Willie Rainer Haddox

Willie Rainer Haddox, 85, of Liberty, Texas, passed away on August 9, 2024. Born on March 12, 1939, in Columbia, Mississippi, Willie was the cherished son of Buford Haddox and Maggie Lee Cooper Haddox. His life journey took him from his hometown to Pasadena, Texas, and ultimately to Dayton, where he spent the last 25 years.

Willie was a dedicated employee of Brown and Root, where he worked tirelessly as a supervisor until his retirement. Known for his strong work ethic, he left a lasting impression on his colleagues and the community. His faith was an integral part of his life, and he was a devoted member of the Kenefick Baptist Church.

In his personal life, Willie was a man of diverse passions. He loved the serenity of fishing, the joy of country music, and the uplifting spirit of gospel songs. He found pleasure in working on word search puzzles and playing cards with his family, and he looked forward to family dinners with great anticipation.

Willie and his beloved wife, Roberta, spent their retirement traveling across the United States in their travel trailer, forming lasting friendships along the way. Their travels extended beyond the U.S., with memorable trips to Europe, including Germany and Rome. His zest for life also led him to the excitement of NASCAR and NHRA racing, the thrill of drag races in Baytown, and the fervor of Dallas Cowboys games and Houston Rockets events.

Willie's daily routine included a simple breakfast of corn flakes and milk, and he always made time for phone calls to his girlfriend, Diann Cummings, who was a source of great joy in his later years.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, Buford and Maggie Lee Haddox; his wife, Roberta Haddox; siblings Thelma Bishop, Jessie Colley, Gladys Ingram, and Archie Haddox; and grandchildren Laura Kelley and Blake Kelley.

He is survived by his children: John Kelley and wife Susan, Vickie Purviance and husband Larry, Donald Kelley and wife Mary, David Kelley and wife Mary, Laura Sarapa, and Ted Kelley, Jr. and wife Jean. He is also remembered by his girlfriend and angel, Diann Cummings; his sister, Hazel Loso; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A visitation will be held for Willie on Monday, August 12, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton. A service to celebrate his life will follow on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., also at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, with Jeff Day officiating. Burial will follow at Palms Memorial Park Cemetery in Dayton.

Willie Rainer Haddox will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love for family, and his joyful embrace of life’s simple pleasures. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and deep affection.