B. E. Wharton, 81, of Beaumont, died Tuesday, February 10, 2015, in his home. He was born on September 17, 1933, in Sedalia, Missouri, to Lois Hunter Wharton and Sterling Wharton.

The family moved to Devers when he was 16 years of age, and in 1951 B.E. headed to The University of Texas at Austin. In 1957, he graduated from The University of Texas School of Law and went on to practice law in Vidor for forty years.

A man of honesty, integrity, and compassion, B.E. was known for generously donating his professional time to individuals and organizations. He received the Paul Harris Fellow Recognition from the Rotary Club during his years of service. The Vidor Chamber of Commerce described him as having a lasting impact on the City of Vidor and Orange County and being a champion for the elderly and less fortunate.

B.E. is survived by his wife of fifty-two years, Billie Wharton; son, Timothy Wharton of Georgetown; daughter, Kara Wharton of Beaumont; grandchildren, Cameron Wharton and his wife, Sarah, and Lauren Wharton and her fiancé, Wade Urbanek; great-granddaughter, Riley Ann Urbanek; brother-in-law, Walter Lambright and his wife, Frances, and their daughters Catherine Lambright and Carolyn Doss; niece, Vicki Rose of China; and nephew, David Wharton of Nome.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Roscoe Wharton; and sister-in-law, Evelyn Wharton.

A gathering of Mr. Wharton’s family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m., with his memorial service to follow at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 17, 2015, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His committal was held at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.

Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society of Southeast Texas, P.O. Box 1629, Beaumont, Texas 77704.