OBITUARY | Oscar “Rusty” Waldrep III

Obituary: Oscar “Rusty” Waldrep III of Waveland, MS and formerly Denham Springs, LA, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on July 21, 2024, at the age of 77 in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 3rd, 1946 in Hammond, LA to the late Oscar “Red” Waldrep and Elizabeth “Betty” Aiken Waldrep. Rusty is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard Waldrep. Rusty joined the United States Army in 1970, retiring as a Major after 24 years. He was a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, receiving the Purple Heart for his heroism, and was awarded many other medals and military accolades. Rusty served in Vietnam and later in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He loved his country deeply and was very proud of his military service. Rusty was an avid LSU and Saints fan. He enjoyed being outdoors, on the water, fishing, boating, hunting, playing golf, and boiling his famous shrimp. Rusty was a loving and devoted husband, father, and especially grandfather. His grandchildren meant everything to him and were the light of his life. A loving and kind person, Rusty was selfless to the core and always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Rusty is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Mary Margaret Lundin Waldrep; his children, Jennifer (Scott) Van Kerkhove, Justin (Jacqueline) Lunsford, and Erin (Michael) Donnelly; grandchildren, Emily (Logan) Harris, Tyler Waddick, Abigayle Lunsford, Isabelle Lunsford, Cullen Donnelly, and Quinn Donnelly; sister Margaret (Peyton) Henderson, brother William (Lisa) Waldrep, sister-in-law Laura Waldrep. Rusty also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, friends, and extended family who will cherish all the lessons on life and the ‘big picture’ he so generously shared.