In Loving Memory of Walter Wayne Gaddy

1957 - 2025

Walter Wayne Gaddy, a devoted servant of God, a loving husband, a cherished father and grandfather, and a proud Texan, passed from this world into the loving arms of his Savior on March 22, 2025, in Newark, Texas. Born on August 8, 1957, in Haltom City, Texas, to James (Jim) Wilson Gaddy and Millie Mae Evins-Gaddy, Walter was raised in a Christian home where faith and family were the cornerstones of life. He carried these values with him throughout his 67 years, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, selfless love, and tireless devotion to those he cherished.

Walter grew up surrounded by the warmth and camaraderie of his three siblings. The bonds of family were unshakable, and together they navigated the joys and challenges of life. At just eight years old, Walter experienced a defining moment—he was saved at Kings Highway Baptist Church, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith. This single decision shaped his heart, his purpose, and the very essence of who he was. His faith was not merely a belief but a way of life, setting the foundation for every step he took.

Walter graduated from Lamar High School in Arlington, Texas, where he participated in ROTC, a time in his life that he treasured. He later attended Tyler Junior College, where he pursued studies that would equip him with the knowledge to serve others. Though he trained as a paramedic, his true calling came from a higher source. After working for the postal service, Walter answered God's call to ministry at the age of 30. Walter was the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, in Aurora, TX for 20 years from 1992 - 2012. His passion for evangelism led him to become a traveling minister and missionary for the Fundamental Independent Baptist Church, spreading the gospel not only throughout Texas but across the world. He carried the Word of God to the Philippines, Scotland, England, Hawaii, and all over the United States, pouring his heart into every soul he encountered. There was no place too far, no heart too lost—Walter believed in the power of salvation for all.

While his ministry was his calling, his family was his greatest joy. Walter married his first love, Deborah Hope Henderson-Gaddy, on July 2, 1977, after meeting her at a church event. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, and service, and were blessed with two daughters, Christy and Connie. Walter was the best father a man could be—patient, wise, nurturing, and always present. He led by example, showing his children the power of endurance, the importance of love, and the strength that comes from unwavering faith. His role as a grandfather brought him immense pride, and he was the greatest moral supporter for his grandchildren, teaching them, encouraging them, and showering them with love.

Walter was a man of many passions. A lifelong, devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, football ran deep in his veins. His love for the game extended beyond watching from the sidelines—he played in a church baseball league and even took the time to coach young players, imparting not just skills, but life lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and integrity. Music was another one of his great loves. With a voice that carried both power and emotion, he sang Southern Gospel with a heart full of praise. He was also a gifted songwriter, crafting melodies that spoke of faith, hope, and the goodness of the Lord.

On May 26, 2018, Walter married his second wife, Deborah Anna Cook-Gaddy, whom he met at church. Their love was strong, and they found comfort in their shared devotion to God. While his first wife, Deborah Hope, remained his soulmate, Walter cherished the love he built with Deborah Anna, valuing every moment they spent together.

Walter's daughters, Christy and Connie, lovingly recall the countless lessons their father instilled in them. He taught them how to be strong, how to love unconditionally, and how to see the beauty in all things. He showed them the importance of faith and perseverance, how to work hard and take care of their responsibilities, how to balance a checkbook, and even how to cook the perfect fried chicken. He had a knack for making any moment a teachable one—whether it was learning how to throw a football, read a map, change a tire, or simply trust in God's plan. He taught them that people were always more important than things and that love should be given freely, without conditions. He was their protector, their guide, their unwavering rock.

His daughter Christy remembers that her father never let a moment pass without sharing God's love. He led by example, teaching her not only how to soul witness and lead others to Jesus, but also how to see the Lord's presence in the everyday moments of life. He showed her how to stargaze, how to prepare for life's uncertainties, how to respect her elders, and how to stand firm in her beliefs. He even taught her how to throw a punch—because he wanted her to be both gentle and strong. He took pride in her ability to embrace the simple joys of life, just as he had.

Connie recalls her father's sense of humor, his wisdom, and his unwavering loyalty. He taught her the value of showing up, of standing by those you love, and of treating everyone with kindness and respect—even when it wasn't returned. She remembers how he cared for her mother when she suffered a stroke, never leaving her side, proving that love is not just words, but action. He was a man who practiced what he preached, and when his own strength failed, he leaned on the Holy Spirit. He believed that every child was a part of something greater than their parents—that each life had a divine purpose, ordained by God.

Walter Wayne Gaddy lived a life of service, of sacrifice, of love that knew no bounds. He never missed an opportunity to share the message of salvation, to remind people that Jesus Christ died for them, and that eternal life was theirs for the taking. He was a man who stood firm in his beliefs, who never wavered in his faith, and who left behind a legacy that will live on in every soul he touched.

He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Anna Gaddy; his daughters, Christy Gaddy and Connie George; his treasured grandchildren, Cammillia Parrill and her husband Liam, Carlee George, Caylee George, Carmen George, Nevaeh Gonzales, and Ryan Gonzales; his brother, Steven Gaddy; his nephew, James Ashcraft, and his wife, Heather; along with many other beloved nieces, nephews, family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Millie Mae Gaddy; his sister, Lou Ellen Allan, and her husband, Billy Bob Allan; his brother, Bobby Gaddy; His son-in-law Seth George; and his first wife, Deborah Hope Henderson-Gaddy.

Walter's funeral service will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Greenwood Mausoleum in Greenwood Cemetery. Entombment will follow the service.

Though his earthly journey has come to an end, Walter's impact will never fade. His voice will still be heard in the songs he wrote, his lessons will still be passed down through generations, and his faith will continue to inspire those who knew him. His life was a testament to God's love, and while he may be absent from the body, we know he is present with the Lord, rejoicing in the heavenly choir, where he was always meant to be.