Libby and Wayne were more than dedicated teachers in Okaloosa County—they were true visionaries. Their passion for shaping young minds extended far beyond the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on countless students. At the same time, they demonstrated extraordinary real estate savvy, building a portfolio of over 11 properties that far surpassed their teacher salaries. But above all, it’s the lives they touched and the minds they inspired that remain their greatest legacy.
Libby, with degrees in Elementary Education and Dance, dedicated over 30 years to teaching 5th grade, becoming a beloved figure in the lives of many. Her students often remembered her as their favorite teacher, someone who sparked a lasting love for learning. Outside the classroom, Libby led Aerobic Dance classes and choreographed local talent shows, guiding her students to multiple first-place victories. As a staunch advocate for literacy, she frequently read to her students, nurturing a lifelong love for books.
The profound impact of her teaching is perfectly captured in the story of District Attorney Kevin S. Brackett, a former student. At 10 years old, Kevin was introduced to the classic “Where the Red Fern Grows” in Libby’s class. As an adult, he wrote her a heartfelt letter, crediting her with shaping the successful person he became. This touching story was
The Gift of the Fern – Now Playing
Wayne was equally impactful with his hands-on approach to teaching. As a 6th-grade teacher, one of his most memorable projects involved building hot air balloons to ignite his students’ curiosity about flight, math, and problem-solving. Wayne’s life was full of remarkable achievements. He co-founded the Special Olympics in Florida alongside Becky Sears and, with Libby’s help, even built their family home on Don’s Bayou. He went on to become a four-time world champion in triathlon, leaving an inspiring legacy of his own.