Jeb Alan Waters

Jeb Alan Waters, age 51 of Gatesville, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Jeb was born on May 24, 1975, in Gatesville, Texas, to Ted and Cindy Byrom Waters. He grew up in Gatesville, attended Gatesville schools, and graduated from Gatesville High School in 1993. Following high school, he attended Tyler Junior College.

Jeb started playing tennis with his dad when he was in the third grade. Throughout his youth, he competed in numerous tournaments across Central Texas. As a member of the Gatesville High School tennis team, he qualified for the UIL Regional Tournament all four years of high school. During his senior year, he was a medalist at the UIL State Tennis Tournament.

While attending college, Jeb worked as a tennis instructor at Willow Brook Country Club in Tyler. He later joined the United States Tennis Association, promoting youth tennis in area schools.  He also continued to coach at the Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Florida where many of the world’s top ranked professional athletes trained. Jeb eventually returned home to Texas and continued to give private lessons to children in the Waco and Temple area.

Jeb’s adventurous, thrill-seeking nature led him to motorcross racing. He spent most weekends competing in races around Texas. According to his friends, Jeb was never satisfied with being average. He was very competitive and worked hard at what he enjoyed.

He loved all kinds of music and played the drums for several local rock and country bands with many of his good buddies.

Above all, Jeb was grateful for the many friends that were a part of his life. One friend remarked that Jeb treated everyone, regardless of who they were or what they did, with the same kindness and respect. His friend David shared “For a guy who was always the center of attention, he sure didn’t like the focus on himself.” His family thanks each of you for your friendship, support and many good times you shared with him.

Jeb was preceded in death by his grandparents, J.C. and Betty Woodson Byrom, and Tom and Dina Waters; and uncle, David Waters.

He is survived by his parents, Ted and Cindy Waters; aunts and uncles, Joe and Margaret Pancake, and Dan and Tammy Waters; cousins, Laura Haines and husband Brett, Joby Pancake, Dustin Waters and wife Danielle, and Christa Waters; and many close friends.

Jeb was a member of Live Oak Baptist Church. Memorials may be made in his honor to Live Oak Baptist Church, 113 FM 107, Gatesville, TX 76528.

No services are currently pending.