Bernard Unell

Bernard (Bud) Unell, a cherished son, husband, father, and pillar of his community, passed away on February 2, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at the Rodef Sholom Cemetery, followed by a Minyon service at the Unell residence. Following the Minyon service, a reception will be hosted to celebrate Bud's remarkable life with family and close friends. There will also be a visitation from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 4, in the Garden Room at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. Bud's memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Bernard Unell was born in St. Louis, Missouri, December 27, 1925, to proud parents Oscar Reuben Unell and Eva Cohen Unell. Bud received his education in St. Louis schools and continued his academic journey at the University of Oregon and the University of Illinois.

Bud embarked on his successful business career as a Texas Sales Representative for Glaser Bros. Mfg. Co. In the midst of his professional journey, he found love and happiness when he married Lucille Novich, who was associated with KWTX Radio in Waco, on September 3, 1950. Their love story spanned fifty-eight wonderful years until Luci's passing on July 15, 2008.

In the late 1950s, Bud made the pivotal decision to join the family department store business in Marlin. In 1970, he established a flourishing business in financial services, which evolved into a network of branches across Central Texas, known as Champion Credit Corp. Throughout his career, Bud was an active member of several trade associations, holding positions on the boards and serving as an officer in organizations such as the Texas Retail Federation, the Texas Finance Association, the Texas Finance Institute, and the Texas Consumer Finance Association.

Bud's dedication to service extended to his appointment by Governor Bill Clements in 1988 to serve a four-year term on the Texas Finance Commission in Austin, an appointment swiftly approved by the Texas Senate. He continued to serve on the board of the Texas Consumer Finance Association until his passing.

His commitment to the communities he lived in was unwavering. Bud served on the board and held officer positions in the Marlin Country Club, Marlin Chamber of Commerce, Marlin Rotary Club, and, in Waco, the Better Business Bureau, the Brazos Club, and Ridgewood Country Club. He was a dedicated member of the Congregation Rodef Shalom, serving three terms on the board of directors, including once as secretary-treasurer. Additionally, he was a Mason and a proud member of the Waco Rotary Club. In recognition of his outstanding service, he received the distinguished service award from T.C.F.A. in 2010 and was named Board Member Emeritus by the organization in 2017.

Throughout his life, Bud remained active, enjoying rounds of golf and maintaining his fitness at local centers where he built lasting friendships.

Bud served his country honorably and the state of Texas with unwavering integrity.

In 2009, the winds of love blew once more when Bud met Wanda Raley. They embarked on a beautiful journey together, walking the path of life arm in arm, sharing lunches, dinners, and delightful moments with friends. This loving arrangement continued until Bud's death. Their cherished memories include gatherings with the Thursday night group at Ridgewood, Saturday evenings at the 19th Hole at the Club, Baylor Club, or other Waco restaurants, enjoying the Waco Symphony, and actively participating in various civic organizations.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Harry Unell and Sam Unell; and his beloved wife Luci.

He is survived by his daughter, Janis Unell Mayfield, and her husband, Mike; his son, Dr. Alan Unell, and his wife, Deonna; his grandchildren, Adam Gordon, Samantha Unell, Joe Unell, and Eva Unell; his great-grandchildren, Elam Rodger Unell and Naomi Unell; and his companion, Wanda.

Bud will be dearly missed by his longtime friend and business partner, Bill Parrish. They worked together for over fifty years, developing many successful business concepts, often assisted by their longtime good friend and financial advisor, Chuck Lewis.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the multitude of friends who have supported Bud throughout his final years. Their unwavering presence brought solace and comfort during challenging times. Special recognition goes to Alice, his trusted housekeeper; Gary Haedt, a compassionate friend and ever-willing helper; Amber Gardner, his compassionate hospice nurse from Baylor Scott and White; John Wicklund, a longtime friend and golf mentor; and Dr. Steve Raley, who dedicated attention and exceptional care that brought immense comfort to Bud.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory in Bud’s “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.