(September 6, 1924 ~ May 11, 2017)
D J McConal, 92, of Stephenville passed away Thursday, May 11, 2017 in Stephenville.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at Stephenville Funeral Home with Jim Kirby officiating. Burial will follow at a cemetery in Goldthwaite. The will host a visitation from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Friday, May 12 at Stephenville Funeral Home.
D J was born September 6, 1924 in San Saba to Dan and Ara McConal. He attended school at Big Valley in Mills County, Texas and at Goldthwaite School in Goldthwaite, Texas. At age 17 he enlisted in the Navy during World War II. He served in the Navy Armed Guard as a Gunners Mate for three years and thirteen days. When he was discharged he went to Seminole to complete his high school degree. He attended John Tarleton Agricultural College for one semester, the transferred to Sul Ross in Alpine, Texas. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Education and his Master’s Degree in Education. He returned to Seminole, teaching there for 38 years. It was at Seminole Public School where he met his true love, Eula Jean Ash. They were married August 20, 1965 and were married for 51 years. They have been blessed with four beautiful, children bringing much joy and happiness to their lives.
Being baptized as a young adult, he has remained a faithful Christian throughout his life. He was a member of the Westside Church of Christ in Stephenville, Texas.
Throughout his career he influenced many lives as a teacher, coach, and Boy Scout leader. Many of these were still in contact with him. At his 90th birthday party many former fellow co-workers, students and his friends were in attendance, filling his day with much happiness.
His greatest love was for his family. He always tried to shelter and protect them in every situation. His presence will be missed in ways too numerous to mention.
During his trying times in the last few months his faith sustained him. He read Psalms 1 and would often quote Psalms 118:24, “This is the day that the Lord has made. Rejoice and be glad.”
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Eula Jean; his children, Natasha and husband Eric Hargrove of Stephenville, Rebecca and husband Kyle Bedingfield of Stephenville, Nathan McConal of Sachse, and Danita and husband Chris Erwin of Mineral Wells; six grandchildren, K’Leigh and husband Brad Sims, Ross Hargrove, Jadie Hargrove, Slade Bedingfield, Izabella Erwin, and Emmilyne Erwin; a step-grandson, three step-daughters; two step-great-grandchildren; and in September he will be smiling down on the birth of a great grandson. He is also survived by one brother, Garland McConal and wife Mariethel of Kerrville; one sister Melba Slone of Brady; and a host of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and three sisters.
The family would like to thank the many friends who sent a card, brought food, called, came by for a visit, or just said a prayer in our behalf during this most difficult time. We also want to give a “special thanks” to Solaris Hospice for their unwavering care, love, and support.
May God bless each of you.
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