Wayne Robert Houghton
November 15, 1963 - June 6, 2025
Wayne Robert Houghton passed away on June 6, 2025, at the age of 61. Born on November 15, 1963, in Morrisville, New York, Wayne lived a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.
He was the beloved husband of Wendy Houghton (neé Alvin), his partner in life and travel. The two were married on July 7, 2007 – 07/07/07 – a date as memorable and meaningful as their bond. They met during their careers with Marriott and, over the years, traveled together to 17 countries and many beautiful places across the U.S., the most recent trips were St. Lucia and London with great friends, Sean and Amy O’Shea, to see the Phillies play. When asked to name his favorite trip, Wayne would say it was impossible to choose – though he often shared the first glimpse of Machu Picchu was the single best day of any of the trips and running with the bulls was the most terrifying! Together, Wayne and Wendy built a beautiful life surrounded by incredible friends and unforgettable experiences.
Wayne especially cherished their little condo in Florida, affectionately known as “The Purple Wig”. Afternoons spent poolside with friends, sharing stories and solving the world’s problems, were some of his happiest moments. No trip was complete without a swim in the Gulf, and he was grateful to have shared this special place with dear friends Peter and Michelle Heinrich.
In 2020, Wayne and Wendy moved to Historic New Castle, Delaware, where they quickly found a warm and welcoming community and formed lasting friendships. The town truly felt like home. Fourth Fridays became a cherished tradition – starting with a visit to the party at Mo’zart, followed by cocktails at the Mercury, a stop at the opera house antiques and dinner at Zollie’s and most recently a final stop at the Sycamore. Connecting with friends old and new along the way, it was the perfect recipe for a memorable evening.
Wayne was the cherished son of Jack and Dirinda Houghton, and the devoted brother of Brett Houghton (Barb Newton) and Greg Houghton. He was a proud uncle to Brock, Gannon, Maddy, and McKenzie. He also shared a close bond with extended family and lifelong friends – John, Patti, Tessa, and Ross Whitford; cousins, Jerry and Debbie Coleman Gracin; and longtime friends Hank Maciag, Glen Miner, Lori Williams, and Kurt Hall, who predeceased him.
After an early career in bridge building that ended with a fall and a few colorful words, Wayne decided it was time to go to college. He graduated from Morrisville College and Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), then began a 25-year career with Marriott.
Outside of work, Wayne found joy in many passions – especially hunting, traveling, and simply being outdoors. One of his most treasured places was the Fort Noble Hunting Camp in Poland, New York, started by his grandfather and membership included many friends and family through the years. Although it had been years since he last got a deer, the time he spent at camp provided entertaining stories for years.
Wayne will be remembered for his quick wit, generous heart, and unwavering loyalty. He had a gift for making friends anywhere – often striking up a conversation at a bar that would turn a stranger into a friend. His warmth and openness made every trip an adventure and every gathering a celebration.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many friends and loved ones who offered their support, prayers, and kindness during this time. A special thank you to Kim Korpalski for her unwavering love, presence, and care; Amy O’Shea for your presence, support and love; and Laura Fontana for your love and support. Everyone’s comforting words, thoughtful gestures, and shared memories have meant more than words can express.
A celebration of Wayne’s life will take place at a later date in Historic New Castle and in Morrisville, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Wayne’s memory may be made to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation or the American Cancer Society.
Warren Sackler
Wayne was a great friend and also a student of mine. I will miss him. He had a great nature about him and we have lost a great individual way to early.
Denise Mason-Tootle
My sincere condolences on your loss, may your memories surround you like a warm hug
Thinking of you Denise
CJ Brooks
Words hardly heal the pain of lose. My support are with you and your family and Wayne’s presence and affect on my life will always be held in me. Rest in peace and grace.
Jessica Dewey
Love u Wayne… You will forever be in our hearts 💕
Kathy Bieg
My dear Wendy ..what a beautiful memorial to Wayne and the life you shared .He truly found an amazing wife to experience the world and enjoy the things he loved .
I am so sorry for your loss.
Dean T Pailas
My deepest heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Wayne was a sweetheart he will be missed.
Scott Kelly
Wendy, I’m so happy for the time you two were able to share. Such good memories!
Wayne-O – wish we could have enjoyed one last cocktail or another stingray shuffle into the 65 degree water. Cheers to you.
Michael Palladino
To Wayne,
Thank you for being an amazing neighbor and showing such kindness to our children. I frequently look back at videos of Michael swimming in your pool at a very young age. Although we spoke infrequently since your move to Delaware, both you and Wendy hold a special place in our hearts because of your kindness, generosity, and infectious smile.
