Tribute to Phil Wayman

"Young-un" goes home to be with the Lord.

For over 20 years, Phil Wayman was the key figure in the Northwest leading,
training, and promoting Royal Rangers. To him, everyone was "young-un". With
his big, infectious smile, he would wrap his Oklahoma farm boy arm around you and
whisper, "You know Jesus loves you?" Phil had a way of getting right to the point. And
the thousands of boys and men who knew him, loved him.

Phil passed away at age 88, July 10, 2010. He leaves a legacy that will live on for years to come. He was District Commander from the beginning in 1962 until passing the baton to Rev. Bob Unruh. Phil lived in Lacy, WA attending Faith Assembly and leading devotions with boys in the local outpost right into his eighties. He loved Jesus and he loved boys, but he especially loved bringing boys to meet Jesus. Besides serving as District Commander, Phil also led many training events such as National Training Camps, Training Trails, and countless Leadership Training sessions.

Phil traveled abroad on at least 4 missions trips serving the local missionary and helping plant or train Royal Rangers in those countries.

Faith Assembly in Lacey hosted a memorial service on Friday, July 16 with about 250 people in attendance; many in Royal Ranger uniforms. The boys from local outpost 286 brought in the flags and led the congregation in the standard 3 flag salutes. Pastor Dan Secrist led the service sharing many stories and accomplishments from Phil's life. Songs were sung by Phil's grandsons, James and John Roberts. Special recognition was given to Alma Wayman, Phil's wife for all the years of support and prayer she gave throughout Phil's years of ministry. Certainly his ministry would not have been so impactful, had it not been for her strength, love and prayers. Thank you Alma! After a brief slide show of Phil's life, the congregation stood and sang Amazing Grace.

Phil was my mentor. As a young children's pastor coming out of Northwest College, Phil took me under his wing to lead, train, and encourage in ministry. I was only one of many for whom Phil did the same thing. We all say "Thank You, Phil" and we pledge to do our best to live up to the standard of excellence you set for us.

Certainly the Lord has welcomed you Home with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"

by Dean Kimber