Elvin Ed Gotcher

Ed was born on February 9, 1945, in Kermit, Texas to Horace “Shorty” and Ailene Gotcher. He spent much of his childhood moving throughout West Texas, living in Garden City, Bigby Corner, and Big Spring before his family eventually settled in Lubbock. It was there that he attended Monterey High School, graduating in 1963, and began building the life and relationships that would mean so much to him.

At just 18 years old, Ed met the absolute love of his life at Vandelia Church of Christ. From the very beginning, Sonja was the center of his world. They were married in 1966 and shared a lifetime of deep love, devotion, and partnership. Ed adored Sonja beyond words—he loved her more than anything and never stopped believing she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

A proud and hardworking man, Ed served in the National Guard and went on to become a dedicated entrepreneur. He spent many years working as a home remodeler before opening his own businesses, Fast Eddie’s, and later Ed Gotcher’s Home Improvement Solutions. He took great pride in his craftsmanship and was known for his skill, integrity, and strong work ethic.

Outside of work, Ed found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He loved golfing, tending to his garden, listening to music and building with his hands—always creating, always improving, always giving of himself. He also had a special affection for his dogs.

More than anything, Ed was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sonja Hartsfield Gotcher; his daughters, Misty Dolan and her husband John, and Brandi Stallings and her fiancé Terry Holeman; his grandchildren, Blake Dolan and his wife Maddie Grace, Nash Dolan, Haley Riney and her husband Kade, Sawyer Stallings and his girlfriend Courtney Connor, and Avery Stallings and her fiancé Santi Sanchez; and his great-grandchildren, Jaxx, Jett, and Jovie Riney, with Jagger on the way, and Bodie Dolan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Patsy and Leon Pettitt; his sister, Kim Talley; and his father and mother-in-law, Garland and Geneva Hartsfield.

Ed was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and the heart of his family.

He was known by all who loved him as one of the best people you could ever meet—hardworking, joyful, selfless, and deeply faithful. An amazing Christian man, Ed lived his life with quiet strength, generosity, and unwavering love for others. His friends and family didn’t just love him—they truly adored him.

His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the family he built, and the example he set for what it means to love well and live faithfully.

Visitation will be Monday April 13, 2026 from 5:00pm - 7:00pm at Resthaven Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 2:00pm in Resthaven's Abbey Chapel with burial to follow in Resthaven Memorial Park.