Dr. Wayne F. Emery

Dr. Wayne F. Emery, age 82, of Unicoi, Tennessee, passed away in Plano, TX following a year-long battle with cancer on August 18, 2026. He was born on July 18, 1944 in Hillsboro, OH. He is preceded in death by his wife, Vickie Emery, in April 2025. He is also preceded in death by his parents, Garland and Thelma (Fawley) Emery, and brother, Curtis Eugene. He is survived by the mother of his daughters, Marla (Emery) Miklis, Dallas, Texas; his daughter, Tanya Emery Benbow and grandchildren Ava, William and Caroline, Dallas, Texas; and daughter, Annika Emery Evans (Jason) and granddaughters, Alaina and Olivia, Frisco, Texas.

Wayne’s career in ministry modeled that of a pastor- one who guides, teaches, and cares for people. He was recognized by those who knew him as a good and faithful servant.

Wayne graduated from Milligan University in 1966 with a degree in Bible. He later earned a Master of Divinity degree from Emmanuel in 1973 and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Vanderbilt University in 1986.

Over the course of a 60-year ministry career, Wayne served congregations across Tennessee and Texas. This past March, he retired following 27 years as pastor of East Unaka Christian Church in Johnson City, Tennessee. Previous ministries included 16 years at Central Holston Christian Church in Bristol, Tennessee, and 10 years at University Christian Church in Plano, Texas. In addition to his years in pastoral ministry, Wayne also served Milligan for eight years as Director of Alumni Relations.

He was involved in the community and served on several boards, including the Johnson City Medical Center Board of Ethics, the Board of Advisors at Milligan University, and the Advisory Board of Abundant Living (formerly Appalachian Christian Village).

His family is deeply appreciative of Gail Aurelio's 40+ year friendship with Wayne and the support she provided in both the music ministry and as administrative assistant.

Special thanks is also extended to the caring staff at Wyndham Court, Plano, Texas who provided loving friendship and care during Wayne’s transition. His family is deeply grateful.

Visitation of family and friends will be held at East Unaka Christian Church, 1201 East Unaka Avenue, Johnson City, Tennessee, on Saturday, August 29th from 10:00 a.m. to Noon. The memorial service will follow at Noon and interment will follow at Happy Valley Memorial Park.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E. Oakland Ave., Johnson City, is honored to serve the Emery family. (423) 282-1521