Lonnie Waller

Lonnie Verdale Waller, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandpa, and friend, departed this life on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 77. Lonnie was born on January 20, 1948, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Lonnie Verdale and Leona Mae (Walden) Waller. His life was defined by his generosity, perseverance, strength, and unwavering commitment to his family.

Born and raised in Silver City, New Mexico, Lonnie was a self-made man. He worked his way through New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Later, while in Maryland, he earned his degree in Professional Engineering from Penn State and went on to obtain many other certifications. His career started in Silver City's copper mines, then took him to Kentucky for coal mining. There, he met and worked alongside Jerry Lewis, building a lifelong friendship with Jerry and his wife, Myrna. Lonnie would later meet and marry Myrna's sister, Deeta. Lonnie steadily advanced, eventually supervising mines in Maryland, Wyoming, West Virginia, and Indiana. He finally settled in Texas, where he continued his work in the coal industry, transforming existing plants into cleaner operations. Later in his career, he spent a significant amount of time working overseas in the Philippines before retiring at the age of 68.

Outside of work, Lonnie was devoted to his family. He and his wife, Deeta, recently celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary, a testament to the wonderful life they built together. Throughout, he was very close to Deeta's family, jokingly considering himself part of the "outlaws." Lonnie loved sports, travel, hunting, was a big fan of Western movies, and his beloved Louis L'Amour books. He also relished the times he owned and cared for his horses. His sharp wit, sarcasm, and endless knowledge were always on display for those in his presence.

In retirement, Pops (or Big Lonnie) settled into country living. He found joy in taking care of his property and spending time with his grandchildren. His razor-sharp eyes could spot any wildlife, no matter how far off in the distance. He loved hunting trips with his son, and the intricate (or boring to some) details of every step. For them, hunting season was serious business - all about the game cameras, deer corn, and endless stories as they shared their love for big game.

Lonnie's servant heart extended to his community, particularly through his service at Bascom Methodist Church, where he served as the church President for many years. He was also a dedicated leader in Trail Life, where he eagerly shared his vast knowledge and enjoyed mentoring and shaping the lives of young people with his wisdom.

Lonnie will be fondly remembered for his caring nature, positive attitude, kindness, willingness to lend a hand, and unwavering support for everyone he loved. He was known for his ability to build, repair, and problem-solve almost anything, possessing the perfect tool for every task. His positive outlook was often encapsulated in his favorite saying: "Every day is a good day."

Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie Verdale and Leona Waller; his brother, Gary Waller; and his nephew, Michael Waller.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, carried on by his devoted wife, Deeta Waller; his son, Lonnie Waller III, and his wife, Jessica Waller; his daughter, Kelly David; his grandchildren, McKenna Waller, Sophie Waller, Kyle Waller, Max David, and Drew David; and his niece, Michelle Waller Breslin.

A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate Lonnie's life at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Bascom Methodist Church, 12565 FM 848, Tyler, Texas 75707. The service will be officiated by Rev. Dan Seal and is entrusted to Brosang Family Funeral & Cremation Services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in memory of Lonnie be made to Trail Life Troop at Bascom Methodist Church. More details can be found here: https://www.bascomchurch.org/traillife