February 22, 2025

Point Lookout, MO — College of the Ozarks is mourning the loss of Martha “Marty” Louise Waller, whose dedicated service at the College spanned more than two decades. Waller retired from C of O in 2014 after serving as director of the Child Development Center for 21 years. She also coached the cheer team for 27 years and was the wife of Allan “Al” Waller, who served as head men’s basketball coach and athletic director, among other roles at the College, for more than 25 years. Allan Waller continues to assist the athletic department at the College with national tournaments and other endeavors.

“Al and Marty have been such an indelible part of the College throughout the years, and we are saddened by Marty’s passing,” said College of the Ozarks President Brad Johnson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Waller family during this difficult time.”

Marty worked tirelessly in her efforts at Hard Work U. and was an ardent supporter of the College’s athletics. She coached the cheer team with passion for 27 years and developed them into one of the top small college cheer teams in the nation. She also played a significant role in the success of the NAIA Division II men’s basketball tournament by serving as a chair for the opening ceremonies, half time entertainment, and east pass gate for 16 years.

Allan Waller began his career at College of the Ozarks in 1977. He served in multiple roles throughout his tenure, including head men’s basketball coach and athletic director. Together, the couple mentored hundreds of college students and accompanied them on travels throughout the globe. Over the years, they worked to teach students how to be responsible young men and women.

“We are saddened by the loss of one of our own, Marty Waller, who served the Lord faithfully and worked tirelessly on behalf of the students at College of the Ozarks,” said Athletic Director Steve Shepherd. “She contributed greatly through her work as a staff member and cheer coach and faithfully worked alongside her husband in support of C of O athletics.”

Marty’s commitment to athletics was dedicated, in part, to the memory of her son, Chris Waller, who played basketball at C of O from 1997-2001. Together, Allan and Marty Waller established the Chris Waller Memorial Scholarship in his honor and have blessed the lives of numerous C of O graduates with this award. Chris graduated from Branson High School and attended College of the Ozarks from 1997-2001 as a mathematics major. Chris was a member of the C of O basketball team for four years, was named all-conference his senior year, and an NAIA Academic All-American his junior and senior years. He was also inducted into the College of the Ozarks Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. After his graduation, Chris went on to study at the University of Arkansas, majoring in civil engineering.

“This devoted couple weathered the storms of life together, especially the loss of their son Chris, but through it all exemplified Christlike service,” Shepherd said. “They mentored students, served as leaders on campus and in the community, and modeled faith to all in their sphere of influence. We were blessed by Marty and her sweet, dedicated spirit. Our hearts are broken for Al, and we pray his faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will sustain him.”

Marty retired from C of O in 2014, and in 2015, she was inducted into the College of the Ozarks Sports Hall of Fame. In addition to her activities at the College, Marty Waller was actively involved with the Branson Booster Club, the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, and the Branson Believers, where she received the Love Award.

“Marty was a sweet lady who made an enormous impact on many people of the College community,” said Charlie Pentecost, director of C of O sports information and athletics. “The Wallers have been a huge part of the College, and especially the athletic department, throughout the years.”

Marty’s friends were many. Marcia Mahlman, C of O retiree and former associate professor of education, remembers fondly the years of mentoring students, attending and supporting Hard Work U. athletics, and ice cream runs with the Wallers after the games.

“Marty was such a wonderful human and friend. She modeled values of faith, family, service, hard work, community, and love; what was there not to love in our friend Marty,” Mahlman said.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 6 p.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Branson, Missouri. The funeral also will be held there on Friday, Feb. 28, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Christian Action Ministries or Elevate Branson.

For more information, contact the College of the Ozarks Public Relations Office at (417) 690-2212.