Jerry Ben Waddle, age 86, and a long-time resident of Konawa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully in the presence of the Lord and surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

A memorial celebration of life is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Konawa, Oklahoma. Rev. Curtis Mitchell, Rev. Ricky Riddle and Rev. Mitch Williams will officiate. Private family burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery in Macomb, Oklahoma.

Jerry was born December 14, 1939 in Midland, Arkansas to Joseph Ben Waddle and Marguerite (Duffle) Waddle. He graduated from high school in San Pedro, California, and he proudly served in the US Navy. He married Shirley Ann Warren December 25, 1957 in Yuma, Arizona, and he was a fireman for the Los Angeles Fire Department for many years. Jerry and Shirley moved to Houston, Texas where he was the pastor of Channelview Baptist Church. Jerry was ordained in Independent Fundamental Baptist Church for 14 years. He a member of several organizations including: Los Angeles Fire Department, Oklahoma Rifle Association, The National Rifle Association, OCPAC, OK2A Association, The Varmint Hunters Association, Bench Rest Shooter’s Association, Gun Owners of America, Sons of the Confederate Veterans, Oklahoma Historical Society, The Wood Craft Hardwood Club, the local Tea Party, and several other programs. Jerry was a Republican, a rancher, roper, hunter, and a soul winner. Jerry loved reading his Bible, having family gatherings, attending government functions, making memories, woodworking, attending church, and he loved his wife and family. 

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Shirley Waddle of the home; three daughters, Shiree A. Farmer and husband, James Leo Farmer of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, Joyce R. Mosher of Chase City, Virginia, Jerri D. Riddle and husband Ricky of Konawa, Oklahoma; 12 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; church family, and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Marguerite Waddle; one brother, Robert Lee Waddle; and one sister, JoRita (Waddle) Wooden.