Dana J. Walters' Obituary
WALTERS, Dana J., age 66, of Waynesville, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at his residence.
Dana began his career working for Kaser Construction in Centerville, where he spent approximately 15 years. During that time, it was especially meaningful for him to work alongside his brothers, making those years particularly special. From a young age, Dana was instilled with a strong work ethic by his father—values that shaped his character and remained with him throughout his life. He dedicated many years to building homes before continuing his career with 31-W Insulation in Monroe, where he worked as an insulation installer. He retired in 2020 after a long and hard-working career spanning over 40 years in the construction industry. Dana grew up attending Sunday School as a child at the Corwin Pentecostal Church in Waynesville.
Dana enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved watching television, especially classic westerns and shows like The Andy Griffith Show and Bonanza, along with NASCAR racing, particularly following Dale Earnhardt. He also enjoyed watching cartoons, a reflection of his young-at-heart nature that stayed with him throughout his life. He was a sports fan who rooted for the Cleveland Browns, The Ohio State Buckeyes, and the University of Kentucky. Earlier in life, he enjoyed playing sports, including softball as an adult, and he also liked hunting and fishing in his younger years. Dana had a special love for animals, especially his dogs, Jack Russell Terriers named Trixy and Buckshot.
He was somewhat shy yet friendly, often reserved but with a playful and joking nature among those closest to him. Dana was loyal to his family and friends and preferred a quieter lifestyle, but he always stayed connected to those he cared about. He cherished family traditions, especially holidays, and never missed important moments in the lives of his nieces and nephews, including their graduations. One of his favorite routines was stopping at Waffle House for breakfast before work, where he enjoyed visiting with friends. Above all, Dana was most proud of his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James E. and Carol Lee Walters; his brother, Tom Walters and his wife; and his brother, Raymond Walters. He is survived by his brother, Jim Walters; his sisters, Linda Renner, Bobbie Mason, Marla Walters, and Carol (Jim) Nelson; his best friend, Chris Clark; and his niece Jessica Sheppeard, who cared for him. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, who affectionately referred to him as "Nae Nae," along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Corwin Pentecostal Church in Waynesville, with Randy Brown and Wendal Lamb officiating. Burial will follow at Miami Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at the church. Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville is serving the family. Condolences may be made to the family at https://www.stubbsconner.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Dana?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dana?
Share a story where Dana's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dana you’ll never forget.
How did Dana make you smile?
