Jon Gordon Royle

Jon was born in New York State on October 4, 1941, to Gordon M. Royle and Anna Joyce Royle (Runkle). He spent his formative years in Ohio, graduating from Worthington High School before obtaining his Engineering degree at Purdue University. This launched a successful career spanning nearly four decades in the Houston oil industry.

Jon was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rae A. Royle (Anderson). Together, they built a life in Houston centered on hard work and a shared love for adventure. The couple traveled extensively, frequently visiting Europe and various overseas destinations, creating a lifetime of memories abroad.

When he wasn’t traveling, Jon was an avid follower of politics and a devoted student of history, particularly the Civil War. He felt a deep connection to the era’s call for reconciliation, often finding meaning in the words: "With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds... to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations."

He was also a passionate sports fan who remained a loyal supporter of Purdue Boilermaker Basketball and the Houston Astros throughout his life. Jon was preceded in death by his parents and his first cousins Roger Allan Vaughan, Nancy Cullman, Steven Andrew Vaughan, and David R. Vaughan. He is survived by his first cousin, James Marty Vaughan.

A graveside service for family and friends will be held on May 20th, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Forest Park Lawndale in Houston. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University of Houston at giving.uh.edu/gift.