Robert Wayne Oliver

Funeral services for Robert Wayne Oliver, 85, of Zavalla will be held Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Zavalla First Baptist Church with Pastor Jacob Fitzgerald and Pastor Stephen Forrest officiating. Graveside services with military honors will follow in Zavalla Cemetery.

Robert Wayne Oliver was born June 29, 1939 in Lufkin, Texas to the late Charles Ray and Jessie Opal (Barge) Oliver. Wayne’s younger years were affectionately spent with his older brother Charles. Their childhood adventures in the city of Zavalla are stories only they could tell.

After graduating from Zavalla High School, Wayne joined the U.S. Army. Upon completion of four years of service he married his high school sweetheart, Donnie Coleman. Soon after, Wayne began his career at the Lufkin Paper Mill where he would eventually retire after 40 years of service.

Wayne was a loving husband, father and pillar of his community, inspiring others with his kindness and generosity. In his younger years, he was active in the Zavalla Civic Club, Rodeo Club, and Little League Baseball. It was during this time that he gave his life to Jesus. As a member of Zavalla First Baptist Church, he served as deacon, as well as taught adult Sunday school. He was a faithful servant throughout his life.

He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and loved spending time with his grandchildren. He especially enjoyed watching them play sports. His health began to decline in 2023 as dementia took hold. He spent his last two years at Huntington Health and Rehab surrounded by the loving, dedicated staff and his family. He went peacefully to be with Jesus on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Donnie Gwen (Coleman) Oliver of Zavalla; sons and daughters-in-law, Ricky and Sharla Oliver of Huntington, and Robert and Cathryn Oliver of Spring; daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Curtis Evans of Huntington; grandchildren, Bryan Oliver, Eric Oliver, Taylor Evans, Caitlyn Linton and T.J., Kristen Evans, Madelyn Oliver, and Logan Evans; great-grandchildren, Elliott Wayne Oliver, Tripp Linton, Charlotte Oliver, and Graham Linton; and a number of other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Debbie Oliver.

Pallbearers will be Bryan Oliver, Eric Oliver, Taylor Evans, Logan Evans, Christopher Oliver, and Jason Oliver.

Honorary pallbearers will be Dwan Coleman, Curtis Evans, Bobby Barge, and Charles Oliver, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Zavalla First Baptist Church, 1034 E. Main Street, Zavalla, Texas 75980, or Harbor Hospice, 402 S. John Redditt Drive, Suite 203, Lufkin, Texas 75904.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at Carroway Funeral Home in Lufkin.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.