Alena Joyce Fortenberry Waxter, age 75, of Claymont, DE and formerly of Shelby, NC and Baltimore, MD, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at Wilmington Hospital, Wilmington, DE.
She was born in Shelby, NC and was later raised in Baltimore, MD. Alena is the daughter of the late Hattie F. (Camp) and Thurman F. Fortenberry. She graduated from Mergenthaler Vocational-Technical High School in Baltimore in 1968. She was active in the Drama Club and starred in many stage productions. In addition, Alena attended secretarial school.
Alena was a Caseworker for the Cleveland County Dept. of Social Services in North Carolina, retiring after 25 years. She was an avid fan of Broadway Musicals. More importantly, Alena was an ardent supporter of her two sons.
She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its Relief Society. Alena devoted her life to serving others and hosting family and friends in her home. She lived her life as a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ and others felt her love and warmth.
Alena is survived by her husband of 54 years, Thomas W. Waxter, Jr.; her oldest son, Dr. Daniel Waxter and his wife Jamie and granddaughters, Madelyn Cárcamo, Natalia and Brinleigh Waxter; her younger son, Joey and his wife Tyla and grandchildren, Evalea, Aria, Ezra and Avenly Waxter; her brother, Donald Fortenberry and his wife Julie; a nephew, John Fortenberry and a niece, Annie Fortenberry.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, July 26, from 11am- 11:50am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 143 Dickinson Lane, Wilmington, DE where a funeral service will follow at 12pm. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charities.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
