Lloyd Mervin Boales

Lloyd Mervin Boales, 92, of Killeen, Texas, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on February 24, 2026. Lloyd lived a long and full life marked by love, faith and steady devotion to his family and friends.

Born on April 1, 1933 in Florence, Texas to Mervin Samuel and Cloa Ewing Boales, Lloyd was the youngest son of seven children. He grew up in central Texas and learned the value of hard work very early. He began work at The Belton Journal in 1949 where he swept the shop and washed printing presses at night. From that beginning, he worked his way up to Journeyman printer. In 1964, he went to work at the Killeen Daily Herald as a linotype operator, then became Composing Room foreman. When the paper went to offset/cold type, he became the self-taught computer repair person. He retired as Systems Manager from the Herald in 1998.

In August of 1954, Lloyd went on a blind date with Nettie Mae Parker. After that first date, they never dated anyone else. They were married June 10, 1955 and celebrated 70 years together; a testament to their deep love and commitment.

Lloyd was a longtime member of Memorial Baptist Church in Killeen, where he served in several capacities including trustee for many years. He found special joy in serving as a greeter before church services. Lloyd never met a stranger and would talk to a fence post as long as it stood still, so this role was a perfect fit for him.

He was an avid gardener and grew enough onions, tomatoes and okra to fill the freezer and feed all his family and friends. In his younger years, he loved to go fishing on the river with his brothers and reminisced about those times frequently. He loved any activity that took him outside whether it was checking cows or feeding goats.

Lloyd leaves behind his wife, Nettie; his sister Carolyn Lankford; three daughters: Paula Boales Pabis and husband Frank; Lisa Nigro and husband Mike; Julie Savage and husband Frank. Three granddaughters: Shay Mueller and husband William, Haylee Hobby, Baylie Savage and one great-granddaughter, Adelyn Kate Mueller. Lloyd loved “his girls” fiercely and was a constant presence in their lives. In addition, there are many nieces, nephews and cousins who will miss him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Clyde, Elwyn, Jack, and B.I. Boales; as well as his sister Pauline Moore.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 1:00 pm followed by a celebration of life at 2:00 pm. Both events will be held at Memorial Baptist Church 4001 Trimmier Road Killeen, Texas.