Lonnie Weir, 82, of Beaumont, died Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at St. Elizabeth- Christus Hospital, Beaumont. He was born September 2, 1933 to Margarite Elise Strickland and Charles Weir, in Dallas, TX.
Retired from Lamar Bank as Chairman and CEO, he spent his entire career helping the community with innovative programs and personal service. People remark that he was the person who gave them their first job, or their best career advice. His love of service to others reflected too in his work with the South Park Rotary Club and multiple trade associations. While he was a focused business man, he was a more devoted husband to Vita May Bonura and father to Margaret “Maggie” L. Weir. He was seldom seen without his wife by his side, and loved remarking that he was married to an “older woman” – since she was a full week his senior. He never missed a performance or function when Maggie was young. A proponent of education, he held an undergraduate and an MBA from Lamar University, he was proud of Maggie’s academic and professional achievements.
A theme in his personal life was a love of the outdoors, and particularly anything to do with water. From sailing and fishing to bird watching later in his life, he was constantly out in the world and appreciative of the beauty of Southeast Texas. If you questioned his choice of location, he would simply tell you “this is God’s country…”
He will be remembered for his business acumen as well as his huge heart, which gave him trouble for so long and as the man who truly loved his family, the community and nature.
Survivors include his wife, Vita of Beaumont and his Daughter, Maggie of Boston, MA. He is preceded in death by his parents.
A gathering of Mr. Weir’s family and friends will begin at 4:00 p.m., with his memorial service to follow at 6:00 p.m. and a reception thereafter, Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont, TX. A private family committal will be held at Broussard’s Crematorium.
The family requests donation to either the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 841125, Dallas, Texas 75284 or the Audubon Society, 2904 Swiss Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75204, in lieu of flowers.
