Franklin Jeffery Waller

Jeff Waller, 76, of Brentwood, TN (former resident of Dandridge, TN and Williamson, WV), passed to his heavenly home on Monday, January 20, 2025. During his courageous six-year battle with cancer, he earned the apropos nickname, “Captain America.” Husband, father, grandfather, Vietnam veteran, artist, and model railroader; Jeff approached each of these roles with vigor and an abundance of love.

Jeff was the youngest of four children born of Clyde Waller and Pauline Lowe Waller. His siblings Sammy, Barbara, and Mary Ann, all preceded him in death. After travelling the globe, he met the love of his life, Deborah L. Beckett and they raised two marvelous children. Jeff is survived by his wife of 51 years, Deborah (Brentwood, TN); son, Cecil Beckett (Morristown, TN); daughter, Lola Michelle (Nashville, TN; Orlando, FL); three amazing granddaughters: Lakan Jude, Kenna Beckett, and Madison Beckett; many nieces and nephews; and a multitude of wonderful neighbors and friends. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Abigail, who he loved immensely. Jeff loved spending time with his family and friends, laughing and telling stories. He brought joy to so many, all of whom will miss him deeply.

Jeff proudly lived a life of service on scales both large and small. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and bravely served a tour in the Vietnam War from 1968-1969. After the war, he was stationed at Beale Air Force Base in Northern California. Less than a decade later, he began serving his local communities by working for the United States Postal Service, first as a letter carrier in Williamson, WV, then as Postmaster in Red Jacket, WV until his retirement. He was also a member of Shady Grove Methodist Church in Dandridge, TN.

He was a 1967 graduate of Williamson High School where he was a lineman for the football team, and he played trumpet in the marching band. His higher education included the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California and Southern West Virginia Community College in Williamson, WV.

The family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to all the physicians, nurses, and staff who shepherded Jeff through his vast journey of treatment. Many of these special individuals became dear friends along the way.

At Jeff’s request, no funeral will be held, only a graveside service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lymphoma Society (https://www.lls.org/ways-to-give) if you are able. Jeff and his family also kindly ask that you keep all other Vietnam veterans exposed to Agent Orange in your thoughts and prayers.

Graveside Service will be Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 9:00 AM at Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery.