Wayne Michael Stanley

Wayne Michael Stanley, 38 years old, of Kokomo, passed away at 4:18 p.m. on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo. He was born in Kokomo, IN, on May 17, 1986, the son of Michael W. Stanley and Dorinda (Bowe) Davis.

Wayne was a 2004 graduate of Kokomo High School. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Franklin College in 2008. After graduating, he began his career in Washington, D.C., working for longtime Hoosier U.S. Senator Richard G. Lugar. He went on to serve as Director of Communications for the American Land Title Association (ALTA), where he oversaw the launch of the Homeowner Outreach Program (HOP), making a lasting impact on the real estate title industry.

In 2017, Wayne returned to his hometown and founded Bowe Digital, a marketing agency named in honor of his grandfather. Under his leadership, the company quickly became a trusted partner to small businesses and title companies nationwide. Wayne’s vision, creativity and passion for storytelling shaped Bowe Digital into one of Indiana’s Best Places to Work and a respected name in the industry. More than that, he was deeply loved, admired and respected by his team, not only as a leader but as a friend and constant source of encouragement.

Wayne was a frequent speaker at title industry conventions nationwide and was twice named a Rising Star by HousingWire for his leadership and contributions to the field.

He is survived by his parents, Dorinda and Kirk Davis; siblings, Johnnie Rinehart, Glen Stanley, Kija Davis, Koko Davis, Breeann (Trent Stapleton) Stanley; nieces, and nephews, Vincent Shepherd, Bennett Cooke, Mackenzie Cooke; aunt and uncles, Shari Worthman, Brad Davis, Jon (Teresa) Bowe; canine companions, Sampson and Shadow; and countless friends that he considered as family.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Michael W. Stanley; mom, Cindy Stanley; grandparents, Elizabeth Ann Davis, Glen and Shirley Bowe, Wayne and Rhoda Stanley; cousin, Shane Myers; and nephew, Blaine Stapleton.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 W. Lincoln Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. A funeral service celebrating Wayne’s life will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the funeral home with Franklyn Pottorff officiating. Burial will follow in Albright Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Wayne’s memory to the American Cancer Society or the Love Pet Project, 11818 Sycamore St., Zionsville, IN 46077. Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

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