Born on January 21, 1937, in Paducah, Texas, to Shirley and Ann Sandefur, Hal spent his formative years working at his father’s grocery store and building deep roots in his hometown. A standout athlete, he served as the high school quarterback for the Paducah Dragons before graduating in 1955. It was also during these years that he met his high school sweetheart, Dorotha. He went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he played college football and earned his degree in accounting.
Hal and Dorotha were married in June 1958 and soon made their home in Lubbock. A driven entrepreneur, Hal co-founded the accounting firm Sandefur & Swindle, serving clients for decades before retiring and selling the practice in 2023.
Hal was defined by his work ethic, dry sense of humor, and generous spirit. An avid sports fan, he remained a devoted Texas A&M Aggie even in the heart of Lubbock. He loved playing poker, frequenting the Pancake House, and talking shop about the stock market with anyone willing to listen. Above all, his favorite way to spend time was watching his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren grow up.
Hal is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Dorotha; his daughter, Michelle; his grandchildren, Taylor (and wife Isela), Devin, and Madison; his great-grandchildren, Rylinn, Parker, Dakota, and Knox; as well as many dear nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley and Ann Sandefur; his sister, Carol; and his brother, A.L.
A visitation will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 5-7PM at Lake Ridge Chapel, located at 6025 82nd Street in Lubbock. A family graveside service will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Paducah, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Hal's honor to Lubbock Young Life at https://tx34.younglife.support/halmemorial?utm_source=qrcode&utm_medium=print. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Home Instead and Grayce Hospice for their compassionate care and support.
