John Riley Haldeman

John Riley Haldeman peacefully passed away Wednesday, July 2, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.

A memorial service celebrating his life will take place at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at Renew Church in Waco, followed by a reception at Ridgewood Country Club.

John Riley was born May 25, 1942, in Texarkana, Arkansas, to Vera and Eugene Riley Haldeman. From the beginning, he was known for his warmth, strength, sense of humor, and steadfast faith—qualities that shaped every chapter of his life. He attended Texas High School in Texarkana, Texas. After high school, he joined the Navy, proudly serving his country aboard the USS Clamagore (SS 343).

Shortly after returning to Texarkana, he met the love of his life, Sandra (Sandy) Hayes. They married on November 9, 1963, embarking on a beautiful journey together that spanned over six decades. Together with Sandy, he reared two children, John R. Haldeman, Jr. (Jay) and Jamie Haldeman Youens.

John Riley’s career as a talented salesman took them across Texas and eventually around the globe. His professional journey with an oil-service company provided incredible experiences as he and his family lived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Stavanger, Norway; and The Hague, Netherlands. Wonderful memories were created, many friendships formed, and John Riley learned to surf with Jay during their time in Rio. After returning to Texas, John Riley continued his success in the lubrication industry with a rewarding career at Royal Purple. He later fulfilled his dream of entrepreneurship by founding his own company, J H Distributing, where he dedicated his talent, work ethic, and integrity to every detail. In 2015, John Riley and Sandy relocated from Houston to Waco to be closer to family. Regardless of where life took them, John Riley created a home filled with love, laughter, and faith.

Outside of work, John Riley embraced life with passion and joy. Golf was one of his most cherished pastimes. He enjoyed hunting in the Rocky Mountains, going on golf trips with close friends to Myrtle Beach, fishing along the Texas coast, and—most importantly—cheering on his grandchildren at their various sporting events. Nothing brought him more pride than being in the stands, supporting them every step of the way.

A devoted follower of Christ, John Riley lived out his beliefs daily. Reading his Bible, engaging in daily devotionals with Sandy, and sharing God’s word were integral parts of his life. His bold faith, deep wisdom, and kindness touched many lives.

He was the best Dad and Opa—steady, generous, and full of love. His family was his greatest joy, and he cherished every moment with them.

John Riley was preceded in death by his parents, Vera and Eugene Riley Haldeman; his brother, James Neely Haldeman; and his sister-in-law, Joni Tidwell Haldeman.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Sandy; his son, Jay, and wife, Jennifer Himes Haldeman; his daughter, Jamie, and husband, Jason Thomas Youens; and his adored grandchildren—Anna, Ellie, Mary Claire, and Mamie Jane Haldeman, along with Kate, John, and Camp Youens.

He is also survived by his sister, Ann Haldeman Webb, and her husband, Ed Webb; his brother, Charles Robert Haldeman; his sister, Roberta Haldeman Gobroski, and her husband, Rick Gobroski; and his sister, Harriet Haldeman Trevino, and her husband, Jay Trevino; as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful and loving care provided by Dr. Michael Loden, along with the amazing caregivers Corina Gorgan, Donna Hoelscher, Valerie Medcalf, Divine Home Care Service, and Compassus. Their compassion and presence brought great comfort to John Riley, Sandy, and their family. The family also extends heartfelt gratitude to all of the staff at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home for their kindness and support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Renew Church Waco, the John Riley and Sandy Haldeman Endowed Athletic Fund at Baylor University, Methodist Children’s Home of Waco, Star of Hope, or the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews.

Honorary pallbearers include Jason Youens, John Youens, Camp Youens, Rick Gobroski, Jay Trevino, Nicolas Trevino, Joseph Trevino, and Alan Wood.

John Riley’s legacy of faith, family, and love will endure in all who knew him. He lived a life well-lived, and he will be dearly missed.

We invite you to leave a message or memory of John Riley in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.