HOUSING SENIORS | CREATING HOPE
WINTER 2026
Remembering
Wayne McIlhenny October 9, 1949 – December 24, 2025 Northwest Pilot Project is deeply saddened by the loss of our longtime colleague and friend, Wayne McIlhenny, who passed away on December 24, 2025. Wayne would have celebrated his 20th anniversary with Northwest Pilot Project in June 2026, a milestone that reflects how deeply he was rooted in our organization. Wayne brought warmth, kindness, humor, and a steady presence to NWPP every day. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen—staff, clients, and everyone in between—and showed up in ways that truly mattered. He was willing to do whatever was needed to support our work, fixed everything - often when replacement would have been easier - and was a strong champion of NWPP’s culture, reminding us to care for one another and preserve the human connections at the heart of our work. Wayne’s impact is still felt throughout the agency, and he will be deeply missed. Whether offering a consoling wink, a hug, a listening ear, thoughtful advice, help with a car, or quietly stepping in when someone needed support, Wayne gave generously of himself. Outside of work, Wayne lived fully. A U.S. Air Force veteran, avid runner and cyclist, marathoner, and Hood to Coast participant, he brought that same dedication to his community and relationships. He was also a longtime singer with the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus, and active in faith communities over the years. Wayne is survived by his husband, Doug Tallman; his children and grandchildren; extended family; and a wide circle of friends, coworkers, and community members who loved him. His absence is felt deeply, but his legacy will continue to shape our work. We are grateful for the nearly two decades Wayne shared with us. He made NWPP a warmer, more human place, and he will always be part of who we are—and we think he would like that best.