Wayne Kestner

Douglas Wayne Kestner, known fondly to many as Wayne, passed away on June 7, 2026, at Bristol Regional Medical Center in Bristol, Tennessee. Born on June 3, 1961, in Abingdon, Virginia, to the late, Ernest Fletcher Kestner and Sadie Taylor Kestner. Wayne lived a life marked by dedication, faith, and a profound connection to his community.

Following his graduation from Patrick Henry High School, Wayne embarked on a lifelong career demonstrating the strong work ethic instilled in him from a young age. He initially worked at U.S. Gypsum until the plant's closure, after which he transitioned into a rewarding 15-year tenure as a car salesman serving the Johnson City and Kingsport areas. His career was not merely about sales but about cultivating lasting relationships and trust within his community.

Wayne was deeply committed to his faith, which was a cornerstone of his life. He served as a Pastor at Saltville Baptist Church, where his gifted singing and speaking enriched the spiritual lives of many. A member of the SonRise Trio, he delighted in sharing his musical talents, combining them with insightful storytelling—a skill that endeared him to countless friends and church members alike. His love for the Lord was evident in his dedication to reading and studying God’s word, a practice that gave him great wisdom and guidance throughout his life.

Beyond his vocation and ministry, Wayne enjoyed a range of interests, including a passion for golf, both playing and watching tournaments. He was also an active attendee of Rosedale Baptist Church, where he found fellowship and community.

Wayne’s personality was marked by warmth and an infectious love of conversation. He had an exceptional ability to engage others through stories and meaningful dialogue, making every interaction memorable. His voice, both spoken and sung, and his wise counsel will be profoundly missed. He loved his grandchildren and enjoyed watching them.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his brothers, Lyle Kestner and Eddie Kestner.

He is survived by his beloved son, Justin Kestner, and daughter, Casey Yonts and her husband, Michael, who carry forward his legacy of kindness and dedication. His grandchildren, Kayleigh, Maverick, Kenleigh, and Kendall, brought him immense joy and pride. Wayne was also cherished by his brothers, Donnie Kestner and his wife, Reva, Larry Kestner and his wife, Pina, and Randy Kestner and his wife, Teresa, as well as his sister-in-law, Jill Kestner, and several nieces and nephews. Among his closest friends was John Ryan and his wife Rita, whose friendship was a testament to the many strong personal bonds Wayne cultivated over the years.

A visitation will be held on June 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed immediately by the funeral service from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Farris Funeral Service – Main Street Chapel located at 427 E Main St, Abingdon, VA 24210 with Dr. Don Paxton officiating. These gatherings will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Wayne to celebrate his remarkable life and pay their respects.

Douglas Wayne Kestner’s legacy is one of faith, family, and friendship. His unwavering devotion to his beliefs and his gift for storytelling have left an indelible mark on those who knew him. He will be remembered not only as a pastor, a gifted singer, and a caring father and grandfather but as a man who truly loved and embraced life with open arms and a warm heart.

The family would like to express a sincere thank you to Bristol Regional Medical Center, Life Saving Crew and Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies for everything they did for Wayne.

As Wayne would say to those who believed in the Lord, "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord"