Wayne Tutrani's Obituary
Wayne Thomas Tutrani, 64, went home to Jesus on March 28, 2023 after a valiant battle with brain cancer (GBM).
Wayne was born in Brooklyn, NY to Peter J. Tutrani and Josephine (Maimone) Tutrani on October 8, 1958.
He grew up on Smithtown, Long Island, where he graduated from Smithtown High School West in 1976.
Wayne furthered his education at New York City Tech College with a degree in Optics Science. He held his optical license over 45 years and was 3rd generation optician in his family. For several years he owned and operated his own optical store. During this time, he attended Dallas Theological Seminary. Wayne lived his faith every day and never lost his strong devotion to his ministry.
Later in life, he began a career in finance. Wayne was a Sr. Loan Officer for Chase Manhattan Bank in New York – later to become manager and Sr. Loan Officer of Bestway Mortgage in Lakeland, FL.
He was best known for his strong devotion to his Christian faith. Wayne lived his faith and there was never a question of his devotion. He loved everyone and did not judge. In 2004 Wayne met the love of his life, Hollie Jennings-Miller. They were married before God and Family on July 2, 2005. They had a bond that was unbreakable. Wayne and Hollie were best friends, soul mates and deeply devoted to each other and raising their children together.
Together, they supported many ministries; St Jude’s Childrens Hospital, FL Baptist Children’s Home, Food 4 Hungry, Black -White for Asia, The Stork, Billy Graham, Samaritans Purse and Lighthouse Ministries.
He was heavily involved in men’s ministries: Iron Sharpens Iron, Metal Shop, OS Hillman Workplace Ministries and Wounded Warriors.
Wayne was a natural networker. He helped people find jobs, education and Jesus.
He was a “dad” to many and unofficially adopted many kids – No one could find a kinder, generous, loving, devoted, loyal, hardworking man as Wayne never met a stranger. Wayne was also known for his “corney” jokes. He always made everyone laugh – He was a happy man. He would tell you he has happiness because he knew the Lord and how fitting was it that he went home at 3:16? For John 3:16 says: “whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life”.
Wayne was a Mets fan. He loved Golf, hunting, fishing, reading, going to the firing range, and spending quiet time with his wife and fun times with his 6 grandchildren…the joy of his days. He was the best Papa. Wayne animated story time and made up crazy stories with voices – he loved to teach. Education was important and everything was a lesson. He taught Sunday School for many years.
Wayne and Hollie attend Lakes Church in Lakeland.
He is survived by his wife, Hollie; son, Johnathon (Amanda) Miller; daughters, Jillian (Joshua) Fox, Staci (Richard) Wise, Deanna (Deven) Ford, Nicole Tutrani; grandchildren, Sawyer, Rowan, Crew, Anaiah, Aila and Eli; Aunt, Marianne (Arthur) Noto; brothers, Mark (Toni Tutrani, Peter (Martha) Tutrani and several cousins.
A Celebration of Life will take place following the funeral services on Monday, 4/3/23 at Water Ridge Clubhouse, 112 Water Ridge Blvd., Auburndale, FL 33823 from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.
THE FAMILY ASKS THAT YOU WEAR COLORFUL ATTIRE TO HIS VISITATION AND SERVICE AND IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, PLEASE PURCHASE A CHICKEN / GOAT THROUGH www.samaritanspurse.org IN HONOR OF WAYNE.
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