Moss, Wayne

Wayne Moss (John Wayne Moss)

September 26, 1954 – December 15, 2025

Wayne Moss passed away on December 15, 2025, at the age of 71. He will always be remembered as a devoted family man, a fun-loving, gentle-hearted, and deeply respected television director whose work helped shape Canadian television, especially children’s programming for generations.

Wayne built an extraordinary career in television, leaving an enduring mark on both Canadian and international audiences. Calm, generous, and quietly brilliant, he was known for his steady presence on set and his sharp creative eye. Beginning his career as a floor manager, Wayne made the transition to director while working alongside Jim Henson on Fraggle Rock, an experience that helped shape his collaborative and thoughtful approach to storytelling.

Over the decades, Wayne directed across a wide range of genres. His work included beloved children’s series such as Under the Umbrella Tree, The Big Comfy Couch, and GhostTrackers, earning him two Gemini Awards for Best Children’s Series for The Big Comfy Couch and GhostTrackers. He was also proud to have spent decades contributing his talents to The Easter Seals Telethon, a cause close to his heart.

Wayne’s versatility extended beyond children’s television. He worked on iconic Canadian comedy and performance programs, including Royal Canadian Air Farce and projects featuring Ron James, further cementing his reputation as a director trusted for both heart and humour.

A lifelong learner and teacher, Wayne attended Ryerson Polytechnic Institute, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts (BAA) in Fine Arts. In later years, he returned to Ryerson to teach, generously sharing his experience, patience, and love of the craft with the next generation of creatives.

Above all else, Wayne was a family man. He was the loving and devoted husband to Donna, and a proud father to Robert and Jeffrey. He was a cherished father-in-law to Christina and Quincy, and an adoring grandad to Emma and Devon, who brought him endless laughter. He was also a beloved brother to Doug and Gord, and a loyal friend and mentor to many. Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Phyllis Moss.

Wayne embraced life with warmth, humour, and an unmistakable sense of fun. He loved his Hawaiian shirts, especially on Fridays and the music that filled his life. He played guitar and helped create the Boomer Band at Streetsville United Church, where faith, friendship, and song came together. A proud Parrot Head, Wayne found joy in good music, relaxed moments, and the freedom of the open road. Few things made him happier than a “ragtop day” top down, music on, soaking in the sun every Friday on the drive home to Donna.

Those who knew Wayne will remember his calm wisdom and easygoing outlook on life.

While sitting on a Caribbean beach, watching the ocean he loved, Wayne often shared a reflection that captured his spirit:

“The best thing about waves is that they don’t need any direction. They know what to do every time.”

He will be deeply missed, loved, and forever remembered.

So let’s all throw on a Hawaiian shirt, raise a glass, turn up the music, and take the long way home. Wayne’s waves are still rolling and somewhere, it’s always a ragtop day.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Streetsville United Church or the Alzheimer’s Society of Peel, in Wayne’s memory.