Heather Ann Hamilton Tedford, 79, went peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, surrounded by loved ones and family. Heather was a woman of deep faith who loved God and all the splendor that nature provides. Her life was marked by devotion—to her faith, her family, her heritage, and the land and communities she so dearly loved.

Heather was born on December 3, 1946, at Bethania Hospital in Wichita Falls, Texas, to John M. Hamilton and Dorothy Grace Campbell Hamilton. She was the last of a historic North Texas family whose vision, leadership, and stewardship helped shape Wichita Falls for generations.

She was the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Hamilton, pioneering leaders in the planned growth, development, and future of Wichita Falls. The Hamilton family was deeply involved in oil and gas, and ranching. Their legacy remains visible today through enduring local landmarks. These include The Hamilton Building, an Art Deco "high-rise" constructed between 1926 and 1928 with its top two stories added to accommodate the Wichita Club, which remains a downtown anchor today. The family also played a foundational role in The Woman's Forum, founded in 1925 as a women's organization with Heather's grandmother among its original members. The Hamilton family donated the land for the Mediterranean-style clubhouse and auditorium at 2120 Speedway Avenue, completed in 1927.

The family also developed what are now known as The Country Club Estates and Country Club Cottages, admired for their thoughtfully planned, tree-lined streets, sidewalks, parks, and fountains. In later years, Heather became the trusted authority for original blueprints and historical information related to these neighborhoods, generously sharing her knowledge with others.

Heather attended Wichita Falls Independent School District schools, graduated from Wichita Falls High School, and continued her education at Southern Methodist University.

Her professional life reflected her love of land and independent enterprise. Heather worked for Hamilton Oil, as an operator and rancher.  She was a member of the Texas Association of Independent Oil Producers, proudly supporting the future of independent energy and agriculture.

Heather was a devoted and loving wife to Walter Wayne Tedford. Walter was the love of her life.  Their marriage was a partnership marked by loyalty, shared values, and deep affection. She was widowed by his passing but continued to honor his memory throughout her life.

While Wichita Falls was her birthplace, Colorado was the home of Heather's soul. Her heart belonged to Southern Colorado, where ranching, farming in the San Luis Valley, and fishing on the Conejos River brought her peace and joy. Her family originally developed, owned, and operated The Rainbow Trout Lodge in Antonito, Colorado. What began as a private fishing club opened to the public in the 1920s, evolving into a beloved family-vacation destination that continues today under different ownership.

Her earliest memories of Colorado centered on the family's first home on the Hamilton Ranch, affectionately known as "Muffin House," a more than 100-year-old line-camp cabin once used by cowboys moving cattle on free-range forest land. It later became the Hamilton family's mountain home, supplied by spring water from the mountain itself. Heather often recalled, with vivid detail and delight, watching her father calmly shoo a bear out of the kitchen after it wandered in through the back screen door. Though "Muffin House" still stands, it has since been replaced with a 21st-century mountain home.

​Heather, along with partners, also developed Sheep Creek, a mountain community in Southern Colorado. She was an active member of Conejos Canyon Community Church, where her faith was nurtured and shared.

In Wichita Falls, Heather was a passionate patron and participant in the arts. An experienced potter, she used clay and a potter's wheel to create meaningful objects of art for friends, family, and herself. She was also a dedicated collector of art and a lifelong supporter of cultural institutions. Her leadership and service included:

* Member, Board of Directors, Wichita Falls Symphony

* Wichita Falls Symphony League and Board of Directors, including service as Chairwoman of the annual Symphony Ball, a black-tie fundraiser long considered the social event of the year

* Board Member and President, WF Backdoor Theatre

* Active service as a Potentate's spouse during her husband Walter's tenure as Potentate of Maskat Shrine, participating in all associated women's organizations

* Wichita Falls Museum and Art Center

Heather was deeply involved in The Woman's Forum, including Junior Forum, Junior Gardeners, Pat Ferguson Flower Growers, Garden Club, and Gourmet Club. She fondly remembered the large antique shows of the 1960s, which served as major fundraisers for the Forum.

On the social front, Heather was a founding member of the Mardi Gras Supper Club more than 45 years ago. She was also a member of the Carousel Club and Junior Study Club. She especially loved cooking and delighted in collecting kitchen gadgets, often sharing meals and laughter with those she loved.

Heather was preceded in death by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Hamilton; her parents, John M. and Dorothy Grace Hamilton; her brother, John M. Hamilton, Jr.; her sister, Bonnie K. Hamilton Frizell; and her beloved husband, Walter Wayne Tedford.

She is survived by Walter's daughters, Patricia Tedford Chupka and husband Arthur, and their sons Cade and Caleb; and Amy Tedford Aston and husband Mark, and their children Emma, Avery, Lucas, and Makalyn; her nephew John Robert Frizell and wife Cristin; cousins Susan Hamilton and Katherine Sanford; and countless friends whose lives were enriched by her generosity, wisdom, and grace.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Cantu family of Manassa, Colorado, who have faithfully managed and supported the Hamilton family and their ranches for three generations and currently oversee the properties. With special thanks to Evelyn, Leonard, and Angel Cantu, devoted lifetime friends. Sincere thanks are also extended to Heather's treasured employees and dear friends in Wichita Falls—Celeste Henderson, Ruth Polk, and Nato Mendoza. To the many who worked with Heather and her family throughout her lifetime, and to the compassionate staff of Visiting Angels and Hospice of Wichita Falls, we extend our gratitude.

​The family will receive friends at a visitation at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home. Funeral services will  be at 10 o'clock  at Lunn's Chapel, officiated by Pastor Steve Reynolds. Interment will follow at Crestview Memorial Park Cemetery.

​Pallbearers will be Leonard Cantu, Cade Chupka, Caleb Chupka, Rev. Dr. Douglas Kabell, Keenan Kabell, Jason Kainer, and Nato Mendoza.

​Memorials may be made to Conejos Canyon Community Church, 20062 CO-17, Antonito, CO 81120, or Hospice of Wichita Falls.