Homer L. Walles, 87 of Port Neches, died July 2, 2009 at Christus St. Mary’s Hospital, Port Arthur. He was born March 22, 1922.
A native of Port Neches, Homer lived there all his life except for a three-year stint in the United States Air force. After graduating from Lamar Jr. College in 1941 and then from the University of Texas, Homer began his 45-year career with Texaco where he served as Purchasing Agent.
His parents, Wade and Della Walles, and a brother Wade, Jr, predeceased Homer. He has one niece, Terri Lunsden of Austin.
In 1977, Homer married the love of his life, Jane Bardsley. They made their home at1018 Marion in Port Neches in the house where he was born.
Homer supported many civic and charitable organizations, but none were dearer to his heart than Lamar University. He was the first donor to pledge one million dollars to the university in the early 1980’s. He set up several trusts to fund the University’s first academic chair. Internationally known photographer, Keith Carter, holds the Homer Walles Chair in Fine Arts and Communication. Homer was named a Distinguished Alumnus in 1994 and he and Jane served on the L.U. Friends of the Arts Board.
Besides Jane, Homer had several loves in his life, not the least of these was his yard, where he spent many happy days until his health limited his activities. Homer would also spend hours caring for his extensive and unique collection of Koi fish, one of his favorite hobbies. Homer also enjoyed collecting beautiful items for their home and doing needlepoint.
Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Monday, July 6 at Broussard’s in Nederland,. A celebration of his life will be at 11:00 am Tuesday, July 7 at the Central Baptist Church in Port Neches. Entombment will be in the Walles Family Mausoleum at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches. The church is located at 903 Avenue B in Port Neches.
