Mr. Lamont J. Waddell's Obituary
Celebrating the life and loving memory of Lamont Joseph Waddell.
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted."
— Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
His Beginnings
Lamont Joseph Waddell was born on April 14, 1942, to Carrie and Robert Waddell in Gary, Indiana. From an early age, he exhibited a spirit of determination and a deep love for his family. Growing up, he formed lifelong friendships and developed values of hard work, integrity, and compassion that would shape the course of his life.
His Religious Affiliations
Faith was a cornerstone of Lamont’s life from an early age. He was a devoted member of St. James Episcopal Church, where he served faithfully for many years as both a parishioner and church treasurer. His unwavering belief in God provided him with strength through life’s triumphs and challenges. Lamont found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving his community, always striving to live out his faith with kindness, generosity, and devotion.
His Education and Career
Lamont graduated from Roosevelt High School in Gary, IN, where he was also a proud member of the ROTC. His time in the program inspired him to serve his country by joining the Navy. After his military service, he pursued higher education at Texas Southern University (TSU), where he earned a degree in accounting. He excelled academically, laying the foundation for a distinguished career as a controller for several major market radio stations, as well as the Forest Brook and HISD school system.
One of Lamont’s proudest moments at TSU was pledging Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a brotherhood he cherished throughout his life. His dedication to the field of accounting was evident in his active involvement with the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), where he made a lasting impact through his hard work, leadership, and unwavering commitment. Additionally, Lamont served on TSU’s foundation board for more than 30 years, contributing to the growth and success of the institution that shaped his future. He also served as President of his Alpha Graduate Chapter.
His expertise, passion, and dedication to his profession and alma mater earned him the deep respect of his peers and community.
His Life Well Lived
Beyond his many accomplishments, Lamont’s greatest joy came from the love of his family and friends. He was a devoted husband to Joyce Curry Waddel for nearly 40 years, cherishing their time together until her passing in March 2007. Lamont lived his life with purpose, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. He was preceded in death by his mother Carrie Waddell, father Robert Waddell, brothers Raymond Sr., Ronnie, Lerviticus and Dennis Sr. His warm heart, generous spirit, and wisdom will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Lamont leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and faith. He is survived by his brother, Frederick Waddell (Julita); sisters, Carlene Hill and Rita Green; sisters-in-law, Mildred Davis (Charles) and Gladys Goffney; his adopted son, Kevin Smith; and his adopted grandson, Kevin Smith Jr. He also leaves behind his beloved aunt Joyce Bright, nieces Leslie Philson (Exkano), Tiffany Greene (Major), Caci Davis-Gomez and Rita Waddell Allen, as well as nephews Dennis Waddell Jr. (Lindsey), Christopher Waddell (Sandy), Robert Waddell, and Ronnie Waddell Jr. along with a host of many cousins and special longtime friends, great nephews and nieces. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the beautiful life he lived and the profound impact he had on everyone who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Texas Southern Foundation in his memory for student scholarships. (https://give.tsu.edu/campaign/675285/donate) Though he is no longer with us, Lamont’s love and legacy will forever remain in our hearts.
What’s your fondest memory of Lamont?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lamont?
Share a story where Lamont's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lamont you’ll never forget.
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