Michael Leonard Hobbs

Michael Leonard Hobbs, a dedicated family man and hardworking individual, peacefully departed from this life on April 18, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on April 23, 1940, in Kilgore, Texas, Michael was the son of Walter and Florence Hobbs and spent his early years surrounded by family in a close-knit community.

After graduating from Kilgore High School, Michael began a life of service and labor that defined him. He began his career working with his father and grandfather, pouring concrete as a young man. In the 1970s, he transitioned to become a Lathe Operator for LTV, later taking on the role of Lease Operator for Getty Oil and Texaco until he retired in 1997. His commitment to his work and family were exemplified by the pride he took in building his family's home from the ground up—a proud accomplishment that stood as a testament to his dedication and skill.

Michael was respected not only for his work ethic but also for his loving personality. He cherished the time spent with his family and took great joy in woodworking, hunting, and fishing. He had a passion for traveling, highlighting a memorable trip to Israel as a particularly special experience. He held a deep appreciation for the moments shared with loved ones, and his presence will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving children: Patrick Hobbs of Dangerfield, Angela Kerridge and her husband Bob of Longview, Timothy Hobbs and his wife Linda of Kilgore, and Jason Hobbs and his wife Elizabeth of Henderson. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Peyton Hobbs and her husband Trenton, Caleb Boles and his wife Madeline, Jacob Boles and his wife Deanna, Andrew Williamson and his wife Alyssa, Jay Jordan and his wife Morgan, Shayla Lee and her husband Miles, Chet Hobbs and his wife Kimberly, Garrett Hobbs and his wife Laura, and Madeleine Wells, along with fourteen great-grandchildren. Also left to remember him are his sister, Sylvia Yancey, his sisters-in-law Brenda Henley and her husband Richard of Kilgore, and Annette Jackson of Mississippi, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.

Michael was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Neva Joyce Hobbs, who passed away in 2021, his parents Walter and Florence Hobbs, and his sister, Janice Allums.

A visitation in honor of Michael Leonard Hobbs will be held on April 23, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Rader Funeral Home located at 401 North Martin Street, Kilgore, TX 75662. This will be followed by a graveside service at Kilgore Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 3:00 PM, located on Hwy 31 West, Kilgore, TX 75662.

As we celebrate the life of Michael, we remember a man whose hard work and love for family have left an indelible mark on those who knew him. He will be forever remembered in the heartfelt memories of his family and friends.