Henrietta, Texas – Troy Garland Slayden, a beloved resident of Henrietta, Texas, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Monday, September 16, 2024. Born on December 22, 1951, in Abilene, Texas, Troy grew up in Burkburnett, Texas, and had a long and fulfilling career as an instructor of Culinary Arts at Texas State Technical College in Waco.
Known affectionately as “Pybo,” Troy retired in 2002 and moved to Henrietta with his wife, Rhonda Slayden, to be closer to family. He was deeply loved by his family and friends, cherishing his time with them above all else. An avid cyclist, canoeing enthusiast, and Formula-1 racing fan, Troy enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He was also known for his love of cheesy jokes and his curious nature about life, space, and the world around us.
Troy was preceded in death by his parents, Fred W. and Edith Lorena Slayden; brother, Freddy Slayden; in-laws, Tommy and Mae Roe; nephew, Timothy Coburn; and brothers-in-law, Steve Coburn and Paul Hubner. He is survived by his beloved wife, Rhonda, and his six children: Cori and Calvin Madewell of Waco, Chi Lynn Vanloh of Buxton, ND, Lori and Tim Hunt of Waco, Angela (AJ) and Brad Jenkins of Lubbock, Sarah Slayden of Granbury, and Jake and Macey Slayden of Henrietta. He also leaves behind sixteen grandchildren, four brothers, three sisters, four sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
The family will hold a celebration of Troy’s life on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel of Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Burkburnett.
Many took to Facebook to express their condolences and share memories of Troy. Alicia Tyler-Warren Slayden wrote, “No words of mine will truly describe my uncle Troy! He was likable, kind, charming, personable, engaging, funny…..I could go on, but it will never be enough to say how much he will be missed.”
Nancy O’Rourke Velletta offered prayers of peace and comfort, while Amy Slayden Gatton commented, “Well said, there’s never enough words to say how kind he was to all of us! Love you!!”
Susanne Parker-Ranjel expressed her deepest condolences, saying, “I am so sorry for your family’s loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family. Prayers, hugs, and love.”
The outpouring of support continued with others, including Dalton Tyler, who wrote, “Just remember heaven is right above the trees,” and Betty Taylor Ritchie, who shared, “Prayers and condolences to you and your family.”
The community mourns the loss of Troy Garland Slayden and extends heartfelt prayers and support to his family during this difficult time.