A funeral service for Herman A. “Boots” McLeroy, 97, was held on October 19, 2024, at Wilson-Orwosky Chapel in Emory. Interment followed at Emory City Cemetery.
Mr. McLeroy died peacefully on October 16, 2024. He was born on July 23, 1927, to S.T. and Emma (Houston) McLeroy in Emory. He graduated from Emory High School and was drafted into the Army in 1948. He married Patsy (Plunk) McLeroy on July 1, 1951. They spent 64 beautiful years building a life together and had two daughters.
Mr. McLeroy was known for always being there when his family needed him, rolling up his sleeves and showing up within minutes to assist with any car trouble or challenge they faced. He had a knack for bringing humor to everyday life. He was always ready with a joke or a playful comment, frequently sharing his favorite phrases, “whatever floats your boat” or “if you’re ever down at the lake drop in.” His playful nature was especially evident during family gatherings, where he was known to steal rolls off his sister-in-law’s plate.
He loved working outside and enjoyed his time mowing the yards for family and friends. He had a passion for cars, cherishing his ‘57 Chevy and ‘68 Impala.
After his discharge from the Army, he worked for National Linen Service in Dallas. Retiring from there, he then went to work for Highland Park ISD.
Mr. McLeroy is survived by his daughter, Donna McLeroy; grandsons, Tony McLeroy and wife Stephanie Elaine, and Grant DeJong; great-granddaughters, Madeline McLeroy and Evie McLeroy; son-in-law, Ron DeJong; sister-in-law, Flo Hines; brothers-in-law, Sonny Plunk, and Sammy Plunk and wife Terry; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy (Plunk) McLeroy; daughter, Sandra DeJong; great-grandson, Colt Justus McLeroy; brothers, Shod Thomas McLeroy, Jr., Thomas Edman McLeroy and Jack McLeroy; sisters, Lois Kerr and Myrtis Byram; brothers-in-law, Bobby Plunk, George Plunk and Junior Hines; and sisters-in-law, Dianna Plunk, Joyce Plunk and Rosella Plunk.