Robert F. Waggener

Robert F. Waggener, age 84, of Athens, Texas, passed away on  Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in Sulphur Springs, Texas.  Robert (Buddy) was born on January 9, 1941, to Elmer and Nancy  Evelyn (Tiner) Waggener in Athens, Texas.

Buddy married the love of his life, Nora Ann Smith on July 22,1963, in Denton County, Texas. Together they built a family and a legacy of love and dedication.

Buddy spent many years working as a truck driver, providing for his family and instilling in them the values of hard work and commitment. He was deeply involved in his church, First United Pentecostal Church, where he served faithfully under the direction of Pastor O.E. and Wanda Lee Davis. He spent many years as a Sunday School teacher alongside Sis. Elaine Washington and as a Sunday School bus driver. His warm loving spirit earned him the affectionate nickname “Bro. Nutty Buddy” from the children he worked with.

A proud member of his community, Buddy was also known for being the top seller of the UPC peanut brittle. He was never without a joke, always ready to share a corny joke that would bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Buddy had a love for the outdoors and cherished the time spent fishing with his wife and children. His passion for working in the yard and planting gardens was well-known, and he found great joy in nurturing life from the earth. He was also an avid fan of Western movies, especially shows like Gunsmoke and The Rifleman. His love for animals, particularly little orange kittens, was a reflection of his gentle and caring nature.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Nora Ann Waggener; son, Kenneth Ray Waggener; parents, Elmer and Evelyn Waggener; and sisters, Linda Fagan and Virginia Evelyn Neill, grandson; Alton Caylor

Robert’s memory will forever be cherished by his daughter Lorie and Timmy Behr of Athens, Texas; daughter-in-law, Rhonda Waggener; daughter, Mary Caylor; grandchildren, Melissa Caylor and Audrey Waggener.

A private Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Services entrusted to Sam B. Harvey Funeral Home.

www.samharveyfuneralhome.com.

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