Theo Donaldson Wages, Jr.

Theo Donaldson Wages, junior, 81, passed away on July 21, 2024, in Auburn, Alabama. Born on April 14, 1943, in Birmingham, Alabama, his family lived throughout the southeast during his idyllic childhood. Returning to Birmingham, he graduated from Phillips High School in 1961 and then served his country in the United States Army, 8th Infantry Division, from 1962 to 1965. After earning his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Livingston University, Theo embarked on a distinguished career, beginning as a high school teacher in West Alabama, moving on to become an Industrial Relations representative in the petroleum exploration field for ODECO, and later serving as a Senior Safety Consultant for Safe State at the University of Alabama College of Continuing Studies.

Theo was a member of Taylorville Baptist Church and Grace Church in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and, upon moving to Auburn, joined Lakeview Baptist Church. After retiring, he volunteered with Gideons International, Women's Hope Medical Clinic, and the East Alabama Food Pantry.

He is survived by his loving spouse, Dianne Boyd Wages; son, Theo Donaldson Wages III (Wynne); grandsons, Theo Donaldson Wages IV (Sophie) and Wakefield Driskell Wages; granddaughters, Anna Louise Wages and Tanner Boyd Wages; sisters, Tommy Bender and Molly Argott; and beloved brother-in-law, Skip Boyd. He was preceded in death by his parents, Theo Donaldson and Tommy Lou Wakefield Wages, and sister, Gail McDanal.

A service to celebrate Theo's life will be held at Lakeview Baptist Church, Auburn, Alabama, on August 10, 2024, at 11 a.m. The family is being assisted by Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Theo's memory to Gideons International, Women's Hope Medical Clinic in Auburn, Alabama, or the Senior Ministry of Lakeview Baptist Church, Auburn, Alabama.

Theo's legacy is marked by his love and commitment to his family, his loyalty to his friends, his larger than life personality, and his confidence in his faith.