Robert Dennis, 96, and Mary Dennis, 89, of Olton, died Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, near Olton, TX. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon, Jan. 3, 2025, at Olton Methodist Church, with Brother Kyle Brock officiating. Interment followed at Olton Cemetery under the care of Ramage Funeral Directors.
Robert was born Dec. 22, 1928, in Monrovia, CA, to Robert Dewey and Rena (Hurst) Dennis. Mary was born Aug. 3, 1935, in Paducah, TX, to William Alexander and Effie ( Berry) Hatley. Robert graduated from Olton High School in 1946 and later earned his teaching certificate from East Texas State University. Mary also attended Olton schools. After serving in the United States Navy, Robert and Mary were married on May 12, 1952. Robert taught building trades at Lubbock Cooper High School for 10 years alongside Mary, who worked as the Lubbock Cooper superintendent secretary and tax assessor collector. Robert also taught building trades at Olton High School and they were members of Olton Methodist Church.
In 1980, Robert and Mary opened Dennis Insurance Agency. Along with the insurance business, Mary did tax work and Robert operated The Wood-N-Clock Shop. In 2014, they opened Mary’s Stuff. Robert served as Olton’s mayor for many years, was a member of the Olton Lion’s Club, was on the board of directors that was instrumental in starting the Runningwater Draw Care Center, and was a Master Mason, attending Olton Masonic Lodge #1247. Mary was a member of the Olton Lion’s Club and the Order of the Eastern Star. She enjoyed quilting, sewing, and oil painting. Robert was a skilled woodworker.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter; and a brother. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter; and 14 siblings.
Robert and Mary were survived by their daughter and her husband. Mary is also survived by her sister. Three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
The family suggest memorials be made to the Runningwater Draw Care Center, PO Box 409, Olton, Texas 79064.