Gerald Jerome Waymire

Gerald Jerome Waymire April 8, 1940 – March 11, 2025 The world has lost a great man, but his legacy shall echo through the ages. Gerald Jerome Waymire, aged 84, passed from this world peacefully on March 11, 2025, in Round Rock, Texas, from natural causes. His story, filled with courage, love, and dedication, will continue to inspire those who knew him. Born on April 8, 1940, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Edith and Saul Waymire, Gerald entered the world with the promise of greatness. He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1957, and from there, he began a journey that would shape a remarkable life. His path was one of unwavering courage, boundless dedication, and quiet strength. At a time when the world needed brave souls to stand tall, he answered the call. Enlisting in the United States Army, Gerald rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class and proudly served his country for two decades, including a tour in Vietnam and service time in the DMZ of South Korea, where he would then later meet his wife in Seoul. In recognition of his meritorious service during the Vietnam War, Gerald was awarded the Army Commendation Medal in 1968 for his outstanding achievements. His service was not merely a duty-it was a testament to his character, and his actions earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him. Later, in 1978, Gerald was awarded another Army Commendation Medal, this time with a First Oak Leaf Cluster, for exceptionally meritorious service while assigned as Assistant Operations Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge at III Corps and Fort Hood Troop School, Fort Hood, Texas. This award recognized his outstanding performance during the period from November 1976 to June 1978. Gerald consistently obtained exceptional results, attributed to his professional application of job knowledge, initiative, judgment, loyalty, and personal effort. His exceptional service reflected great credit upon him, Fort Hood, and the United States Army, and demonstrated his steadfast commitment to the highest traditions of military excellence. But Gerald's journey did not end there. Upon returning from the frontlines, he turned his attention to building his community. For 28 years, he worked for the City of Killeen, serving in the Solid Waste Department, where his dedication and work ethic helped improve the lives of countless residents. His contributions to the city were tangible, and his efforts in the department became a cornerstone of his service to the community. Gerald's heart, however, was always with his family. He was the steadfast protector and loving companion to his wife, Hong Waymire, whom he married in 1977. Together, they shared many years of adventure, joy, and deep affection. Their bond withstood the test of time, a partnership as strong as the oak tree and as enduring as the stars. He was the proud father of three remarkable daughters: Berry Rodriguez, Edith Waymire-Zufall, and Jane Waymire-Bedeaux. With them, he passed down the wisdom of a life well-lived, teaching them the values of perseverance, compassion, and integrity. His spirit will live on in them, as they carry forward his legacy. Gerald was also blessed with the joy of six grandchildren: Mack Rodriguez, Daryl Rodriguez, Lita Waymire, River Zufall, Tyler Zufall, and Anakin Bedeaux. Their laughter and love filled his days, and his role as a grandfather was one of great pride. He watched his legacy grow and flourish with each new generation. In his quieter moments, Gerald found peace in the simple things. He was a master of woodworking, crafting works of beauty and precision that will remain as lasting monuments to his craftsmanship. His love of nature was evident in his peaceful hours spent feeding the birds, watching them flit and soar in the skies he loved so much. And when the world felt heavy, Gerald found solace in the quiet solitude of fishing, his thoughts drifting as peacefully as the waters he fished upon. Gerald's passing marks the end of an era, but his legend endures. His contributions to his country, his community, and his family will never be forgotten. He was a man of honor, a father of wisdom, and a grandfather whose love knew no bounds. His story is one of triumph, love, and quiet strength-a tale that will be told for generations to come. A memorial service to honor his life will be held on March 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Heritage Funeral Home in Harker Heights, TX, with military honors to follow.