In Loving Memory

Robert Lamar Wasdin, CMSgt. (Ret.)

Robert Lamar "Was" Wasdin, 90, passed away on Saturday, May 28, 2022, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was a Christian man who was devoted to God and his wife and family. "Was" was also an honorable and decorated veteran of the United States Air Force and a Vietnam War Bronze Star recipient.

"Was" was born on November 18, 1931, in Colquitt, GA to Oscar Evan and Mary Debbie Houston Wasdin. He was one of eight children and was raised in Leesburg, FL and Blakely, GA. Was joined the Air Force in 1951 and went on temporary duty travel to England, Japan, and Canada. He married Billie Jane Moran in 1952. Together they raised four children and were stationed in Texas, Michigan, Louisiana, Kansas, Iran, and the Philippines. As "Was" prepared for his retirement from Barksdale Air Force Base, he, Billie, and his daughter, Chris, worked to clear acreage, install fences, and build a home in Elysian Fields, Texas. "Was" retired as Chief Master Sergeant in early 1978, and he moved his family to Elysian Fields where they made their home at Wachibi Farm. "Was" raised chickens, pigs, and predominately black angus cattle. He was immensely proud of his farm, tractor, and fences. He and Billie joined New Hebron Baptist Church where he was an active member and served as Deacon.

"Was" was the backbone of his family, and his generations are blessed by him. His admirable military career led to him becoming the leader of a military family as his children and grandchildren chose similar paths. He was quick to help anyone and had never met a stranger. He was active his entire life, spending his free time umpiring or refereeing sports, including peewee and collegiate football. He was a member of the Lions Club, and he bowled for the Shah of Iran. Even at 90, he was on his tractor checking on his cows and fences. His mind was sharp and so was his humor – he was a great storyteller. Everyone who knew him was better for it.

"Was" is survived by his wife, Billie Wasdin, and his four children: Nicki Lanman, Vicki and her husband Rick Pitts, MSgt. (Ret.), Scott Wasdin, Capt. (Ret.) and his wife Martina, and Christine Wasdin, Col. (Ret.) and her husband Dennis Hilley, Col. (Ret.). He is also survived by ten grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and by his siblings James Wasdin, Lucy Wasdin Collins, and Mary Ellen Wasdin. He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Debbie Wasdin, and his siblings Evan Wasdin, Leta Wasdin, Hubert "Red" Wasdin, and Nancy Wasdin Potesta.

A memorial service led by Pastor Pat Richardson will be held at New Hebron Baptist Church in Elysian Fields, TX on Tuesday, June 14 ^th at 2pm. After the service, the Wasdin family welcomes all who would like to attend to Wachibi Farm to place "Was" to rest over his land. A military marker will be placed at Panola Mt. Zion Cemetery in DeBerry, TX.