Nona Gayle Waldrum

Gayle Waldrum was born in Abilene, Texas on November 28, 1942, and passed away on January 29, 2026, in Arlington, Texas, surrounded by her husband of 64 years, Jim Waldrum, and her youngest son, Scott Waldrum.

Preceded in death by her father, Guy Griffin, who lost his life defending our country in World War II on January 4, 1944, as well as her mother Wanda Giles, her stepfather and fellow soldier Max Giles, her father- and mother-in-law Odus and Roma Waldrum, and her beloved grandparents Tip and Faye Russell, Gayle is survived by her sister Cynthia Waldrum and husband Wayne, her brother Tip Giles and wife Joy, and her sister Angela Rice and husband Joe.

She is also survived by her two sons, Greg Waldrum and his wife Brissy, and Scott Waldrum. Gayle found deep joy in her role as Mimi to her grandchildren Justin and his wife Katelin, Cody and his wife Jessica, and Stetson, and as a great-grandmother to Dash, Rush, Celissa, and Bently. She and Jim cherished their visits to Abilene to spend time with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

For 22 years, Gayle faithfully served at the Arlington YMCA, working closely with adults with special needs and forming many lifelong friendships. She enjoyed playing games and bingo, and she and Jim shared a simple pleasure in visiting resale shops together each day. Nona Gayle Waldrum was dearly loved by many and will be deeply missed. She will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.