Today we lost a friend, Wayne Elliott. Wayne went to join the angels and sing with the heavenly host as we get ready to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I can see his smile and the glint in his eye as he raises his voice in praise. Goodby my brother, until we meet again.
Wayne was one of the most gracious collectors of our beloved Longrifles. He loved the southern rifles especially those by Wiley Higgins. A few years ago at the annual KRA meeting Wayne had one of the best displays I have had the pleasure of seeing of his Higgins rifles and the Higgins family. It was fabulous, I am glad now that I made a point to tell him how much I enjoyed his display.
I was very honored when Wayne asked me to do some restoration work on one of his beloved Higgins rifles. To be sure I wanted to do my best work, not because I was working on a Wiley Higgins rifle but because I was so honored that Wayne asked me to do the work. Ever gracious with his smile and with the hand of friendship, a true Southern Gentlemen.
I was looking forward to seeing Wayne and Boo at my show this coming January. He had already reserved his tables and I couldn’t wait to see what he was going to display. It is sad that Wayne will not be there in body but he will be there in Spirit. A tribute to Wayne will be set up in his remembrance. I would like to offer to anyone who will be attending the show if they have something to display as a tribute to Wayne please contact me and I will make sure to make the space available. Let’s honor our brother.
To Boo and the family our Love and our Prayers go out to you.