Wauneta M Halfin

Wauneta Marie Halfin, age 90, earned her wings on December 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on August 17, 1935, in Caney, Kansas, to Paul and Gertrude Richey. She grew up in Houston and graduated from Jeff Davis High School, where she met the love of her life, Milton Benton Halfin, Jr.

Wauneta wore many hats throughout her remarkable life. She was a devoted mother of five, a dedicated surgical nurse who proudly worked with Dr. Michael DeBakey, a talented realtor, a business owner, and an enthusiastic world traveler. Everything she did, she did with strength, grace, humor, and an unshakeable spirit.

Some of Wauneta's happiest moments were spent at the beach with her grandkids, laughing in the waves and soaking up the sun. She loved the freedom and peace she found riding horses and delighted in dressing up for fancy dinners, savoring good food and even better company. Whether traveling, celebrating with family, or simply enjoying the beauty of the day, she approached every moment with warmth, enthusiasm, and a spirit that lifted everyone around her.

Wauneta is lovingly survived by her sisters, Coeta Gertrude Conklin and her husband John Hugh Conklin, and Doris Alberta Christian and her husband James Christian. She is also survived by her children: Belinda S. Halfin and her partner Sharon Flagg; Milton Benton Halfin III and his wife Lois Ann Halfin; Melissa S. Burke; and Christopher P. Halfin and his wife Jennifer Halfin. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Jonathan Halfin, Sarah Halfin, Vanessa Webb, Madison Burke, Blake Brannan, Katy Brannan, and Rossi Peters, as well as seven great-grandchildren and a multitude of extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Gertrude Richey; her loving husband, Milton Benton Halfin Jr.; her daughter, Sherry Ann Halfin; and her brother, Paul A. "Sonny" Richey. Their memories remain forever cherished, and we take comfort in knowing they are reunited once again.

Wauneta's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, her laughter, and her unwavering love for her family. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing she has been welcomed into eternal peace and reunited with loved ones who went before her. Her faith, strength, and compassion shaped all who knew her, and her light will continue to guide us. Though she has earned her rest, her spirit and the memories she leaves behind will remain with us always.

A celebration of Wauneta's life will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Wallis United Methodist Church.
A graveside service will follow at Hartsville Cemetery, with a reception afterward at Brandt 1910 for all who wish to continue celebrating her life.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her name to a charity of your choice.