Louis Rayburn Fennell

Louis Fennell, beloved husband, father, and Big Pop to his grandchildren, lost his battle with cancer on July 6, 2013, and went to be with his Heavenly Father. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 9, from 6 to 8 PM at Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer, with a funeral service at First Baptist Church in Gilmer on Wednesday, July 10, 2013, at 11 AM. Louis was born September 8, 1939, to Earnest and Alva Fennell. After graduation from Gilmer High School and East Texas State University, Louis spent 32 years in education: 16 years as a teacher at Pine Tree and 16 years as a counselor in the Longview ISD. In 1968, Louis met the love of his life on a blind date. Three months later, on June 29, 1968, he and Pat Waters were married. Their love affair lasted 45 years. To this union were born two sons: Louis Russell "Rusty" and Rex Ernest. Louis was proud of his sons and their wives, Charlotte and Amy. One of Louis" passions after retirement was golf. Louis enjoyed his weekly rounds with his golfing friends. He also enjoyed playing with his wife, except when she would beat him. Louis is survived by his wife of 45 years, Pat Fennell; his two sons and their wives, Rusty and Charlotte Fennell and Rex and Amy Fennell. Also surviving were the joy of his life, the grandchildren who knew him as "Big Pop", Taylor and Natalie Fennell, Matt Bryson, Christian Fennell and Caleb Fennell. He also leaves behind two sisters, Nancy Boyd of Mineola, Anita Fennell of Longview and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.