Donnie "Bartholomew" Walters, a beloved father, Papa, brother, friend, and so much more, was born in Dallas, Texas, on December 31, 1969, to James Allen Walters and Linda Sue Leach Walters.

Donnie went to be with the Lord on September 18, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, stories, laughter, and countless people who loved him dearly. Though his time with us was not nearly long enough, the mark he left on the lives of those who knew him will never fade.

Donnie attended Brownwood High School and later earned his GED. He was a man who lived life in his own unique way, and anyone who knew him knows that he was never afraid to be exactly who he was. That included giving himself the middle name "Bartholomew"-a name that was as wonderfully unexpected as Donnie himself. It was just one of the many things that showed his personality and his ability to make even the ordinary parts of life memorable.

Donnie enjoyed cooking and, as anyone who knew him could tell you, he certainly enjoyed eating. But more than anything, he enjoyed the simple moments of life and the memories made along the way.

Donnie had a sense of humor that was completely and uniquely his own. He could make people laugh when there seemed to be nothing funny at all. His quick wit and sharp sense of humor meant he always seemed to have a comeback ready. He had a gift for turning an ordinary moment into a story worth remembering, and many of the memories people carry of Donnie will undoubtedly be accompanied by a smile or a laugh. His laughter and humor brought light into the lives of the people around him.

Above all else, Donnie loved his family. His family meant the world to him, and he especially treasured his grandchildren. He was so excited for the opportunity to make up for lost time and to create new memories with them. Being their Papa brought him a happiness that was impossible to miss. The love he had for his daughter and his grandchildren was deep, genuine, and unconditional, and that love will continue to live on through them.

Donnie was also a wonderful friend. He was caring, kind, and willing to be there for the people he loved. He had a way of making people feel welcomed, accepted, and cared for. Those fortunate enough to call Donnie a friend will remember not only his kindness, but also the laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments he brought into their lives. He was the kind of person who could leave an impression without even trying.

Donnie's life was not defined by perfection, but by being authentically himself. He was funny, kind-hearted, loving, stubborn when he wanted to be, and never afraid to march to the beat of his own drum. He had his own way of doing things, his own way of telling a story, and his own way of making people laugh. Those unique qualities are what made him Donnie, and they are what those who loved him will miss the most.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, James Allen Walters and Linda Sue Leach Walters; his brother, James Allen Walters II; and his precious grandson, Jaxon Keith Hoedebeck.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved daughter, Sylvia Hoedebeck and her husband, Scott; his grandchildren, Mykah, Noah, and Theodore Hoedebeck; his sister, Tammy Galloway and her husband, Mike; his brother, Doug Walters; as well as extended family and countless friends whose lives were touched by Donnie.

Dad leaves behind so much more than memories. He leaves behind the laughter he shared, the kindness he gave, the meals he cooked, the stories he told, the jokes that only he could tell quite the way he did, and the love he poured into the people around him. His absence will be felt deeply, in the quiet moments and in the everyday moments when something reminds us of him.

But along with the sadness, there will always be gratitude-for the time we had, for the memories he gave us, and for the love that will remain long after he is gone. Donnie was truly one of a kind, and there will never be another Dad, Papa, brother, or friend quite like him.

Until we meet again, Dad.

We love you more.