YOAKUM: Kenneth, age 69, and Mary DeBord, age 64, passed away together, Saturday, March 8, 2025. Kenneth was born February 25, 1956 in Yoakum to Louis Eugene and Lillian (Hairell) DeBord. Mary was born August 21, 1960 in Shiner to Edmund and Magdeline (Hermes) Vahalik.
Mary graduated from Yoakum High School and went to Victoria and obtained her LVN license. She worked at Cuero Hospital as a nurse and Pharmacy Tech for 32 years until her retirement.
Kenneth worked in the architecture and design industry and then at TxDot as an environmental coordinator; he was there for 32 years until his retirement. After retirement, Kenneth worked for the University of Texas at Arlington teaching environmental safety.
Kenneth and Mary built their dream home in 2013 and loved the “simple” life. They spent every moment they could together whether they were checking cows, visiting friends and family, or attending their grandchildren’s activities. They enjoyed traveling with their camper and were always planning their next trip. Their favorite times were spent in the shop, visiting with their children and grandchildren. They were married for 45 years and were truly grateful to God for all of their blessings. May they rest in peace.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Joyce Holster.
Kenneth is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Vernon Lee DeBord.
Survivors are their sons; Zane DeBord and wife Renae of Yoakum, Quade DeBord and wife Michal of Lufkin, and Raeley DeBord and wife Shyanne of Yoakum; 9 grandchildren, Juli, Brynn, Kaid, Colden, Barrett, Colette, Daegyn, Brakkyn and Kenneth DeBord. Mary is survived by 5 sisters and 3 brothers; Kenneth is survived by 2 brothers.
Rosary to be recited at 1:30 p.m. and Funeral Mass at 2 p.m, Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church with Rev. Dominic Antwi-Boasiako officiating. Burial to follow at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Jarod Bolom, Kenny Cretors, Jeff Fishbeck, Jason Raz, Zachary Raz, Ryan Wenzel, Clayton Wenske, Michael DeBord, James DeBord, Shane Wallace, Curtis Rampley, Alan Brothers, Michael Opela, Kenny Kopecky, and Kevin Janda.
Honorary pallbearers are their grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Ann Catholic Church or the KJZT Scholarship Fund.
Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.