Gwenette Wetzel

Donna Gwenette Wetzel, 73, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and close friends.

A visitation will be held at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Following the visitation, a graveside celebration of Gwenette’s life will be held at Oakwood Cemetery at 11:00 am, with Rev. Dr. Leslie King officiating.

Gwenette was born on March 20, 1953, in Waco, Texas, to Frank Barrett and Gwenda L. Smith, where she was also raised. She graduated from Richfield High School in 1971 before attending 4C College, where she was later employed. On August 5, 1983, she married the love of her life, Jim Wetzel. Gwenette found joy in life's simple pleasures, especially fishing at the family farm, taking weekend trips, and cheering on her children and grandchildren at their sporting events and academic activities. Above all else, she treasured the time she spent with her family and her closest friends, who were the center of her life.

Gwenette was preceded in death by her parents, Frank Barrett Smith and Gwenda L. Smith of Waco and her sister, Suzanne Smith-Newman of Waco. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Jim Wetzel of Mart, and their beloved dog, Izzy; her daughters, Heather Renee McNair and husband, Karl "Rock" McNair Jr., and Holli LeAnn Short and husband, Cody Short, both of Waco; her grandchildren, Karter McNair, Hollyn McNair, Mabry McNair, Hadley Short, and Barrett Short; her nieces, DeAnn Engholm and Jennifer Young; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Pallbearers will be Karl “Rock” McNair Jr., Cody Short, Karter McNair, Barrett Short, Frank Traplena, and Cameron Talbert.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, Fuzzy Friends, or any organization specializing in the research, clinical trials, and treatments for Glioblastoma brain tumors in honor of her son-in-law, Karl “Rock” McNair.

Gwenette was a wonderful wife, loving mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She is greatly loved and will be missed dearly.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Gwenette on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.