Donald Hurst
Jan 2, 1932 - Feb 17, 2026
Donald "Duby" Hurst, 94, passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and steadfast love.
His Memorial Service will be held at First Baptist Lorena Saturday, February 21st at 1.
Born January 2, 1932, in Lorena, Texas, Donald carried the values of his hometown throughout his life. He proudly served in the U.S. Army as a tank commander during the Korean War, demonstrating the courage and quiet strength that defined him.
After his service, Donald attended Baylor University, where he met his beloved wife, Sybil Nell Townsend. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service-first in Waco, then for many years in Richardson, Texas. Donald worked in finance, while Sybil devoted her career to teaching. Their home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unwavering commitment to one another and their church community.
A longtime deacon at First Baptist Richardson, Donald later returned to Lorena, where he found renewed joy among the congregation of First Baptist Lorena and the close-knit friends he considered family. Above all, he cherished his own family-his daughter Rachel and her husband Kirk, and his grandchildren, Jackson and Madison. His steady presence, gentle humor, and heartfelt encouragement will be deeply missed.
Donald's life was marked by a profound and enduring faith. His love for Jesus shaped his character and guided his steps, and he lived each day with gratitude and purpose. His legacy shines brightly in the lives he touched, the family he adored, and the faith he lived so faithfully.
In lieu of flowers, please donate money to First Baptist Church Lorena Elevate Building
Campaign-fbclorena.org/give.
Donald's family would like to invite you to leave a message or memory in his online "Memorial Guestbook" at
www.WHBfamily.com.
Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey
6101 Bosque Blvd. Waco, TX 76710

Published by Waco Tribune-Herald on Feb. 21, 2026.