Herbert Crisler “Cris” Wait, Jr

Mr. Herbert Crisler “Cris” Wait, Jr., 66, died Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS. The funeral service will be Friday, June 26, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at Philadelphia Baptist Church with Rev. Bobby Irvin officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. in West Hall at Waller Funeral Home and again prior to the service beginning at 1:00 at the church. Burial will follow the service in Philadelphia Cemetery.

Born on December 13, 1959, to the late Herbert Crisler Wait, Sr. and Faye Allen Wait, Cris was a longtime and faithful member of Philadelphia Baptist Church and retired loan officer with First South Farm Credit. He was a devoted husband to his wife of forty-four years and, together, they raised their boys in a loving and God centered home anchored by the principals of integrity and hospitality, character traits that Cris exemplified in his everyday life. He was known as a reliable and honest friend to many, and a perfect example of how a true southern gentleman lives. Affectionately known as “Hop”, he loved his family and cherished any time he could spend with his children and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Jonnie Fitch and two nieces, Shannon Frazier and Courtney Arnold (Trey).

Cris is survived by his wife, Phyllis Kirk Wait of Etta, MS; two sons, Ben Wait and his wife, Anne of New Albany, MS and Luke Wait and his wife, Anna Katherine of Etta, MS; two sisters, Mary Katherine Frazier of Baytown, TX and Anne Porter of Highlands, NC; three beloved grandchildren, Tripp, Emma Kyle and Allie Parker along with numerous very special nieces and nephews.

Expressions of sympathy or memorial contributions in Cris’ memory may be made to Gideons International, P.O. Box 142, Oxford, MS 38655 or Rocky Ford Masonic Lodge, 1895 State Road 355, Etta, MS 38627.