Cecil Morris Gandy

Cecil was born in Athens, Texas on August 29, 1925. After graduating from High School he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Second World War. He graduated from Sam Houston State University in 1951 with a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture. Cecil then moved to Beaumont and took a job with the Lamar University Extension Program; he taught returning WW II Veterans about farmer’s methods for improving their rice crops. After that, he joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a Conservation Specialist where he worked with farmers and ranchers to develop better methods of land use in several locations across Texas, but for the majority of his career he worked in Lockhart for 20 years and in Marshall for 7 years. Each time he moved into a new community he embraced the local culture and enjoyed each experience. Cecil moved to Elgin in 2005 and enjoyed the friendship and activities with the Elgin Garden Club and AARP group and attended Elgin Baptist Church. Cecil was a member of the Grand Lodge of Texas as a Master Mason.

Cecil was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Veleria Lorraine (Hickman) Gandy, his parents, Samuel Morgan Gandy and Carrie Mae (McCoy) Gandy, three brothers: Grady, Aubrey and Glenn and his sister, Hazel.

He is survived by his son, Morris Gandy and wife Donna of Austin and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cecil’s life will be honored on Saturday, May 16, 2015, 11:00 A.M. at the Zion Hill Church in Walton. Danny Gandy, nephew, will be officiating the memorial service and the Grand Lodge of Texas will deliver the traditional Masonic ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charitable organization of your choice.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the wonderful staff with Halcyon Home: Debbie, Kelsey, Pat, Christian, Ryan and Mary. We deeply appreciate the care and compassion they gave to our father. We also want to thank the staff and residents at The Clairmont Retirement Community for their kindness and friendship.