Waddell Mulmore

Waddell Mulmore, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away tragically on September 2, 2025, in New Iberia, Louisiana. Born on April 15, 1967, in Natchez, Mississippi, Waddell’s spirit was as vibrant and robust as the melodies he played on his saxophone, an instrument through which he not only expressed himself but also endeavored to uplift those around him.

A dedicated welder for Chart in New Iberia, Waddell brought meticulous craftsmanship and pride to every task, mirroring the strength and stamina he demonstrated throughout his life. His educational journey began at Joseph S. Clark, where his foundations were laid for a lifetime of hard work and dedication.

In his downtime, Waddell’s playful spirit came alive as he enjoyed long boating trips and cherished date nights with his loving wife, Debra Mulmore. He embraced the laughter and joy of life with his grandchildren—Kaeceon Hair, Kruze Hair, and Skylar Nelson—who were always at the forefront of his heart. Beyond the family gatherings, Waddell found solace in the joy of fishing, each cast a reminder of life's simple pleasures and the bond it forged with nature.

Music was Waddell’s refuge, playing the saxophone not merely as a hobby, but as a heartfelt mission to share joy and light with others. His passion culminated in his proudest accomplishment: being a part of the Rebirth Band in the French Quarter, where he contributed to the very essence of New Orleans culture—melding spirit and sound in perfect harmony.

Waddell leaves behind a tapestry of love woven through the lives of those who survive him, including his devoted wife, Debra; his son, Wardell Nelson, and fiancée Desmaria of Denton, Texas; his daughters, Rogneisha Hair and husband Keonta Hair of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Rog'Shay Elliot and fiancé Luis Garcia of Patterson, Louisiana, and I'Jshanell Mulmore (Noah Luke). He is also survived by his mother, Ida Mulmore Brooks, and husband Raymond Brooks; mother-in-law, Betty Jean Westley; sister, Nolita Thread and husband Kenneth Theard of New Orleans, Louisiana; sister Sonya Smith; Vanessa Travis and Maria Kelly from Natchez, Mississippi. Waddell’s favorite aunts, Mildred Webster and Christine Cameron, and Connie Brown held a special place in his heart.

Waddell's legacy is further enriched by the memories of those who precede him in death: his father, Sam Smith Jr.; brother, Chris Mulmore; and beloved grandparents—Annie Lou Harris, Sam Smith Sr., and Mary L Christian. Waddell also mourns the loss of his father-in-law, Alfred Wesley; sister-in-law, Barbandell Wesley; and brothers-in-law, Calvin Jennings, Kim Pollard, and Billy Ray Wesley.

A visitation to honor Waddell's remarkable life will take place on September 13, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Saint Luke Baptist Church, located at 1709 Harry St, Patterson, LA 70392. Following this, a funeral service will commence at 11:00 AM, leading to his interment at Patterson Cemetery at 12:15 PM.

Waddell Mulmore’s departure leaves a poignant void; yet, his musical notes and loving memories will linger in the hearts of all he touched, a melody of love that will forever resonate in the lives he brightened.

Services entrusted to Field's Funeral Home of New Iberia