Vencen Wayne McEntire

Dr. Vencen Wayne McEntire

A Life of Adventure, Service, and Love

Vencen Wayne McEntire passed away peacefully on his 77th birthday, fittingly while on yet another of his world adventures. His passing marks the close of a life filled with laughter, courage, curiosity, and a boundless zest for living.

Wayne was born to Vencen Wayne and Kathleen McEntire in Albuquerque, New Mexico on September 24, 1948.

Wayne was raised in Amarillo, Texas, graduating from Amarillo High School in 1967, where he proudly served as captain of the wrestling team.

He married his high school sweetheart, Patricia Jean Thompson, on January 24, 1969, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love and commitment. Pat was truly the love of his life as he adored her for over 57 years.

Wayne joined the United States Marine Corps, serving his country with pride and honor for six years. Following his service, he earned his undergraduate degree from West Texas State University in 1973 and his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1976. That same year, he opened his solo dental practice in Amarillo, where he cared for his patients for nearly five decades with compassion, skill, and a genuine love for his community.

Wayne’s leadership extended far beyond his practice. He served in numerous professional and civic roles, including President of the Potter–Randall County Dental Society, the American Cancer Society Amarillo Unit, and the Maverick Boys and Girls Club. He also held leadership positions within the Academy of General Dentistry and the Texas Dental Association, where he was twice nominated for Texas Dentist of the Year. Texas Monthly recognized him as a “Super Dentist” every year since 2013—a testament to his enduring commitment to his profession and his patients.

Of all his accomplishments, the greatest joy of Wayne’s life was his daughter, Jennifer. Wayne was a devoted father who took immense pride in every milestone of her life including her marriage to her devoted husband Brian.

Forever young at heart, Wayne approached every day with enthusiasm. He enjoyed sharing his love of travel and sport with his three beloved grandsons—Barrett, Britton, and Beau—taking each of them on unforgettable trips to the Olympics. Those adventures, captured through his ever-present camera, became treasured memories filled with smiles, stories, and love. Wayne’s grandsons were his pride and joy, and he poured his heart into every moment with them—teaching, laughing, exploring, and inspiring them to live boldly and love deeply, just as he did. His adventurous spirit and loving heart will continue to live on through them.

An avid photographer, Wayne found joy in capturing both the extraordinary and the everyday. His family and friends will always cherish the warmth of his stories, the humor in his laughter, and the way he made everyone feel special and deeply loved.

Wayne’s life was one of purpose, service, joy, and connection—a beautiful journey that touched countless hearts.

Wayne was preceded in death by his sister Cindy Risley.

Wayne is survived in death by his loving wife Pat. Daughter and son-in-law Jennifer and Brian Barker. Grandson Barrett Barker and his wife Chloe. Grandsons Britton Barker and Beau Barker. Brother, Dennis Falk, sister Darlene McBee and special Aunt Laverne Brown.

Memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Memorial service will be at 10:00 AM, Monday, October 13, 2025 at Hillside Christian Church Chapel, 6100 Soncy. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.