Obituaries - January 18, 2026

Wayne Thomas Bigg

Wayne Thomas Bigg, age 74, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026. He was born on June 3, 1951, in Elmira, New York, to Frederick Bigg and Elizabeth Bigg, and was raised in the community he always called home.

Wayne graduated from Elmira Southside High School in 1969. Shortly after, he proudly entered the United States Army, serving his country for four years. Upon returning to Elmira, Wayne began what would become a remarkable 46-year career in manufacturing with Hardinge Brothers, where he was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and commitment.

Following his retirement, Wayne relocated to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he embraced an active and service-filled life. He volunteered extensively with Island Men, the American Legion, and the Cape Fear Pickleball Club, where he also served as a trainer. Wayne was a passionate competitor and mentor, always encouraging others with both determination and good humor.

Wayne was a devoted father, father-in-law, grandfather, friend, and competitor. He is survived by his son Wayne David Bigg and daughter-in-law Natalie Bigg, and his grandsons Ryan and Garrett; his daughter Kelly McCagg and son-in-law Joshua McCagg, and his grandson Nicholas. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Andrew Valley Chapel, located at 4108 S. College Road, Wilmington, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to American Legion Post 129 in Carolina Beach, where Wayne was a devoted member and volunteer.

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Bob Martenis

Bob Martenis was born in Montclair, New Jersey on December 3, 1934 to Donald and Ethel Martenis. He is survived by his son, Rob Martenis (Diane); daughter, Jody Hammond; step-daughter, Beth Anderson (Chuck); step-daughter, Leigh Hooker (Dave); grandson, Casey Hammond (Leala); grandson, Zach Hooker; great-granddaughter, Vivian Hammond; sister, Gail Hull (Jack); brother-in-law, Robert Dewsbury; brother-in-law, Carlton Lucy; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his loving caretaker, Tammy Reilly, whose compassion and unwavering devotion built a lasting bond with him. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Vicky Martenis; parents; son-in-law, Rich Hammond; and sister-in-law, Ann Lucy.

After graduating from Rutgers University, Bob began his career at Exxon as a sales trainee and rose through several supervisory and managerial roles. As Exxon’s National Advertising Manager, he led the “Put a Tiger in Your Tank” campaign, often saying that was the highlight of his career. He later became President and CEO of Screens and Fabricated Metals before joining the Central Texas Higher Education Authority as Executive Director. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob was deeply involved in his community. He served as an elder at Saint Andrews–Covenant Presbyterian Church, President of the Wilmington Cape Fear Rotary, President of the Airlie Gardens Foundation Board, a trustee and chairman of Cape Fear Community College, and a board member and chairman of the New Hanover County ABC Board. In 2010, his commitment was recognized with the New Hanover County Volunteer of the Year Award and the Governor’s Volunteer Award.

Bob’s family, friends, and community were his greatest joys in life. Those fortunate to know him experienced his humor and wit firsthand. He truly made the world a smarter and funnier place.

Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare or Saint Andrews–Covenant Presbyterian Church.

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Natalie Claire Zimmerman-Rice

Natalie Claire Zimmerman-Rice, of Wilmington, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, at the age of 47. Born on May 27, 1978, in Saint Louis, Missouri, Natalie was a beautiful soul whose endurance and determination left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her.

Natalie was a rock for many people, consistently offering support and love to friends and family alike. She understood pain intimately, often pushing herself past her limits with every muscle, lung, and fiber of her being while swimming, a testament to her strength and resilience. Her beautiful smile could bring light to anyone’s life, illuminating even the darkest of days.

Professionally, Natalie worked as a Loan Officer and Security Service, where she was known for her dedication and integrity. She held an Associate's Degree, which she pursued with the same passion and commitment she brought to every aspect of her life. Her interests included cooking, gardening, and swimming, activities she approached with enthusiasm and zest. Known for her spirited nature, she also had a knack for "raising hell," infusing energy and fun into every situation.

Beyond her professional and personal pursuits, Natalie was a committed volunteer at Pine Valley Elementary. Her generous spirit and willingness to give back to her community were just some of the ways she touched the lives of those around her.

Natalie is survived by her loving husband, Richard; her cherished sons, Johnathan and Jacob; her mother, Debbie Licata; her father, Jim Zimmerman; and her stepfather, Mike Gatzert.

