Donald Merle Cofer

Donald Merle Cofer passed away on January 19, 2026, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 89. He was born on August 10, 1936, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to the late William Calaway and Lola Lindsey Ledgerwood Cofer. He was a resident of Tyler at the time of his passing.

Don lived a full and meaningful life. He began his career in the oil and gas industry with Cabot Corporation in Kermit, Texas, where he worked as an engine operator. He remained with Cabot for 20 years, stepping away only to serve his country during his two-year military

deployment in Korea. After returning home, he continued his career with Kerr-McGee Corporation for another 20 years and later completed the last six years of his professional journey with Mustang Fuel Corporation.

Family was at the heart of Don’s life. He met the love of his life, Loyce Kinard, in Kermit, and the two were married on June 1, 1959. Together they raised two sons, Michael and Darren, and built a life grounded in love, commitment, and faith. During their time in Kermit he volunteered as a firefighter for 5 years.

Don is survived by his brother, Bill Cofer of Pampa, Texas; his son Michael and wife Lisa of Norman, Oklahoma; and his son Darren and wife Cay of St. Clairsville, Ohio. He was blessed with two granddaughters, Heather Tucker of Madill, Oklahoma, and Anna Wiginton of Blanchard, Oklahoma, and five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great joy. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Loyce; his mother, Lola Helms of Pampa,

Texas; and his sisters, Irene Russell of Skellytown, Texas, and Johnie Barnett of Pampa, Texas.

Don will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Don's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Lloyd James Funeral Home with Rev. Chuck Ward Officiating. He will be laid to rest at Cathedral in the Pines Cemetery in Tyler.