

Wayne was an avid reader, and an expert on WWII. He loved his country and was proud to serve in uniform.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his sister, Judith, brother, Al, and beloved uncle, Jack. He is survived by his wife, Claudia, sisters-and aunts-in-law, and nieces and nephews. Wayne was so loved and will be greatly missed.

Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.