John L. Ivey

John Leroy Ivey Sr, "JL", passed after a hard battle with brain cancer, at the age of 74, on July 25, 2018. JL was born in Weslaco to Robert Dennie Ivey and Pearl Rea Gant on November 6, 1943. He and his twelve siblings grew up in the family house in Donna, Tx. In high school, he met the love of his life, Sandra Mutz whom he later wed on August 28, 1961. That same year, JL enlisted in the National Guard and was called into active duty. He proudly served his country until 1963 when he was honorably discharged. He went on to work alongside his parents in their family business custom cotton picking. He later worked for the Sugar Mill in Santa Rosa, Tx for many years. He spent his retirement doing what he loved, raising Beef Master Cattle. JL and Sandra had two boys, John Leroy Ivey, Jr and Thomas Eugene Ivey. Their children were raised on the family land in Donna. The family had a very strong bond and loved beyond words. When his beloved granddaughter, Faith, was born, he became her protector. The family took many trips together, enjoying one another's company and making wonderful memories. They traveled to Disney World, Vegas, and countless Barrel races supporting Faith's dream. JL supported his family in every endeavor and was always proud to be a husband, father and a grandfather. He worked hard to give them all the things they needed and more. He was a family man through and through. JL enjoyed hunting, fishing, tending to his cattle, and watching barrel racing. JL is proceeded in death by his parents Robert Dennie and Pearl Ivey, and his siblings Christine Woods, Robert E Lee Ivey, Agnes Estelle Ivey, Melvin Ivey, Elsie Loise, Pearlie Holland, Hazel Junker, and Eula Welhunt. JL lives on in the hearts of his loving wife of 57 years, Sandra, sons John Jr, Tom and wife Dina and his granddaughter Faith. As well as his two sisters Margie Woodcock, Lula Hales, and brother Tommy Ivey. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, July 28th, 2018, 1 pm at McCaleb Funeral Home chapel. Visitation with the family beginning at 11 am. "The pain felt upon the departure of loved ones from this life will generally mirror the joy we felt while they remained with us" -Sam Storms