David LaRue Bondurant

David LaRue Bondurant, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected chemical engineer, passed away on December 21, 2025, in Gladewater, Texas, at the age of 81. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on March 8, 1944, to Dale Porter Bondurant and Mary LaRue Edrington Bondurant.

David spent his formative years in Cushing, Oklahoma, where he graduated from Cushing High School before pursuing higher education. He attended the University of Oklahoma for his undergraduate studies and went on to earn his Doctorate from the University of Illinois, showcasing his commitment to academic excellence.

For 30 years, David dedicated his professional life to Eastman, where he was a chemical engineer. His contributions to the field and the company were significant, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike. Upon his retirement, he created more time to engage with his community and delve into his personal interests.

David was an active member of the First Christian Church in Gladewater, where he held several leadership positions, including Treasurer and Elder, and also taught Sunday School. His commitment to education extended beyond his own studies, as he served as a past member of the School Board for the Gladewater Independent School District, reflecting his dedication to fostering a nurturing environment for future generations.

In his personal life, David enjoyed reading and cherished the time he spent with family and friends. He is remembered fondly for his warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit.

Surviving David are his beloved wife, Rex Ann Bondurant, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage, and their children: Jane Bondurant Parish, Susan Bondurant Watson and her husband Ray, and Joel Bondurant. He was a proud grandfather to Beau Parish, Haley Parish, Reagan Watson, and Hanna Watson.

David is mourned by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale Porter Bondurant and Mary LaRue Edrington Bondurant, his daughter Sarah Catherine Bondurant, and his siblings, Janice Bondurant Winn and Larry Bondurant.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials honoring David's life be made to the American Cancer Society.

A graveside service in honor of David LaRue Bondurant will be held on December 24, 2025, at the Rusk County Memorial Gardens in Henderson, Texas, beginning at 11:00 a.m. The family invites all who knew and admired David to join them in celebrating a life of goodwill and steadfast love.