Wayne Flynt

James Wayne Flynt (born October 4, 1940) is an American educator, editor and historian. He was born in Pontotoc, Mississippi. He is Professor Emeritus in the Department of History at Auburn University. He has won many teaching awards and been a Distinguished University Professor for many years. 
His research focuses on Southern culture, Alabama politics, Southern religion, education reform, and poverty. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Online "Encyclopedia of Alabama".
Flynt had two sons with his late wife Dorothy - they were named Sean and David. 
He was a longtime friend of Harper Lee, the author of "To Kill a Mockingbird" and gave the eulogy at her funeral.