Troy Lee Kolb

Troy Lee Kolb, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Garrison, Texas, at the age of 74. Born on August 8, 1950, in the Lone Pine community of Nacogdoches, Texas, Troy lived a life marked by hard work, a deep faith, and a passion for the simple joys.

Growing up in Nacogdoches, Troy graduated from Central Heights High School in the Class of 1970. His younger years were spent working alongside friends, baling hay in the summer sun and toiling in the watermelon fields – experiences that instilled in him a strong work ethic that would define his life.

Troy's life took a beautiful turn on a summer day in 1973, just north of Nacogdoches. A chance encounter at a little roadside fruit stand brought him face-to-face with Betty Cooper, who was selling tomatoes. For Troy, it was love at first sight; he often said she was the most beautiful thing he had ever laid eyes on, and in that moment, he knew she was the one. Their connection was immediate, and after a brief courtship, they were joined in marriage on July 5, 1974. Their family began to grow in 1976 with the arrival of their daughter, Christina, followed many years later by their son, Edward. Together, Troy and Betty built a wonderful life filled with love and laughter, a chapter that remained cherished until the Lord called Betty home in 1995.

For over two decades, Troy dedicated his professional life to Sunbeam outdoor furniture, serving as a shipping supervisor. Following the company's relocation, he continued his industrious career at Nibco until his well-deserved retirement.

Beyond his working years, Troy found immense pleasure in the rhythmic hum of a lawnmower. What began as a chore blossomed into a lifelong passion and a small side business, allowing him to stay active and enjoy the outdoors he loved so much.

Faith played a central role in Troy's life. He was a longstanding and devoted member of Lone Pine Church, succeeded by Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Nacogdoches. He later found a cherished church family at Promised Land Baptist Church in Lufkin, Texas. His commitment to his church was unwavering; he was always ready to lend a hand, volunteering countless hours simply because he cared. One of his favorite contributions was managing the sound booth, a task he took great pride in, ensuring the audio was "just right."

Troy was also known for his rich, deep bass voice, a gift he shared through years of singing with numerous gospel bands. One of which was Narrow Road. His love for harmony even led him to explore a different genre with a local Barber Shop Quartet, bringing joy to those who had the pleasure of listening.

Troy's memory will be cherished by his surviving family: his daughter, Christina Kolb; his son, Edward Kolb and his husband, Charles McKay; his sister, Judy Sprayberry and her husband, Wallace Sprayberry; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he adored.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Kolb; his father, Edgar Kolb; his mother, Catherine Louise Kolb; and his baby sister, Francis Marie Kolb.

The family will receive guests on Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 5:00pm - 7:00pm at Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, 5400 North St., Nacogdoches, TX 75965. A Celebration of Troy's Life will follow on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 2:00pm. Troy will be laid to rest at Helpenstell Cemetery.

Troy's kind heart, his willingness to serve, and his distinctive bass voice will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His dedication to his family, his church, and his passions leaves behind a legacy of love and commitment.