Roland Urban Funderburg

Roland Urban Funderburg, beloved father, grandfather, "Papa," and the cherished "Old Man of Lake Fort Phantom," passed away on October 13, 2025. Roland was born on March 14, 1941, in Longworth, Texas, to James Emory and Anna Ida Long Funderburg. He married Rosalene Livingston on July 21, 1965, in Abilene, Texas. He later married Christene Mayfield. Roland began working at a young age, helping his family on the farm before starting in the oilfield at just 16 years old. He worked his way up from a pulling unit hand to a pumper, dedicating many years to the industry before retiring in 1999. Upon retirement, he fully embraced his true calling: master fisherman. He spent every chance he could casting a line-whether off his dock at home or out with his fishing buddy, Travis. Known for his fishing wisdom, Roland taught his son-in-law and many others how to crappie fish and was fondly remembered as "the man who made the fish-washing bucket." He held dear the countless memories of fishing trips and youthful mischief shared with his brothers-stories that tested their mother's patience but provided a lifetime of laughter. Above all, Roland loved his family deeply. He especially treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren, always eager to feed everyone who walked through his door.

Roland is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, and a son-in-law.

He is survived by his three children: Rolinda West of Trent; James Funderburg and wife Gina of Wink; and Elaina Roxanne Valdez and husband Mario of Hawley. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren-Joseph, Natasha, Amber, Cory, Chace, Zach, Roland, and Matthew- and nine great-grandchildren: Karleigh, Kortlynn, Kamdyn, Eisele, Emory, Ambrose, Ryker, Hadlee, and Wyatt.

Pallbearers will be Joseph West, Zach Caldwell, Roland Valdez, Cory Funderburg, Matthew Valdez, and Martin Cortes. Honorary Pallbearers Chace Funderburg and John Cooper.

Funeral services will be held at McCoy Chapel of Memories in Sweetwater, Texas, on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. before services. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories. The family invites all who knew and loved Roland to join them in celebrating his life.