It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Werley, who left us peacefully on February 5, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on June 12, 1932, to Leamon Raymond (Jack) Werley and Alice Claire (Woolf) Werley, Donald was a cherished sibling, a loving father, an adoring grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle.

Donald's journey of service began in 1954 when he joined the Army, completing his basic training in El Paso before being stationed in Germany for 18 months. Donald's military service was a defining period that honed his sense of duty and resilience, shaping a steadfast character that guided him throughout his life.

After dedicating the early years of his life to farming and ranching in Vivian, Donald embarked on a transformative journey in 1982 when he obtained land in Knox County, near Truscott. It was here that Donald's true passion for agriculture shone brightly. With determination and foresight, he transformed raw pastureland into prosperous wheat fields, marking a period of significant growth and success. It was also during this time that Donald forged a vital partnership with Tom Adams, a fellow local farmer. This professional collaboration blossomed into a lifelong friendship, underpinned by mutual respect and admiration. Donald's novel approaches and steadfast dedication to his skill were driven by a deep-seated desire to improve the land. His commitment to excellence in agriculture led to rich harvests, reflecting his status as a consummate farmer who always strove to be the best.

Donald was a beloved brother to Carylon Thompson, his only surviving sibling, as well as to the late Geneva Haire, Raymond Werley, Rose Schultz, Mary Whetstone, Denton Werley, Peggy Carroll, and Jimmy Dean Werley, all of whom held a special place in his heart. He was also a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews, who held a special place in his heart and life, enriching it with their love and admiration. He leaves a legacy of love and dedication through his daughter Connie Glasscock and her husband Rocky, his son Ray Werley and his wife Nicole Curtis, and he holds in loving memory his daughter April Baty, who preceded him in death.

His joy was multiplied by his cherished grandchildren, Kary Brookman with her husband Seth, Kayla Stypula with her husband Matt, and Destiny Blackstar with her partner Dustin Chollett, along with his adored great-grandchildren, Gauge Carew, Enli Blackstar, Hadyn Brookman, Cash Brookman, Everly Stypula, and Liv Stypula, who will miss him dearly.

In his final years, Donald's life was greatly enhanced by the dedication of his caring friends and caretakers—Dean and Elsa Werley, Tracy Rowland, Anita Hinkle, Shelly Danner, Angie Fish, and Kathy Sansom. The family extends their genuine and heartfelt thanks for the compassion and support these individuals provided, which brought Donald immense comfort and happiness.

Visitation will be on Monday, February 12th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Smith Funeral Home in Crowell, TX. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 13th at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Crowell, TX. Burial will follow at the Crowell Cemetery.

The family warmly invites those wishing to commemorate Donald's legacy to support St. Jude Children's Hospital. This tribute honors his special affinity for small children and babies, reflecting his deep compassion and the nurturing spirit he carried throughout his life. https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=8291939&fr_id=154020&pg=personal%C2%A9_link_share

Donald's legacy will live on in the prosperous wheat fields of Knox County, a testament to his hard work, vision, and the love he had for the land. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.