Mr. Wyvis Oxendine, Sr.

On January 20, 2021 Robeson County lost a legendary figure, but Heaven gained a longstanding servant and, no doubt, joyful new angel. Mr. Wyvis Oxendine, Sr. was a graduate of Prospect High School, UNC Pembroke, and was one of the first Native Americans to graduate with a Masters Degree from Harvard University. He used his education and huge heart to live a life of immeasurable servitude. He fought for education, serving Maxton City Schools, PSRC and acting as County Magistrate. He fought for the betterment of his People and his County as a Robeson County Commissioner, and served his country in the United States Air Force.

Mr. Wyvis’ life was filled with adventure. From winning Basketball Championships, to playing in a rock band, to winning the Henry Berry Lowrie award, Senior (as he was lovingly referred to) had the best stories. He shared stories of hope, tenacity, a healthy dose of mischief and inspiration. Of all his achievements, his proclaimed greatest accomplishment was being a Father and Husband.

Mr. Wyvis leaves to treasure his memory a wife, of the home: Mrs. Clara Denise Oxendine; two sons: Mr. Wyvis Oxendine, Jr. (Lindsey Oxendine) and Mr. William “Billy” Oxendine; a daughter: Ms. Wynona Oxendine; his beloved first grandson: Wyatt Oxendine; one brother: Mr. Turley Oxendine; one sister: Ms. Phyllis Locklear; a host of nieces, nephews, a surrogate “daughter”: Ms. Sydney Katlen Locklear, many great friends and family.

Mr. Wyvis is preceded in death by his mother: Mrs. Mable Woods Oxendine; his father: Mr. Luther Channels Oxendine; three brothers: Mr. Luther Oxendine, Jr., Mr. Truman Oxendine, and Mr. Hamer Lee Oxendine, and a sister: Ms. Avis Oxendine.

Mr. Wyvis loved with his whole heart and pursued every endeavor with unmatched passion for as long as he was able. And now, his fight is over, his crown won. Mr. Wyvis, Sr. was stricken with many ailments in his later years and his health took an unfortunate decline, but he’s gained a new body, has no pain, and ever the politician, is probably right now petitioning for crimson wings. Though his memory might have started to go, his love remained and the stories continued, none so much as the story of who his God was, and his hope for his family and friends to all be re-united in God’s Kingdom one day.

Public Viewing will be held at Locklear & Son Funeral Home from 11 am to 1:30 pm on Sunday, January 24, 2021. The family will hold a private service for close friends and family at Bakers Chapel Cemetery on the same day at 2 pm.