Willie Leroy Hartley

Leroy was preceded in death by both of his parents, daughter Madelyn Gwyn Kelley, and sisters Hazel Middlebrooks and Pauline Barnett.

He is survived by his wife Evelyn (Hughes) and her sons Gerald (Chong Sun), Donald (Cindy) and Glen (Michele). He is also survived by his grandchildren Cheryl (Fred), Michael, Matthew (Stephanie), Shelia (Andres), Glen Jr., David (Heather), Rod (Rosa), Todd, Jessica, Jill, and several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Willie “Leroy” was born on February 28, 1924, in Buffalo, Texas to Willie Leroy and Lena (Mandel) Hartley. Leroy attended Buffalo High School and John Tarleton College. He served our country as a pilot in the United States Air Force,where he was a 2nd Lieutenant during WW2. He liked to joke about not being able to land planes, instead looking for hills to stop his flights. After leaving the service he began his career at Shell, where he was an operator, research technician and research foreman. He was dedicated to the company for 38 years before retiring in 1986. He spent his years in retirement fishing, gardening, and traveling with Evelyn around the country (with the occasional 2-step on a Saturday night). Leroy enjoyed playing dominos, and he could clobber you at any card game. He had an amazing natural talent for playing the organ and piano.

Leroy was a devoted Christian and was remarkably active in his church. He loved quoting bible scriptures and having conversations about faith. He read his bible every night and looked to the Word for wisdom and comfort. Leroy was a noted gentleman, and he was kind to everyone he met. He will be remembered for his enthusiasm, humor and eternally positive nature.

There will be a graveside service on Monday, February 20, at 10:00 a.m. at the Brookside Funeral Home.