Leslie Tidwell Obituary
Odessa, Texas - Leslie Ronald "Ronnie" Tidwell, 77, of Odessa, Texas, passed away peacefully in Odessa, leaving behind a legacy of grit, loyalty, and love for life.
Ronnie was born on August 21, 1947, in Kermit, Texas, and grew up in the small town of Wink. He graduated from Wink High School in 1966, then went on to attend Ranger College, where he was a collegiate athlete. He later graduated from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin.
In 1969, Ronnie was drafted into the U.S. Army and served for over two years during the Vietnam War. He remained deeply connected to fellow veterans and found strength and lasting friendships through his bond with others at the Odessa VA.
Ronnie dedicated his professional life to the oilfield as a wireline specialist, a career that spanned decades and took him as far as Nigeria. He was known for his strong work ethic, hands-on knowledge, and steady presence in a tough industry.
A member of the Chuck Wagon Gang in Odessa, Ronnie enjoyed serving his community alongside close friends. He had a lifelong passion for old cars and trucks and was especially devoted to quarter horses-training and racing them with skill and heart.
Above all, Ronnie was a gifted storyteller. Whether swapping tales with friends or striking up a conversation with a stranger, he had a way of drawing people in. His stories were vivid, often hilarious, and always unforgettable.
Ronnie is survived by his daughters: Stacy Jones and her husband, Rocky of Aledo, along with their children Emma, Tripp, and Tatum; and daughter Leah Perkins and her husband Mark of Odessa, and their son Mason. He is also survived by his brothers, Danny Tidwell and his wife, Tammie Tidwell, of Sonora and James Tidwell of Brownwood.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy Ray Tidwell and Marjorie Tidwell Martin, and his sister, Rita Tidwell Shifflett.
Ronnie's presence, his stories, and the life he built will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of Ronnie's life will be held on June 13th at the Odessa American Legion - Post Earl S. Bailey Banquet Room, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This will be a come-and-go gathering, and all are welcome to stop by and share memories.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Odessa American Legion or the Chuck Wagon Gang of Odessa in Ronnie's memory.
Published by Odessa American on Jun. 7, 2025.