Lonnie Wallace, utility supervisor for the Department of Dining Services, passed away unexpectedly on March 30 at the age of 62.
Wallace worked for 24 years at Mary Baldwin University, and his record of service was exemplary. Director of Dining Services Tracy Hiner noted that he never missed a day of work. Through Wallace’s experience and strong work ethic, he was known to be a role model for his co-workers.
“What Lonnie achieved in a day and the quality of his work was accomplishment enough,” said Hiner, who was Wallace’s supervisor. “But what made him most special to our team was the way in which he lived every day of his life … to serve others, to laugh, love, tolerate, and always with a Lonnie smile.”
Wallace was the first to arrive at Hunt Dining Hall every morning, turning on equipment, setting up for breakfast, receiving and storing all the food and beverages, managing the utility associates, ordering milk, and often catering as necessary. He was one of the many dedicated people who work, often behind the scenes, to take care of MBU students and support their studies.
In his personal life, Wallace loved college basketball, spending time with family, traveling, and animals, especially his cat, Tom Tom.
Family members include his best friend and partner of 16 years, Jackie Payne, who is a housekeeper at Mary Baldwin.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace & Hope Mission, 4 South Gay Street, Baltimore, MD 21202. More details may be found in Wallace’s obituary here.
