Theodore "Ted" Leland Babb Jr.

Ted L. Babb Jr., 71, lovingly known as “Yellacat”, travelled to his heavenly home on September 21, 2026 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Ted was born in Germany to Ted Sr. and Virginia Babb. His parents brought him to San Angelo, Texas when he was 7 months old. Ted moved to the Waco area in 1968 where he was a member of Central Christian Church for the last 58 years.

Ted was a multi-talented artist who was a singer/songwriter, author, actor (in Walker Tx Ranger and other productions), cartoonist, radio broadcaster, and cowboy folklorist. In addition, Ted was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, a martial arts expert, the past Worshipful Master of Fidelis Lodge #1127, and a 33rd degree Freemason of the Scottish Rite. Ted achieved a Credentials of Ministry designation, and his illness offered him a unique opportunity to minister to many people he encountered during his cancer journey. Lastly, Ted always appreciated and shared a good joke; he had a clever wit.

Of his many giftings and intellect, Ted’s musical talent was the most exceptional.

Ted was preceded in death by his son Levi and his father, Ted. Sr.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Annette, daughter Gwen Babb Parmer (Reggie) whom he always called “Pumpkin”, son D.L. Babb (Lorie) whom he named after his beloved uncle, mother, Virginia Babb, sisters: Elicia Babb Greene (Stefan) and Angela Babb Simmons (Bradley), grandchildren: Chase Gilstrap (Mandy), Tylar Gilstrap, Brady Gilstrap, Paige Gilstrap, Abby Parmer, Maggie Parmer, Mason Berner (Alaska), Haylo Berner, Bailey Babb, David Vernon, Emylee Vernon, and Anna Ebeling, great-grandchildren: Brynn Gilstrap, Karson Dorris, and Callahan Gilstrap.

Ted will also be missed by mother-in-law Rosemary Horton, brother-in-laws Wayne Horton and Walter Horton (Loretta), aunts: Sue Caldwell Daniel and Linda Daniel Hester, 34 nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 pm on September 26, 2026, at Central Christian Church, 4901 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, Texas 76710. The family will receive visitors from 6-8 pm on Friday, September 25 at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 N. Robinson Dr., Waco, Texas 76706.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the charity of your choice.

Ted fought the good fight; he finished the race; he kept the faith. Now there is in store for him the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award him on that day. (from 2 Timothy 7-8, ESV)