Wendell "HOSS" Dodson Lawler

A public visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home in Temple. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Bellwood Memorial Park.

Wendell was born on December 29, 1934, in Temple, Texas, to Lewis Homer and Buna Othniel (Dixon) Lawler. He was raised in the Temple area and attended Little River Academy. Wendell dedicated 32 years of his life to serving his community as a postman. He was also a longtime and faithful member of Northside Church of Christ.

Wendell had a special love for his farm, tractors, and animals. He found great joy in the simple things in life, especially spending time with his family. Some of his fondest memories were made traveling with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including memorable trips to Branson, Missouri, and Port Aransas, Texas. His family was a cherished part of his life, and the time he shared with them will be remembered and treasured.

Wendell was preceded in death by his wife, Dorries Annelle (Killough) Lawler; his parents; his brother, Wayland Lawler; his sister, Wanda O’Connell; and his sons, Phillip Connell Jr. and Samuel Connell.

He leaves behind a loving family who will carry his memory with them, including his grandson, P.A. Connell III; great-grandchildren, Crysslynn Keeton and husband Kristopher, Mace Connell, Keeryn “K.D.” Luedecking and husband Justin, and Sonia Connell; great-great-grandchildren, Stormie Keeton, Sunny Keeton, Michael Keeton, Sawyer “S.J.” Luedecking, and Charlie Luedecking; and nephews, Gale Lawler, Dale Lawler, and Scott Worsham.

Wendell will be remembered for his love of family, his appreciation for the farm and animals he cared for, and the memories he created with those he loved. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on through the generations of family who loved him.