Harold "Wayne" Bigbee

Wayne was cherished by my son and looked after him. When we met Wayne he told us how we raised a fine young man. If my son needed a mechanic, jeweler or a car to borrow Wayne was there with an answer. Thank you Wayne for watching out for my son and taking care of him. My son’s heart is truly broken, you will be missed.

I had the pleasure of meeting Wayne just once at the Rathskeller. Our group was sitting right next to his bar and he and the waitress had a natural funny banter that kept us in stitches all evening! It’s not often one remembers a bartender that served u just once but Wayne was unforgettable and I am so very sorry for his family’s and the community’s loss.

I’ve known Wayne for over 25 years. As a frequent performer in the Rathskeller Biergarten and patron of the restaurant, he’s served me up a cold beer more times than I could count and probably wouldn’t want to. One of my favorite memories of Wayne was one time when the show in the Biergarten got rained out. Some of the band members remained on the stage as a few dozen fans joined us in the bandshell to stay out of the rain. We had a little impromptu jam session, and Wayne continued to bring us all round after round, with only an umbrella to shield him from the downpour. Best bartender ever, and a darn fine human being. I’ll miss you horribly, Wayne!

Wayne,
In fond remembrance.
A beautiful human, gone too soon.
Peace and comfort to all who knew and loved you.
Greg & Susan S.

You will be missed by many, Wayne. Definitely not going to be the same at the Rathskeller without you. Always looked forward to being greeted with your smile.

I am so blessed I had the opportunity to have had him as a friend and my favorite bar tender in the city! Wish I could be there for his celebration of life, but my prayers are with his family and friends the same as if I was there. His smile brightened my day even in my darkest ones..always and ear to listen and great advice! May god hold you in the palm of his hand and say hi to my Mama! Peace!

I am grateful and blessed to have known Wayne and be able to call him my friend. Wayne had a kind and loving heart with an illuminating smile and warm hug that let you know you mattered to him.

Sending peace and comfort to Wayne’s family. May the Lords love and grace see you through this difficult time.

Wayne was such a light in everyone’s life. I, like many, know him from the Rathskeller. He always greeted me with a smile and “Hey, Shorty!” I am 6’6″ and get a lot of annoying comments, but I loved that he called me Shorty. I knew he meant it in an endearing way and that’s how I received it. I’m not a beer drinker, so would always ask for a large water. When the bar was packed, he’s see me waiting patiently in the back of the line, and before I knew it, he’d hold up a large water above everyone’s heads. Such a sweetheart! I haven’t been to the Rathskeller in several years, and when I return I know it won’t be the same without his beautiful smile and presence behind the bar. He is a wonderful example that you don’t need to have a “fancy” high-powered job or be a celebrity to make a difference in someone’s life. He truly cared about everyone and made us all feel special. My condolences to Wayne’s family. Praying for peace and comfort for all who love him. I will miss you, Shorty.

My deepest condolences to Angela and family. The passing of Wayne has touched all of us here in Virginia as well. My prayer is that all will remember the laughter he brought into each of your lives. Praying for comfort!

We love you, Wayne. Thanks for making our lives better by being a part of it.

It’s been more than one decade since I last saw Wayne but his smile and kind eyes are indelibly etched in my mind. Wayne was living proof that it is the small and personal acts of love and kindness that make the world a better place.

I am sooooo shocked to see your Obituary. I knew but could not believe it was you. Will never forget your beautiful smile. Very sorry to hear of your passing. I met you at the Rathskellar as well, working for Rotary, in the same building. You were so kind and attentive. You will truly be missed.
My condolences and prayers to your family. Rest In Peace.