David Nix

Born on April 6, 1940, in Beard, Texas, David was the son of L.B. Nix and Beulah Lee Pollard Nix, and the younger of two brothers. David’s life was dedicated to his family and to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. A man of many passions, his greatest joy was found in time spent with those he loved most, his family.

In David’s own words, “Being brought up in the ’50s by perfect parents was like a fairy tale. We weren’t rich, but we had what we needed and a lot of what we wanted—and Christ in our hearts.”

David was raised in New London, Texas, where he spent his childhood exploring the woods and enjoying countless days with his family at Nix Lake. He took great pride in his family’s rich history and often shared stories of those who came before him—great-grandfathers who fought in the Civil War, Great Uncle Ely who rode for the Pony Express and later became a notable Texas Ranger, Uncle Thomas who served as a Deputy Sheriff, and Uncles George and Claude who ran the family’s general store. David carried that legacy of hard work and determination forward in his own life. From running one of the fastest hot rods in East Texas to helping his father operate Henderson Sand and Gravel—a business that provided vital support to the oil boom towns of East Texas—David embodied the family’s spirit of dedication and grit.

A 1958 graduate of New London High School, David went on to attend Texas A&M University, where his deep sense of patriotism took root. On May 6, 1959, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Airman Second Class (E-3). He proudly served as an aircraft mechanic with the Strategic Air Command, maintaining KC-97 Stratofreighters and supporting America’s air operations during a critical era in our nation’s history. His service took him to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas; Harmon Air Force Base in Newfoundland; and Kindley Air Force Base in Bermuda.

While stationed in Bermuda, David met his first wife and was blessed with two sons, Jeffrey Allan and Phillip Craig Nix.

Following his military service, David began his professional career in Brownsville, Texas, working as a draftsman. It was there that he met the love of his life, Mary Anna, and the two were married on August 14, 1974. Through this union, David gained two additional sons, William Joseph “Joey” and Billy Wayne Vetters. David and Mary shared 51 wonderful years together, and raising their four sons, welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and providing a solid shelter for all they called family.

David’s professional career spanned decades in the oil and gas industry, where he advanced from draftsman to design engineer and operations manager. His professionalism, integrity, and leadership created friendships that would last a lifetime.

An avid outdoorsman, David had a lifelong passion for fishing and cast his final line just days before his passing. He also loved aviation, as a pilot he found peace in the open skies. His other pursuits included hot rods, golf, hunting, and spending time in nature.

Despite his adventurous spirit, David also had a gentle side. He appreciated classical music, enjoyed slow dances with his wife Mary, cherished a good Western film, and found grace sitting on his dock reading his Bible while watching the sunrise.

David’s faith in Christ was the foundation of his life and he called on that during his final days. His last words to his family were spoken in prayer to his Savior, asking to be brought home.

David was an adored husband, a proud and devoted father, a cherished grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and loyal friend. His laughter was genuine, his eyes kind, and his handshake always strong.

He was preceded in death by his parents, L.B. and Beulah Nix, and his brother, Donald Ray Nix.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Anna Nix; his sons Jeffrey Nix, Phillip Nix, Joey (Mary) Vetters, Billy (Debbie) Vetters; and his grandchildren Jessica Nix, Alan (Orlene) Nix, Liam Nix, Ozzy Nix, Sarah (Drake) Bigrigg, Courtney Vetters, Kara (Wyatt) Ferguson, and Hannah “Bug” Kelley. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, each of whom hold a special place in his heart.

David is now reunited with his loved ones in Heaven.

Rest in peace, Pops.

We love you.