Donnie Ray Leach

August 18, 1934 - November 21, 2017

Donnie Ray Leach was born in Hamilton County on August 18, 1934 to Virgil and Mable (House) Leach. He attended school in Hamilton all of his life, graduating in 1953. Growing up in Hamilton, Donnie, his brother Bobby, and his father, Virgil, ran the three picture shows around town. After high school, Donnie joined the United States Army. In the Army, he was trained as a mechanic stationed at Ft. Hood, Texas, Ft. Bliss, Oklahoma, and Ft. Polk, Louisiana. He received commendations as a sharpshooter as well as a Good Conduct Medal. He married Alice Ann Musick, on August 21, 1959 and had their first son, Jim, before being re-drafted into the Army. They made their home in Hamilton County for over 36 years. Donnie worked for several years for Gromatzky Feed Meal before starting his job with Farmers Propane and later, Bishop Energy. Donnie drove a truck for over 35 years. Donnie’s other livelihood was his family farm. He loved to watch the fields he planted produce hay and grain as well as the orchards produce fruit. Donnie had a passion for the outdoors. He loved to hunt and fish and look for arrowheads. He had a large collection of arrowheads. Although he faced poor health in the last few years, he was a fighter until the very end. Donnie is survived by his sons: Jimmy Leach of Hico and Mike Leach of Hamilton, 1 granddaughter, Chelsea Leach of Houston, 2 grandsons: Randy Leach & his wife Brianna of Gatesville and Richard Leach of Gatesville, and 3 great-kids Emma, Tyler, and Ava. He is also survived by one sister-in-law Jackie Leach of Hamilton as well as a number of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Ann, one granddaughter Ashley Leach and brother Bobby Leach.