Brandon Lloyd Waddell

Brandon Lloyd Waddell, age 40, of Lonoke, Arkansas, transitioned to his heavenly home on August 29, 2025. Brandon was born on July 10, 1985, to Kim and Linda Waddell of Carlisle, AR. He married the love of his life Elizabeth Ann (Beth) Wall on March 28, 2009, and together they were blessed with two children, Huck Alexander and Jude Elizabeth.

He is survived by his parents, his wife and children, sister Kimberly (William) Nail and nephew Jackson Nail, in-laws Jody and Crystal Wall and brother-in-law Zack Wall, grandparents Anna Shreeve and Nell Waddell and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

Brandon graduated from Carlisle High School with the Class of 2003. He was a standout student who excelled in academics, music and nearly every sport he tried, including baseball, football, basketball, soccer, ping pong, and even underwater hockey in college. As drum major of the Bison marching band, he led with energy and pride. He loved music deeply, teaching himself guitar on a twelve-string in college and spending countless hours playing and singing.

He later earned his Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies from the University of Central Arkansas. Passionate about helping others, he became a founding member of Arkansans for Drug-Free Youth and served as the only youth member on the national Tobacco Coalition board. Brandon was also a published author, writing about the challenges faced by children living with Type 1 diabetes and another about the complexities of adolescence. His career paths always centered on serving people, including his role as Media Communications Specialist for Pulaski County Special School District before retiring due to illness. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightest through his pride and joy, “The Garage”, a place where he and his wife, together, inspired countless people to pursue fitness, improve their health, and most importantly strengthen bonds of friendship within the community.

A loyal fan at his children’s games, Brandon became a proud Lonoke Jackrabbit supporter, though he never stopped being a Bison at heart.

Faith was the cornerstone of Brandon’s life. He remained steadfast in his Methodist beliefs through trials and hardships, serving both Carlisle and Lonoke Methodist Churches in many capacities. He especially loved giving children’s sermons and participating in the Emmaus Community, where he guided many youth flights.

One of the greatest joys of Brandon’s life was traveling and sharing experiences with his family. He lived with a spirit of adventure, determined to make memories that would last forever. His travels took him far and wide, hunting for Forrest Fenn’s legendary buried gold in Yellowstone, swimming alongside whale sharks in the open ocean, standing in awe before the monuments of Washington, and experiencing the Fort Worth cattle drive. Sports trips were always a highlight, from cheering on the Chicago Bears, St. Louis Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, KC Chiefs, to watching Arkansas Razorbacks. You’d always see him unapologetically wearing the jersey or ball cap of his team in any venue. No matter how far he roamed, his heart was happiest during the family’s yearly trips to the beach. Days filed with laughter, sand, and sunsets that became cherished traditions. Brandon’s love for adventure was not about the destinations alone but about the joy of seeing the world through his children’s eyes, and the gift of time spent together.

Brandon fought a courageous battle with melanoma, enduring great suffering for the chance at just one more day with his family. Through it all, he remained full of humor, spontaneity, and love. His captivating personality, bravery, and zest for life made him unforgettable. He leaves behind a legacy of strength, faith and devotion to his family and to his beloved dogs Kip, Yeti, and Gus.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Donald Turner, whose compassion and tireless care of Brandon was a true blessing. You really are a “Hero”.

To the men Brandon looked up to and wanted to be like, and who already helped carry him through life:

Stephen King, Brandon Barbaree, Tim Beecham, Justin Lafitte, Madison James, JJ Gladden, Christian James and Jeff Peek.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Carlisle Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Waddell Special Account at Lonoke Banking Center for the children. Arrangements by Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke.