Leroy King

On a beautiful July day in 1929, in Canute, Oklahoma, Leroy King was born to Lawrence and Anne King. From the very beginning, his life would be marked by hard work, quiet strength, and a deep love for God, country, and family.

Leroy attended school in the Mayfield and Sweetwater, Oklahoma districts, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for agriculture. He was active in FFA, meat judging, and a variety of agricultural activities - early signs of the discipline and determination that would define his life.

In 1950, Leroy answered the call to serve his country after receiving notice from the local draft board. He joined the United States Air Force and reported to Lackland Air Force Base for processing and assignment. He began his military training in Aircraft and Engine Mechanics. He served faithfully until December 1954. Leroy continued serving the nation as an inspector for the Department of Defense, eventually transferring to Abilene in 1973.

In October 2017, Leroy had the honor of traveling to our Nation's Capital with fellow Veterans on a trip hosted by the Texas South Plains Honor Flight. He often said it was truly the trip of a lifetime.

Faith anchored Leroy's life. A devoted member of First United Methodist Church, he served as an usher - one of his most cherished roles. With his million-dollar smile and remarkable ability to remember every name, he greeted parishioners as if they were lifelong friends. He served on the Council of Ministries and lived his faith not just on Sundays, but every day.

Leroy gave more than 35 years of volunteer service to Rose Park Senior Center. It was there that he built a second family, attributing his long and healthy life to the strength of that community. And every Thursday night, he could be found doing what he loved - tearing up the dance floor.

He met the love of his life, Betty, on a blind date. After a lengthy courtship, they were married on May 5, 1951, in Shamrock, Texas. Together they built a beautiful life and raised a loving family during sixty-five years of marriage before Betty's passing in 2016. They shared a passion for square and round dancing for over twenty years in the Amarillo and Abilene areas. Leroy was a charter member of the Wagon Wheel Squares, remaining active for more than fifty years.

Later in life, Leroy found love again with Neeca Flippo, whom he met at Rose Park. Their relationship was the kind written about in books and shown in movies - sweet, tender, and full of joy. Their courtship lasted nearly three years before Neeca's passing. Watching Leroy blossom again was a gift to his family. He treated Neeca like a queen - always gentle, always attentive, always a true gentleman.

Known affectionately as "PaPa," Leroy was an avid fisherman. Many trips were made to area lakes with grandsons in tow. He was known to be just a little competitive - especially if he didn't land the biggest catch of the day. Family lore includes the notable record of his great-granddaughter Lauren, who somehow managed to out-fish her beloved Papa more than once.

Leroy served his community faithfully - ten years on the City of Abilene Parks and Recreation Board, the City of Abilene Senior Citizens Advisory Board, and numerous church committees. His love for Abilene and its people was evident in decades of volunteer service and leadership.

He was also the devoted sound man, transportation manager, roadie, and enthusiastic supporter of the traveling "Andrew Sisters" - Betty King, Myrle Goode, and Lawanda Lewis - as they toured the Big Country for more than ten years. The group was invited to perform on the steps of the Capitol Building in Austin. Leroy stood proudly behind the scenes, making it all happen.

Leroy leaves behind a family who adored him:

Belinda King Dudley (Bob) of Amarillo; Jerry King (Joan) of Lakeway; and Diane King Lindell (Bill Davis) of Lubbock.

Grandchildren: Cody Roberts (Jami), Drake Dudley (Diane), Austin Roberts (Dawn), and Coleman Dudley.

Great-grandchildren: Leah Pfiel, Lauren Roberts, Marshall Dudley, Garrett Dudley, and Autumn Dudley.

He also leaves his beloved second family- friends at Rose Park, First United Methodist Church, and the Wagon Wheel Squares.

The family wishes to express our heartfelt thanks to Kinder Hearts Hospice of Abilene and the staff of Visiting Angels. The compassion, dignity, and gentle care you gave Daddy - and the comfort you gave our family - meant more than words can say.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the organization of your choice, in honor of Leroy's life and memory.

We are heartbroken, but we find comfort in imagining Daddy dancing his way into heaven - greeted by Betty, Neeca, and the Lord he served so faithfully.

God gave us a treasure for 96 years. We return him now to Jesus, grateful beyond measure.

Dance on, sweet Leroy.

A visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026 from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, TX. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South, Abilene, Tx. Interment will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park.