Though no services are planned at this time, Natalie's family invites those who wish to honor her memory to make a memorial donation to the Crohn's Foundation, reflecting her enduring spirit and commitment to helping others.

Natalie swam the race well and fought a great fight for many, many years. She passed away in peace, showing grace and strength in her surrender. Her legacy of love, strength, and resilience will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

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Jesse “Bubba” Leon Osborne

Jesse “Bubba” Leon Osborne, 67, of Winnabow, passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center.

He was born on July 7, 1958, in Wilmington, North Carolina, to the late Samuel and Alice Mae (Faine) Osborne.

Bubba was an accomplished carpenter and handyman. He could fix cars, frame houses, or install chimneys. Bubba enjoyed target shooting with his son, Patrick, whom he taught to shoot at an early age. Bubba will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Bubba is survived by his wife, Jennifer Osborne; his son, Patrick Osborne and wife, Kourtney; his daughter Jessica Fields; his brother, Samuel Edward Osborne; his grandchildren, Laurah, Derek, Devin, Tara, Olivia; and a host of other family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, Bubba was also preceded in death by his, brothers, Jewell Lee Osborne, Stephen Osborne; and his sisters, Patsy Ann McLachlan, Catherine Faye Higdon.

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Rev. Floyd Morris

Rev. Floyd Morris, known to us as Dad, Poppy, and Pastor, passed away peacefully from this life, to receive his eternal reward on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Novant Health, New Hanover Medical Center in Wilmington, NC surrounded by his family.

Floyd Eugene Morris was the son of Woodrow and Margie Morris, born in Washington, NC, on January 14, 1961.

He faithfully Pastored the Pentecostals of Burgaw, NC and The Pentecostals of Wilmington, NC for 20 years. He was promoted to Bishop on November 9, 2025. He served the NC District United Pentecostal Church on many levels to include North American Missions Director for over 10 years, with incomparable leadership qualities and character traits that will forever be missed!

His life reflected his deep love for and relentless devotion to the word of God, which guided his faith and his actions. He truly lived what he believed, offering hope, wisdom, and kindness to all! Family meant everything to him, as he was devoted to, present in, and proud of each and every member of his family.

Floyd was a licensed general aviation pilot who loved flying while finding peace and freedom high in the skies. He greatly enjoyed traveling with his family and never passed up a chance to enjoy ice cream! For it was the simple pleasures that brought a smile to his face, and to those around him.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the faith he shared, and the encouragement he freely gave, offering many positive and encouraging comments such as… “Be blessed and be a blessing!”

Floyd is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 45 years: Cynthia Merritt Morris; daughter: Emily Morris Burch and husband, Reverend Shawn Burch, of Currie, NC, his pride and joy: his grandchildren, Landon and McKinley Burch: his loving mother Margie Morris; his Sisters: Teresa Wilson, husband Kevin of Swansboro, NC, Peggy Rowell, husband, Jimmy, of Burgaw, NC, Dorothy Rice, husband, John of Osage City, KS, Sarah Dial, and husband, Michael, of Leland, NC, brothers: Rev. Norman Morris, wife, Mary Ann of Vanceboro, NC, Durwood Morris, wife, Teresa of Staunton, VA and many nieces, nephews and good friends he dearly loved.

Floyd Morris is preceded in death by his father whom he dearly missed and spoke of often, Woodrow Morris.

The celebration of life will be held at The Pentecostals of Wilmington, 3615 Chippenham Dr., Wilmington NC, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm with Bishop Wayne Huntley officiating. Visitation and reception for family and friends will begin at 11:30 am Wednesday until service time.

He will be laid to rest at a private family burial on The Farm in Currie, NC.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Floyd’s love for the work of God, memorial donations may be made to The Pentecostals of Wilmington, 3615 Chippenham Drive, Wilmington, NC 28412.

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Merle E. "Rob" Robinson

Merle E. "Rob" Robinson, 81, of Leland, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in Wilmington, NC.

Rob was a veteran of the US Army, serving 2 tours in Vietnam, and went on to become an accomplished salesman and designer of home electronics systems.

He is survived by the love of his life, Susan Harris, and his daughter Kristin Fitz. He will be dearly missed by many friends and acquaintances.