John Wayne Kuykendall

John Wayne Kuykendall, 73, of Crestview, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 12, 2026. Born on August 20, 1952, in Panama City, Florida to parents John William and Martha Kuykendall. He found his greatest joy spending time with family, friends and being one with nature in the woods.

John Wayne dedicated over 30 years of service to the Okaloosa County School Board Maintenance Department, where his hard work and commitment left a lasting impact on his community before his well-earned retirement in 2002.

 He was most at home in the woods camping or hunting with friends and family. He possessed a deep respect for all living things. This compassion extended to the many animals he rescued and adopted over the years, providing a sanctuary for those that needed it most. He also had a passion for bowling and enjoyed many days and nights bowling with family and friends at Ft. Walton Beach Bowl.

 He is survived by his wife  Nancy Kuykendall of Crestview, Brother and sister in law Ronnie and Julie Kuykendall of Ft. Walton Beach, 4 step sons and their spouses, 4 step daughters and their spouses, many grandchildren, cousins and loving friends. We will forever remember him for his loving spirit and his kind heart toward both people and animals. John Wayne is preceded in death by his loving parents Martha and John William Kuykendall. 

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Davis Watkins Funeral Home at 113 Racetrack Rd NE Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547. John Wayne's Celebration of Life Memorial and Visitation will be held on Tuesday March 24th from 5-7pm at Davis Watkins Funeral Home in Ft. Walton Beach  Funeral Service on Wednesday March 25th at 2:00pm with burial at Beal Memorial Cemetery followed by a dinner reception back at Davis Watkins Funeral Home.

 We sincerely want to thank everyone who knew and loved John Wayne over his lifetime.