Doyle David Elmore

Doyle Elmore, known as Pa, passed away on February 20, 2025, at the age of 87. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. Born on October 22, 1937, in Corsicana, Texas, he was the second oldest son to Leon and Opal Elmore. He dedicated his life to his family, his church and to be the best in his profession at painting cars (more than 30 years) and refinishing surfaces (TruColor). 

We don’t know the cause, but we’re certain he died of a broken heart—which was shattered into a million pieces when Mom died only 3.5 months ago, his Valentine of 65 years. He tried to carry on, but grief is a burdensome thing… especially when you lose your person. There was no preparation. He wasn’t ill. We had plans. Our hearts are broken.

What can we say about Dad? He was joy and light. He had a heart of gold, a faith as deep as the ocean, the voice of a songbird, and an opinion. He was never one to shy away from sharing his thoughts, even if it sometimes meant over-sharing with strangers. It was endearing.

Driven by his Christian faith, Dad was the epitome of “welcome the stranger” and could (and would) strike up a conversation with anyone and everyone… which was a blessing, but also meant there were no “quick exits” with dad. He loved talking to people, which was truly a gift. He was a charmer, and everyone adored him. He was easy to love.

Every time he went to one of his son’s or grandson’s sporting events, he would make his rounds and befriend everyone. The conversation would often begin with a proud proclamation, in his wonderful southern drawl, that he’s from Texas (as if the shirt or jacket he loved to wear, emblazoned with the Texas flag, didn’t already give it away). This was always followed by another proud declaration: “we’re here visiting our boys/sons and watching them play ball.” His pride for his family was immense, and he loved us deeply. He loved his entire family deeply. And he made sure we knew it.

The love and affirmation everyone received from our Southern Baptist Deacon Dad was fierce, unwavering, and immeasurable. He was a parent to many because his heart was so big. He made room for everyone. It’s also what made him and mom such a beautiful couple. They loved caring for others.

Dad also loved to sing, especially hymns. He sang often at church. One of the things people loved most about how he used his gift of song was his monthly visits to the local retirement home to sing to the residents. He would stroll in with his portable sound system and perform an hour-long set (even at age 87).

There are many things we will miss, but we will miss his hugs the most. When he hugged you, he meant it.

Our hearts never fully healed from the loss of Mom/Granny and now they’re broken again. There is Japanese art called “kintsugi” that involves repairing a broken vessel with gold to make it whole again. We hope we can use the lessons of Dad’s golden heart and try to mend the broken places in our own hearts. There’s beauty in the broken.

Let’s end this with a few words from Dad, which were spoken often over the past few months: “I sure do appreciate y’all. I love you. Thank ya.”

He is preceded in death by his wife, Sue; his parents, Opal and Leon; his siblings Leroy, Harvey, Joyce, Larry and Jackie; and his precious daughters, Margaret, Marjorie and Misty.

Doyle is survived by his sons Marlon Elmore and wife, Deborah; Marc Elmore and his husband, Brian; his grandchildren, Jarrod, Jacob and Noah; his siblings Rebecca, Andra, Peggy, Nancy, Linda, Lonnie and Raymond.

Visitation will be 6:00 - 8:00 PM Thursday, February 27, 2025 at Green Funeral Home -Red Oak, Texas.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 PM Friday, February 28, 2025 at First Red Oak, 320 E. Ovilla Rd. Red Oak, Texas 75154. Pastor Jerod Douglas Officiating.

Burial to follow at Red Oak Cemetery -Red Oak, Texas.

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