Stanley Quentin McLeroy

Stanley Quentin McLeroy, 96, of Texarkana, passed away Friday, March 20, 2015 with the love of his life, Allie Merle, close by. Stanley was born on November 14, 1918 in Wapanucka, OK, to James & Rebecca McLeroy. His father moved the family to Texas as the oil & gas business was developing. He graduated from Richmond High School in 1936, attended Kilgore Junior College, met Allie Merle (after being "approved" and "wowing" her brothers with his motocycle) and was shortly thereafter enlisting in the Army Air Force as WWII was eminent. He spent five years in the Air Force rising to the rank of Major, commanding reconnaisance tours "over the Hump" into China/Burma/India. He returned to Allie where they married in Overton, TX then left for Chicago so he could study Optometry and receive his doctorate. Besides great friends from school and being President of the Texas Club, he and Allie enjoyed their first born, Sandra. Upon graduation, the three moved back to Texas to begin his OD practice in Houston where daughter, Sheila, was born. The four then moved to Tyler where Priscilla was born. Then it was on to Wichita Falls and Dallas before settling in Texarkana, TX with the office at 201 W. Broad. A big dimension to Stan and Allie's family life was First Baptist Church where they helped develop young minds and hearts including the annual " Christmas Story" played out by the first graders for over 50 years. Stan ushered and was a Deacon in the Church with good life-long friends. Travel was also important. The family loaded up for two week adventures each summer experiencing the delights of the redwoods, World's Fair, sand dollars off St Augustine, and Presidential libraries along the way (always looking for educational opportunities). While Stan and Allie were inseparable and lifelong partners in family, worship and work, they relished time with their growing family members, as well. This includes Sheila's family, Chuck, Brian and Stephen; and, Priscilla's, Catherine Schnaubelt. As Stan's health declined, his reach with friends expanded. The family appreciates the care and attention from Dr Jay Wright and his staff, June & Glen Gentry, HCA and Texarkana Hospice. Services are at 2pm Sunday, March 22,2015 at First Baptist Church, Moore's Lane, in the Atrium with visitation beginning at 1pm. Pallbearers are Chuck, Brian and Stephen Bell, Frank McClain, Fred Norton, and Bill Gordon. The family asks that donations be made in lieu of flowers to "Honoring Stan and Allie McLeroy, Children's Programs", c/o First Baptist Church, Moore's Lane.

Online tributes can be sent at www.eastfuneralhomes.com.