Erby Wayne Betterton was born on February 28, 1948, in Decatur, AL.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Huey Betterton and Ima Nell (Graham) Betterton, and his siblings, Freda Mae (Betterton) Simms and Joe Huey Betterton.

Wayne is survived by his wife of 54 years, Valeri Lynn (Dunaway) Betterton, his daughters, Heather (Michael) Lewis and Holly (Chris) Powell, and his grandchildren, Cameron (Julia) Lewis, Carter (Raynie) Lewis, Belle Powell, Millie Lewis, and Caroline Powell.

Wayne served three years in the United States Army as an E4 Specialist, including a tour in Vietnam in 1967-1968. His military honors included National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Silver Service Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Second Class Gunner (M-60 MG), and Expert Rifle.

After his service to the US Army, he worked at Dunlop Tire Corporation for 33 ½ years where he developed lifelong friendships.

Wayne and Valeri married in 1971 and had two daughters and five grandchildren. Wayne deeply loved his family. His love for Christ was made evident by his faithful Scripture reading, his daily prayers, and his cheerful generosity. He enjoyed spending time with loved ones and taking care of them. He loved bass fishing on his boat, hunting, driving Mustangs and motorcycles, gardening, carpentry and wood work, the beach, and horses.

Visitation will be held at Berryhill Funeral Home in Huntsville, AL, on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 12:00 to 2:00pm. The funeral service will take place at 2:00pm. Burial with military honors will be at Maple Hill Cemetery.