River Bennett McElroy

River Bennett McElroy, age 17, of Farwell, Texas, died Sunday, March 8, 2026 in Clovis, New Mexico. He was born August 14, 2008 in Lubbock, Texas to Eric McElroy and Ashley (Pool) McElroy.

River loved deeply-his friends, his family (especially his siblings), and most importantly, his faith. On December 10, 2025, he gave his life to Christ, a decision that meant a great deal to him.

River was a natural athlete who could compete and keep up with the best of them. He played many sports throughout his childhood and into his high school years, including football, basketball, golf, tennis, and track and field. He loved spending time with his friends just as much as he loved playing the sports themselves. Seasonal activities such as skiing in the mountains, hunting, and wake surfing brought him true happiness.

River loved being around people and spending time with friends. He never met a stranger and seemed to make friends everywhere he went. With his tender heart and genuine kindness, River had a remarkable way of making every person feel important.

River loved discovering new music and explored the newest sounds from every genre. He also had a well-known habit of collecting an impressive variety of colognes. He had such a unique style and you could always pick him out in a crowd.

River had a gift with words and a curious, inquisitive mind. He loved a good debate and dreamed of one day becoming a lawyer so he could put his talents to use. Whether it was through a witty comment or a genuine act of kindness, River had a special way of bringing a smile to anyone's face and light into any situation. River is preceded in death by his grandfather, Marshall Pool; his grandmother, Lisa McElroy; and his grandmother, Vennette Olenik.

River is survived by his parents, Ashley McElroy of Muleshoe, Texas and Eric McElroy and his wife, Mallory of Farwell, Texas; his two sisters, Harper McElroy of Farwell, Texas and Vennette McElroy of Farwell, Texas; his brother, Ryder McElroy of Farwell, Texas; his grandparents, Don McElroy and his wife, Ann of San Saba, Texas, Tonya Pool of Farwell, Texas and Nick Olenik of Lubbock, Texas; his aunts, Stacy Johnson and her husband, Bill, Reagan Hatch and her husband, Adam, Maegan Chisholm and her husband, Chris, and Maudie Cook; his uncle, Jordan Pool and his wife, Ashley; and many cousins.