Wally David Hartel

1952 - 2024

Wally David Hartel

June 11, 1952 - September 10, 2024

Hattiesburg, Maine - Memorial Services will be held at 12:00 PM Friday, September 13, 2024, at Temple Baptist Church for Mr. Wally David Hartel, 72, who passed away at his home in Hattiesburg on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.

Wally was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, on June 11, 1952. He graduated from Gulfport East High School in 1970. Due to the influence of his mentor, George Rosetti, he came to William Carey College where he graduated in 1975. While at Carey, he made a profession of faith in Jesus at a Truth Concert. He was baptized at Temple Baptist Church where he remained a member for 52 years.

Wally was the manager of the baseball team while at Carey and was very involved in BSU where he was instrumental in raising funds for summer missionaries. Wally met his wife of 46 years while at Carey. After graduating Wally worked in the envelope business from 1976 until he retired in 2012. His main place of employment was Murray Envelope. In 2023 Wally was inducted into the William Carey Sports Hall of Fame as a legacy member due to his continued support over the years for the athletic program at Carey.

Wally received the most joy when he was helping people, or meeting a need he saw, or just making someone feel special. He was seen around town mowing yards, never wanting any kind of payment. He volunteered in the kitchen at church on Wednesday nights and was always glad to get you a glass of tea or an extra dessert, and he was willing to do any menial task because he loved serving people. His favorite night of the year was Night to Shine where he focused on making the night special for the caregivers of the participants. People would call on Wally for anything they needed help with, and he wouldn't give up until he took care of the need.

Wally was preceded in death by his father, Waldo Hartel.

Wally is survived by his wife, Myra Howell Hartel; two sons, Forrest (Maurie) and Bailey; two granddaughters, Ella and Vivi; his 94-year-old mother, Betty Groome Hartel; his sister, Becky (Jerry); his nieces and nephews, Haden (Rhonda), Janna (Cody), Riley, Stella, Bryson, and a number of nieces and nephews and cousins he loved.

In lieu of flowers the family asks you to do an act of kindness for someone in need in your community.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Friday, September 13, 2024, at Temple Baptist Church.

Hulett-Winstead Funeral Home in Hattiesburg, MS is in charge of arrangements.