What an honor to be invited by his family to witness and share with you such a person farewell to Captain Wayne Magwood. It says so much about how he raised his daughters, his nephew and how he's mentored countless others who are in turn passing along his same generous spirit.
Wayne's nephew Rocky sprinkled some of his uncle's ashes off the starboard side of his own shrimp boat the 'Eleanor Paige' Saturday, Oct. 3rd, 2020, as red roses were tossed overboard by family and friends at marker 95 - Wayne's 'go to' sweet spot (I was told.)
It looked like the entire Shem Creek fleet ventured out past the jetties for the farewell flotilla, traversing some pretty rough seas to form a ceremonial circle for the occasion. It was an incredible sight that I hope you take the time to watch below. A hand made wreath was also tossed port side, for a large contingent of family to see from the near by 'Carolina Breeze' Captained by Magwood's best friend Donnie Brown.
Expect more video's and pictures to come from Cpt. Magwood's 'Final Ride' that included a pass through the Harbor and near the pier at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, which days prior included a bag piper lead procession of lowcountry family, friends who tossed white roses in another fitting farewell that included speakers from a stage in the open air park, a sunset worthy of a canvas, and a full moon rise meant for a photo frame.
This year, the Covid-19 pandemic shutdown large gatherings, including the annual 'Blessing of the Fleet' normally broadcast live on 94.3 WSC in April.
I can't help but feel it was the fleet who did the 'blessing' this year, honoring Cpt. Wayne with Saturday's 'Final Ride' flotilla. Gone but never forgotten Captain Wayne Magwood, may you rest in peace!