J. R. Cardwell

J. R. Cardwell peacefully went to be with our Lord and Savior on January 20, 2026, in Granbury, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of faith and love.

J. R. was born on July 2, 1931, in Erath County, Texas. He married Ruby Laverne Cardwell on November 22, 1952. J. R. proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War.

J. R. and Laverne raised three children, James Victor, Larry Don, and Jana Lynn in Tolar, Texas. He operated a family-owned dairy farm for many years and was a faithful member of the Tolar Church of Christ, where he also served as an Elder.

After raising their children, J. R. and his wife moved to Stephenville, Texas where he owned a bail bond business. They were faithful members of the Graham Street Church of Christ, where J. R. also served as an Elder. Known for his strong work ethic and leadership, J. R. was a devoted and loving provider, and caring steward of his family, and the respected patriarch of those he loved.

J. R. enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life, including fishing with his buddies, training bird dogs, hunting alongside his son, and tending to his garden. Most of all, he cherished being actively involved in the lives of his grandchildren, finding great joy in their accomplishments and time spent together.

J. R. is survived by his son, Larry Don Cardwell, and his wife Kathi, and his daughter, Jana Franklin, and her husband, Mike.

He is also survived by nine grandchildren: Candace Clinkscale of Granbury; Justin Cardwell and his wife, Ashley, of Wichita Falls; Amber Root and her husband, Justin of Granbury; Cody Cardwell of Granbury; Ellise Akers and her husband, Gary of Tolar; Chris Caraway and his wife, Annemarie of Prosper; Clifton Caraway of Las Colinas; Leah Walker and her husband, Jace of Brock; Lauren Franklin of Granbury and 17 great grandchildren.

J. R. was loved and tenderly cared for by many devoted caregivers over the years, who he cherished and considered part of his extended family.

J. R. was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Ruby Laverne; a sister, Sandra Lott and brother, V. C. Cardwell; his son, James Victor; a great grandson, Cai Daniel Cardwell; and his cherished dog, Joe.

Celebration of Life will be held at 2pm, Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Tolar Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Foster's Home in Stephenville, Texas would be appreciated.