Wayne Edward Toups

Feb 22, 1946 -

Feb 18, 2026

Wayne Edward Toups, a beloved clarinetist, educator and adventurer, died on Feb. 18, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was 79.

Born in Grand Prairie, Texas, on Feb. 22, 1946, Wayne was brought to Alaska by the United States Army, where he served as a clarinetist in the military band. Alaska captured his heart, and he never left. Over nearly five decades, he performed with the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, the Anchorage Opera, the Alaska Festival of Music and other Anchorage musical organizations. He devoted 21 years to the Anchorage School District as music teacher and band director, continuing to teach clarinet and adjudicate in retirement.

As a member of St. Anthony's Parish, Wayne lived his Catholic faith through generosity and love for others. A founding member and officer of the Alaska Orchid Society since 1989, his stunning gardens and cherished orchid collection reflected decades of expertise. An avid outdoorsman, he hiked, skied, camped and fished Alaska's wilderness, and his photography captured landscapes and flowers he loved. He found joy in cooking, tropical fish and pottery.

His dearest friend Brenda was his partner in Alaska adventures — hiking and skiing the Resurrection, Chilkoot, and Pinnell Mountain trails, venturing to Wonder Lake in Denali's shadow and fishing in places that reminded them they were not alone in bear country.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Lydia Ann Pyle. Survivors include friend, Brenda Davis; sister, Dora Toups Yendrey and husband Willie; brother-in-law, John Pyle; nephews, John Ray, Shawn and Kenneth Pyle; and numerous great-nephews, great-nieces and cousins. Services will be held in June 2026 in Anchorage and Brookeland, Texas. Donations to the Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation, Patient Support Fund, 2550 Denali Street, Suite 724, Anchorage, AK 99503.