All of our prayers, rest in peace!
Love the Palladino Family
Bill Walsh
The amount of times Wayne covered my backside could not be counted. Always working hard with the glass is half full attitude. He was a team player and never hesitated to jump
In and help his fellow managers and his staff. His relationship with Wendy was wonderful to watch.
The world would be a better place if everyone could have Wayne’s sport and love of life. May he Rest in Peace, knowing he had a life well lived
Doris
Thank you for sharing about Wayne. What an exceptional person person he was enjoying people and
Life and many adventures
With his wife Wendy!
I wish I had known him only have meant once.
My prayers go out to Wendy and Elaine and family.
Warmest regards
Doris
Heather Wilson
What a beautiful tribute to Wayne. Wendy, I’m so sorry for your loss and you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers., You truly built a beautiful and fulfilling life together creating memories to last forever..
Gerardo Mendoza
Wendy.. I am soooo sorry. I just heart. Our deepest condolences from David & I. Please let us know if you need anything! Love u
Rene Anderson
I spent time in Florida with Wayne and Wendy on a couple of occasions. They were both very warm and welcoming to this southern girl. Loved spending time with them with lots of laughter. He will be so missed. Love you, Wendy.
Karen Worlock
My sincere condolences to Jack and Dirinda, Patty and John. so very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all.
george khalil
Rest in peace pray for us
Mike/Helene Lavoie
We met Wayne in Florida, at the Syvette condominium. He was one of those people you don’t forget—always smiling, always with a warm hello, and always full of joy. Wayne and Wendy were such a happy couple, and we truly enjoyed every conversation we had with them by the poolside.
There was something peaceful and uplifting about chatting with Wayne, whether it was about life, the weather, or just watching the day go by under the Florida sun. He brought good energy wherever he went.
We want to offer our deepest sympathy to Wendy and the entire family. Please know that you’re in our thoughts and prayers. Wayne’s spirit will always be part of those sunny days we remember so fondly.
We hope to see you again soon, Wendy. Until then, we’re sending all our support and love your way.
Candice Richardson
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man. Sending all my love to Wendy, his family and friends. May God protect and comfort you through this difficult time. I
Bernice Geier
Sending our love an deepest sympathy to Wendy and Houghton family.
Kevin M Kelly
So sad to hear of Wayne’s passing and of Wendy’s loss. Wayne and I spent many a day together at the Philadelphia Marriott. He was one of the best people I had ever worked with in my 50+years in the Hotel/Meetings business. He was loved by all the staff that reported to him, he built great friendships there and eventually met and married his wife. I will cherish the memories we had, the fun working at PHLDT, and just the gentleman that he was and how well he treated everyone. The world is a less better place with Wayne not in it.
Vince & Michelle Herran
What joyful memories we have with Wayne and the Houghton cousins in Morrisville growing up together.
Michelle & I will think of you when we vacation at Marriott in Hilton Head, with love and prayers
Valerie Taylor
My deepest condolences to you and your family may he rest in peace 🙏🏾🌹
Mike Lawler
My deepest sympathies to all of you. May he rest in peace.
Angela Manuel
Wendy, your tribute to Wayne is truly beautiful. My heart aches for you in this difficult time. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you find comfort in the love you shared and the cherished memories that will always remain. I’m here for you—whatever you need.
Sheri McFarland
Wendy, My Heart is with you, and your Family at this time.May The Love, Light, and Precious Memories surround and comfort you Always !! Wayne always got things done in his steady, quiet, and efficient way, and had the Best office location in PHLDT, on the occasional quiet day.I always appreciated his collaborative spirit.May he rest in Peace and Grace !
Josie Keely
Dearest Wendy – my prayer and deepest condolences to you and your family! You were such an amazing couple! Your life journey together was wonderful to watch! My heart is with you, Wendy 🙏❤️ RIP Wayne.
Peg Bradley
His was truly a life well lived.❤️
Erin Kelly Pearson
I have watched the video several times and the journey Wayne had here on this earth is pretty amazing, and it was made more beautiful when he found his love, Wendy. The easy laughter and joy that exuded from Wayne were such a blessing to all. On to the next great journey and we’ll join you when it’s our turn to punch the ticket. Until then, may everyone – especially Wendy- feel your love in the warm rays of the sun and hear your laughter in the song of the birds and know your voice in the comfort of the waves. Blessings and so much love.
Kathryn Pappas
Our sincere condolences on your loss Sending hugs and prayers Kathy and George