Dr. Joe Calvin Yelderman Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, professor, church leader, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 9th surrounded by his family.

Born on July 10, 1950, Joe grew up in Needville, Texas, graduating from Needville High School in 1968. He was the son of Dr. Joe Calvin Yelderman Sr. and Ada Frances Yelderman. His father’s love of the outdoors sparked Joe’s lifelong passion for nature, leading him to pursue a career in geology and environmental science. Joe reached the rank of Eagle Scout, demonstrating the character, leadership, and love of the outdoors that defined his life.

Joe earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Baylor University in 1974 and 1976, and he completed his Ph.D. in geology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1983.

For 43 years, Joe served as a professor of geology at Baylor University, specializing in hydrogeology. He was a gifted educator and mentor who inspired generations of students through his passion for teaching, scientific excellence, and environmental stewardship. He retired this year on May 31st after more than four decades of dedicated service.

While his professional accomplishments were many, Joe’s greatest passion was his faith in Jesus Christ. He served at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church for over 20 years as a Sunday school teacher and deacon. He loved studying God’s Word, investing in others, and pointing people toward Christ exemplified by his words and actions.

Joe shared 51 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Diane (BS ‘76). They met at Baylor University in 1972 and were married in 1975 at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church. Together they built a home centered on faith, love, laughter, and family.

He was known for his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, gentle spirit, and as an avid birdwatcher. Joe found joy in observing God’s creation. As a longtime member in the Waco chapter of the National Audubon Society, he shared his enthusiasm for birds with many friends and fellow ornithologists.

Above all, Joe treasured his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Joe Calvin Yelderman Sr. and Ada Frances Yelderman.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Milner Yelderman; his daughter Abigail White (Jared) and children, Madison, Hamilton, and Kennedy; his son, Joe Calvin Yelderman III (Rachel) and children, Elizabeth, Ada-Marie, and Joe Calvin Yelderman IV; his son, Logan Yelderman and children, Bryce, Nolan, Beau, and Ty; and his sisters, Cynthia Jo Squires and Frances Jo Pelley.

Joe’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, devoted service, intellectual curiosity, and genuine kindness. Whether in the classroom, at church, in the field, at a sporting event, or gathered with those he loved most, Joe brought both joy to those around him and a pair of binoculars, just in case . . .

His family rejoices in the assurance that he is now in the presence of his Savior, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Though he will be deeply missed, his life leaves a lasting legacy of faith, wisdom, love, and grace that will continue for generations to come.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor his life, celebrate his faith, and remember the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

In honor of Joe’s memory, donations may be made to the Waco Wetlands (City of Waco, Lake Waco Wetlands, P.O. Box 2570, Waco, Tx 76702) or the Central Texas Audubon Society (Central Texas Audubon Society, Memo: Joe, 2228 Sanger Ave, Waco, Tx 76707), organizations that reflect his deep love of birdwatching and the outdoors. Contributions will be used to fund a joint outdoor memorial birding project in his honor. Central Texas Audubon Society