Wilton W. Vardeman

Wilton Vardeman, born on January 3, 1926, in Appleby, Texas, in Nacogdoches County, passed into Heaven on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the age of 99. A proud veteran, devoted man of faith, and joyful, truth-telling father and grandfather, Wilton lived with purpose, humor, and unshakable conviction.
He was the youngest of thirteen children born to James Henry Frank Vardeman and Minnie Pearl (Davis) Vardeman, and he was a twin. He grew up in a very large family in East Texas, with siblings T.R. Vardeman, Steve Vardeman, Gladys (Vardeman) Walker, Verdia Vardeman, Agnes Vardeman, Lucille Vardeman, Jewel Vardeman, James Murray Vardeman, Hazel Frances (Vardeman) Rademacher, Haden F. Vardeman, Wilma (Vardeman) Hassel, and Lois (Vardeman) Rao-and alongside his cousin Richard Vardeman, who was like a brother to him throughout his life.
After graduating from high school in Nacogdoches, Wilton served his country in both World War II and the Korean War as Infantry and Military Police. A member of what came to be known as the Greatest Generation, he answered the call with courage and conviction. In his mid-90s, he became a member of VFW Post 790-not because he was seeking recognition, but because his daughter told him they had homemade cookies. He was glad he went. He made friends there, and in true Wilton fashion, once he showed up, he stayed.
Wilton built his life in Houston, Texas, where he became a founding member of Grace Houston Church (formerly The Lord's Church / Grace Community Church of Houston). For over 35 years, he served faithfully as business manager-dedicated to the health, mission, and daily operations of the church. His leadership was confident and steadfast, and his contributions extended far beyond spreadsheets and numbers; he helped shape the very spirit of the church.
Wilton was known for his bold honesty, his joy, and his incredible sense of humor. He laughed loudly and often, loved to tell stories and jokes, and was a natural encourager. He was outgoing, smiled at strangers, and had a conversation ready for anyone. He always said what he thought-whether people wanted to hear it or not-but he wasn't unkind. He believed that truth mattered more than appearances, and he lived without pretense. He wasn't one to "spare someone's feelings" if the truth needed to be said, but he never carried animosity.
He was a man of fun, too. When his daughter Lauren was young, he'd come home from work and call out, "Let's go play frisbee," or "Let's go play catch." At family gatherings, one of the highlights was when he'd lay out a blanket, let her sit on it, and run her around the yard-both of them laughing until they couldn't breathe.
His marriage to Jane Dolores Vardeman was defined by devotion, playfulness, and tenderness. He never left the house without kissing her goodbye, always told her she looked beautiful, and carried in the groceries without being asked. When Jane developed dementia later in life, Wilton insisted on caring for her at home-faithfully, fully, and without hesitation. That love was not just spoken, but lived.
Wilton also had a way with animals. There were always cats around the house-not indoors, but not exactly strays either. Somehow, he managed to train them to return home at night, as if even the wild things knew they had someone solid and safe to return to.
He had a deep love for country-western and Big Band music, especially the voice of Marty Robbins. "El Paso City" and other classic hits could often be heard playing in the background of his home. He was also a talented dancer, known for the jitterbug, two-step, polka, and waltz. Even at 99 and a half years old, he danced during physical therapy-so smoothly that the whole room stopped to watch.
He lived out his favorite scripture, John 13:34 - "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you." Wilton didn't just speak about love; he acted on it. His love was active, resilient, and generous. He was a man of truth, but also a man of deep kindness and conviction.
Wilton is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Jane Dolores Vardeman. He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Lauren Vardeman-Johnson, and his grandson, Evan Wesley Johnson-both of whom carry forward his legacy of strength, faith, joy, and unapologetic authenticity. And they will treasure him in their hearts forever.
Evan (grandson) states... "He was as steady as the Rock of Gibraltar. If I were half the man he was, I'd be Steve McQueen. I think I'm finally old enough now to try and fill his boots but only with my feet."