Billy Wayne Walters, 81, of College Station, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on November 9, 2025, after a gradual—then accelerated—decline associated with dementia.

Wayne was born to Forrest and Verona Walters on January 17, 1944, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Raised in Hattiesburg and several surrounding cities, he was a curious and adventurous child and teen, who established friendships he maintained throughout his life.

After high school, Wayne enlisted in the United States Air Force and served from April 1, 1963, until March 4, 1966, when he received an Honorable Discharge. He used his GI Bill to enroll at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He then went on to receive a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Arizona.

In his twenties and thirties, Wayne focused on his impressive career, his deep friendships, and his role as the “fun uncle.” Over these years he refined his polished style, enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, and cultivated his strong character as an independent man. However, shortly after he turned 40, that independence was joyfully set aside when he met and married the love of his life, Susie, on August 11, 1984. Shortly after marrying, Wayne and Susie started a family with both a son and daughter, Jonathan and Susan, who captured Wayne’s heart. His children will be forever grateful for the stability and security he provided as a hard worker and devoted father.

In his final years, Wayne’s greatest pride was a family picture hanging in his dining room—because it displayed the people who were his greatest passion. Wayne embraced his role as “Papa” to Susan’s children, who lived across town in College Station. He was often present at their performances and games, and always ready to share an ice cream. He also loved to talk about his son and family living in California. He was proud of Jonathan’s work as a leader in the wine industry and of Jonathan’s dedication as a father to his daughters—supporting them in riding horses, playing soccer, and building a strong work ethic at the family restaurant.

In his spare time, Wayne enjoyed watching college baseball, especially every June during the College World Series. During his retirement years, landscaping became one of his great passions, with a steady rhythm of projects and improvements that made his yard increasingly beautiful. Wayne and Susie also made the most of retirement by taking memorable trips overseas to Ireland and France, which inspired many evenings at home enjoying charcuterie, wine, and conversation on the porch.

Wayne is survived by his wife of 40 years, Susie Monroe Walters; their son, Jonathan Walters of Lakeport, California; daughter-in-law, Rebecka Walters (née Breton); their daughter, Susan Smith of College Station, Texas; son-in-law, Jacob Smith; five grandchildren, Hailey Anne Walters, Charlotte Leigh Smith, Norah Joanne Walters, Lawerence Wayne Smith, and Liam Benjamin Smith; his brother, Forrest “Collins” Walters; and his sister, W. Kay Allred.

Wayne was preceded in death by his mother, Verona Estelle Walters (née Collins), and his father, Forrest E. Walters.

A service will be held at Moore Funeral Home, 805 Hardy Street, Hattiesburg, MS, on January 3, 2026. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with a service at 11:30 a.m.