Herman Jay Lindley

his side on Wednesday evening October 5, 2022. His 17-month battle with the diagnosis of two brain

cancers and leukemia ended. Following his 6th surgery and finding the disease prevailed, Herman made

the final request to never leave the ranch he loved. In honor of this wish, he was taken from his home to

the nearby ranch burial plot Friday morning October 7th where family and close friends laid him to rest.

Herman’s life was well-lived with most of it on Lindley Ranch and in the small town of Mertzon, Texas.

After beginning management of the ranch in 1987, he spent his time preserving and improving the land

and caring for cattle and his family. A true rancher, he did it all and took even the greatest challenges in

stride. Herman was known as humble, kind hearted, trustworthy and quick to laugh. He was a very

intelligent man with many talents and an unbelievable inner strength — truly one-of-a-kind. Being God’s

steward of the land entrusted him by his forefathers defined Herman but he would say, above all, his

greatest love and accomplishment was his family. This was evidenced by his 40 year marriage, selfsacrifice, hard work, and many jobs outside of ranching to help his Aggie Veterinarian Daughter, Aggie

Engineer Son, and ASU Ram Educator Wife, make it through college. He considered each

accomplishment his own and was so proud to be part of their successes, which he undoubtedly was.

Though Herman fought these last years with grit and determination, he was at peace knowing he would

be “going home.” He made Jesus Christ his “Lord and Savior” and was baptized at age 32 while

attending First Baptist Church of Mertzon. He continued his love for God and spiritual growth through

faithful attendance at Paulann Church for almost 20 years. His faith in God and integrity never wavered

as he fought bravely each day “to stay and finish the job.” He wanted, more than anything, to be here with

Carla to encourage his children and help raise his grandchildren whom he dearly loved: Riley Hazel

Lindley age 7, Brazos Lind Villarreal age 7, Chisholm Pax Villarreal age 5, Paxton Alan Lindley age 5,

Warren Cade Lindley age 5 and Eden Jaye Villarreal age 3. Herman’s wife Carla, his son Jayton Lindley

and wife Sara, his daughter Tanna Villarreal and husband Rick now have the task of helping the young

ones as they remember and honor the priorities, objectives, and wishes “Bop” spoke of, shared, and

lived. He leaves behind a legacy of Family, Faith, and Love along with his work ethic for all that knew

and loved him.

Herman’s family would like to thank every person who walked alongside through this battle. The

encouragement, prayers, and love shown blessed Herman and helped to sustain his family. A special

thanks goes to his nurse, Sherri Thompson, her team, and also Johnson’s Funeral Home who went

above and beyond in caring for and honoring Herman.

Humble and unassuming, Herman would be more surprised than anyone to hear the countless stories

shared by those whose lives he touched in deep and meaningful ways. These sentiments have been

invaluable to the family as we see a more complete picture of the man we miss and carry in our hearts.

Most assuredly, the world is a little more dim without him. He truly was the best man we have known.

Charles Spurgeon said “A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped

by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not marble.”

There is no doubt, Herman’s name is carved on many hearts who will miss him beyond measure.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com for the Lindley family.